CPAP product reviews and other helpful tips for CPAP users!

Okay, CPAP mask-shoppers, we get it!  Shopping for a mask isn't easy. Not only are there a ton of options out there, but it's also hard to tell some of them apart.  

Take the two top-of-the-line masks out there:  The Dreamwear CPAP mask and the AirFit N30i.  Philips Respironics makes the much-loved Dreamwear mask, which has been on the market for over a year now, while ResMed released the AirFit N30i in the spring of 2019.  At first glance, both these masks look almost identical. So just how different are they? Not much.

AirFit N30i vs Dreamwear: The Similarities

Let's start with the similarities that you will notice most between these two CPAP masks. Here is our list of the features that you’ll find on both masks:

• Both feature a hollow frame for even distribution of air.
• Both offer a removable top hose connection, something most masks don't have.
• Both have soft sleeve frame inserts that make the mask more comfortable and reduce those pesky lines on your face in the morning.
• Both have adjustable velcro headgear, though it's important to mention the Dreamwear has some sticky texture on the headgear to better grip fine hair or bald users while the N30i does not.
• Both offer 'fit packs' with different size cushions to better fit your face.
• Both have air vents in the front of the cushion to remove expired air while the N30i also has expired air vents by the swivel top connector.
• Both offer some versatility allowing you to switch out the cradle style cushion to use nasal pillows. 

So far, they're both pretty similar, right?  Not so fast. Let's break down some of the major differences between both masks.

Main Differences Between These CPAP Mask Models

Connection Port

Though both masks have a removable connector port, they operate quite differently. For the Dreamwear, the plastic port detaches from the rubber frame by pulling the two pieces apart. You can then reconnect them by simply snapping them back together. 

The port on the AirFit N30i, however, swivels and has more of a ‘pinch & remove’ quick release system.   

Both are simple enough and let you detach from your CPAP when nature calls, but the 'pinch & remove' version may be a little easier to use.

Frame Design 

When it comes to frame design, the Dreamwear offers a smooth jelly hollow frame that is available in small, medium and large sizes. So, adaptable to all shapes and sizes. On the other hand, the ResMed N30i frame is only available in a size small and medium but has a stretchy, accordion-like SpringFit portion for flexibility, comfort and ease of sizing. 

Cushion Material

Cushion material is an important aspect of CPAP masks to consider especially when it comes to comfort. Between the N30i and the Dreamwear, we noticed the following differences between cushion material: 

• The exterior of the Dreamwear cushions is jelly-like, soft, malleable and flexible. This material is excellent for side sleepers and it won't press the mask against your face or the pillow because of the softness of the cushion.
• The exterior cushion of the N30i is made of hard plastic. If you tap the cushion, you feel and hear the hardness of the shell. This rigid exterior of the cushion may cause issues for users in certain side positions which can cause the mask to dig into your face while you sleep. 

Cushion Sizing 

Finally, the last difference we found between the Dreamwear CPAP mask and the ResMed AirFit N30i was cushion sizing. Both Dreamwear and N30i offers 4 size cushions.

• The Dreamwear mask comes with 4 cushions included: small, medium, medium-wide and large
• The N30i comes with small, small-wide and medium-size cushions in the package. The N30i wide cushion is sold separately. 

As you can see, tons of similarities, but also many differences.

AirFit N30i vs Dreamwear Review: The Verdict 

So, which mask is superior, the Dreamwear or the N30i?  There is no simple answer. It truly comes down to personal experience and what features are most important to you as the user.  After our comparison, the Dreamwear wins for comfort with its soft exterior and it's grippy texture on the headgear to keep it in place. However, the N30i gets top marks for the swivel connector and bonus points for the SpringFit frame.  

I guess that makes it a tie?  In our book, each one wins in different categories.  It all comes down to what's important to you.

We hope our comparison review and breakdown helps you make an informed CPAP mask selection.  If you've tried both masks, feel free to chime in and let us know which you prefer.

Whether you're new to CPAP therapy or a seasoned vet, we can all agree: finding the perfect mask isn't easy!  Short of having plastic surgery to fit into one of the hundreds of generic masks out there, you're probably going to have to try on a few before you find one that fits your face comfortably.  Today, we've lined up our favourite CPAP masks and some best sellers that are $100 or less.

AirFit™ P10 & P10 For Her CPAP Masks (Fitpack), $97.98

This super-light and sleek CPAP mask is made by Resmed and may be one of the quietest masks on the market. The AirFit™ P10 has a Standard and a "For Her" version, each with various size nasal pillows. The Standard version has blue and grey headgear and comes with small, medium and large size cushions. The For Her version has soft pink and grey headgear and comes with extra small, small and medium-size cushions. The exhalation port, designed with QuietAir woven-mesh vent system minimizes any disturbances to your bed partners.

Dreamwear & Dreamwear Gel CPAP Masks (Fitpack), $97.98

Made by Philips Respironics, the Dreamwear and Dreamwear Gel masks have a unique frame design. Air flows through a flexible silicone frame that sits across your face and airflow to the main tubing is connected from the crown of your head. This design has a claim to support various sleeping positions - side, back or stomach for comfort. This mask comes with a standard size frame (additional size frames sold separately) and 3 or 4 size nasal cushions in the package (depending on which Dreamwear) for easy fitting. 

AirFit™ N10 & N10 For Her CPAP Masks, $94.98 

The AirFit™ N10 series, manufactured by Resmed has garnered a huge fan base. It's a nasal style (around the nose) mask with an under-eye frame that improves sightlines (for reading/watching TV) and provides comfort and wear-ability with their SpringAir™ cushion.  The head straps are significantly slimmer with SoftEdge™ technology to provide excellent stability throughout the night. The Standard AirFit™ N10 comes with a standard size headgear in classic blue and a choice of small, standard and wide sizes. The For Her version is equipped with small headgear and only one small size nasal cushion finished in soft pink. 

Mirage Activa™ LT Nasal CPAP Mask, $94.98

Also by Resmed, the Mirage Activa™ LT has been on the CPAP scene for quite some time as the successor of the original Mirage Activa™. The revamped MicroFit dial provides a more secure fit along the forehead and dual-wall cushion makes it a favourite among many CPAP users. The Mirage Activa™ comes in 4 sizes-small, medium, large and large-wide and performs comfortably - even for restless sleepers. 

Meridian CPAP Mask, $79.98

Last, but certainly not least, the Meridian nasal mask by Resmed is the lowest priced CPAP mask on our list. It's one of Resmed's longstanding classics; a simple nasal mask providing effective treatment. The headgear features 3 fastening points for easy on-and-off maneuvering and a 360-degree swivel elbow to allow a range of movement for users. The cushion is fitted with a silicone pad that contours the face with minimal leakage. Though it comes in small, medium and large, finding your size can be challenging - and with so much new mask technology coming out every few months, many CPAP vendors have stopped stocking this oldie but a goodie.  

While many CPAP users tend to push their mask's lifespan to over a year, it's recommended we replace our CPAP masks every 6 to 8 months, as your mask can get gross and its materials begin to break down.   We hope this list helps you find a well-fitting and budget-friendly mask that'll bring you a restful night's sleep.