Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) help individuals with respiratory conditions maintain their mobility and independence. These devices enable them to lead fulfilling lives while receiving the oxygen therapy they need.
However, there are countless POCs on the market today, and finding the best portable oxygen concentrator can be difficult and time-consuming. This is where we come in.
We’ve put together a comprehensive comparison of four top-rated pulse dose POCs on the market: the Philips Respironics SimplyGo Mini, the Inogen One G5, the CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort, and the Belluscura X-PLOR.
Each of these pulse dose POCs has its own unique features and benefits that might fit your lifestyle and preferences. Dive into our pulse dose portable oxygen concentrator comparison guide and find your best oxygen concentrator.
In This Comparison Review:
- Portable Oxygen Concentrator Comparison Chart
- Most User-Friendly: Philips Respironics SimplyGo Mini
- Quietest: Inogen One G5
- Best in Battery Life: CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort
- Best for Travel: Belluscura X-PLOR
- What to Consider Before You Buy a Portable Oxygen Concentrator
- The Verdict: Which Pulse Dose Portable Oxygen Concentrator Should You Buy?
Portable Oxygen Concentrator Comparison Chart
| Philips Respironics SimplyGo Mini | Inogen One G5 | Caire FreeStyle Comfort | Belluscura X-PLOR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Size with Battery (W x D x H) | 8-Cell Battery: 8.3 inches x 3.6 inches x 9.4 inches 16-Cell Battery: 8.3 inches x 3.6 inches x 10.2 inches | 8-Cell Battery: 7.19 inches x 3.26 inches x 8.15 inches 16-Cell Battery: 7.19 inches x 3.26 inches x 9.15 inches | 8-Cell Battery: 7.3 inches x 3.1 inches x 10 inches 16-Cell Battery: 7.3 inches x 3.1 inches x 11 inches | 8-Cell Battery: 7.3 inches x 3 inches x 7.6 inches |
| Weight with Battery | With 8-Cell Battery: 5 pounds With 16-Cell Battery: 6 pounds | With 8-Cell Battery: 4.7 pounds With 16-Cell Battery: 5.7 pounds | With 8-Cell Battery: 5 pounds With 16-Cell Battery: 6 pounds | With 8-Cell Battery: 3.75 pounds |
| Battery Options | 8-cell and 16-cell battery | 8-cell and 16-cell battery | 8-cell and 16-cell battery | 8-cell battery |
| Flow Settings | Pulse dose setting 1 to 5 | Pulse dose setting 1 to 6 | Pulse dose setting 1 to 5 | Pulse dose setting 1 to 4 |
| Maximum Oxygen Output | Equivalent to 1000 ml/min on max setting | Equivalent to 1260 ml/min on max setting | Equivalent to 1050 ml/min on max setting | Equivalent to 750 ml/min on max setting |
| Battery Duration at Lowest Setting and Recharge Time (from empty) | 8-cell battery: Up to 6 hours Recharge time: 4 hours max 16 cell battery: Up to 12 hours Recharge time: 8 hours max | 8-cell battery: Up to 6.5 hours Recharge time: 3 hours max 16-cell battery: Up to 13 hours Recharge time: 6 hours max | 8-cell battery: Up to 8 hours Recharge time: 3.5 hours max 16 Cell Battery: Up to 16 hours Recharge time: 6 hours max | 8-cell Battery: Up to 4 hours Recharge time: 2 hours max |
| Noise Level | 42 dBA (setting 2) | 38 dBA (setting 2) | 40 dBA (setting 2) | <39 dBA (setting 2) |
| FAA Approved | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| User Interface | LCD touchscreen | LCD touchscreen | LCD screen | LCD screen |
| Warranty | 2-year warranty | 3-year warranty | 3-year warranty | 3-year warranty |
| Price* (at time of writing) | $1,989 (8-cell standard battery) | $2,495 | $2,995 (8-cell battery) | $1,995 |
*Prices subject to change.
Most User-Friendly: Philips Respironics SimplyGo Mini
If you’re on the hunt for simplicity, don’t miss the aptly named SimplyGo Mini from Philips Respironics. Boasting just a few buttons and a LCD touchscreen, this POC uses easy-to-understand symbols and clear language, making it an attractive choice for new POC users.
But the SimplyGo Mini has more to offer than its good looks. Capable of delivering an equivalent of 1 L/min oxygen on the highest setting, this POC does not sacrifice performance for portability.
What really sets it apart, however, is its outstanding durability. Its impact-resistant design can withstand extreme vibrations and temperatures, this POC is as durable as it is stylish.
And if mobility is your top priority, the SimplyGo Mini continues to impress with its custom carry case and adjustable shoulder strap.
Whether you’re venturing near or far, the SimplyGo Mini is a top rated portable oxygen concentrator that meets your oxygen needs without sacrificing comfort or style.
Upon purchase, you’ll receive the following items:
- SimplyGo Mini Portable Oxygen Concentrator
- 8-Cell Standard or 16-Cell Extended Rechargeable Lithium Ion Battery
- DC and AC Power Cords
- Accessory Bag
- User Manual
- Carrying Case with Shoulder Strap
Quietest: Inogen One G5
Inogen is known for offering the quietest and smallest portable oxygen machines on the market, and the Inogen One G5 is no exception. With a noise level of just 38 decibels on setting 2, the G5 is quieter than the majority of other POCs on the market.
To put it into perspective, the G5 produces less noise than a library or ambient sound in an urban area, both of which are approximately 40 decibels.
Weighing in at just under 5 pounds with the 8-cell battery, the Inogen One G5 is the best portable O2 concentrator for those on the move. It also offers an impressive 6.5 hours of battery life on the lowest setting and the ability to deliver a maximum oxygen output equivalent to 1,260 ml/min on its highest pulse dose setting.
Its user-friendly design includes an easy-to-read LCD display and compatibility with the free Inogen Connect app for smartphones.
This mobile app takes user convenience to the next level, providing real-time statistics on battery life, software upgrades, maintenance reminders, and current configurations.
With Inogen Connect, you can effortlessly monitor battery life and runtime, as well as receive vital notifications for oxygen purity status and alerts.
Upon purchase, you’ll receive the following items:
- G5 Portable Oxygen Concentrator
- 8-cell Lithium Battery (16-Cell Battery is optional)
- DC and AC Power Cords
- Custom Carrying Bag
- User Manual
- Nasal cannula
Best in Battery Life: CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort
When it comes to choosing the best portable oxygen concentrator, battery life is a crucial factor. And in this department, the CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort excels with flying colors.
Engineered with a focus on ergonomics, the CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort offers a carrying experience that prioritizes comfort. The real game changer, however, is its impressive battery life.
With an 8-cell battery that provides up to 8 hours of use on the lowest pulse dose setting, you’re covered for the long haul. And for those who need even more, the 16-cell battery can double that, offering up to 16 hours of uninterrupted oxygen supply.
But the FreeStyle Comfort’s appeal doesn’t end there. Users praise its intuitive design, from the color control panel to the soft-touch buttons, for their ease of use and accessibility.
With 5 pulse dose settings and a maximum oxygen output of roughly 1,050 ml/min, it delivers on all fronts. It also features innovative UltraSense technology which regulates oxygen output according to the number of breaths detected.
The cherry on top? The Freestyle Comfort connects to MyCAIRE, CAIRE’s telehealth app. Through the MyCAIRE app, the POC links to your smartphone or tablet, securely collecting usage data from the unit so you can stay on top of your therapy at all times.
Upon purchase, you’ll receive the following items:
- FreeStyle Comfort Portable Oxygen Concentrator
- 8-Cell Battery (16-Cell Battery is optional)
- DC and AC Power Cords
- Custom Carrying Bag
- User Manual
- Nasal cannula
Best Portable Oxygen Concentrator for Travel: Belluscura X-PLOR
If you’re looking for the ultimate travel companion for an active lifestyle, the Belluscura X-PLOR is your match. As the smallest portable oxygen machine on our list, it stands out as the most travel-friendly option.
Designed for greater portability, the X-PLOR is a lightweight yet durable POC that delivers an oxygen concentration of 82 – 92% across all settings.
It may be small in size, but don’t let that fool you; this compact powerhouse has no trouble providing high oxygen output, earning its place as a top performer.
At a mere 3.25 pounds, the X-PLOR slips effortlessly into a backpack or large purse. And since it’s FAA-approved, you can take to the skies with confidence. With an unobtrusive noise level of just 39 decibels, it operates quietly, allowing you to enjoy your surroundings without disturbance.
Convenience meets function with the X-PLOR’s included carry bag, complete with an adjustable shoulder strap. And with both AC and DC power adapters, you have the freedom to charge your POC on the go, no matter where your travels take you.
Did we mention the X-PLOR also comes with a smartphone app that tracks oxygen usage, oxygen purity, breath rate and other important metrics?
The Nomad Biometrics app is iOS and Android compatible and even connects to your Fitbit, smartwatch, or Nonin and Masimo pulse oximeters. Nowadays, there’s an app for everything.
Upon purchase, you’ll receive the following:
- X-PLOR Portable Oxygen Concentrator
- 8-Cell Battery
- 1 or 2 Replacement Oxygen Cartridge/Oxygen Sieve Bed (depending on the package you choose)
- Air Filter
- AC Power Supply
- DC Power Supply
- Carry Bag with Handle and Shoulder Strap
What to Consider Before You Buy a Portable Oxygen Concentrator
Price
As mentioned earlier, the initial investment for an oxygen concentrator can be steep. This makes affordability a significant concern for oxygen users seeking a suitable POC.
When searching for an affordable portable oxygen concentrator, it’s important to compare the upfront cost against the long-term benefits.
Remember that while the initial price is high, a POC is an investment that will pay for itself. Oxygen tanks are cheaper but tank refills are an ongoing expense.
If you’re looking for the best portable oxygen machine on a budget, the SimplyGo Mini and the X-PLOR are good options. Both are priced under $2000, have FAA approval, and can be charged using both AC and DC power sources.
For a comparison of how they measure up in terms of user experience, maintenance requirements, and more, see our detailed review of the SimplyGo Mini vs. X-PLOR.
Battery Life
For many aspiring POC owners, battery life is the most important feature. No one wants to worry about low battery power on their outings.
Since battery runtime depends on the specific oxygen setting, we recommend closely examining the battery duration information for each POC.
This information can be found in the “Technical Specifications” section of each machine’s user manual.
In general, if you want more battery power, the best portable oxygen machine is one that offers a 16-cell/extended battery. The SimplyGo Mini Extended Battery for instance, gives you double the runtime when compared to the standard option.
Another solution to increase battery runtime is buying multiple batteries. This method lets you charge one battery while using the other, ensuring you have an uninterrupted oxygen supply.
Weight
Finding the right balance between weight and oxygen output is key when buying a portable oxygen concentrator. You’ll want a POC that meets your prescribed oxygen treatment demands and is lightweight enough for you to comfortably carry for hours.
In our portable oxygen concentrator review, the Belluscura X-PLOR stands out as the most lightweight pulse dose POC. However, it does sacrifice battery duration (up to 4 hours only at lowest setting) for greater portability.
Oxygen Output
Oxygen output determines the amount of oxygen available to the user per minute. It is measured in “milliliters per minute” (mL/min) or more commonly, in “liters per minute” (L/min or LPM).
We strongly recommend making sure your POC is capable of delivering your prescribed amount of oxygen. Always check your prescription before buying. When in doubt, ask your doctor if the oxygen machine you have your eyes on is right for you.
If getting in touch with your doctor is too much of a hassle, why not consult our medical staff?
Our respiratory therapists and sleep technicians can let you know what machines are compatible with your prescription and provide expert recommendations. Best of all, no appointment is needed!
The Verdict: Which Pulse Dose Portable Oxygen Concentrator Should You Buy?
No matter your priorities or passions, there’s a portable oxygen machine available that fits your lifestyle. For the frequent traveler, the Belluscura X-PLOR, with its compact size and lightweight design, is the best portable oxygen concentrator.
If near-silent operation is your top priority, you can’t go wrong with the dependable Inogen One G5.
Alternatively, if you don’t consider yourself tech-savvy and want an intuitive POC without all the bells and whistles, the Philips Respironics SimplyGo Mini is your best pick.
Worried about running out of battery power? The CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort boasts battery life that won’t let you down.
Regardless of which POC you have your heart set on, we’re here to help you find the best portable oxygen concentrator for you.
With expert staff, flexible payment plans, and free shipping on orders over $99 (continental US only), RespShop is committed to help you breathe better.
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