Best CPAP Mask Buying Guide of 2024

A comfortable and well-fitting CPAP mask is essential to successful sleep apnea therapy. A poorly fitting mask that leads to unintentional air leaks around the cushion is one of the most common causes of CPAP side effects. These side effects include but are not limited to dry mouth, nasal congestion, dry eyes, bloating etc.

This guide looks at the different types of CPAP masks and lists our best CPAP mask picks for each mask type. Some of these masks boast innovative designs that enhance user experience, while others are tried-and-true options that have stood the test of time.

Watch our ultimate video on CPAP mask style types for a more visual guide:

In This Guide:

• Nasal Mask
  • Most Budget-Friendly: Philips Respironics ComfortGel Blue Nasal Mask
  • Easy to Size: Philips Respironics DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask with Headgear Arms
  • Stable Fit for Side Sleepers: ResMed AirFit N20 Nasal Mask
• Nasal Pillow Mask
  • Light Yet Secure: ResMed AirFit P30i Nasal Pillow Mask
  • Non-Slip Headgear: DreamWear Silicone Nasal Pillow Mask
• Full Face Mask
  • Universal Fit: ResMed AirFit F20 Full Face Mask
  • Low-Profile Design, High Seal Performance: ResMed AirFit F40 Full Face Mask
  • Upgraded Traditionalist: Fisher & Paykel Vitera Full Face Mask
  • Best for Stomach Sleepers: Philips Respironics DreamWear Full Face Mask
• No-Headgear Mask
  • BLEEP Eclipse

A CPAP mask consists of three main components: frame, headgear, and cushion.

The frame rests against the face and serves as the structure which holds the cushion in place. The cushion, which can be made of silicone, gel, or memory foam, covers the nose or both the nose and mouth. There are also cushions that sit underneath the nose and we’ll explore all these types of cushions in the guide. The headgear connects to the frame and secures the mask in its proper position on the face.

Now that we’ve covered the parts of a CPAP mask, let’s look at the three types of masks: nasal, nasal pillow and full face. We’ll highlight the key features of each mask and explore some of the best sleep apnea masks in each category.

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Traditional nasal CPAP masks come with a triangular cushion that sits on the bridge of the nose and above the upper lip. This design offers stability and works well for side and back sleepers. However, it can be a problem for CPAP users who want to enjoy a book or watch some late-night television before bed.

Read on to see our top picks for nasal CPAP masks.

The Philips Respironics ComfortGel Blue Nasal Mask has been around for many years and is a tried and true favorite of many CPAP users who prefer the sturdy, stable fit of a traditional nasal mask. It is also one of the least expensive masks available today.

The ComfortGel Blue covers the entire nose, resting on the bridge of the nose and above the upper lip. The nasal cushion has two layers: an outer silicone shell and an inner squishy blue gel layer that conforms to the shape of the face for an individualized seal.

This wallet-friendly mask features adjustable forehead support, allowing users to fine-tune the cushion’s angle to prevent leaks at either the bridge of the nose or around the lip area.

The broad headgear comes with four attachment points, guaranteeing a secure and stable fit. Instead of magnetic headgear clips, the ComfortGel Blue headgear is equipped with ball and socket clips that are suitable for users with pacemakers and other metallic medical implants.

The major complaint users have with the ComfortGel Blue Nasal Mask is the stability bar which extends from the nasal bridge to a silicone forehead pad. This stability bar is quite bulky and blocks the user’s field of view which can trigger feelings of claustrophobia for some. The position of the stability bar also makes it impossible to wear glasses.

Pros

• Inexpensive*
• Solid, stable fit
• Adjustable forehead support reduces leaks
• Gel cushion is gentle on the skin
• Works with all CPAP machines except the ResMed AirMini
• Non-magnetic headgear clips makes this a good choice for users with medical implants

Cons

• Philips Respironics has discontinued this mask, so availability will eventually be an issue
• Forehead support is bulky and blocks your field of view
• Not glasses-friendly

*As of the last update, the ComfortGel Blue retails for $33.

The DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask with Headgear Arms is a minimalist, top-of-head connection mask with an under-the-nose cushion. It is extremely comfortable, thanks to the soft silicone frame which extends down the sides of the face and connects to the nasal cushion under the nose. 

The hose connects to the mask via an elbow on the top of the head, and air flows down the hollow silicone frame on the sides of the face. The top-of-head connection keeps the hose away from you during the night. 

If you have a headboard, you can hang your hose over it and enjoy the extra length that the top-of-head connection brings. The elbow connector allows for 360 degrees of movement so you can change sleeping positions without any limitations. It is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of reading before bed.

The mask is held in place by innovative “eyeglass-like” plastic arms which sit above the ears and connect to a fabric head strap on the back of the head. The arms do an excellent job of preventing the headgear from sliding which was a problem with the original headgear design.

Pros

• Top-of-the-head connection for greater sleeping freedom
• Good for stomach sleepers
• Open field of view for reading/watching TV
• Glasses-friendly
• Works with all CPAP machines except the ResMed AirMini
• Fit pack (medium frame with all four cushion sizes) is a good choice for new users
• Multiple sizing options: frame comes in S/M/L and nasal cushion comes in S/M/MW/L

Cons

• Risk of air leaks at high pressure settings
• Exhalation vent on the elbow swivel can be noisy

The AirFit N20 Nasal Mask is the answer for side sleepers who struggle with mask leak. Its InfinitySeal cushion stays put at high pressures, and the flexible, padded frame with a four-point connection to the headgear keeps the cushion securely over your nose. 

This ResMed mask features magnetic clips that effortlessly secure the headgear in place. The quick-release elbow offers added convenience for those midnight awakenings; simply pinch the sides of the elbow connector and pull to detach the mask from your CPAP tubing.

The N20 nasal cushions are available in small, medium, and large sizes. If you have a smaller head, you may want to give the AirFit N20 For Her version a try. The N20 For Her features a smaller headgear in a lavender and gray color scheme paired with a small nasal cushion.

CPAP users with sensitive skin can consider switching the regular silicone N20 nasal cushion to the AirTouch N20 Memory Foam Nasal Cushion. This cushion is available in the same three sizes (S/M/L) and is compatible with both the AirFit N20 and N20 For Her mask frames.

If you’re struggling with redness and skin irritation cause by CPAP masks, check out our tips for preventing CPAP mask face marks.  

Pros

• Good for side sleepers
• Magnetic headgear clips simplifies mask fitting
• Open field of view for reading/watching TV
• Works with all CPAP machines
• Quick-release elbow connector makes it easy to connect and disconnect from your CPAP machine

Cons

• Lacks a diffuser on the exhalation vents to dampen noise
• Not the best choice for users with metallic medical implants
• Nasal cushion is a bit narrower than those of other nasal masks, not recommended for broader noses

If you tend to run hot during sleep or just can’t stand the thought of strapping a mask to your face at night, you might want to consider trying a nasal pillow mask. These masks are smaller and lighter than nasal masks and feature minimal headgear that’s ideal for anyone prone to sweating underneath their sleep apnea masks.

Nasal pillow masks feature two “pillows” that sit directly in the nostrils, leaving the rest of the nose bare. They also offer an open field-of-view with no obstructive forehead support or overly bulky mask frame.

Nasal pillow masks are also a great choice for CPAP users with beards or mustaches. They provide a better seal than nasal masks because they don’t rest on the upper lip or anywhere else that can be covered by facial hair.

The downside to nasal pillow masks is that they can be tricky to fit properly. If the nasal pillows are too small, they’ll sit too far in the nostrils and be extremely irritating. They can also cause users to experience excessively high pressures, which can be very uncomfortable and discouraging for new CPAP users.

Without further ado, let’s look at our top nasal pillow mask picks of 2024.

ResMed’s AirFit P30i Nasal Pillow Mask features a discreet, minimalist design that works well for all sleeping positions. It is also compatible with all CPAP machines except the ResMed AirMini Travel Auto CPAP.

This mask comes with a flexible silicone frame that delivers air flow from a top-of-the-head connection. The ribbed frame design keeps the frame snug but not too tight, ensuring a good mask seal regardless of your sleeping position. You can choose between a standard size frame, which fits most people comfortably, or a small frame if you’re on the petite end.

The P30i Nasal Pillows insert into the nostrils with a springy seal that delivers a comfortable, effective fit. They come in sizes small, medium and large for a customized fit. And if you’re not sure what size you need, you can buy the AirFit P30i Standard Starter Pack which includes a standard frame and all three sizes of nasal pillow cushions.

Those with smaller facial features may want to try the Small Starter Pack which comes with a small frame and nasal pillows in sizes small and medium.

Pros

• Open field of view for reading/watching TV
• Flexible, ribbed silicone frame adjusts with movement
• Good for stomach sleeping
• Glasses-friendly
• Works with all CPAP machines except the ResMed AirMini
• P30i nasal pillows are interchangeable with N30i nasal cushions

Cons

• Some users may find airflow through the tubing disruptive
• Nasal pillows do not come in a wide size

Philips Respironics’ DreamWear Silicone Nasal Pillow Mask uses the same frame and headgear as the DreamWear Nasal CPAP mask and is in essence, an upgraded version of the DreamWear Gel Nasal Pillow Mask. The gel pillows have been replaced by softer, lighter silicone nasal pillows which not only seal better, but also come in more sizes. You can find the nasal pillows in four sizes: small, medium, medium-wide and large.

Once again, first-time users should take advantage of the fit pack which includes a medium frame and all four nasal pillow sizes. While most will find the medium frame a good fit, those with a more petite frame may want to consider the small size instead. The frame also comes in a large so there’s truly a frame for everyone.

But what’s really special about the frame is that it’s entirely made of silicone. This means you don’t have to worry about hard plastic digging into your face and leaving unsightly CPAP mask marks.

The frame also features a top-of-the-head hose connection, giving you the freedom to sleep in any position. In fact, its all-silicone frame and equally minimalistic headgear makes it one of the best CPAP masks for stomach sleepers.

Like other masks in the DreamWear family, the standout feature of this nasal pillow mask is its modular design. Users can switch between different CPAP mask types — whether nasal, full face, or nasal pillow — simply by connecting the silicone frame to a different cushion style.

It’s worth noting that if you want to switch your DreamWear Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask to a full face mask, you’ll need both the full face cushion and the DreamWear Full Face Mask Headgear.

Pros

• Over-the-head connection keeps tubing out of the way and eliminates CPAP mask drag
• Overall minimal contact design, whether used with the nasal cushion or nasal pillows
• Clear line of sight
• Works with all CPAP machines except the ResMed AirMini
• Modular design saves you money
• Fit Pack eliminates sizing concerns for most CPAP users

Cons

• Some may not like the feel of silicone on their faces, though fabric sleeves are included
• The noise of air traveling down the sides of the frame may bother some users

Full face masks have undergone significant transformations in recent years with an emphasis on lightweight designs. A traditional full face mask features a triangular cushion that rests on the bridge of the nose and beneath the lower lip near the chin. Often, a stabilizing bar extends from the frame to a forehead pad on the bridge of the nose. 

In contrast, newer mask designs may or may not utilize a stabilizing bar or a forehead pad for support. Some full face masks even feature “under-the-nose” cushions which leave the nasal bridge uncovered for a less confining user experience. 

In this mask buying guide, we review our favorite full face masks that deliver on both compactness and performance.

The AirFit F20 is a universal fit full face mask from ResMed that is a true fan favorite. With a four-point connection headgear, magnetic headgear clips and a quick-release elbow that attaches to the front of the mask, it offers stability without sacrificing comfort or convenience. 

Like its nasal mask counterpart, the Airfit N20, the F20 uses magnetic clips to simplify mask fitting. You can easily tighten or loosen your headgear with the Velcro straps. Just remember to put the magnetic clips on first!

The silicone cushion is available in small, medium, and large sizes and are all compatible with the same F20 mask frame. So if you find your mask too small or too large, there’s no need to purchase a new mask – simply buy an AirFit F20 Full Face Cushion in a different size. Or, get your AirFit F20 mask from RespShop and don’t worry about forking out extra cash for another cushion size with our 30-day mask guarantee.

If you have sensitive skin or struggle with getting a good mask seal, we recommend trying the AirTouch F20 Memory Foam Cushion. These cushions are available in the exact same sizes as the regular silicone F20 cushion, but they are gentler on the skin and conform to the face better.

You can switch out the silicone F20 cushions for the memory foam ones or order the complete AirTouch F20 Full Face Mask. The complete mask includes the headgear, mask frame, magnetic clips, and memory foam cushion.

Pros

• Quick-release elbow lets you disconnect from CPAP hose without taking the mask off
• Plush headgear is very comfortable
• Magnetic headgear clips makes mask fitting and adjustments easy
• Cushion seals well even at higher pressures
• Users can choose between silicone or memory foam cushion
• Clear line of sight for reading/watching TV
• Works with all CPAP machines

Cons

• Not available as a fit pack
• Not the best choice for users with metallic medical implants
• Hard to wear glasses with this mask, due to the shape of the cushion
• Leaks around the nasal bridge/around the mouth. If you run into issues with mask leak, always check to see if you’re using the right cushion size.

Full face mask users looking for a minimalist mask that also seals well at high pressures can finally breathe easy with ResMed’s newest mask. Released on March 6, 2024, the AirFit F40 is ResMed’s smallest tube-down full face CPAP mask. Featuring an under-the-nose cushion, fully flexible frame and short tubing for more sleeping freedom, the F40 is designed for both comfort and performance. 

With a 100% silicone cushion, the F40 stands out in this CPAP mask buying guide. The cushion is fully pliable in your hands and truly conforms to the face for better comfort and a better seal. Additionally, the cushion’s under-the-nose design means there’s nothing blocking your field of view. This minimizes the sensation of wearing a CPAP mask, making it easier for new CPAP users to stick with therapy.

The under-the-nose cushion is also a good choice if traditional triangular-shaped full face cushions tend to leave red marks on your nasal bridge. And, unlike other under-the-nose full face masks which tend to leak at high pressures, the AirFit F40 maintains a good seal even at higher pressures. 

The AirFit F40, like the AirFit F20 we reviewed earlier, features an adjustable headgear with snap on/off magnetic clips for easy fitting. Plus, the convenient quick-release elbow at the front means you can easily connect and disconnect the mask from your CPAP setup without taking off the mask. 

The AirFit F40 comes in three cushion sizes (small-wide, medium, large) and three headgear sizes (small, standard, large) to fit a wider range of users. Unlike most full face masks that only offer the standard headgear with their various cushion selections, the F40 gives you the option to purchase the most common cushion size (medium) with either the small or large headgear.

In addition to more sizing combinations, the AirFit F40 also stands out from other full face masks with its flexible short tubing. This lightweight tubing provides more slack in the CPAP circuit so you can move around in your sleep without fear of disrupting your mask seal. 

Pros

• Cushion sits under the nose to reduce feelings of claustrophobia
• 100% silicone cushion moves with you
• No marks on nasal bridge
• Can wear glasses 
• Magnetic clips makes it easy to put on/take off mask
• Works with all machines except the ResMed AirMini
• Good seal at higher pressures
• Designed for side sleeping

Cons

• Not recommended if you have metallic medical implants

Launched in the fall of 2019, the Vitera Full Face Mask is a substantial update to Fisher & Paykel’s much-loved Simplus mask. The Vitera is as quiet, if not quieter than the Simplus and includes some nice upgrades to the frame, cushion, and headgear.

The Vitera features a traditional triangular-shaped cushion that extends from the bridge of the nose to below the lower lip, resting near the cleft of the chin. Like the Simplus, the cushion rolls back and forth at the bridge of the nose to maintain a seal in that leak-prone spot.

The Vitera Full Face Cushion extends considerably farther than the cushion on the Simplus, and is a bit deeper and narrower around the nasal bridge. Consequently, the Vitera accommodates a broader spectrum of face sizes, leaks less around the nose, and directs less air into the eyes.

The Vitera frame is lighter than that of its predecessor, though it still sports the stability bar between the eyes. The headgear and frame lie flush across the forehead so there’s no bulky forehead pad to contend with.

One of the standout features of the Vitera is its sturdy yet breathable headgear. This headgear incorporates Fisher & Paykel’s Venticool technology, which boasts airflow 24 times greater than that found in headgear on older F&P sleep apnea masks. Another notable improvement is seen in the headgear clips. While not magnetic, the clips on the Vitera headgear are textured for an easier grip.

Pros

• Broad cushion fits most face sizes and shapes
• Lighter frame than many full face masks
• Rolling design at the nasal bridge auto-seals leaks near the eyes
• Breathable, moisture-wicking headgear
• Works with all CPAP machines except the ResMed AirMini
• Non-magnetic headgear clips makes this a good choice for users with medical implants
• Headgear has five points of attachment, including a crown strap to get the cushion height just right

Cons

• Stability bar sits between the eyes
• Difficult to wear glasses or read with the mask on

The final full face mask in our 2024 CPAP Mask Guide brings us back to the DreamWear line from Philips Respironics. Like the AirFit F30, the DreamWear Full Face Mask features an under-the-nose cushion instead of the traditional triangular cushion. 

This minimalist full face mask also uses the same hollow silicone frame as the DreamWear Nasal and DreamWear Nasal Pillow Masks. In the center of the frame sits the 360° rotating elbow which connects to the CPAP hose, allowing air to travel down both sides of the hollow frame to the cushion.

The over-the-head connection removes the downward drag on the mask, which is particularly beneficial for a larger cushion full-face mask where the opportunity for leaks is increased due to the larger surface area. This design also makes this full face mask one of the best CPAP masks for stomach sleepers.

Like the majority of CPAP masks we’ve covered, the DreamWear Full Face Mask features magnetic headgear clips that simplify mask fitting. One thing to note, though, is that the presence of these magnetic clips means that this full-face mask uses different headgear than other DreamWear masks. This means if you want to switch your DreamWear Nasal Mask to the full face version, you’d have to buy the DreamWear Full Face Headgear and the cushion. It’s an additional expense, but we think it still beats buying a whole new sleep apnea mask.

To accommodate a wide range of users, the DreamWear Full Face mask offers four cushion sizes (small, medium, medium-wide, and large) and three frame sizes (small, medium, and large). Although this creates an almost overwhelming number of sizing combinations, the variety ensures a much higher chance of finding the perfect fit

If you don’t want to bother with mixing and matching your cushion and frame, you can choose the fit pack. The fit pack (SKU 1133400) includes a medium frame and all four cushion sizes, so you can the perfect fit in the comfort of home.

Pros

• Top-of-the-head connection for greater sleeping freedom
• Great choice for stomach sleepers
• Minimal full face cushion reduces feelings of claustrophobia
• Works with all CPAP machines except the ResMed AirMini
• Magnetic headgear clips makes mask fitting and adjustments easy
• Shape of the cushion makes it possible to wear glasses
• Modular design lets you convert the mask to a nasal or nasal pillow mask
• Large number of frame and cushion sizes to choose from

Cons

• Too many sizing combinations can be confusing
• Not the best choice for users with metallic medical implants
• Can be disruptive to bed partner as exhaled air flows directly out the front of the cushion
• Need to buy a separate headgear if switching from nasal/nasal pillow mask or vice versa

If you’re tired of waking up with CPAP mask marks on your face or suspect your CPAP headgear has been causing hair thinning, you’ll want to give the latest no-headgear CPAP mask a try. BLEEP, who brought you the DreamPort in 2018, recently released an upgraded headgear-free CPAP mask—the Eclipse.

The Eclipse consists of a frame, 16″ tubing connector with a diffuser and two adhesive Halo patches that stick on the nostrils. There’s no headgear to adjust and no straps on the face that can cause irritation and leave marks in the morning. Despite the lack of a headgear, the BLEEP Eclipse offers a remarkable seal thanks to its MagSeal Magnetic Port Technology.

Each Halo adhesive features a stainless steel ring that magnetically adheres to the opening ports on the frame. Although this revolutionary setup seems simple, it works wonderfully. The magnets are strong enough to ensure the frame and tubing connector remain securely attached to the Halos. Made with surgical-grade adhesive, the Halo patches are not only BPA and latex-free but also corn-free.

We found the Eclipse to be one of the best CPAP masks for beards and facial hair because the only parts of the mask that touches the face are the Halos. Less contact with the face means less chance of CPAP mask leak. While you may need to trim your mustache slightly before applying the adhesives, this is significantly less grooming compared to using a nasal mask or full face mask.

If you’re looking for a lightweight CPAP mask that isn’t a nasal pillow mask, the BLEEP Eclipse is a great choice as well. It’s over 35% smaller than popular nasal pillow masks and it has the added bonus of not irritating your nose. If you love the compact design of nasal pillow CPAP masks but dislike the sensation of nasal pillows in your nostrils, the Eclipse is the solution.

Of course, the BLEEP Eclipse has some downsides as well. Since this mask contains magnets, it should be kept at least 0.8 inches (2 cm) away from active medical implants such as pacemakers, defibrillators, and others. If you or your bed partner have any implants or medical devices, please consult your doctor before using the Eclipse.

The Eclipse is incredibly easy to put on, but the Halos takes a bit longer to prepare. In order to ensure they stick to your nose properly, you must use a mild astringent such as witch hazel or alcohol to clean your nose first. You may also need to trim the Halos (with the paper backing on) prior to applying them to your nose.

Pros

• No headgear
• Magnetic attachment makes putting on and taking off the mask easy
• One-size-fits-all Halos adhesives can be trimmed to fit any nose
• Good seal for CPAP users with facial hair
• Works with all CPAP machines (tubing adapter required for use with ResMed AirMini)
• Great for sleeping in any position, although a tube management system is recommended for maximum comfort.

Cons

• Halos are single-use and the cost adds up over time.
• Halos need to be prepped properly for the best seal.
• Eclipse uses magnets and needs to be kept at least 0.8 inches (2 cm) away from medical implants.

Well, there you have it! These are our best CPAP mask picks to help you ring in 2024 with good sleep and good health! What will you wear to bed in 2024?