10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (2024)

Table of Contents
Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators of 2024: Reviews and Costs OxyGo Next GCE Healthcare Zen-O Lite Precision Medical EasyPulse 3-Liter GCE Healthcare Zen-O Caire Freestyle Comfort Precision Medical Live Active Five 02 Concepts OxLife Liberty Rhythm Healthcare P2-E7 OxyGo FIT Belluscura X-PLOR Methodology: How We Picked the Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators of 2024 What Are Portable Oxygen Concentrators? How Does a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Work? Types of Oxygen Concentrators What Type of Portable Oxygen Concentrator Is Best? How to Use an Oxygen Concentrator Who Could Benefit From a Portable Oxygen Concentrator? What to Look for in a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Oxygen Delivery Modes Battery Life Size and Weight Health Benefits of Using a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Potential Risks of Portable Oxygen Concentrators How Much Do Portable Oxygen Concentrators Cost? Does Medicare Cover Portable Oxygen Concentrators? Does Insurance Cover Portable Oxygen Concentrators? How to Save Money on Oxygen Concentrators Can You Rent a Portable Oxygen Concentrator? What Is the Best Affordable Portable Oxygen Concentrator? How Long Does a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Last? Where to Buy the Best Portable Oxygen Concentrator How to Choose the Right Oxygen Concentrator for You Final Thoughts Summary: Compare the Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators of 2024 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Are portable oxygen concentrators effective? Can you use a portable concentrator at night? Do I need a prescription to buy or rent a portable oxygen concentrator? Can you take portable oxygen concentrators on airplanes? What is the cheapest portable oxygen concentrator? Which is the smallest portable oxygen concentrator? Which is better, a 5-liter or 10-liter oxygen concentrator? What's the best home oxygen machine for COPD? Can you get too much oxygen from an oxygen concentrator? What is the difference between a portable oxygen concentrator and a portable oxygen machine? Can you run a POC continuously? Can you purchase portable oxygen concentrators from Amazon? Sources References Next Up InMedical Supplies

FEATURED PARTNER OFFER 10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (1)

We receive compensation from our partners for Featured Partner Offer placements. While this may influence where their products or services appear on our site, it in no way affects our ratings, which are based on thorough research, solid methodologies and expert advice. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable review of their products or services.

CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5 Portable Concentrator

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (2)
  • autoSAT Technology will maintain a steady level of oxygen with Adjustable Rise Time and Bolus Size
  • Battery recharges while the unit is connected to any heavy-duty DC power supply
  • Three rise time options: slow, medium and fast with three adjustable pulse dose sensitivity settings
  • Easy access to removable battery with new contemporary mobile cart design

On Oxygen Concentrator Store's Website

Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators of 2024: Reviews and Costs

Best Compact Design

OxyGo Next

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (4)

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (5)

5.0

Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

  • Starting price: $2,850
  • Weighs 4.7 pounds with single battery
  • Device battery life: 6.35 hours with single battery at lowest setting; 13.28 hours with double battery at lowest setting
  • Sound level: 38 decibels
  • Power options: AC and direct current (DC)
  • Flow type: Pulse
  • Six flow settings
  • Maximum oxygen output: 1,260 milliliters per minute
  • Federal Aviation Administration approved? Yes
  • Dimensions: 7.19 inches by 3.26 inches by 8.15 inches

Call Now

On Oxygen Concentrator Store's Website

Why We Picked It

Editor’s Take

Pros & Cons

Best Quiet Operation

GCE Healthcare Zen-O Lite

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (8)

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (9)

4.8

Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

  • Starting price: $2,495
  • Weighs 5.5 pounds with single battery
  • Device battery life: 4.5-hour with single battery at setting no. 2
  • Sound level: 37 decibels
  • Power options: AC and DC
  • Flow type: Pulse
  • 10 flow settings
  • Maximum oxygen output: 1,050 milliliters per minute
  • Federal Aviation Administration approved? Yes
  • Dimensions: 9.8 inches by 3.8 inches by 9.3 inches

Call Now

On Oxygen Concentrator Store's Website

Why We Picked It

Editor’s Take

Pros & Cons

Best Liter Size Options

Precision Medical EasyPulse 3-Liter

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (12)

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (13)

4.3

Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

  • Starting price: $2,082
  • Weighs 4.9 pounds with single battery
  • Device battery life: 5.5 hours for single battery at lowest setting
  • Sound level: 42 decibels
  • Power options: AC and DC
  • Flow type: Pulse
  • Three flow settings
  • Maximum oxygen output: 520 milliliters per minute
  • Federal Aviation Administration approved? Yes
  • Dimensions: 8.5 inches by 6.5 inches by 4.5 inches

Why We Picked It

Editor’s Take

Pros & Cons

Best Combination Pulse and Continuous Flow Model

GCE Healthcare Zen-O

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (14)

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (15)

4.3

Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

  • Starting price: $3,145
  • Weighs 10.27 pounds with single 12-cell battery
  • Device battery life: 4 hours with a single battery at setting no. 2; 8 hours with two batteries at setting no. 2
  • Sound level: 38 to 42 decibels
  • Power options: AC and DC
  • Flow type: Pulse and continuous
  • 11 pulse flow settings
  • Maximum oxygen output: 2 liters per minute
  • Federal Aviation Administration approved? Yes
  • Dimensions: 12.3 inches by 8.3 inches by 6.6 inches

Call Now

On Oxygen Concentrator Store's Website

Why We Picked It

Editor’s Take

Pros & Cons

Best Single Battery Life

Caire Freestyle Comfort

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (18)

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (19)

4.0

Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

  • Starting price: $2,995
  • Weights 5.07 pounds with single 8-cell battery
  • Device battery life: Up to 4 hours with single battery at setting no. 2; up to to 8 hours with double battery
  • Sound level: 40 decibels
  • Power options: AC and DC
  • Flow type: Pulse
  • Five flow settings
  • Maximum output: 1,050 milliliters per minute
  • Federal Aviation Administration approved? Yes
  • Dimensions: 10 inches by 7.3 inches by 3.1 inches

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On Oxygen Concentrator Store's Website

Why We Picked It

Editor’s Take

Pros & Cons

Best User-Friendly Model

Precision Medical Live Active Five

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (22)

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (23)

3.8

Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

  • Starting price: $2,310
  • Weighs 5 pounds with a single battery
  • Device battery life: 6.5-hours with single battery at lowest setting
  • Sound level: 40 decibels
  • Power options: AC and DC
  • Flow type: Pulse
  • Five flow settings
  • Maximum output: 1 liter per minute
  • Federal Aviation Administration approved? Yes
  • Dimensions: 8.4 inches by 3.2 inches by 8.5 inches

Why We Picked It

Editor’s Take

Pros & Cons

Best Maximum Oxygen Output

02 Concepts OxLife Liberty

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (24)

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (25)

3.7

Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

  • Starting price: $2,895
  • Weighs 6.35 pounds
  • Device battery life: 4.5 hours with a single battery
  • Sound level: 52.3 decibels
  • Power options: AC and DC
  • Flow type: Pulse and continuous
  • 10 flow settings
  • Maximum oxygen output: 2 liters per minute
  • Federal Aviation Administration approved? Yes
  • Dimensions: 9.9 inches by 9.9 inches by 3.8 inches

Call Now

On Oxygen Concentrator Store's Website

Why We Picked It

Editor’s Take

Pros & Cons

Best Warranty Coverage

Rhythm Healthcare P2-E7

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (28)

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (29)

3.7

Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

  • Starting price: $2,995
  • Weighs 4.37 pounds
  • Device battery life: 6 hours for single battery at lowest setting
  • Sound level: 39 decibels
  • Power options: AC and DC
  • Flow type: Pulse
  • Seven flow settings
  • Maximum oxygen output: 1,400 milliliters per minute
  • Federal Aviation Administration approved? Yes
  • Dimensions: 8.7 inches by 3.4 inches by 6.3 inches

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On Oxygen Concentrator Store's Website

Why We Picked It

Editor’s Take

Pros & Cons

Best Lightweight Option

OxyGo FIT

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (32)

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (33)

3.5

Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

  • Starting price: $2,509.92
  • Weighs 2.8 pounds with a single battery
  • Device battery life: Up to 2.7 hours with a single battery at lowest setting; up to 5 hours with double battery at lowest setting
  • Sound level: 40 decibels
  • Power options: AC and DC
  • Flow type: Pulse
  • Three flow settings
  • Maximum oxygen output: 630 milliliters per minute
  • Federal Aviation Administration approved? Yes
  • Dimensions: 7.2 inches by 2.7 inches by 5.9 inches

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On Oxygen Concentrator Store's Website

Why We Picked It

Editor’s Take

Pros & Cons

Best Value

Belluscura X-PLOR

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (36)

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (37)

3.5

Our ratings take into account a product's cost, features, ease of use, customer service and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

  • Starting price: $1,995
  • Weighs 3.5 pounds with a single 4-cell battery
  • Device battery life: 4.5 hours with 8-cell battery
  • Sound level: 39 decibels
  • Power options: AC and DC
  • Flow type: Pulse
  • Four flow settings
  • Maximum oxygen output: 750 milliliters per minute
  • Federal Aviation Administration approved? Yes
  • Dimensions: 7.3 inches by 2.9 inches by 7.6 inches

Call Now

On Oxygen Concentrator Store's Website

Why We Picked It

Editor’s Take

Pros & Cons

Methodology: How We Picked the Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators of 2024

To determine the best portable oxygen concentrators, the Forbes Health editorial team analyzed data on over 30 medical devices, ranking them based on:

  • Average price (20%)
  • Device weight (10%)
  • Battery life (10%)
  • Range of pulse flow settings (10%)
  • Maximum liter flow (10%)
  • Maximum oxygen concentration (10%)
  • Device size (5%)
  • Power source options (5%)
  • Sound level (5%)
  • Wearability (5%)
  • Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval (5%)
  • Warranty details (5%)

FEATURED PARTNER OFFER 10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (40)

We receive compensation from our partners for Featured Partner Offer placements. While this may influence where their products or services appear on our site, it in no way affects our ratings, which are based on thorough research, solid methodologies and expert advice. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable review of their products or services.

Inogen One G5 Portable Concentrator

10 Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators Of 2024 (41)
  • Provides six flow settings
  • Lightweight design weighing under 5 pounds
  • Capable of 24/7 oxygen delivery
  • Battery life up to 6.5 hours
  • Very quiet at only 39 decibels

Call Now

On Oxygen Concentrator Store's Website

What Are Portable Oxygen Concentrators?

Portable oxygen concentrators are battery-operated devices that provide supplemental oxygen to people who “require greater oxygen concentrations than the levels of ambient air,” says Sanul Corrielus, M.D., a board-certified cardiologist based in Philadelphia. “Oxygen concentrators draw oxygen from your immediate environment,” he adds, meaning they don’t require refillable oxygen canisters or tanks, which makes maintenance and upkeep easy.

How Does a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Work?

A portable oxygen concentrator, sometimes called a POC, is similar to a home oxygen concentrator (OC) but more mobile, says Corrielus. These devices are small enough to carry, which makes them ideal for travel, and some are approved for use on airlines.

According to Corrielus, here’s how an oxygen concentrator works:

  1. The device draws in air from your surrounding environment.
  2. Air is compressed inside the device.
  3. Nitrogen is filtered out of the air.
  4. Pure oxygen is inhaled through a nasal tube (cannula) or mask.

Types of Oxygen Concentrators

There are two types of oxygen concentrators: stationary oxygen concentrators and portable oxygen concentrators.

Stationary oxygen concentrators, or home oxygen concentrators, tend to provide continuous oxygen flow at larger volumes than portable machines. They’re also significantly larger than most portable options, typically weighing between about 30 and 55 pounds. These models often feature handles for easy rolling or moving from one location to another in a person’s home.

Portable oxygen concentrators provide individuals who need supplemental oxygen outside of their home with a much more lightweight and mobile solution. They deliver oxygen in the same way stationary oxygen concentrators do, but they tend to push lower volumes of oxygen comparatively. Most of these devices use rechargeable lithium ion batteries instead of relying on a wall adapter, so they also require frequent recharging.

Deciding which option works best for you ultimately depends on your lifestyle and supplemental oxygen needs. A stationary concentrator provides a higher oxygen output often at a lower cost while portable devices are smaller and travel-friendly. Work with your health care professional to determine which oxygen concentrator would make the most sense for you.

What Type of Portable Oxygen Concentrator Is Best?

The best portable oxygen concentrator depends on your health needs, lifestyle preferences and budget. Work with your health care provider to determine which portable oxygen concentrator best suits your needs.

How to Use an Oxygen Concentrator

Portable oxygen concentrators are powered via a rechargeable battery that connects to the bottom of the concentrator. How long the battery lasts varies depending on the speed at which the user breathes (breaths per minute) and their required oxygen flow rate.

To use a portable oxygen concentrator, begin by attaching the nasal cannula (the device that helps deliver the oxygen to the nose) and turning on the device. Adjust the oxygen flow settings based on your health care provider’s prescription. Make a habit of checking the display screen to confirm adequate battery life before use, and carry an extra battery when you’re planning on being away from home (or an electrical outlet for charging) for an extended period of time.

Clean a portable oxygen concentrator using a mild dish soap and water, taking care to keep water away from the nasal cannula tubing. The cannula tubing should be replaced every two to four weeks, or sooner if it becomes damaged.

Who Could Benefit From a Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

Anyone with a condition that may cause a low blood oxygen level (hypoxia) may benefit from supplemental oxygen, says Bacheler. Such conditions can include anemia, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), lung cancer, heart failure and congenital heart disease.

What to Look for in a Portable Oxygen Concentrator

There are numerous features to consider when choosing a portable oxygen concentrator, but there are a few particularly important details to think about when browsing your options.

Oxygen Delivery Modes

While stationary oxygen concentrators deliver a continuous flow of oxygen, portable oxygen concentrators can either provide a continuous flow or a pulse mode, explains Bacheler. Pulse mode portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) can only be used by those using nasal cannulas who have enough breathing power to trigger the device to deliver a pulse of oxygen. People with tracheostomies (a surgical opening in the neck into the trachea) or very poor breathing ability need a continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator. Some POCs feature both pulse dose and continuous flow settings.

It’s also important to consider the amount of oxygen needed, says Bacheler. Pulse mode portable oxygen concentrators can typically deliver 1 to 6 liters of oxygen per minute, though some small ones are limited to 3 liters per minute. Continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators can only provide 1 to 3 liters of oxygen per minute.

Battery Life

Batteries on pulse mode portable oxygen concentrators have a much longer life than those on continuous flow concentrators, according to Bacheler.

All portable concentrators have a car charger, he notes, but airplanes don’t “have enough power to operate a POC, so the user needs to have enough batteries to operate the POC for the duration of a flight.” Many airlines require passengers to have enough battery life for 150% of a planned flight time as a safety precaution to avoid emergencies. If you use a continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator, that could mean traveling with an additional 20 to 30 pounds of batteries, says Bacheler.

Size and Weight

Portable oxygen concentrators range in weight from about 2.8 to 20 pounds, says Bacheler. Smaller concentrators have a lower oxygen capacity, so it’s usually best to opt for a larger device if you need a lot of supplemental oxygen. Consider how often you travel and what size would best fit your lifestyle. If you frequently fly on airplanes, make sure the device you’re considering is approved for air travel before you purchase it.

Health Benefits of Using a Portable Oxygen Concentrator

If you require supplemental oxygen but want to lead a more active lifestyle, a portable oxygen concentrator provides the flexibility and mobility needed to breathe comfortably while away from home. Some models can provide as much as 24 hours of continuous oxygen, making it possible to travel or enjoy remote activities without worrying about running out of oxygen. They’re also lightweight for easy carrying, and many models are Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approved for airplane travel.

Experience The Inogen One G5 - A Step Forward In Oxygen Therapy Innovation

The Inogen G5 is a robust and versatile concentrator that provides six flow settings in a lightweight design weighing under 5 pounds. It's capable of 24/7 oxygen delivery, has a long battery life and features remarkably quiet operation.

Potential Risks of Portable Oxygen Concentrators

Although oxygen is a safe, non-flammable gas, it does support combustion, meaning materials will burn more quickly in an oxygen-rich environment. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends the following safety guidelines while using a portable oxygen concentrator:

  • Avoid using an oxygen concentrator while smoking or near an open flame.
  • Place your oxygen concentrator in an open space to reduce the risk of overheating.
  • To maintain optimal device performance, do not cover or block any vents on the oxygen concentrator.
  • Check your device for alarms or indications that you’re getting adequate oxygen.

Meanwhile, keep in mind that because portable oxygen concentrators use rechargeable batteries, it’s important to carry an extra battery whenever you anticipate being away from home for long stretches of time.

Oxygen concentrators that deliver 4 liters of oxygen per minute or more may cause nasal dryness and nosebleeds. However, humidifier attachments can help to add moisture to the oxygen you inhale to alleviate symptoms.

Additionally, the American Lung Association warns individuals against using over-the-counter portable oxygen concentrators. While these devices may be more affordable than oxygen concentrators that require a prescription, they may not be able to meet oxygen needs for certain conditions, such as COPD or pulmonary fibrosis.

How Much Do Portable Oxygen Concentrators Cost?

Portable oxygen concentrators tend to cost around $2,500, but there are models that are both more affordable and more expensive. Data compiled by the Forbes Health editorial team suggests that prices tend to range from about $700 to $3,145, depending on the manufacturer and model. Many oxygen concentrators are available for rent as well, significantly reducing the cost for those who don’t want to buy a device outright.

PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR COST

OxyGo Next

$2,850

GCE Healthcare Zen-O-Lite

$2,495

Precision Medical EasyPulse – 3 LIter

$2,082

GCE Healthcare Zen-O

$3,145

Caire Freestyle Comfort

$2,995

Precision Medical Live Active Five

$2,310

O2 Concepts OxLife Liberty

$2,895

Rhythm Healthcare P2-E7

$2,995

OxyGo Fit

$2,509.92

Belluscura X-PLOR

$1,995

Does Medicare Cover Portable Oxygen Concentrators?

Medicare Part B often helps cover the cost of renting oxygen equipment, such as portable concentrators. However, you must meet the following conditions:

  • A doctor must confirm you have severe lung disease or don’t get enough oxygen on your own.
  • An oxygen concentrator might help improve your health.
  • Other measures to improve your oxygen intake have already failed.

If you already own a portable oxygen concentrator, Medicare does help pay for supplies and for the delivery of oxygen.

Does Insurance Cover Portable Oxygen Concentrators?

Many private insurers cover portable oxygen concentrators, too, but it depends on the details of your specific plan. For instance, the Inogen One Oxygen Concentrator is covered by “many private insurance plans” at little or no cost, though copayments and deductibles may apply. Contact your insurance provider to find out exactly how much is covered.

How to Save Money on Oxygen Concentrators

If Medicare or your private insurance doesn’t cover an oxygen concentrator, there are ways to reduce costs for these devices. For instance, some medical equipment providers may allow individuals to purchase oxygen concentrators on a payment plan, which will allow them to pay off the cost of the device in small, incremental payments over a predetermined amount of time.

Alternatively, consider purchasing either a used or refurbished oxygen concentrator from a reputable dealer or manufacturer. Used concentrators are typically devices that have been returned, sanitized and tested for oxygen purity levels, with mechanical parts replaced or fixed as needed. Refurbished devices generally have all new mechanical components with repurposed casing and cosmetic fixtures.

Can You Rent a Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

If you only need supplemental oxygen therapy for a temporary amount of time, such as if you’re recovering from an illness, it may make more sense to rent a portable oxygen concentrator rather than purchase one. Rental costs for portable oxygen concentrators typically range anywhere from $245 to $500 per week, depending on factors like the type of device, the medical equipment supplier you rent from and your specific oxygen needs.

To rent a portable oxygen concentrator, you’ll likely need to provide your oxygen prescription and insurance information to the device supplier. For Medicare beneficiaries, Part B may cover the costs of renting oxygen equipment and accessories as durable medical equipment (DME) if your doctor prescribes it as medically necessary.

What Is the Best Affordable Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

Ultimately, the best affordable portable oxygen concentrator for you is the one that can deliver the supplemental oxygen you need, works for your particular lifestyle and accommodates your personal budget. If your health care provider prescribed supplemental oxygen as part of your care plan, speak with them about affordable device options, including rental opportunities, that can meet your health needs effectively. Also reach out to your health care provider to learn whether your plan covers more costs of oxygen concentrators made and supported by certain manufacturers.

How Long Does a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Last?

Depending on the model and how well a person takes care of their device, a portable oxygen concentrator can last an individual four to seven years before requirement replacement. The battery components of the devices may require replacement before the actual oxygen concentrator, however. Regular cleaning and maintenance are the best ways to protect the overall lifespan of a medical device like a portable oxygen concentrator.

Where to Buy the Best Portable Oxygen Concentrator

You typically need a prescription for supplemental oxygen from your health care provider to purchase or rent an oxygen concentrator. Once these needs are established, it’s best to ask your health care provider and health insurance provider where they recommend sourcing a device from to keep costs manageable. Based on this information, you can consider a number of online medical supply companies, as well as those with brick-and-mortar locations near you.

How to Choose the Right Oxygen Concentrator for You

The best portable oxygen concentrator for you will depend on a variety of factors, including your prescribed liter flow, battery life and device size and weight. You may also want to consider factors such as how loud the device is and if it’s FAA-approved. Consult with your health care provider to determine which portable oxygen concentrator best suits your individual needs.

Final Thoughts

Our top pick for the best portable oxygen concentrators is the OxyGo Next due to its lightweight design, affordable price, six oxygen flow settings and long battery life. Other noteworthy portable oxygen concentrators that made our list include the GCE Healthcare Zen-O Lite, Precision Medical EasyPulse 3-Liter and Caire Freestyle Comfort.

Summary: Compare the Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators of 2024

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are portable oxygen concentrators effective?

Portable oxygen concentrators are effective when used as prescribed. Make sure you’re clear with your health care provider about your lifestyle and needs so they can appropriately guide you in determining which portable oxygen concentrator is best for you. It’s also important to pay attention to battery life and ensure routine cleaning of your portable oxygen concentrator.

Can you use a portable concentrator at night?

Some portable oxygen concentrators aren’t advised for sleep—home concentrators are often preferred. If you require supplemental oxygen while at rest, confirm with your health care provider which device is most appropriate for you and what settings should be used at various points of the day and night.

Do I need a prescription to buy or rent a portable oxygen concentrator?

Yes. Supplemental oxygen is only sold or rented if you have a prescription, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Using a concentrator without a health care provider’s prescription could lead to health problems, including oxygen toxicity, which occurs when you receive too much oxygen, states the agency. Your prescription states how much oxygen you should use and the duration for which you need it.

Can you take portable oxygen concentrators on airplanes?

Yes, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allows certain portable oxygen concentrators onboard airplanes. All of the devices listed above are FAA approved for air travel.

In order to be permitted on a flight, the devices must meet certain criteria. For example, they cannot radiate radio frequency emissions that interfere with the plane’s systems, and it’s important that they don’t generate compressed gas. Additionally, they can’t contain any hazardous materials.

If traveling internationally, it’s recommended that individuals carry their device’s model and manufacturer information in the event customs requests it.

What is the cheapest portable oxygen concentrator?

Portable oxygen concentrator prices vary significantly depending on the manufacturer and model, so it’s best to consult your health care provider and health insurance company to find the most cost-effective portable oxygen concentrator that suits your specific needs.

Which is the smallest portable oxygen concentrator?

Weighing in at just 2.8 pounds, the OxyGo FIT portable oxygen concentrator is the smallest device included on our list.

Which is better, a 5-liter or 10-liter oxygen concentrator?

Whether a 5- or 10-liter oxygen concentrator is best depends on an individual’s supplemental oxygen needs. Your health care provider will prescribe a certain amount of oxygen, written as liter flow per minute (LPM). Speak with your health care provider to determine whether a 5- or 10-liter capacity would best suit your needs.

What's the best home oxygen machine for COPD?

The best home oxygen device for COPD improves an individual’s symptoms, organ function and ability to engage in physical activity. To determine specific supplemental oxygen needs, individuals need to undergo certain tests (like oximetry or an arterial blood gas study) with their health care provider to determine the best supplemental oxygen therapy for their unique needs.

Can you get too much oxygen from an oxygen concentrator?

Yes, using an oxygen concentrator without a prescription may result in receiving too much or too little oxygen for your needs. Taking in too much oxygen may lead to oxygen toxicity, which may cause coughing or difficulty breathing. Only use an oxygen concentrator when prescribed by a health care provider.

What is the difference between a portable oxygen concentrator and a portable oxygen machine?

These are two terms for the same type of device: a small, portable device that delivers pure oxygen through a small tube into a person’s nostrils.

Can you run a POC continuously?

Most portable oxygen concentrators are designed to be used continuously, which means the user must switch between AC and DC power several times during the day.

Can you purchase portable oxygen concentrators from Amazon?

Yes, Amazon sells a number of portable oxygen concentrators.

Sources

References

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Information provided on Forbes Health is for educational purposes only. Your health and wellness is unique to you, and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. We do not offer individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment plans. For personal advice, please consult with a medical professional.

Forbes Health adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved or otherwise endorsed by our advertisers.

Angela HauptHealth Writer

Angela Haupt has been a health writer and editor for more than a decade. She was previously the managing editor of health at U.S. News & World Report, where she spent 11 years covering and editing wellness and conditions topics. She helped launch the popular Best Diets rankings and continued to oversee the franchise throughout her time there. Angela has also written about health and wellness for publications such as the Washington Post, USA Today, Everyday Health and Verywell Fit. She’s passionate about helping people make healthier decisions through accurate journalism that delivers the facts and puts them in context.

Nicole GregoryHealth Editor

Nicole Gregory is an editor and writer in Los Angeles who has contributed to the Los Angeles Times, the Orange County Register, Vegetarian Times, Good Housekeeping, Family Circle, New Woman and Living Fit, among other publications. She enjoys interviewing medical experts and researchers about their work and is passionate about communicating accurate and relevant health information to the public.

Linda J. Keilman, DNP, MSN, GNP-BC, FAANPGerontology

Linda Keilman has been a practicing gerontological nurse since 1989 and a member of the Michigan State University College of Nursing faculty since 1992. She uses a compassionate, empathetic, person-centered, humanistic approach in her collaborative, team-based practice where age-appropriate, evidence-based guidelines and protocols are used to achieve the highest possible positive outcomes for patients. Behavior modification, lifestyle changes, education, nonpharmacologic approaches, shared decision-making (SDM) and enhancing therapeutic coping strategies are her first-line interventions. For Keilman, each encounter is a therapeutic opportunity approached with joy, hope, humor and realistic optimism, and each person is treated equally with dignity and respect. Her clinical practice is based on sound ethical principles, evidence-based guidelines, morality, human dignity, and concepts of social and restorative justice.

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