Finding the right CPAP mask can make all the difference in how well you sleep. The right fit means better comfort, fewer leaks, and more effective sleep apnea therapy. But with so many ResMed AirFit options out there, choosing one can feel overwhelming.
That’s why we’re breaking down four of ResMed’s most popular nasal masks:
- AirFit N10
- AirFit N20
- AirFit N30
- AirFit N30i
Each one offers a unique fit and feel, whether you prefer a classic design or something lightweight and minimal. In this guide, we’ll explore their key features, who each mask works best for, and the pros and cons that can help you make an informed choice.
But first: What is a Nasal CPAP Mask?
A nasal mask is designed to deliver airflow through your nose only. It either sits comfortably under your nostrils (like a cradle) or covers the nose entirely. This type of mask strikes a balance between comfort and performance: lighter than a full-face mask, but often more stable than nasal pillows, especially for higher pressure settings.
Every nasal mask includes a frame, headgear, and cushion. Nasal cushions typically come in two styles:
-
Triangular-shaped cushions, which cover the entire nose.
-
Crescent or cradle-style cushions, which rest just beneath the nostrils for a more open feel.
Option 1: ResMed AirFit N10 Nasal Mask Review
The ResMed AirFit N10 Nasal Mask is one of the lightest nasal CPAP masks on the market. It also comes in a For Her version, which is designed to provide a more secure fit for those with smaller faces and noses.
|
General Specifications | AirFit N10 |
||
| Nasal Cushion Sizes | Headgear Sizes | Frame Sizes: |
| Small*, Standard, Wide | Standard, Small* | One-size-fits-all |
*The AirFit N10 For Her is only available with a small headgear and a small nasal cushion
AirFit N10 Nasal Mask Key Features
Magnetic Clips and Adjustable Headgear
The ResMed AirFit N10 Nasal Mask Headgear comes with four Velcro straps, making it easy to adjust to your comfort. The headgear itself can be attached via magnetic clips for easy on and off. The clip's outer lip keeps the magnets attached even during sleep, ensuring the mask remains securely in place throughout the night.
SpringAir Dual Wall Cushion
The AirFit N10 Nasal Mask features a soft, lightweight cushion made of hypoallergenic silicone. This SpringAir dual-wall cushion creates a snug and comfortable seal around the nose, preventing CPAP mask leaks that can increase your AHI.
Both the AirFit N10 and N10 For Her utilize a universal frame size, so you can use any cushion size with any mask frame. This means if you purchased the N10 in a size wide, but discovered that the cushion is too large for your nose, you can simply swap the wide cushion out for a standard-sized one. There’s no need to worry about cushion-frame compatibility.
Quiet Performance
The N10 keeps airflow noise to a minimum with its circular ventilation ports, located in a ring around the short connector tubing. This ingenious design directs airflow away in multiple directions to prevent disturbance to you and your bed partner so you can both enjoy a better night’s sleep.
Quick Overview
Option 2: ResMed AirFit N20 Nasal Mask Review
The ResMed AirFit N20 Nasal Mask is a newer and upgraded version of its predecessor, the AirFit N10. The two ResMed nasal masks have very similar features, but the AirFit N20 is an upgraded version of the N10 with some improvements to enhance sleep therapy comfort.
|
General Specifications | AirFit N20 |
||
| Nasal Cushion Sizes | Headgear Sizes | Frame Sizes: |
| Small*, Medium, Large | Standard, Small* | One-size-fits-all |
*The AirFit N20 For Her is only available with a small headgear and a small cushion.
AirFit N20 Nasal Mask Key Features
InfinitySeal Nasal Cushion
The AirFit N20 features an InfinitySeal cushion that is designed to fit a wide range of face shapes and sizes. The cushion is made with the same hypoallergenic silicone material as the AirFit N10, but it is a bit firmer, providing a more secure seal to reduce air leaks during sleep.
The InfinitySeal N20 cushion also adapts to your movements during sleep to give you a consistent and effective seal, no matter how you sleep. Like its predecessor, the N20 also comes in a For Her model, which features a small nasal cushion and small headgear.
Flexible Frame and Magnetic Headgear Clips
Sporting a similar frame design to the AirFit N10, the N20 mask frame is a step up from its predecessor, with padding underneath to prevent CPAP mask marks. Like the AirFit N10, this nasal mask gives you an open field of view, making it the best CPAP nasal mask for anyone who enjoys reading or watching TV before bed. The frame is also compatible with all nasal cushion sizes, so you can adjust your mask fit without having to shell out even more money for another mask.
One of the most popular features of N10 and N20 is the magnetic headgear clips, designed to hold the mask securely in place without sacrificing convenience. These magnetic clips remove the hassle of dealing with hooks when making adjustments to your mask.
Quick-Release Elbow and Flexi-Tube
A unique feature of the ResMed N20 is its quick-release elbow that allows for easy mask disconnection and reconnection from a CPAP machine, allowing you to get back to sleep right away. The Flexi-Tube at the front of the mask is another handy design that prevents tube drag, giving you the freedom to move around without worrying about CPAP hose entanglement or tugging.
Quick Overview
Option 3: ResMed AirFit N30 Nasal Mask Review
Released in October 2019, the AirFit N30 is the newest mask in our ResMed nasal mask review. ResMed’s N30 Nasal Cradle Mask is an option for CPAP users who like the lightweight and compact design of the AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow Mask but find the nasal pillows irritating.
ResMed replaced the nasal pillows with a nasal cradle cushion, creating one of the lightest and most comfortable nasal CPAP masks on the market. The entire mask weighs just under two ounces and is ready to use right out of the box.
|
General Specifications | AirFit N30 |
||
| Nasal Cushion Sizes | Headgear Sizes | Frame Sizes: |
| Small, Small-wide, Medium | One-size-fits-all | One-size-fits-all |
AirFit N30 Nasal Mask Key Features
One-Size-Fits-All Headgear
At first glance, the ResMed N30 Headgear is very similar to the original AirFit P10 headgear; however, a closer look shows that the N30 headgear features a small clip on the side for adjustments. The headgear material is breathable and elastic for a snug fit that isn’t too tight or too hot.
The addition of the clip helped improve mask fit so much that ResMed replaced its P10 headgear with this new design. The P10 and N30 headgears are actually interchangeable, so if you’re looking to replace your N30 headgear but your provider doesn’t have it in stock, you can request the P10 headgear instead of waiting.
Cradle Cushion
The N30 Nasal Cradle Cushion is shaped like a crescent moon and rests under the nose to provide a soft and comfortable fit. Its curved design allows it to wrap around the nostrils, preventing possible air leaks. The cushion is thinner where it touches the nostrils and more substantial near the nasal wings for better support and seal.
Lightweight Mask Frame
With a flexible, short tube at the end that connects to a CPAP hose, the AirFit N30 frame is light and easy to clean. The entire nasal mask frame is one piece, so there’s no confusion when it comes to reassembly. When washing the CPAP mask frame, simply submerge the frame in a basin of warm soapy water and use a toothbrush to scrub the exhalation vents near the short tubing.
Additionally, the AirFit N30 Nasal Mask Frame is compatible with all N30 nasal cushions and both the N30 and AirFit P10 headgear.
Quick Overview
Option 4: ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal Mask Review
With a tube-up design and an all-silicone frame, the ResMed AirFit N30i is the most comfortable nasal CPAP mask for active sleepers. This is also the only mask in our nasal mask review that can be worn while stomach-sleeping.
|
General Specifications | AirFit N30 |
||
| Nasal Cushion Sizes | Headgear Sizes | Frame Sizes: |
| Small, Small-wide, Medium, Wide* | One-size-fits-all | Standard, Small |
*Wide nasal cushion is sold separately and is not included in either the Small or Standard Starter Packs
AirFit N30i Nasal Mask Key Features
Updated Nasal Cushion
Made of soft, lightweight silicone, the N30i Nasal Cushion conforms to the shape of your nose for a comfortable fit so you can wear the mask all night without any irritation. The cushion flexes in response to movement and adapts to different sleep positions for a secure mask seal. It also incorporates ResMed’s QuietAir vent technology, which keeps the noise level down to just 21 decibels. That’s literally whisper-quiet!
Top-of-the-Head Hose Connection
What truly makes the N30i stand out from others in this nasal CPAP mask review is the top-of-the-head hose connection. Instead of a traditional tube attachment at the front of the face, the AirFit N30i features a 360-degree rotating swivel elbow on top of the head that connects to the CPAP hose.
The swivel features a built-in vent that diffuses exhaled air, minimizes noise, and it’s conveniently located to allow CO2 removal during stomach sleeping. Now, you can sleep on your side, back, or stomach without worrying about tube entanglement or carbon dioxide buildup.
Quick-Release Elbow
Did we mention the elbow swivel also comes with a quick-release feature? The AirFit N30i can be quickly disconnected from your CPAP tubing via the elbow connector, so you don’t have to struggle with your CPAP mask at night. You can keep the nasal mask on while you head to the bathroom and easily resume CPAP therapy by pushing the quick-release elbow back in place on top of your head.
Quick Overview
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best CPAP nasal mask is one that fits you well, feels comfortable, and allows you to sleep peacefully without disruption. By choosing the right CPAP mask, you can significantly improve your sleep therapy experience and manage your sleep apnea symptoms more effectively.
And remember, if you aren’t sure which ResMed nasal mask is the best for you, the RespShop team is here to help!
