One of the most difficult parts of using a CPAP machine is getting used to their noise. Even though the best CPAP machines make slight noises comparable to whispered conversation or a working fan, it might still be challenging to get to sleep if you have never used this type of device before.
Many solutions can help reduce the noise level of a CPAP machine, and some machines make less noise than others.
Here, we’ll share the quietest CPAP machines of 2024.
The 6 Quietest CPAP Machines of 2024
CPAP therapy for sleep apnea or other breathing-related sleep disorders can be noisy. However, some CPAP machines were created to offer the best possible therapy with less than 30 decibels (dBA). Here, we’ll share the quietest CPAP machines available in the market in 2024.
ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet Card-to-Cloud
The ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet Card-to-Cloud is currently the quietest CPAP machine on the market at just 26.6 dBA. Although there are more modern CPAP machines, this one wins in volume, keeping you and your bed partner sleeping nicely. It has an integrated heated humidifier, but the device is even quieter if you do not need to use it.
This CPAP machine offers multiple comfort features like SmartStart™, AutoRamp™, and ClimateLineAir™ that allow auto-adjusting pressure settings and on/off mode to help you get more comfortable with your sleep apnea therapy, which actually makes it an APAP machine (Automatic Positive Airway Pressure). It also includes an SD card to track your therapy data.
ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet CPAP Machine
The ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet CPAP Machine is nearly as quiet as the previous one, at only 27 decibels, which makes it great for light sleepers. It shares the features from the AirSense 10, like the integrated humidifier and the AutoRamp, and brings some extra improvements, such as a modern digital interface that make it a good choice when looking for a quiet CPAP.
One of its most important features is compatibility with the MyAir companion app. This app gives you access to a direct communication line with a personal therapy assistant who can offer advice to help you reach your sleep apnea therapy goals. You can check this review to learn more about this CPAP machine.
ResMed AirMini AutoSet Travel CPAP Machine
The ResMed AirMini AutoSet Travel CPAP Machine might not be the quietest CPAP machine, but at 30 dB, it delivers therapy at a whisper-quiet volume even while traveling.
It is a travel version of the AirSense 10 previously mentioned, which means they share the same auto-adjusting technology, including SmartStart™, AutoRamp™, and Expiratory Pressure Relief for a more comfortable experience with your therapy. It also offers a waterless humidification system and a Bed Mount to keep it by your bed, which allows it to be even quieter.
3B Medical Luna G3 CPAP Machine
The loudest machine on our list is the 3B Medical Luna G3 CPAP Machine , which remains at 30 decibels like a whispered conversation. Its main features include a heated hose and an integrated heated humidifier that reduces rainout and offers constant humidification through the night.
This device has an optional PM 2.5 filter capable of stopping significantly small particles that would go through a standard filter. This makes it a good option for light sleepers who also experience allergy symptoms.
Luna TravelPAP Travel CPAP Machine
The Luna TravelPAP Travel CPAP Machine can work at under 30 decibels, and with its compact and lightweight design, it allows it to offer undisturbed rest anywhere you go.
It includes multiple features, like adjustable therapy modes, app connectivity and comfort settings. But one of its best features is its multi-mask compatibility, which allows you to use this machine with full face masks, nasal pillow masks, or nasal masks without being restricted to proprietary masks.
Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine
The Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine has an inclusion that makes it one of the quietest CPAP machines in the market: the Q-lite CPAP tube muffler. It allows this CPAP machine to work at just 26 dBA, which makes it one of the quietest on the list.
It has a compact design that makes it a great CPAP for traveling , and includes features like Auto Altitude Adjustments, Auto Leak Compensation (that helps to keep the airflow within the tubing) and waterless humidification using a Heat Moisture Exchanger.
Which Travel CPAP is the Quietest?
Although noise is not the only feature to consider when looking for a travel CPAP machine , it is a very important aspect. To help you pick the quietest travel CPAP, we will compare the noise level of four travel CPAP devices.
Transcend Micro Travel CPAP sound level
This Transcend Micro Travel CPAP offers constant pressure from just 25 to 29 decibels, with a sound louder in inhalation than on exhalation, while using the Transcend tubing muffler that allows it to keep a near-whisper noise level.
Breas Z2 Travel CPAP sound level
The Bras Z2 works at 26 dBA, which is more stable during inhalation and exhalation than the previous one. This measure was also made with a tubing muffler.
ResMed AirMini Travel CPAP sound level
The previously mentioned ResMed AirMini Travel CPAP machine reaches around 30 dBA during exhalation. However, when it is connected to a ResMed AirFit™ N20 Nasal CPAP Mask or a Resmed AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow Mask , the sound level can lower up to 25 dBA, making it the quietest CPAP in our list.
Comparative table on which travel CPAP is the quietest
How Loud Can a CPAP Machine Get?
Every CPAP device has a decibel rating that the manufacturer must specify. Most available CPAP machines now have a decibel rating of about 30 dBA, the same as whispered conversation and similar to the noise that air conditioning or a fan can make.
While the difference between 30 decibels and 26 decibels might seem small, you must consider that every 10-decibel volume increase means the sound doubles in intensity. To better explain what 30 dB represents, we built this table with some examples:
Another important aspect to consider is the air pressure you need for your therapy. As you increase the pressure levels of the machine, it proportionally increases the volume 10 dB at a time. Therefore, if you need more pressure to treat your sleep apnea properly, your machine will not be as quiet as it could be in a lower pressure setting.
However, the experience can be very variable from one person to another because the sound level that bothers one person might go unnoticed by another. Your own experience can also change over time, and the noise level you find unbearable at the beginning of your CPAP therapy could go unnoticed given time.
How to Deal with Noise Coming from Your CPAP Machine
Even with a quiet CPAP machine, your device will still produce some sound. As previously mentioned, one can become accustomed to this noise after a while, and it can even function as white noise to help you get to sleep.
However, if you are having trouble getting used to your CPAP device’s noise, or you feel your machine is louder than it should, there are some things you can do to reduce the CPAP machine noise :
Consider Using Earplugs
It may not be the best solution, but using breathable foam earplugs is a temporary fix to help you block out the noise from your CPAP. However, silicone earplugs that completely seal your ears are not recommended because they can cause a feeling of pressure or discomfort in the ears or the sinuses.
Change the Filter Regularly
If your CPAP device gets louder, it may need a filter change. CPAP filters prevent dust and dirt from gathering in the CPAP motor; the dirtier it gets, the louder it will become. Because of this, changing your filter regularly can help reduce the noise level, improve the performance of your CPAP machine, and keep germs and dirt out.
Choose a Quiet Mask
Some of the noises you hear from your CPAP might be caused by the airflow going through the mask and hose. Therefore, using a quiet CPAP mask (like the previously mentioned Resmed AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow Mask) that fits your sleeping position and face features is as important as having a quiet CPAP machine.
Place your CPAP Machine on a Soft Surface Away from your Ears
A high-pressure setting might increase the intensity of your device’s vibration, making it noisier. You can cancel this by placing the device on top of a towel, a silicone mat, a foam pad, or any other soft surface that could absorb the vibrations.
On the other hand, putting your device below your ear level can make it less noisy. This can be achieved by hiding your machine in a nightstand roll-out shelf or putting it on a bedside tray. However, leaving it below the bed is not advisable because it accumulates dust and dirt, and placing your device there might wear out its filter faster.
Consider Using a CPAP Muffler
A muffler is a CPAP accessory that helps to suffocate the sound of the air flowing through the hose and mask. It is a great feature to add to your device if you are extremely sensitive to sound or your bed partner is a really light sleeper.
Use Enough Water in your Humidifier
When using a CPAP humidifier , there is a chance you have heard a sort of bubbling sound coming from your device. This indicates that the water level is too low, and as you fill it up, you should see how the noise disappears.
How to Deal with Noise Coming Through Your CPAP Mask
You might have heard some whistling or sucking sounds coming from your CPAP mask or tubing. These noises can be annoying, but they also might mean that there is some level of air leakage through the mask.
A mask leak will lead the CPAP machine to increase the air pressure levels to reach the pressure it has been set to work on, increasing the noise it produces.
If you have felt a mask leak (as in air slipping between your face and your mask), here are some solutions:
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•Get a new cushion or replacement part (which tends to wear out in six months) that allows a proper seal on your face.
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•Avoid pulling the headgear straps to improve the seal because this can lead to soreness and marks on your face.
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•Check the mask’s size to ensure it fits you best.
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•Consider if it’s time to replace your full mask, which should be done at least twice a year to prevent leaks.
What to Consider When Buying a CPAP Machine
With all the available CPAP machines in the market, selecting a single device that fits all your needs might be difficult. Some of the things that need to be considered when buying a new CPAP machine or CPAP supplies are the size and portability, the features it provides and the recommendations of your healthcare provider. At Sleeplay, we help you obtain the medical prescription for the Home Sleep Test .
Considering all these factors can be overwhelming, especially for those new to CPAP therapy. At Sleeplay, we have the best recommendations to help you buy a CPAP machine that fits your needs.
Sleeplay offers the best quality products to help you with sleep apnea therapy. Visit our website to buy the CPAP machine that fits your needs.
Medically reviewed: Daniela García
Medical Doctor. She has actively participated in various research projects and currently holds the position of Associate Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at the Central University of Venezuela.
