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CPAP For Beginners

ResMed AirTouch vs AirFit: Which CPAP Mask Is Right for You?

Written by

Nicole Brener

Medically Reviewed by

Lilly Perez, RRT

Fact-Checked

Updated: 21 Jul 2026 •14 min read

The ResMed AirTouch and AirFit masks share the same frames and headgear, so they look almost identical on the shelf. The real difference is the cushion: AirTouch uses a soft memory foam or fabric cushion, while AirFit uses a durable silicone cushion. That one choice drives comfort, cleaning, how often you replace it, and what it costs you over a year. Here is how to pick.

Quick verdict:

Pick AirFit if you want a firm seal you can wash and reuse for months. Pick AirTouch if you want the softest possible feel against your skin, especially if pressure marks or irritation have been a problem.

See the table below for more specifics:

Choose AirFit (silicone) if you...	Choose AirTouch (foam or fabric) if you...
Want a cushion you can wash and reuse for months	Have sensitive skin or get red pressure marks
Run higher pressures and want a firm, durable seal	Find silicone too firm or irritating
Want the widest model choice (full face, nasal, pillows, tube-up)	Want the softest, most plush first feel
Want the lowest cost per year on cushions	Will replace the cushion on schedule (foam wears faster)

"If your skin is sensitive, memory foam cushions or gel pads can reduce pressure points. And if irritation continues, consider a different mask style with less facial contact."

— Lilly Perez, CPAP Expert, Sleeplay

Once you know your cushion preference, the rest comes down to fit and mask family. Our rundown of CPAP mask types walks through every style that ResMed and other brands sell, in case you're also deciding between a full-face, nasal, or pillow mask. The sections below cover pricing, cleaning, noise, and AirMini compatibility, so you can make the full decision in one sitting.

1. What Is the Difference Between AirTouch and AirFit?

The difference between AirTouch and AirFit comes down to the cushion, the part of the mask that actually touches your face and holds the seal.

AirTouch cushions use UltraSoft memory foam on the F20 and N20 models [1] or ComfiSoft fabric on the N30i. AirFit cushions use InfinitySeal silicone on the F20 and N20 [2] or AdaptiSeal silicone on the newer F40.

The foam and fabric feel plush and conform to your face within seconds. Silicone feels firmer and springier, and it holds a consistent seal even at higher pressures.

Feature	AirTouch (foam or fabric)	AirFit (silicone)
Cushion material	UltraSoft memory foam (F20, N20); ComfiSoft fabric (N30i)	InfinitySeal silicone (F20, N20); AdaptiSeal silicone (F40)
Feel and seal	Plush, conforms quickly to facial contours, eases pressure marks	Firm, springy, consistent seal that holds at higher pressures
Cleaning	Foam: wipe only with alcohol-free CPAP wipes, never submerge. Fabric N30i: hand wash, no brush	Fully washable with mild soap and warm water
Replacement	More often (foam about monthly; fabric N30i as often as every 2 weeks)	Less often (washable, longer lifespan)
Best for	Sensitive skin, pressure-mark-prone, plush comfort seekers	Durability, easy cleaning, higher pressures, lowest yearly cost

Neither material is objectively better. Foam and fabric win on first-touch comfort and tend to be kinder to sensitive skin. Silicone wins on durability, cleaning, and cost, since it's the only one of the two that you can wash and reuse for months rather than weeks.

"If you want a softer cushion, check out the AirTouch N20 version with memory foam. Just use the CPAP wipes to clean it since it can't be washed."

— Daniel, CPAP Specialist, Sleeplay

For a closer look at how these cushions feel in everyday use, our roundup of the most comfortable CPAP masks ranks AirTouch alongside masks from other brands.

2. Which Masks Are in Each Family? (Product Map)

ResMed splits its mask lineup into two families, AirTouch and AirFit, and the AirFit side is by far the larger of the two [5]. Every model differs in mask style (full face, nasal, or pillow), cushion material, and hose connection location. The table below maps every current model so you can see the full range at a glance.

Family	Model	Type	Cushion	Hose	Notes
AirTouch	AirTouch F20	Full face	UltraSoft memory foam	Front	Wipe-only; replace cushion about monthly
AirTouch	AirTouch N20	Nasal	UltraSoft memory foam	Front	Wipe-only; replace cushion about monthly
AirTouch	AirTouch N30i	Nasal cradle	ComfiSoft fabric	Top-of-head	Hand-wash cushion (no brush); wears faster, replace as often as every 2 weeks
AirTouch	AirTouch F30i	Full face (under nose)	Soft-contact (Comfort) cushion	Top-of-head	Comfort and Clear versions; softer contact points
AirFit	AirFit F20	Full face	InfinitySeal silicone	Front	Shares the F20 frame with AirTouch F20
AirFit	AirFit F30i	Full face (under nose)	Silicone	Top-of-head	Tube-up, keeps the hose out of the way
AirFit	AirFit F40	Full face (under nose)	AdaptiSeal silicone	Front	Ultra-compact; successor to the discontinued AirFit F30
AirFit	AirFit N20	Nasal	InfinitySeal silicone	Front	Cushion interchangeable with AirTouch N20
AirFit	AirFit N30	Nasal cradle	Silicone	Front	Under-nose cradle
AirFit	AirFit N30i	Nasal cradle	Silicone	Top-of-head	Shares the 30i frame with P30i and AirTouch N30i
AirFit	AirFit P10	Nasal pillows	Silicone	Front	Light, minimal
AirFit	AirFit P30i	Nasal pillows	Silicone	Top-of-head	Great for side and active sleepers
AirFit	AirFit X30i	Oral-nasal full face	Silicone	Top-of-head	Hybrid nasal plus oral seal

All current models are available on Sleeplay. On the foam-and-fabric side, that's the AirTouch F20, the AirTouch N20, the AirTouch N30i, and the newer AirTouch F30i Comfort. On the silicone side, that's the AirFit F20, AirFit F30i, AirFit F40, AirFit N20, AirFit N30, AirFit N30i, AirFit P10, AirFit P30i, and AirFit X30i.

Note that ResMed discontinued the front-connect AirFit F30. Its product page now redirects to the AirFit F40, and that's the model we'd point you to if you liked the F30's minimal-contact fit.

If you'd rather browse everything in one place, our full CPAP mask collection page lets you filter by style and family.

Find your perfect CPAP Mask based on your needs

Shop Now

3. Which ResMed Masks Come in AirTouch? (and Why There Is No AirTouch F40)

AirTouch exists in exactly four models: the F20, the N20, the N30i, and the F30i. That's the whole lineup, and most AirFit models simply have no foam- or fabric-twin.

The F20 and N20 use UltraSoft memory foam. The N30i uses ComfiSoft fabric [3], and the F30i uses a softer soft-contact cushion ResMed calls Comfort (there's also a Clear version). Everything else in the AirFit catalog, including the F30, the F40 [4], the N30, the P10, the P30i, and the X30i, comes only in silicone.

So if you've searched for an AirTouch F40 and come up empty, that's not a broken link. ResMed never made one. The closest soft alternative is the AirTouch F20 for a full-face fit, or the AirTouch F30i if you want something under-the-nose with a gentler touch.

Our expert review of the AirTouch N30i covers exactly how that fabric cushion feels after a few weeks of use, and the AirTouch F30i Clear review is worth a look if you want to see the seal design up close.

4. Can I Swap Cushions Without Buying a Whole New Mask?

Yes, but only on a few specific models. Most AirTouch and AirFit masks are not interchangeable.

F20 and N20: The AirTouch F20 foam cushion and AirFit F20 silicone cushion both fit the same F20 frame, and the same goes for the N20 pair. Buy one frame, and you can switch the cushion whenever your skin or your pressure setting changes.
The 30i platform: AirFit N30i, AirFit P30i, and AirTouch N30i share the same top-of-head frame, so you can move between a nasal cradle and nasal pillows, or between fabric and silicone, without replacing the whole system.
Everything else: foam-to-silicone swapping only works where ResMed makes both an AirTouch and an AirFit version of the same model, which today means just the F20 and N20.

ResMed confirms that the F20 and N20 cushions are interchangeable and that the 30i cushions share a frame [1] [2]. Keep that bounded to those models. Every other cushion is built for one frame only.

5. How Do Cleaning and Replacement Routines Differ?

Cleaning depends entirely on the cushion material, and foam needs far more care than silicone.

Model / family	Cushion	Cleaning method	Replacement rhythm
AirTouch F20, AirTouch N20	UltraSoft memory foam	Wipe only with alcohol-free CPAP wipes; never rinse or submerge; keep out of sunlight	About once a month
AirTouch N30i	ComfiSoft fabric	Hand wash in warm water with mild soap, no bristle brush, air dry	Faster wear, as often as every 2 weeks
All AirFit (F20, F30i, F40, N20, N30, N30i, P10, P30i, X30i)	Silicone	Wash daily with mild soap and warm water, rinse, air dry; wash frame and headgear weekly	Longer lifespan; replace less often than foam

Skip the ozone and UV cleaners: Devices like SoClean or Sleep8 are not safe for the AirTouch memory foam cushions. Wipe them only with alcohol-free CPAP wipes [6]. Ozone exposure and submersion both break down the foam faster than normal wear would. Silicone AirFit cushions tolerate regular washing without this restriction.

If irritation or red marks appear no matter which cushion you use, our guide to CPAP mask liners covers a few inexpensive fixes that work under either material.

Mask Liners Collection

Explore more

6. What Does Each Cushion Cost Over a Year?

Foam feels softer, but it costs more over a year, since ResMed recommends replacing it far more often than silicone [10].

Cushion	Price each	Typical replacement	Approx. cushion cost per year
AirTouch F20 (memory foam)	$59	About monthly	Around $700
AirFit F20 (silicone)	$54	About every 3 months	Around $215
AirTouch N20 (memory foam)	$37	About monthly	Around $440
AirFit N20 (silicone)	$34	About every 3 months	Around $135
AirTouch N30i (ComfiSoft fabric)	$37	As often as every 2 weeks	Up to around $960

The gap is largest on the N30i, where the ComfiSoft fabric cushion may need to be replaced as often as every two weeks. Silicone cushions last months longer between replacements, which helps AirFit recoup some of its higher upfront cost.

Prices were checked on Sleeplay in June 2026 and can change, so check the current product page before you buy. The yearly figures above are estimates based on ResMed's replacement guidance and do not guarantee how long your specific cushion will last. Insurance and FSA or HSA accounts often cover mask cushions as well, which can significantly soften this gap.

7. What If I Want the Hose Out of the Way?

Five current models route the hose over the top of your head rather than out the front, keeping the tubing away from your face as you move.

Top-of-head models: AirFit F30i, AirFit N30i, AirFit P30i, AirTouch N30i, and AirTouch F30i all connect at the crown, so the hose stays clear when you roll onto your side.
Front-connect models: AirFit F20, AirTouch F20, AirFit F40, AirFit N20, AirTouch N20, AirFit N30, and AirFit P10 all connect at the front, which some sleepers still prefer for a lighter feel.
For side and active sleepers: the tube-up nasal and pillow options (N30i and P30i) tend to be the more comfortable picks.

"The variations are endless with the nasal mask to meet your comfort needs. Some masks connect straight to the face, and some actually connect to the top of the head, which is a pretty cool option. So whether you are a side sleeper, you sleep on your back, or you twist and turn all night long, there is a nasal mask that is right for you."

— James, Sleep Coach, Sleeplay

Our guide to the best CPAP masks for side sleepers goes into this exact comparison in more depth, and if leaks tend to show up when you move around at night, our review of the AirFit F30i covers how that model holds its seal throughout the night.

8. How Quiet Are These Masks?

Both families use ResMed's QuietAir venting, and a couple of models are built to be especially quiet.

AirFit F20 and AirTouch F20: use a QuietAir diffused elbow rated at about 21 dBA.
AirFit F40: builds QuietAir venting directly into the cushion rather than a separate elbow, which spreads the exhaled air further.
AirTouch N30i: uses QuietAir venting too and runs slightly quieter at about 20 dBA.

If a snoring or CPAP-noise complaint from your partner is part of why you're comparing masks, any of these three is a safe bet.

9. Which Masks Work With the AirMini?

More masks work with the ResMed AirMini than older comparison charts suggest, and two of the most common corrections involve the AirTouch N20 and the AirFit N30.

The AirMini only works with masks that use one of its dedicated setup packs, since its HumidX waterless humidification system requires an exact connector match [7]. The AirTouch N20 is AirMini-compatible because it uses the same N20 connector as the AirFit N20. The AirFit N30 is compatible too, but only with the dedicated 'AirFit N30 for AirMini' variant, not the standard version.

Mask	AirMini compatible?	Notes
AirFit F20	Yes	Uses the AirMini F20 setup pack (shared with AirTouch F20)
AirTouch F20	Yes	Same F20 setup pack and connector
AirFit N20	Yes	Uses the AirMini N20 setup pack
AirTouch N20	Yes	Shares the N20 connector (corrected: previously listed as no)
AirFit P10	Yes	Only the AirFit P10 for the AirMini variant
AirFit N30	Yes	Only the AirFit N30 for AirMini variant (corrected)
AirFit F30 (discontinued)	Yes	Historically via the F20 setup pack; mask is discontinued
AirFit F30i, N30i, P30i	No	Tube-up 30i frames are not AirMini compatible
AirTouch N30i, AirTouch F30i	No	Tube-up, not AirMini compatible
AirFit F40	No	Not AirMini compatible
AirFit X30i	No	Not AirMini compatible

"Here are the masks officially compatible with the AirMini. For nasal masks, we have the AirFit N20 and the AirFit N30. For nasal pillows, the AirFit P10. Our full face options are the AirFit F20, the AirTouch F20 (soft memory foam for comfort), and the AirFit F30, which is more compact but can't be used with HumidX."

— Gabriel, CPAP Specialist, Sleeplay

The table above is a complete reference that covers the core lineup. The AirTouch N20 belongs on this list as well, since it uses the same N20 frame and setup pack as the AirFit N20 [8].

Alternative adapter options (not official ResMed)

Third-party adapters let you connect a mask outside this list to the AirMini, but they bypass the HumidX waterless humidification, and ResMed does not officially support them. Some options on Sleeplay include the Snugell AirMini Tubing Connector, the Snugell Pro AirMini Hose Connector, and the ZephAir Universal Tubing Connector.

For the full setup process, our guide to the ResMed AirMini Travel CPAP covers the machine itself and every compatible mask.

10. Quick Picks by Need

The right mask usually comes down to your skin, your sleep position, and your budget more than any single spec.

If you...	Recommended masks
Have sensitive skin or wake with red marks	AirTouch F20, AirTouch N20 (memory foam), or AirTouch N30i (fabric)
React to or dislike silicone	AirTouch foam or fabric cushions avoid the silicone contact surface
Want the lowest yearly cost and easy washing	AirFit silicone (F20, N20, and the rest of the AirFit line)
Sleep on your side or move a lot	AirFit N30i, AirFit P30i, AirFit F30i, AirTouch N30i (top-of-head)
Run higher pressures	Full face AirFit F20 or F40 with the firm InfinitySeal or AdaptiSeal seal
Have facial hair	Full face silicone tends to seal better over stubble; try AirFit F20 or F40
Travel with an AirMini	AirFit or AirTouch F20, AirFit or AirTouch N20, AirFit P10 (for AirMini), AirFit N30 (for AirMini)
Want minimal contact or feel claustrophobic	AirFit N30, AirFit P10, or AirFit F40 (compact under-nose)

"People who breathe more often through their mouth, or mouth breathers, for those people a full face mask that covers both their nose and their mouth is usually recommended. If you are a nasal breather and you can sleep with your mouth closed at night, a nasal mask or nasal pillows might be prescribed."

— Teresa, Clinical Sleep Coach, Sleeplay (Source video: How to Choose the Best Mask for You)

"Always fit your mask while lying down. Your facial muscles relax when you are in your sleep position, and that is when leaks are most likely to happen. Make sure your mask feels snug, but not tight. Overtightening can actually cause leaks by distorting the cushion and can leave marks on your skin."

— Lily Perez, Respiratory Therapist, Sleeplay (Source video: CPAP Mask Essentials: Find Your Best Fit)

Getting the fit right matters more than the mask itself. Mayo Clinic notes that a poor mask fit is one of the most common reasons people give up on CPAP therapy in the first place [9].

If leaks keep showing up no matter how you adjust the straps, our practical fixes for reducing CPAP mask leaks cover the most common causes.

FAQs

What is the main difference between ResMed AirTouch and AirFit masks?

The cushion. AirTouch uses a softer memory foam or fabric cushion that conforms quickly to your face, while AirFit uses a firmer, more durable silicone cushion built for a long-lasting seal and easier cleaning. The frame and headgear stay the same across both families.

Is silicone or memory foam better for a CPAP mask?

Neither is universally better. Memory foam feels softer and is gentler on sensitive skin, but it is wipe-only and is replaced about monthly. Silicone is firmer, fully washable, lasts longer, and costs less per year. Choose based on skin sensitivity, pressure, and budget.

Do AirTouch cushions last as long as AirFit silicone masks?

No. AirTouch foam cushions typically need to be replaced about once a month because they cannot be washed. AirFit silicone cushions are fully washable and, with regular care, last considerably longer between replacements.

How often do I replace an AirTouch F20 cushion?

About once a month. The UltraSoft memory foam cannot be washed and should only be wiped with alcohol-free CPAP wipes, so it is replaced more frequently than a washable silicone AirFit cushion.

Do AirTouch foam cushions need to be replaced more often?

Yes. The memory foam on the AirTouch F20 and AirTouch N20 wears out faster because it cannot be washed with water, so ResMed recommends replacing it about once a month to keep the seal effective and hygienic.

Can I clean AirTouch masks with soap and water?

Not the foam cushions. The AirTouch F20 and AirTouch N20 memory foam should only be wiped with an alcohol-free cleaning wipe and never submerged. The AirTouch N30i fabric cushion is the exception and can be hand-washed with mild soap.

Is there an AirTouch F40?

No. ResMed makes the F40 in silicone only as the AirFit F40. AirTouch exists as the F20, N20, N30i, and F30i. If you want a soft foam full-face mask, the AirTouch F20 is the closest option.

Are AirTouch and AirFit cushions interchangeable?

Only on shared frames. The AirTouch F20 and AirFit F20 cushions swap on the same frame, as do the AirTouch N20 and AirFit N20. The AirTouch N30i, AirFit N30i, and AirFit P30i also share a frame within the 30i platform.

Is the AirTouch better for sensitive skin than the AirFit?

Many people with sensitive skin prefer it. The AirTouch memory foam is soft and adapts to your face, which can ease pressure marks and irritation. AirFit silicone is durable, but it feels firmer and less plush against the skin.

Which ResMed masks are best for side sleepers?

Look for a top-of-head hose connection. The AirFit N30i, AirFit P30i, AirFit F30i, AirTouch N30i, and AirTouch F30i all route the tubing up and over your head, so it stays clear when you turn.

Do AirFit masks come with top-of-head tubing options?

Yes. The AirFit F30i, AirFit N30i, and AirFit P30i all route the hose above the head rather than out the front, which is a common preference among active and side sleepers.

Which AirTouch and AirFit masks work with the ResMed AirMini?

The AirFit and AirTouch F20, AirFit and AirTouch N20, AirFit P10, and AirFit N30 are compatible with the AirMini. The tube-up 30i masks, AirFit F40, and AirFit X30i are not compatible without a third-party adapter.

Can I use an adapter to connect masks to the AirMini?

Yes. Third-party adapters let you use a non-compatible mask with the AirMini. Just know they bypass the HumidX humidification system and are not officially supported by ResMed.

Which AirFit mask has the smallest full-face design?

The AirFit F40. Its compact cushion and integrated venting give it an ultra-lightweight footprint that sits closer to your face than the standard F20 while maintaining a full-face seal.

Which mask is quieter, AirTouch or AirFit?

Both are quiet. The AirFit F20 and AirTouch F20 include a quiet elbow that keeps noise low, and the AirFit F40's integrated venting makes it one of the quietest full-face options in either family.

Are ResMed AirTouch and AirFit masks covered by insurance or FSA/HSA?

Usually yes. CPAP masks and cushions are considered medical devices and are typically covered by insurance, FSA, and HSA plans. Check with your provider for your specific coverage details before you buy.

What's the best CPAP mask for travel from the AirTouch or AirFit families?

Pick anything on the AirMini compatibility list. The AirFit P10 is the lightest option for AirMini travel, and the AirFit F20 or AirTouch F20 work well if you need a full-face seal on the road.

References

ResMed. "AirTouch F20 (UltraSoft memory foam full face)." https://www.resmed.com/en-us/products/cpap/masks/airtouch-f20/
ResMed. "AirFit F20 (InfinitySeal silicone full face)." https://www.resmed.com/en-us/products/cpap/masks/airfit-f20/
ResMed. "AirTouch N30i (ComfiSoft fabric nasal)." https://www.resmed.com/en-us/products/cpap/masks/airtouch-n30i/
ResMed. "AirFit F40 (AdaptiSeal, successor to the F30)." https://www.resmed.com/en-us/products/cpap/masks/airfit-f40/
ResMed. "CPAP masks catalog (current lineup)." https://www.resmed.com/en-us/products/cpap/masks/
ResMed. "Cleaning the AirTouch UltraSoft memory foam cushion (wipe-only, replace monthly)." https://ap.resmed.com/knowledge/can-you-clean-the-airtouch-ultrasoft-memory-foam-cushion
ResMed. "Which masks can be used with the AirMini." https://ap.resmed.com/knowledge/what-masks-can-be-used-with-airmini
ResMed. "Mask and device compatibility list (PDF)." https://document.resmed.com/documents/products/serviceandsupport/maskdevicecompatibility/mask-device-compatibility-list_row_eng.pdf
Mayo Clinic. "CPAP: tips for avoiding common problems." https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/obstructive-sleep-apnea/in-depth/cpap/art-20044164
Cleveland Clinic. "CPAP machine: overview, care, and replacement." https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/22043-cpap-machine

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Nicole Brener

CPAP Expert

Nicole is a CPAP expert with over eight years of experience in the sleep health space. She studied Nutrition Science & Policy at Tufts University and combines academic training with hands-on experience to help people better understand sleep apnea and CPAP therapy. Her passion for sleep health comes from years of working closely with CPAP users and helping them navigate their journey with confidence.

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Lilly Perez, RRT

Certified Respiratory Therapist

Certified Respiratory Therapist with 18+ years of experience in respiratory care, specializing in sleep apnea education and patient-centered therapy. Extensive background working with Durable Medical Equipment (DME) providers and clinical teams to support patients with the setup and use of CPAP, BiPAP, and other positive airway pressure (PAP) devices.For over a decade, I’ve conducted high-volume in-home and virtual consultations, educating patients on the causes and impact of sleep apnea, available treatment options, and the clinical benefits of consistent therapy use. My focus is on improving patient understanding, driving adherence, and helping individuals achieve better long-term sleep and respiratory health.

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