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Updated April 2026

Best CPAP Machines

Two APAP machines compared on algorithm quality, humidifier integration, app features, and ecosystem costs. Both require a prescription. The ResMed is the better first machine. The DreamStation 2 makes more sense if you already use Philips masks.

Medical Disclaimer: CPAP therapy requires a prescription and should be managed by a qualified healthcare provider. This page provides product information only and is not medical advice. If you have symptoms of sleep apnea, consult a physician before purchasing any CPAP equipment.

Quick Picks

#1

ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet

Best APAP for New Users

$849Check Price on Amazon
#2

Philips Respironics DreamStation 2

Best for Philips Mask Owners

$699Check Price on Amazon

Affiliate disclosure: Links may earn commissions. Full disclosure.

ResMed AirSense 11 vs Philips DreamStation 2

FeatureResMed AirSense 11DreamStation 2
Price$849$699
TypeAPAP (Auto-adjusting)APAP (Auto-adjusting)
Pressure Range4–20 cm H₂O4–20 cm H₂O
HumidifierBuilt-in HumidAir 3.0Built-in (top-fill)
ConnectivityCellular (4G) + BluetoothWiFi + Bluetooth
Noise Level26 dB25.4 dB
AppmyAir (daily score + coaching)DreamMapper (12-week coaching)
Clinical DatamyAir + OSCAR (SD card)DreamMapper + SD card
Recall HistoryNoneDreamStation 1 recall (2021)
Warranty2 years2 years
#1Best APAP for New Users

ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet

ResMed · $849 · Prescription required

4.7/5

Rating

The gold standard APAP machine. Auto-titrating pressure, built-in HumidAir humidifier, and ResMed's myAir sleep coaching app.

Pros

  • +Auto-adjusting pressure (APAP) for optimal treatment
  • +Built-in HumidAir humidifier with ClimateLineAir tube
  • +myAir app: daily sleep score and coaching
  • +Cellular connectivity for remote monitoring (no WiFi needed)

Cons

  • −Requires prescription in the US
  • −myAir score algorithm is opaque
  • −Compatible accessories are expensive (ResMed ecosystem)

Specs

Type
APAP (Auto-adjusting)
Pressure Range
4–20 cm H₂O
Humidifier
Built-in HumidAir 3.0
Connectivity
Cellular (4G) + Bluetooth
Noise Level
26 dB (A-weighted)
Power
24V, 90W max
Dimensions
10.2 × 5.9 × 3.3 in
Weight
2.75 lbs
Warranty
2 years

Verdict

Best CPAP machine for new APAP users. The auto-titrating pressure and built-in humidifier make it the easiest machine to start with.

Check Price on Amazon
#2Best for Philips Mask Owners

Philips Respironics DreamStation 2

Philips · $699 · Prescription required

4.3/5

Rating

Second-generation DreamStation with improved algorithm and quieter operation. Philips' flagship APAP with integrated humidifier.

Pros

  • +Quieter than DreamStation 1 (25.4 dB)
  • +Integrated 12-week sleep coaching in DreamMapper app
  • +Compact design with top-fill water chamber
  • +Compatible with full range of Philips masks

Cons

  • −Philips recall history has affected brand trust
  • −DreamMapper app less featured than myAir
  • −No built-in cellular — WiFi only

Specs

Type
APAP (Auto-adjusting)
Pressure Range
4–20 cm H₂O
Humidifier
Built-in (top-fill)
Connectivity
WiFi + Bluetooth
Noise Level
25.4 dB
Power
12V, 65W max
Weight
2.3 lbs (without humidifier)
Warranty
2 years

Verdict

Best CPAP for buyers already in the Philips mask ecosystem. The quieter operation and improved algorithm make DreamStation 2 a real upgrade.

Check Price on Amazon

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between CPAP and APAP?

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) delivers one fixed pressure all night — the pressure set by your sleep specialist during titration. APAP (Auto-Adjusting PAP, also called AutoCPAP) adjusts pressure breath-by-breath based on detected airflow resistance. Most new users do better on APAP because it handles REM-related breathing changes and position shifts automatically. Both the ResMed AirSense 11 and Philips DreamStation 2 are APAP machines that can also operate in fixed CPAP mode.

Do I need a prescription to buy a CPAP machine?

Yes. In the United States, CPAP machines are classified as Class II medical devices and require a valid prescription from a licensed physician. The prescription should specify whether you need CPAP or APAP, your minimum and maximum pressure settings, and whether a humidifier is required. Some online CPAP retailers will accept a prescription from a sleep study conducted by telemedicine services like Lofta.

Is the ResMed myAir app score useful?

The myAir score (0-100) combines AHI (Apnea-Hypopnea Index), mask seal quality, usage hours, and events per hour into a single daily number. It is a useful directional indicator — consistent scores above 70 suggest your therapy is working. The exact algorithm is proprietary and not published, so treat it as a trend indicator rather than a clinical measurement. For clinical interpretation, use the detailed data in OSCAR (free software that reads ResMed SD card data).

Should I be concerned about the Philips DreamStation recall?

The 2021 Philips recall affected DreamStation 1 machines using Polyester-based Polyurethane (PE-PUR) foam that could degrade and release particles and gases. DreamStation 2 uses a different foam formulation and was not subject to the same recall. However, the recall history affected brand trust, and Philips has faced ongoing FDA scrutiny. The DreamStation 2 is generally considered safe, but users should stay informed via the FDA's medical device recall database.

What is the AHI number and what should it be?

AHI (Apnea-Hypopnea Index) measures the average number of apnea (breathing stopped) and hypopnea (breathing reduced) events per hour. Untreated sleep apnea typically shows AHI of 5-30+ events/hour. On effective CPAP therapy, the target is AHI below 5, ideally below 2. Both the AirSense 11 and DreamStation 2 report AHI in their apps. If your treated AHI stays above 5 consistently, contact your sleep physician — it may indicate mask leak issues or a need for pressure adjustment.

Do CPAP machines work without a humidifier?

Yes, but most users find pressurized dry air causes nasal congestion, dry mouth, and throat irritation without a humidifier. Both the AirSense 11 and DreamStation 2 have built-in integrated humidifiers. The ResMed also offers the ClimateLineAir heated tube to prevent rainout (condensation in the hose). Using heated humidification is the standard recommendation for most patients, especially in dry climates.

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