Finding the right CPAP mask is one of the most important steps in ensuring successful sleep apnea therapy. Even the best CPAP machine won’t deliver results if your mask is uncomfortable, leaks air, or doesn’t fit your breathing style. The goal is simple: a secure, comfortable fit that allows consistent therapy and uninterrupted sleep.
Below, we’ll break down the key considerations to keep in mind when choosing your CPAP mask—along with recommended mask types for each situation.
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What's the Best Mask for You?
Full Face CPAP Masks
Best for: Mouth breathers, people with nasal congestion, and those who need higher pressure settings.
Full face masks cover both your nose and mouth, allowing you to breathe comfortably through either while maintaining consistent air pressure. They’re an excellent choice for users who often wake up with a dry mouth or who experience frequent nasal blockage.
Advantages
- Ideal for mouth breathers or those with chronic nasal congestion.
- Provides a secure seal and stable air pressure, even at higher settings.
- Suitable for those who switch between mouth and nose breathing during sleep.
Disadvantages
- Can feel bulkier and cover more of the face.
- May be difficult to wear with glasses or while reading before bed.
- Some users find them less comfortable if they move frequently in their sleep.
Recommended Full Face Masks
- ResMed AirFit F20 – Known for its soft, secure seal and compatibility with most face shapes. Uses a silicone cushion.
- ResMed AirTouch F20 – Features a memory foam cushion that’s gentle on sensitive skin.
- ResMed AirFit F30 – Cushion rests under your nose rather than over it, preventing discomfort on the top of your nose.
- ResMed AirFit F30i – Features a top-of-head connection that allows more freedom of movement and prevents the tube from getting tangled.
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ResMed AirFit F40 – newer, updated model with a softer, more flexible, all-silicone cushion and a simpler headgear design
Pro tip: If you have facial hair, look for full face masks with adaptive cushions or try a hybrid mask that combines nasal pillows with a mouth cover.
Nasal CPAP Masks
Best for: People who breathe through their nose and prefer a balance of comfort and performance.
Nasal masks cover just your nose, providing a comfortable middle ground between full face and nasal pillow masks. They’re ideal if you primarily breathe through your nose and want a stable seal without the bulk.
Advantages
- Lightweight and less intrusive than full face masks.
- Allows a natural breathing pattern for nose breathers.
- Often better for higher pressure settings than nasal pillow masks.
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for mouth breathers unless used with a chin strap.
- May cause discomfort if you have nasal allergies or congestion.
Recommended Nasal Masks
- ResMed AirFit N20 – Offers a flexible cushion and secure seal, great for active sleepers. Traditional nasal mask design with the air tube at the bottom.
- ResMed AirFit N30 – Lightweight with minimal facial contact to reduce nose soreness
- ResMed AirFit™ N30i – Nasal cradle design with the tube at the top of the head accommodates multiple sleep position changes
Pro tip: Nasal masks are an excellent choice if you feel claustrophobic with full face masks but need something more secure than nasal pillows.
Nasal Pillow CPAP Masks
Best for: People who prefer a minimal, lightweight fit or feel claustrophobic with larger masks.
Nasal pillow masks are the smallest and most lightweight CPAP option. They rest gently under your nostrils, delivering air directly into your nose through soft silicone pillows. This design offers an open view and minimal facial contact, making it popular among those who dislike bulky masks.
Advantages
- Minimal contact—great for users with claustrophobia.
- Lightweight and unobtrusive, allowing a clear field of vision.
- Easier to clean and maintain than larger masks.
- Ideal for facial hair since it doesn’t rely on a full-face seal.
Disadvantages
- Not suitable for mouth breathers unless combined with a chin strap.
- May cause nasal irritation if you have sensitive nostrils or dryness.
Recommended Nasal Pillow Masks
- ResMed AirFit P10 – Ultra-light, quiet, and perfect for side sleepers.
- ResMed AirFit P10 For Her – Ultra-light, quiet, and perfect for side sleepers.
- ResMed AirFit P30i Nasal Pillow – Top-of-head tubing for freedom of movement.
Pro tip: If you wake up with nasal dryness, use a heated humidifier or saline spray to keep your airways comfortable.
Decoding ResMed CPAP Mask Model Names
ResMed organizes its mask names using letters that describe the cushion type—F for full face, N for nasal, and P for nasal pillows.
When the model includes an “i”, it means the mask belongs to their Freedom series, engineered for active sleepers who want the CPAP hose routed away from their face. With the tubing connecting at the crown of the head instead of the front of the mask, users experience fewer tangles, better visibility, and a more natural range of motion.
Here’s a bit more detail:
- ResMed’s mask naming uses letters like “F” (full face), “N” (nasal), and “P” (pillows) to indicate cushion/coverage style.
- The “i” is used specifically in the product category described by ResMed as “Freedom” masks with the tubing connecting at the crown of the head instead of the front of the mask, meant for people who sleep in different positions and want the tubing out of the way.
- The main difference between ResMed AirFit and AirTouch CPAP masks is the cushion material: AirFit masks use a standard silicone cushion, while AirTouch masks use a softer, memory foam cushion.
How to Choose the Right CPAP Mask for You
When deciding how to find the right CPAP mask, consider these key factors:
| Consideration | Best Mask Type | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Breathing Style | Full Face (mouth), Nasal/Nasal Pillow (nose) | Ensures consistent airflow and pressure. |
| Claustrophobia | Nasal Pillow | Minimal design reduces closed-in feeling. |
| Facial Hair | Nasal Pillow | Less surface area for leaks. |
| Sleep Position | Nasal or Nasal Pillow | Lighter masks stay sealed during movement. |
| Allergies/Congestion | Full Face | Allows mouth breathing when congested. |
| Ease of Cleaning | Nasal Pillow | Fewer parts and simple maintenance. |
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Fit
Finding the right CPAP mask is a personal journey—what feels comfortable and effective for one person might not work for another. The key is to match your mask type to your breathing habits, comfort preferences, and lifestyle.
Here’s the bottom line:
- Full face masks are best for mouth breathers or those with congestion.
- Nasal masks balance comfort and stability for nose breathers.
- Nasal pillow masks provide the most minimal, open, and lightweight fit.
If possible, try on different mask styles with your CPAP provider or sleep therapist to find the perfect match. A properly fitted mask can transform your sleep quality and make your therapy more comfortable and effective.