ResMed AirSense 10 vs. AirSense 11: Which One Is Right for You?
If you're shopping for a CPAP machine and trying to choose between the ResMed AirSense 10 and the AirSense 11, you're not alone. These are two of the most popular CPAP machines on the market — and for good reason. Both are made by ResMed, both deliver proven AutoSet therapy, and both will help you breathe better and sleep deeper. But they're not identical, and the right choice really does depend on your lifestyle, your comfort preferences, and how tech-savvy you want your bedtime setup to be.
Let's break it all down.
A Quick Introduction to Both Machines
The ResMed AirSense 10 has been a staple in the CPAP world since its launch back in 2014. It's built a loyal following because it just works — night after night, year after year. It's reliable, easy to use, and clinically proven.
The AirSense 11 arrived in August 2021 as ResMed's next-generation answer to modern CPAP therapy. It keeps everything that made the AirSense 10 great and adds a smarter, more connected experience on top.
Both machines treat obstructive sleep apnea using auto-adjusting pressure (AutoSet), built-in humidification (HumidAir), and expiratory pressure relief (EPR) to make exhaling feel natural. The therapy fundamentals are the same. Where they differ is in how they feel to use.
Design and Size: Sleek vs. Solid
The AirSense 10 is a taller, deeper, and heavier machine that comes in black, while the AirSense 11 is more compact and mostly off-white with charcoal detailing.⁵
The AirSense 11 weighs just 2.5 pounds, making it easy to pack away in a suitcase or carry-on without worrying about extra weight.⁷ It also has rounded edges and a lower profile — it blends in on your nightstand rather than announcing itself.
The filter vent on the AirSense 11 has also moved from the side to the back, which allows for better air intake and overall performance.²
Winner: AirSense 11 for portability and aesthetics. AirSense 10 if you prefer a classic, familiar look.
Interface: Touchscreen vs. Dial
This is one of the most noticeable differences between the two machines.
The AirSense 11 is controlled with an LED touchscreen, while the AirSense 10 uses a dial control with an LCD screen.¹ The AirSense 11's screen automatically adjusts brightness — bright enough to read during the day, dim enough not to disturb you at night.
If you want something simple and easy to use, the AirSense 10 is the winner — you just turn it on and go, without any touchscreen complexity.⁶ This makes it especially well-suited for older users or anyone who prefers tactile buttons over swiping.
Winner: AirSense 11 for modern usability. AirSense 10 for simplicity.
Smart Features and Therapy Support
Here's where the AirSense 11 really pulls ahead.
The AirSense 11's Personal Therapy Assistant and Care Check-In features keep you on track with good CPAP habits, including a video guide to getting started with CPAP.³ Care Check-In walks you through key milestones in your therapy journey with guided questions right on the device or in the MyAir app.
The Personal Therapy Assistant can guide you through CPAP therapy and help you optimize your settings and comfort.⁸ For new CPAP users especially, this kind of built-in coaching can make the adjustment period much less daunting.
The AirSense 10 also connects with the MyAir app, but it doesn't include these interactive coaching tools.
Winner: AirSense 11 — by a wide margin for new users.
Connectivity and Data Tracking
With the AirSense 11, you ditch the SD card and instead access your results via the easy MyAir app.³ Therapy data syncs automatically via Bluetooth and cellular connectivity — no manual uploads required.
The AirSense 10 can also connect wirelessly (except the Card-to-Cloud version), but many power users actually prefer it because SD card access makes it easier to pull detailed data into third-party apps like OSCAR or SleepHQ for deeper analysis.
Winner: AirSense 11 for everyday convenience. AirSense 10 for data power users.
AutoSet Algorithm and Pressure Performance
Both machines use ResMed's AutoSet algorithm to automatically adjust pressure throughout the night based on your breathing patterns. The AirSense 11 offers updated processing that supports smoother transitions and more refined pressure adjustments, helping enhance comfort for users sensitive to changes in airflow.⁴
Both the AirSense 10 and AirSense 11 can deliver air pressure ranging from 4 to 20 cm H₂O, and both include a ramp option that gradually increases pressure when the machine is first turned on, along with expiratory pressure relief (EPR).⁵
In real-world use, most users don't notice a major difference in therapy effectiveness between the two. Both are clinically excellent.
Winner: Essentially a tie. Slight edge to AirSense 11 for refined algorithm performance.
For Her Mode
The AirSense 10 AutoSet for Her was the first PAP device to offer specialized therapy settings designed to treat sleep apnea in women, based on known sex-related breathing patterns — but it required purchasing a separate model.⁵
With the AirSense 11, you won't have to worry about getting the right model — all AirSense 11s have the For Her mode built in.³
Winner: AirSense 11 — no need to buy a separate version.
Humidification
Both machines feature ResMed's HumidAir integrated humidifier and are compatible with ClimateLineAir heated tubing to prevent condensation and rainout.
The AirSense 11 has a redesigned water chamber with a shorter height and a broader base, making it more stable and less prone to spills.⁸ However, the humidifier tank shape is slightly different between the two models, meaning you won't be able to reuse an old AirSense 10 tank if you're upgrading.²
Winner: AirSense 11 for stability. AirSense 10 for larger water capacity.
Energy Efficiency
The AirSense 11 uses a more energy-efficient 65-watt power supply compared to the 90 watts of the AirSense 10, consuming less electricity and generating less heat — which benefits your wallet and the environment.⁸
Winner: AirSense 11.
Noise Level
According to manufacturer specifications, the AirSense 10 operates at a slightly lower sound level on paper — but in real-world use, both machines remain unobtrusive and comfortable for light sleepers and those sharing a bedroom.⁴
Winner: Effectively a tie in the real world.
Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | AirSense 10 | AirSense 11 |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | Dial + LCD | Touchscreen |
| Weight | ~2.75 lbs | ~2.5 lbs |
| Power Supply | 90W | 65W |
| Connectivity | SD Card / Wireless | Wireless / Bluetooth |
| For Her Mode | Separate model | Built-in |
| Personal Therapy Assistant | No | Yes |
| Care Check-In | No | Yes |
| Pressure Range | 4–20 cm H₂O | 4–20 cm H₂O |
| Auto Software Updates | Manual | Automatic |
So, Which One Should You Choose?
Choose the AirSense 11 if:
- You're new to CPAP therapy and want guided support
- You love tech and prefer a connected, app-driven experience
- You travel frequently and want a lighter, more compact machine
- You're a woman who wants For Her mode without buying a separate model
- You want automatic software updates and remote monitoring
Choose the AirSense 10 if:
- You're budget-conscious and want proven, reliable therapy at a lower price point
- You prefer simple, physical controls — no touchscreen needed
- You're a data power user who likes pulling detailed stats via SD card into OSCAR or SleepHQ
- You already have AirSense 10 accessories and don't want to replace them
Both the AirSense 10 and AirSense 11 are excellent choices for managing sleep apnea, but they cater to slightly different user needs. The AirSense 10 remains a reliable and effective option for those who prefer a traditional interface, while the AirSense 11 is the clear winner for those looking for the latest in CPAP technology with enhanced comfort, connectivity, and user support.⁹
Ready to Find Your Perfect CPAP Match?
At CPAP Superstore, we carry both the AirSense 10 and AirSense 11, along with expert support to help you make the right call. Whether you're a first-time user or upgrading your setup, we're here to make sure you sleep well — every night.
👉 Shop the ResMed AirSense 11 👉 Shop the ResMed AirSense 10
Sources
- CPAP.com — ResMed AirSense 10 vs 11 Comparison
- CPAP Supply USA — AirSense 10 vs AirSense 11 Review
- Easy Breathe — AirSense 11 vs AirSense 10
- Help Medical Supplies — ResMed AirSense 10 vs 11 Guide
- Sleep Doctor — ResMed AirSense 10 vs. 11
- RespBuy — AirSense 11 vs AirSense 10
- Easy Breathe Blog — Old vs New: AirSense 10 and 11
- Sleeplay — AirSense 11 vs AirSense 10
- CPAPmyway — AirSense 11 vs AirSense 10 Comparison