CPAP mask type comparison
Mask choice is often the difference between giving up on CPAP and sleeping well with it. Fisher and Paykel suggests choosing a mask based on how you breathe: through the nose, the mouth or both.
| Mask type | Contact area | Good for mouth breathers? | Higher pressures | Claustrophobia friendliness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nasal pillows | Soft inserts at the nostril openings; no contact with the nose bridge | Only with a chinstrap or if mouth stays closed | Some people find higher pressures uncomfortable because air is directed into the nostrils | High: the smallest footprint and clear field of vision |
| Nasal cradle (under-nose) | Cushion under the nose, around the nostrils | Only with a chinstrap or if mouth stays closed | Usually comfortable across a broad range; airflow is less direct than pillows | High: minimal contact, nose bridge free |
| Nasal mask | Covers the whole nose, rests on the nose bridge | Only with a chinstrap or if mouth stays closed | Often a good fit for higher pressures; air is spread over a larger cushion | Moderate |
| Full face mask | Covers nose and mouth, rests on the nose bridge and around the mouth | Yes | Commonly used at higher pressures; larger seal can leak more if fit is off | Lower: largest footprint |
| Under-nose full face | Seals under the nose and around the mouth; nose bridge free | Yes | Commonly used across a broad range | Moderate: covers the mouth but leaves the nose bridge and field of view clearer |
| Oral mask | Seals in and around the mouth only | Yes; used mainly by people who cannot breathe well through the nose | Varies by product | Moderate |
Notes
- Pressure and claustrophobia columns describe general tendencies, not manufacturer ratings. Each mask's user guide lists its rated therapy pressure range.
- If you have a pacemaker, defibrillator or other implanted metallic device, avoid masks with magnetic headgear clips; the FDA has issued safety communications about them.
- MedlinePlus lists claustrophobia, redness and sores over the nose bridge, and dry mouth among common early problems, and suggests asking about a lightweight, cushioned mask or one used around or inside the nostrils.
- Most suppliers can help you try a different style during the first weeks. A mask change is a common, reasonable request.
Sources
More reference tables
Still not sleeping well on CPAP?
Most problems come down to the mask, the humidity or a leak. Work through the fixes, starting with the easiest.