What is a CPAP Machine?
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machines are the most common treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)--a condition that causes pauses in breathing during sleep. A CPAP machine delivers a gentle stream of pressurized air through a mask to keep your airway open all night long, reducing snoring and improving sleep quality.

Types of CPAP Machines
There are several types of CPAP machines. Standard (fixed-pressure) CPAPs deliver one consistent pressure level throughout the night. Auto-adjusting CPAPs (APAPs) automatically vary pressure based on your breathing patterns for added comfort and adaptability. For your convenience, all of the machines in our buying guide feature both CPAP and Auto-CPAP modes. As a subset of CPAP Machines, travel CPAPs offer the same therapeutic benefits as their larger, heavier counterparts in a lightweight, portable design that’s perfect for frequent travelers or active lifestyles. Our buying guide features both home and travel CPAPs so you can compare the features of each.

BiLevel or BiPAP machines provide separate pressures for inhalation and exhalation, making them ideal for users with higher pressure requirements or more complex sleep apnea. If your prescription calls for a BiPAP or BiLevel, click here to view our BiPAP Machine Buying Guide.

Key Features to Compare
When choosing a sleep therapy device, it’s important to look beyond the basics and focus on features that impact comfort, performance, and convenience. All modern CPAPs have similar pressure range; but comfort-enhancing features--like exhalation relief, ramp, and heated tubing options--can vary from unit to unit; and data tracking and Bluetooth connectivity may be a factor if you need to provide compliance data to your doctor or employer or if you simply want to be able to monitor your sleep therapy success. If portability is important to you, you’ll also want to consider size and weight, and power and battery options.

FAA Approval & Travel Readiness
Every CPAP machine we sell at DirectHomeMedical is FAA-approved for in-flight use, making it easy to maintain your sleep therapy routine wherever you go. Whether you’re traveling for business, vacation, or overnight trips, your CPAP can safely accompany you on the plane. We recommend packing all necessary accessories--including power cords, adapters, and extra filters or batteries--in your carry-on for convenience. Always bring a copy of your prescription for airport security, and contact your airline prior to travel to ensure you meet their requirements for carriage. With a little preparation, you can enjoy restful, uninterrupted sleep no matter where your travels take you.