Patients under medical oxygen therapy have the convenience of mobility and don't need heavy gas tanks —thanks to the innovation of Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC).
Today, you can benefit from many years of improved oxygen device innovations. There is an array of options available from different suppliers, unlike in the era of oxygen tanks, liquid oxygen tanks, and stationary oxygen concentrators.
We have conducted in-depth research on different POCs from leading suppliers, such as Inogen, Caire, and Readyo2. Based on customers' experiences and reviews and through practical testing of the products, we believe we can give a detailed comparison of these models. Here are the details to help you decide between Inogen, Caire, and Readyo2.
Our top two picks are Inogen Rove6 and ReadyO2 Pro. These two models are small and will give the patient medical-grade oxygen at home or on the go. ReadyO2 Pro comes at a much lower price than its companion.
Here is a brief overview of the two models we pick most.
The Inogen Rove6 Portable Oxygen Concentrator is a small, powerful oxygen system with a compact design that offers unparalleled performance. It has customizable six-pulse flow settings and conforms to all applicable FAA requirements for use during air travel.
The Inogen Rove6 costs $3295. It also comes with Bluetooth to connect with the Inogen Connect App on your mobile device.
The design is the most compact and has a high level of oxygen output. Inogen's innovations are at the top, with the devices offering an extra flow rate for patients with higher demand for oxygen levels.
At only 4.7 pounds, Inogen G5 is a lightweight POC. They have an option of 24/7 use, including sleep. It has the longest life of up to 6.5 hours on a single battery. Its double battery can last up to 13 hours. The long battery life makes Inogen G5 the most suitable for use outdoors.
The model offers a higher flow rate with higher oxygen output for longer. You can use the model for long hours outdoors with a double battery.
The model comes in ergonomic shape and is lightweight at 2.3kg (5.07 pounds). It meets FAA guidelines for all commercial air travel. Caire Freestyle Comfort uses improved Utrasense technology to deliver oxygen. Caire also offers lifetime support for their Freestyle comfort POC.
The model has the best innovative technology and offers a variety of solutions to its users using apps. Caire Freestyle Comfort's battery life is among the best. Their ergonomic design makes the model feel more comfortable when it is around.
At only $1,999, ReadyO2 Pro offers the best value for money. It delivers between 90% and 96% pure oxygen in pulse doses, has a five-pulse flow setting, and naturally matches humidity without needing water. The model also has the lowest price and the lowest charge time.
The brand is compact and lightweight. It has an oxygen output of higher concentration and is the best option in any humidity and altitude.
Here is a side-by-side comparison of the four portable oxygen concentrators models.
Comparing Inogen vs Caire vs ReadyO2 in terms of performance, we will use the following criteria:
The leading supplier in terms of oxygen output and flow rates is Inogen. Their products deliver up to 1260ml of concentrated oxygen using six flow rate settings.
Caire is the second with their Freestyle Comfort model, which delivers a maximum oxygen output of 1050ml using five flow rate settings. ReadyO2 Pro delivers a maximum oxygen output of 1000ml using five flow rate settings.
Caire Freestyle Comfort has the longest battery duration on a single battery, followed by Inogen's models. ReadO2 Pro has a lower battery duration, but its two-hour recharge time is the best.
All the models have a reduced noise level, allowing peaceful use even during sleep. They all operate at below 50 dBa. However, InogenOne G5 has the lowest noise level at 38dBa.
Inogen, Caire, and ReadyO2 have developed POC models that are compact, portable, and lightweight. The differences in dimensions are minimal, the same as their weight.
These suppliers' products consider the users' mobility and provide accessories for easing a patient's movement.
ReadyO2 is the most competitive, offering less than $2000. Inogen Rove6 is the most expensive in the range, costing more than $3000.
All the products under comparison will give you value for money. But if you are operating on a small budget. ReadyO2 Pro is the most affordable and offers sides the best value for money.
Medical equipment and machines for sale must meet FDA approval, and all models here must qualify. Caire offers the most extended warranty while the rest have a warranty of up to 3 years. RaedO2 Pro has a lower maintenance cost due to the design and the material used in its product.
As manufacturers, Inogen, Caire, and ReadyO2 have advantages and disadvantages. Here outline the pros and cons of each brand:
Acquiring a portable oxygen concentrator requires a doctor's prescription. However, depending on a patient's diagnosis and budget, you can choose a specific brand. You must discuss the brand choice with your doctor to see if it meets your needs and lifestyle.
The products above are all suitable for patients needing medical oxygen therapy. They are all good for travel and medically stable. However, ReadyO2 offers the best value at the lowest price: $1999.
The best brand for patients needing very high oxygen output is Inogen. If you want a model with a longer battery life, you should go to Caire Freestyle Comfort. But if you are working on a low budget and seeking value for your money, ReadyO2 Pro is the best.