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Oxygen Concentrator Vs Oxygen Tank. What's the Difference?
By
Jonathan Reed
Updated January 22, 2025

Oxygen Concentrator Vs Oxygen Tank. What's the Difference?

Oxygen concentrators and tanks are medical equipment used during oxygen therapy. Learn about their differences and how to choose an oxygen device.
Product Specialist: Emma Clark
Clinical Applications Specialist: Dr. James Bennett

Oxygen concentrators and oxygen tanks are healthcare machines used in medical oxygen therapy. They are oxygen systems machines that help patients with low oxygen levels. They provide enough supplemental oxygen. However, these two devices are different in many aspects. It's essential to consider the pros and cons of each.

So, what is an oxygen concentrator? It's an electrical machine used in medical oxygen therapy. It takes in the surrounding air, then purifies it, and increases the concentration of the oxygen gas. An oxygen or liquid oxygen tank is a metallic cylinder packed with 99.0% oxygen. It comes either in liquid form or compressed oxygen. The canister needs a refill upon usage.

Both machines help provide oxygen needs to patients undertaking medical oxygen therapy. An example is a patient with a lung disease causing low oxygen levels. They are instrumental in managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Here, we will discuss the difference between an oxygen concentrator and an oxygen tank, how it works, its cost, and more.

 

What is the Difference Between An Oxygen Concentrator and An Oxygen Tank?

An oxygen concentrator uses the surrounding air. It filters nitrogen, concentrates oxygen, and delivers it to the user. The device produces a higher oxygen concentration for the user than in the air. An oxygen concentrator will continue working as long as it has power.

On the other hand, oxygen tanks are sturdy metal cylinders that hold a finite amount of compressed or liquid oxygen. The oxygen in the tank eventually depletes with use. The device works with a unique regulator and a flow meter. Due to its high pressure, there is a need to control the flow rate and the safe release of oxygen.

Both oxygen concentrators and tanks require additional equipment for oxygen delivery. You will need both medical tubing and a nasal cannula (oxygen mask) to use either. Oxygen tanks also require appropriate storage equipment to prevent damage.

Oxygen Concentrator and Oxygen Tank, Which is Better?

The Oxygen concentrator and the oxygen tank are medical devices. They deliver pure oxygen to patients undergoing medical oxygen therapy. However, what works for one patient may not work for another.

There are some factors to consider when buying an oxygen concentrator or tank. They include medical prescription, portability, safety, cost, and functionality.

How Do They Work

Oxygen concentrators and tanks deliver oxygen to a patient similarly, using a similar oxygen mask or the nasal cannula. However, their working mechanisms are different.

An oxygen concentrator depends on power to filter ambient air and concentrate oxygen for delivery. It doesn't have the compressed oxygen tanks. Concentrators come in many styles, including large models for hospital use, medium-sized home oxygen concentrators, and compact, portable concentrators.

Oxygen tanks are cylinders filled with pressurized pure oxygen.

They require a unique regulator to release the gas during breathing. Once the gas is out, you need to refill the tank. Oxygen tanks don't require power to operate.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of the oxygen concentrator vary according to models. There are bigger machines and small portable ones. Oxygen tanks also come in varying sizes depending on the quantity held. Smaller are easier to transport than heavier cylinders that carry large amounts of pure oxygen.

The smallest oxygen tank available is size B cylinders with a capacity of 250l (0.25 m3). It weighs approximately 1kg and is less than 500mm tall. It's ideal for at home or outdoors.

G oxygen tanks are the largest, holding up to 10,000L (10 M3). They are roughly the average person's height and weigh up to 74 kg. These tanks are for use in large-scale settings like a hospital.

Oxygen concentrators range in size from small Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) to large stationary oxygen concentrators. POCs operate on lithium-ion batteries, the same as smartphones. They retain power for a long and are lightweight.

You can carry a POC comfortably in a shoulder bag and use it on the go. Large concentrators can produce a continuous flow of oxygen even for large-scale use.

Portability and Mobility

The portability and mobility of any machine largely depend on size, power source, and other support systems it uses when working. Other factors include restrictions when using different modes of transport and special handling.

Oxygen tanks aren't FAA-approved for air transport. Their cylindrical, oblong shape also requires unique bags and vessels when transporting them. Big oxygen tanks need specialized vehicles for road transport.

Most of the oxygen concentrators are FAA-approved for air transport. Small devices come with convenient backpacks for carrying around. The heaviest home oxygen concentrator weighs 15 kilograms, unlike an oxygen tank that can weigh over 60 kilograms.

Cost

Are you looking to purchase equipment for home oxygen therapy? What is the cost difference between an oxygen concentrator and an oxygen tank? Medical equipment costs fall into three categories: buying price, running costs, and maintenance.

An oxygen concentrator will be more expensive if you make an entire purchase. You will need thousands to several thousand dollars for the upfront cost. However, the running cost is lower and convenient since it doesn't require a refill. The main running cost is electric charging.

The equipment will also need periodic maintenance costs.

Oxygen tanks aren't costly upfront. You will require a hundred dollars for the initial purchase. However, you must change and refill the tanks, which will be expensive in the long run.

Both oxygen systems require other oxygen supplies such as oxygen tubing, nasal cannula, and oxygen masks. If you don't have this equipment, consider buying them in bundles together with your oxygen device.

You can get a free portable oxygen concentrator through Medicare, Medicaid, and other private insurance coverage for rentals. If the oxygen therapy is only short, you can seek an alternative. However, we recommend buying an oxygen concentrator if you intend to use it for a lifetime.

Safety

Concerning safety, oxygen concentrators and oxygen tanks as machines pose some risks if not handled properly. Due to its high pressure, an oxygen tank risks leaking. Due to the low temperatures of the gas, liquid oxygen tanks can cause frostbite. Oxygen is a key element in a fire. Never use your oxygen tank near open fire to avoid accelerating the burning process.

When using an oxygen concentrator, follow the supplier's manual entirely to avoid accidents at home. Ensure you do not operate your oxygen concentrator in the same room with an open flame, smoke, or sparks.

A Comparison Chart of the Two Device

difference-between-oxygen-tank-and-oxygen-concentrator

Things To Consider Before Choosing Your Oxygen Device

Deciding between an oxygen concentrator and an oxygen tank requires some considerations. We advise using either of the devices under the doctor's prescription. There are also other things to consider before choosing your oxygen device.

What is My Oxygen Prescription?

Before investing in either oxygen device, follow your doctor's prescription. The prescription describes the rate of breathing, how often, administration mode, and the right machine for use.

When and Where Will I Use Oxygen?

Another consideration is when and where you will use your oxygen during therapy. A portable device like a POC is more practical if you roam a lot. Moving around an oxygen tank that can last several hours or days may be challenging.

Consider a model that comes with a battery backup can be a good choice. The option gives a more reliable power supply and is helpful during outdoor activities.

Also, the weight of your oxygen concentrator is vital. If you move around a lot, look for a lightweight machine for its mobility and portability.

Can I Travel With My Oxygen?

If you travel frequently by air, consider buying an FAA-approved oxygen concentrator.

If you travel by car, consider an oxygen concentrator that supports a car charger for use during travel.

An oxygen concentrator can filter and concentrate oxygen from the surrounding air. Although oxygen tanks come with 95% pure oxygen, the gas depletes with usage over time. However, if it has power, your oxygen concentrator will continue producing concentrated oxygen.

How Much Does My Oxygen Therapy Cost?

The cost of an oxygen therapy depends on how long it takes. A short treatment can be cheaper, mainly if you use rental services. However, a treatment that lasts a lifetime may be more costly if you use refillable oxygen tanks.

Conclusion

Finding the right oxygen concentrator or tank for you or your loved one may seem challenging. Your choice should correspond to your doctor's prescription and accommodate your activities.

Fortunately, ReadO2 has a variety of these devices. Their ReadyO2-pro is a fine oxygen concentrator that will meet most of your specifications.

I am Dr. Jonathan Reed, a proud member of the readyO₂ team. With a background in respiratory therapy, I’m dedicated to helping those in need by answering questions and providing clarity. I strive to educate and inspire our audience by making complex topics accessible and engaging. My goal is to educate and inspire our audience, ensuring they have the information necessary to make informed decisions about their health. It’s a privilege to support individuals on their journey to better breathing and well-being.

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