• Free shipping within the United States & for orders over $100 outside the United States.
  • 14-Day Return Policy.
Cart
Home
Blog
Pros and Cons Of Portable Oxygen Concentrators
Jonathan Reed
Updated January 24, 2025

Pros and Cons Of Portable Oxygen Concentrators

Despite the many benefits of portable oxygen concentrators, there are also some disadvantages you should be aware of before acquiring the device.
Product Specialist: Emma Clark
Clinical Applications Specialist: Dr. James Bennett

Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) are an essential medical device. They help patients with respiratory conditions get supplemental oxygen. They are an addition to the traditional medical oxygen equipment. A POC enables you to continue with oxygen therapy while doing your daily activities.

However, portable oxygen concentrators have advantages and disadvantages, like any medical device. We will explore the pros and cons of a POC and compare it to a home oxygen concentrator. 

Pros of Portable Oxygen Concentrator

Portable oxygen concentrators benefit users in various ways. They are small battery-powered devices that you can carry around when in use.

A portable oxygen concentrator substitutes traditional oxygen tanks and home oxygen concentrators.

Here are the pros of portable oxygen concentrators:

Portability and Convenience

One of the main advantages of a portable oxygen concentrator is its portability. The device is lightweight, which makes it easy to transport and handle. An average portable oxygen concentrator weighs 5 pounds or less.

Increased Mobility

A portable oxygen concentrator gives you freedom to move and travel. You can carry your oxygen supply while walking or using other means. Most POC models have FAA approval for use in air travel.

Allows an Active Lifestyle

With a POC, you can continue leading an active lifestyle. You can use the device during regular outdoor walks or community activities. Portable oxygen concentrators ensure oxygen is never a limiting factor.

Reliable Oxygen Supply

Most POC supply oxygen only when you breathe, synchronizing with your breathing pattern. This is called the Pulse Dose oxygen delivery method, which helps to prolong battery life.

No Need for Oxygen Tank Refills

With a portable oxygen concentrator, there is no need for tank refills. You will not worry about running out of oxygen.

A POC doesn't need to store and transport the oxygen cylinders. The devices are convenient and cost-effective for long-term oxygen therapy.

Better Adherence to Oxygen Therapy

Portable oxygen concentrators offer flexibility and ease of use. These two benefits encourage patients to adhere better to their oxygen therapy prescription.

Price Range According to Performance

Portable oxygen concentrator prices vary depending on the model's capability. POC models with larger oxygen output have higher prices. You can get an affordable POC fitting your prescription.

Cons of Portable Oxygen Concentrator

POCs bring a lot of benefits. You also need to consider some disadvantages of a portable oxygen concentrator.

Limited oxygen output and flow rates

A Portable oxygen concentrator's oxygen output is up to 5 liters per minute. It may make the device unsuitable for patients with severe respiratory diseases. However, a POC might be suitable for managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 

Limited Battery Life

Another disadvantage of a POC is its battery life and power source. A POC battery can last 3 to 10 hours, depending on the model and flow rate settings. You need to carry a backup battery when away from primary power sources.

Need Regular Recharge

The limited battery duration requires you to recharge often. It can be a challenge when using the device outdoors. Lack of power can cause downtimes during oxygen therapy.

Upfront Cost

The initial cost of a POC is higher than that of oxygen tanks or a home oxygen concentrator. A POC price may be discouraging for those working with a tight budget. However, you can also explore second-hand or rental options. A supplier like ReadyO2 has POC costing less than$2,000.

No Need for Oxygen Tank Refills

With a portable oxygen concentrator, there is no need for tank refills. You will not worry about running out of oxygen.

A POC doesn't need to store and transport the oxygen cylinders. The devices are convenient and cost-effective for long-term oxygen therapy.

Operational Sounds

Portable oxygen concentrators produce audible operational noise. This sound can be noticeable and can impact user comfort. Most POCs produce between less than 50 decibels, comparable to a quiet library.

Regular Maintenance Requirements

A portable oxygen concentrator requires periodic service by a qualified technician. The service ensures the device operates properly and lasts longer.

Filter Cleaning

The POC internal filters need regular cleaning to work at peak efficiency. Depending on the model, removing and refitting the filters may be challenging.

Risk of Technical Issues

A POC has the potential for technical issues and breakdowns. They include decreased oxygen concentration, power-related problems, or complete failure. Such issues may result in downtime during therapy.

Pocs Depend on Electricity

A portable oxygen concentrator cannot operate without power. It is a disadvantage when primary power sources are unavailable. It can compromise the device's operations.

Not Suitable for All Patients

Portable oxygen concentrators have limited oxygen output levels. Thus, they may not suit all patients. Some patients need higher oxygen volumes and flow rates than a POC can provide. They also do not have a continuous flow delivery mode, which offers a constant oxygen supply.

Who Needs a Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

A POC suits individuals needing supplemental oxygen below 5 liters per minute. A healthcare provider may prescribe the device for an active individual suffering from:

  • Asthma
  • Bronchitis
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Emphysema
  • Heart failure
  • Lung cancer
  • Pneumonia
  • Respiratory trauma (rib fracture, collapsed lung, bruised lung)
  • High altitude hypoxemia
  • Sleep apnea

Portable Oxygen Concentrator vs Home Oxygen Concentrator

A POC and home oxygen concentrator deliver medical-grade oxygen in the same way. However, the two oxygen machines differ in some aspects.

Differences between a portable oxygen concentrator and a home oxygen concentrator are:

Portable-Oxygen-Concentrator-and-Home-Oxygen-Concentrator-comparsion-chart

Why Recommend Poc as a Source of Oxygen Supplementation?

We recommend a POC as a source of oxygen supplementation because of the following:

  • They are portable and enhance mobility
  • Most have FAA approval for air travel
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • They provide continuous oxygen supply as long as they have power
  • It doesn't require oxygen tank refills
  • They come with innovative technology to ease their use
  • Lung cancer
  • A POC is the best option for an active person during oxygen therapy
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.

Related Blogs

home-vs-portable-oxygen-concentrator-which-one-is-better-cover

Home Vs Portable Oxygen Concentrator: Which is Right for You?

Both a home oxygen concentrator and a portable oxygen concentrator have advantages and limitations. Using both devices during oxygen therapy will significantly improve your quality of life.
Tips-on-how-to-drive-with-portable-oxygen-concentrator-cover

Tips on How to Drive With a Portable Oxygen Concentrator

Is driving possible while using a portable oxygen concentrator? 7 tips for safe driving with your portable oxygen concentrator.
why-you-need-a-backup-oxygen

Is a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Enough? Why You Need a Backup Oxygen

It is possible to use a portable oxygen concentrator 24/7. However, the devices have some limitations, and we do not recommend them as your only oxygen concentrator.
1 2 3 9
Explore More

Sign Up for Our Mailing List to Receive
The Latest News, Updates, and Special Discounts!

ReadyO₂-logo-V2
tiktok-icontwitter-iconicons-youtube
info@readyo2.com
+1 (‪213)302-7793‬
location-pin
Room 1302, No.118 Shuguang Road
Taijiang District, Fuzhou Fujian 350009, China
Show Buttons
Share On Facebook
Share On Twitter
Share On Linkedin
Share On Pinterest
Hide Buttons
cartcross linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram