Portable oxygen concentrator (POC) is a type of medical equipment that is prescribed for patients dealing with respiratory conditions. Earlier, POCs were considered extremely cumbersome to use as they were heavy, automatically restricting free movement. Thankfully, the apparatus has evolved to a great extent. Today, brands have innovated POCs that combine compactness and efficiency. But, choosing the best portable oxygen concentrator has become overwhelming due to the sheer volume of manufacturers in the market.

Philips SimplyGo
Weighing 10 pounds, Philips SimplyGo provides pulse-dose delivery and continuous flow through a single device. Not just ideal for daily use, this portable oxygen concentrator works best as it can be easily carried while you are traveling or working out. Therefore, you need not worry about unfavorable temperatures or impacts and vibrations affecting your POC. Philips SimplyGo is equipped with smart sleep mode, an intuitive control panel, long-life compressor, and operating alarms. Philips also offers with an option of a 2, 3 or 5-year warranty. The SimplyGo POC comes with a mobile cart, one rechargeable lithium ion battery, DC and AC power cables, carrying case, and accessory case. Currently, this POC costs approximately $3,500.

SeQual Eclipse 5
As compared to other products, the SeQual Eclipse 5 weighs around 18 pounds. However, it has some incredible features and would make a right pick for individuals who don’t commute much. Its highlights include adjustable rise time and bolus size along with AutoSAT technology for balancing optimal oxygen levels, all flow settings (pulse and continuous), continuous oxygen flow ranging between 5 and 3 LPM (liters per minute) and simple battery recharge via the standard DC supply. Even though it’s not lightweight like its counterparts, it can be easily maneuvered with the help of a cart, outfitted with a telescopic handle. The SeQual Eclipse 5 can be bought for around $4,000.

Inogen One G3
The Inogen One G3 is one of the best portable oxygen concentrators and is a reliable choice if the patient requires to use the POC all day long. This 5-pound device comes with numerous useful features such as pulse dose technology for quick compliance and maximum comfort. Furthermore, the equipment is capable of distinguishing unusual breathing phases that allows it to facilitate natural respiratory patterns. It offers a continuous battery life of up to 9.5 hours and provides 90% oxygen concentration on all its modes. Also, its low maintenance needs including filter cleaning ensure hassle-free user experience. At the moment, the Inogen One G3 comes with an estimated price tag of $3,800.

LifeChoice Activox 4L
One of the lightest POC in the market, LifeChoice Activox 4L weighs only 4.8 pounds, that easily fits into a bag that can be carried as a backpack or satchel according to your comfort. It incorporates advanced oxygen purity sensors, sophisticated Auto Mode and Pulse-Wave™ oxygen delivery options, long battery life (lasting up to 10.25 hours), alarm and charging notifications. This lightweight device with an excellent battery life is apt for patients who are working or constantly traveling. It is offered with a 3-year long warranty period and currently is priced around $4,000.

AirSep® Freestyle® 5
This wearable portable oxygen concentrator weighs 6.7 pounds and can be effortlessly carried around with the help of a backpack or shoulder bag. It consists of features such as sensitive pulse delivery technology, pulse flow settings from 1 to 5, simple user interface, optional 7-hour battery backup, and easy to read battery levels. It requires very little maintenance, which makes it a great choice for patients frequently caught up with a busy schedule. Its manufacturer’s warranty lasts for 3 years. AirSep® Freestyle® 5, at the moment, will approximately cost you around $2,000.

A few other models can also be considered.

• SeQual eQuinox
• Inogen One G4
• AirSep® Focus
• Oxlife Independence with DNA Technology
• DeVilbiss iGo

Before, buying a portable oxygen concentrator, make sure that you seek advice from your doctor to be sure about your choice.