Written by Yash, RRT — Licensed Respiratory Therapist & Owner, MyRespCo
If you or a family member has been prescribed supplemental oxygen therapy, choosing the right oxygen concentrator is one of the most important decisions you'll make for long-term quality of life. The difference between a portable oxygen concentrator (POC) and a home unit, between pulse dose and continuous flow, between a 4-hour battery and a 13-hour battery — these details determine whether oxygen therapy enables your life or limits it. This guide breaks it all down, written by a Licensed Respiratory Therapist who works with oxygen patients every day.
Portable vs. Home Oxygen Concentrator — Which Do You Need?
The first decision is whether you need a portable unit, a home unit, or both. Here's how to think about it:
| Feature | Portable Concentrator (POC) | Home Concentrator |
|---|---|---|
| Use Case | On the go, travel, errands | Stationary use at home |
| Flow Type | Usually pulse dose (some continuous) | Continuous flow (1–10 LPM) |
| Weight | 2.5–8 lbs | 15–30 lbs |
| Battery Powered | Yes — 6–13 hours | No — AC power only |
| FAA Approved | Most models | No |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Best For | Active patients, travelers | Sleep, resting, high-flow needs |
Clinical note from Yash, RRT: Many patients on continuous flow oxygen at home do well on pulse dose when active. However, this is highly individual — it depends on your oxygen saturation response to activity and whether your prescription specifies continuous flow only. Always verify with your physician or RT before switching delivery modes.
Pulse Dose vs. Continuous Flow — What's the Difference?
Pulse dose oxygen is delivered in a burst at the start of each inhaled breath — triggered by the machine detecting your inspiratory effort. This is efficient and enables lightweight, battery-powered portable units. Most portable oxygen concentrators (Inogen G3, G4, G5) use pulse dose delivery.
Continuous flow delivers a steady stream of oxygen regardless of breath timing. It is required for patients who need oxygen during sleep (pulse dose detectors may not trigger reliably during shallow sleep breathing), and for patients with higher prescribed flow rates (≥5 LPM). Home concentrators and some larger portable units offer continuous flow.
How to Choose Your Flow Setting
Your oxygen flow setting is prescribed by your physician based on your blood oxygen saturation at rest, during activity, and during sleep. Common prescriptions:
- 1–2 LPM: Mild hypoxemia at rest, COPD maintenance
- 2–3 LPM: Moderate hypoxemia, active use
- 4–5 LPM: Higher demand — may require continuous flow
- 6+ LPM: High-flow demand — home concentrator or large tank required
A $49.99 RT Consultation with MyRespCo's Licensed Respiratory Therapist is an efficient way to review your oxygen prescription, understand your flow needs, and ensure your equipment is matched to your clinical requirements.
MyRespCo Portable Oxygen Concentrator Lineup
Inogen One G3 — Best for Travel & Everyday Portability
The Inogen One G3 is the benchmark portable concentrator for active patients. At 4.8 lbs, FAA-approved, with pulse dose settings 1–5, it is the most widely used POC among ambulatory patients. MyRespCo's refurbished G3 is RRT-certified with a 1-year warranty.
Shop Refurbished Inogen One G3 →
Inogen One G5 — Best Performance in the Smallest Package
The G5 is Inogen's current flagship — slightly lighter than the G3, with pulse settings 1–6 and up to 13 hours of battery life with the double cell. Available at MyRespCo in standard battery, 8-cell, and 16-cell configurations.
Home Oxygen Concentrator 1–7 LPM — Best for Home Use
For patients who need continuous flow oxygen at home, MyRespCo carries the VH-2 Home Concentrator with flow settings 1–7 LPM, 24/7 operation capability, and built-in nebulizer function. Quiet (48 dBa), reliable, and significantly more affordable than hospital rental programs.
Shop Home Oxygen Concentrator →
Do I Need a Prescription for an Oxygen Concentrator?
Yes. The FDA requires a prescription for oxygen concentrators. Your prescription will specify your flow rate (in LPM), delivery mode (pulse vs. continuous), and when to use oxygen (at rest, during activity, during sleep, or all three).
If you have questions about your oxygen prescription or need guidance on equipment selection, MyRespCo's $49.99 RT Consultation provides direct access to a Licensed Respiratory Therapist who can review your prescription and help you identify the right equipment for your lifestyle.
Book Your RT Consultation — $49.99 →
Traveling with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator
- FAA approval: Most modern POCs including the Inogen G3, G4, and G5 are FAA-approved for in-cabin use on commercial flights
- Notify your airline: Contact your airline at least 48 hours before departure to confirm their medical device policy
- Bring documentation: Carry your oxygen prescription and a letter of medical necessity
- Battery planning: FAA requires you carry 150% of expected flight time in battery capacity (including layovers)
- International travel: Confirm voltage compatibility and airline policies for international routes
Related Guides
- Portable vs. Home Oxygen Concentrator — Which Do You Need?
- How to Travel with an Oxygen Concentrator — FAA Rules Explained
- What LPM Oxygen Flow Rate Do I Need?
- Medicare vs. Paying Out of Pocket for Oxygen Therapy
- Refurbished CPAP Buyer's Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a portable oxygen concentrator while sleeping?
Most portable concentrators use pulse dose delivery, which may not trigger reliably during sleep when breathing is shallower and less consistent. If your physician has prescribed oxygen during sleep, confirm whether pulse dose is acceptable or whether continuous flow is required for nighttime use. A home concentrator is typically recommended for overnight oxygen therapy.
How long does the battery last on a portable concentrator?
Battery life varies by model and flow setting. The Inogen One G5 provides up to 6.5 hours on a single battery and up to 13 hours on a double battery at setting 2. Higher flow settings reduce battery life. Always plan for 150% of your expected use time to account for delays.
Is a refurbished oxygen concentrator safe?
Yes — when purchased from a licensed DME supplier with a certified refurbishment process. MyRespCo's refurbished Inogen One G3 is inspected, cleaned, performance-tested, and certified by a Licensed Respiratory Therapist with a 1-year warranty included.
Do I need a prescription to buy an oxygen concentrator?
Yes. The FDA requires a prescription for oxygen concentrators. MyRespCo's $49.99 RT Consultation can help guide you on the prescription pathway and appropriate equipment for your clinical needs.
What is the difference between the Inogen G3, G4, and G5?
The G3 is the most widely adopted portable concentrator — proven, reliable, and available refurbished at significant savings. The G4 is the smallest and lightest Inogen model, ideal for patients who prioritize ultra-compact size. The G5 is Inogen's current flagship with the highest flow settings (1–6) and longest battery life. Our Licensed Respiratory Therapist can help you determine which is right for your prescription and lifestyle in an RT Consultation.