What is a portable oxygen concentrator?
An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that draws in surrounding air, strips out the nitrogen, and delivers the remaining oxygen at therapeutic concentrations, typically between 87% and 96%. Unlike a cylinder, which holds a fixed compressed supply, a concentrator generates oxygen continuously from the air around it. You do not run out and there are no refills to organise.
A portable unit does the same job as a home stationary model but in a smaller, battery-capable form designed for use outside the house. Most run on a wall outlet, a car power port, or battery. The four models on this page weigh between 2.3 kg and 8.3 kg.
They are prescribed for patients who need supplemental oxygen and want to keep doing what they normally do, whether that is going to appointments, travelling, or getting through a full day out. The concentrator comes with you rather than keeping you close to a room or a cylinder delivery schedule.
The device connects to a nasal cannula, a thin tube with two small prongs that sit just inside the nostrils. The unit delivers oxygen either in pulses when you inhale or as a continuous stream, depending on the model and what your prescription specifies.
Portable concentrators are a prescribed medical device, not an over-the-counter purchase. If you are at the stage of researching options, your prescribing clinician is the right person to confirm what flow type and settings you need before you buy.
Pulse dose vs continuous flow: which do you need?
Your prescription determines this. Worth confirming before you buy, because the two flow types work differently and not every unit supports both.
Pulse dose delivers oxygen in a burst each time the device detects you inhaling. Because it only runs on demand, battery life is longer. Most portable concentrators use this mode. It suits a broad range of patients, but it is not right for everyone. If you need oxygen while sleeping, or your breathing rate is low or irregular, a pulse dose may not be sufficient.
Continuous flow delivers a steady stream at a fixed litres-per-minute rate regardless of your breathing pattern. It draws more power, so battery run time is shorter, but it is the more reliable option for patients who need oxygen at rest, overnight, or at higher prescribed rates. Of the four models on this page, only the Zen-O and the Eclipse 5 offer continuous flow. The SimplyGo Mini and the Freestyle Comfort are pulse dose only. If your prescription specifies continuous flow, those two are not an option.
If you are unsure which type you need, ask your clinician before purchasing
FAQ
Do I need a prescription to buy a portable oxygen concentrator?
Yes. Supplemental oxygen is a prescription treatment in Australia. You will need a valid prescription from a treating clinician before the unit can be dispatched. If you are unsure what information the prescription needs to include, call us and we can tell you what is required.
What is the difference between pulse dose and continuous flow?
Pulse dose fires in bursts when you inhale. Continuous flow runs at a fixed rate regardless of your breathing. The section above this FAQ covers both in more detail, including which models support each mode.
How long does the battery last?
It depends on the unit, the setting, and your breathing rate. Across the four models on this page, run times range from around 4 hours on a single battery up to 9 hours on the SimplyGo Mini's extended battery at setting 1. At higher settings or faster breathing rates, that figure drops. The comparison table above has the model-specific numbers.
Can I use a portable concentrator on a plane?
All four models on this page are FAA approved for use on commercial airlines. FAA approval covers the device itself. Airlines set their own rules about medical equipment on board, and some require advance notice or documentation before you fly. Check with your airline before travelling and carry the device documentation with you.
Can I charge or run the unit in the car?
All four models support DC power input and can run from a 12V vehicle outlet. Use only the manufacturer-approved DC adaptor. A generic adapter may not deliver the correct voltage and could damage the unit.
How do I decide between the four models?
Start with flow type. If you need continuous flow, you are choosing between the Zen-O and the Eclipse 5. If pulse dose is suitable, all four are in play. After that, weight and battery life are the main factors depending on how you use oxygen day to day. Call us on 1300 881 824 if you want to talk it through.
Can I hire a portable concentrator instead of buying?
Yes. Portable hire is available for short-term needs, recovery periods, or if you want to try a unit before buying. View our portable hire options or call us to check availability.
More reading before you decide:
What does an oxygen concentrator cost to buy and run?
Common questions about oxygen concentrators answered
Renting vs buying an oxygen concentrator — how to decide
How to maintain an oxygen concentrator
