What is the Smallest Portable Oxygen Concentrator [2023]

Do you want to know the smallest oxygen concentrator portable available on the market today? Come and let us find that out!

What Is The Smallest Oxygen Concentrator?

The smallest oxygen concentrator is the Airsep Focus Miniature Portable Oxygen Concentrator. With a weight of 0.8kg, this is the lightest portable oxygen concentrator on the market. It can provide a flow rate of 2 LPM on a pulse dose setting and can last around 1.5 hours per battery.

Do you also know that some portable oxygen concentrators can run continuously and charge simultaneously on a DC power source? You can plug these machines into your car when you're on the road and continue receiving the amount of oxygen your condition requires.

To know more about how valuable and impressive even the smallest oxygen concentrator is available on the market these days, keep reading.

Smallest Portable Oxygen Concentrators On The Market

We listed the smallest portable oxygen concentrators on the market these days with the highest quality and excellent specifications. You can check the following list to choose the best product that suits your oxygen needs.

Inogen One G3

Inogen One G3 is perhaps one of the smallest products available for the brand Inogen. At a weight of 4.8 pounds, the machine is easy to bring wherever you go, especially with a carry bag included in every purchase of this item. It is also small enough to store under the car and airplane seats, and you wouldn't even feel the burden of carrying such a device around.

The Inogen One G3 made it to our list for many reasons, and one of them is its battery lifespan, which can last for up to 4.7 hours on a single battery. If you choose the double battery option, it can reach 10 hours on a single charge, making it a reliable device, especially for traveling. It is also worth mentioning that the Inogen One G3 is FAA approved for all airlines across the United States.

Another thing about this machine is that it has an LCD screen that shows your current battery life and flow setting. The controls are straightforward. It also comes with the Intelligent pulse dose delivery technology that detects a person's breath rate. If the device does not catch your breath, it will immediately set off an alarm to notify you.

Inogen One G4

Another popular item from Inogen and one of the lightest oxygen concentrator out there is the Inogen One G4. This product is small enough to experience an on-the-go life with ease. It is FAA approved and considered safe for travel on most airlines and even on most cruise liners.

You wouldn't believe that it can run for up to 5 hours on a single charge of a double battery system for its small size. On the other hand, single battery usage can last you for at least 2.7 hours of constant flow.

You can also use this machine on both AC and DC power sources, so the oxygen flow is continuous while charging it. If that's not the peak of portability, we don't know what else is.

One more thing to know about this device is that they are quiet, so you can easily bring them to places where silence is required, such as libraries and churches. However, keep in mind that it can also go up to 3 LPM of oxygen delivery. If your prescription requires you a minimum of 5 LPM, then the Inogen One G3 is better.

Philips Respironics SimplyGo Mini

The Respironics SimplyGo Mini is another product that's well-loved by its users. It is lightweight, and at just 5 pounds, the device has excellent battery life.

It comes in two battery options: the standard and the extended battery. The former allows the machine to last for 4.5 hours, while the latter makes it last for as long as at least 10 hours of constant use.

Upon purchase, you will get additional accessories to use it with. Included in the package are:

• Custom carrying case with padded shoulder strap
• Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Standard or Extended battery
• Accessory bag
• AC power supply
• DC vehicle power supply
• Soft tip nasal cannula
• User manual
• 3-year warranty
• Lifetime technical support

Yes, it is also FAA-approved and has an operating altitude of 10,000 feet. Another feature worth mentioning about this machine is its alarm, not only for the no-breath detection and low oxygen concentration, but for technical faults, external power failure, low battery, and high breath rate as well.

The recharge time takes approximately 4 to 8 hours until it is full, so you can use it on external power while it's charging.

AirSep Focus

If you are asking what is the smallest oxygen concentrator available for purchase, the AirSep Focus from the brand CAIRE is the true answer. CAIRE is one of the most trusted brands for medical devices, like portable oxygen concentrators. Even though the AirSep Focus is the smallest portable concentrator you can get, it is still powerful enough to keep you going with your day, given that you don't need more than 2 LPM of oxygen supply.

This machine is small enough that you won't even feel like it's with you all the time. You can place it inside your purse or on a carrying bag with a strap and place it on your shoulder as you do your errands.

You also don't have to worry about the battery life of this device. Due to its size, it has fewer hours of usability, but it can run on AC/DC power supply, so you can continue using it while recharging.

Another disadvantage of its size is the limited flow setting, which only has a maximum of 2 LPM. If your doctor requires you to have a flow rate over that setting, it is better to opt for other products that settle with this one.

This is an excellent product that will make your life easier and help you do the things you enjoy once again.

How To Choose A Small Portable Oxygen Concentrator

Before buying a small portable oxygen concentrator, you should check out the factors you must consider first. After all, it's all for your health, and you wouldn't want to compromise that. Settling for a good quality machine is one thing, but how sure are you that it is precisely what you need?

Here's a list of the essential factors that you can't start with before pursuing your purchase:

Size

If you are looking to buy the lightest portable oxygen concentrator, then the first thing you should review is its size. Portable concentrators come in different sizes and weights, ranging from 6.4 inches to 16.5 inches wide. Some can fit well in your pocket and inside a carry bag, while others are used similar to stationary concentrators for people who spend most of the time at home.

Before, you could only get through your oxygen therapy with tanks. Thanks to the newest technology and innovation in oxygen supply provisions, most portable concentrators are even more powerful and convenient than the smallest portable oxygen tank.

Another reason why you should consider the size concerns your lifestyle. If you are a person that always travels or at least goes out more often than some people, the last thing you would want for a machine is for it to be bulky. Concentrators with weird shapes and larger sizes might not be the most comfortable for your travels.

Weight

Weight is another crucial factor to consider. According to a study, seniors tend to be more susceptible to different kinds of diseases, especially those related to lung problems. As we grow older, we also start to lose the ability to carry heavy items.

For an elderly who suffers from back pain and shortness of breath, carrying a minimum of 10 pounds for an oxygen tank is not good. Even if you put that on a carrying bag or a trolley, it will still compromise the person using it.

Fortunately, portable oxygen concentrators are available these days that weigh only around 1.75 pounds. Despite their small build, they can provide enough oxygen to help you get through your required oxygen flow whatever you are doing. You won't have to worry about your back, shoulders, and legs again, and you will feel more comfortable bringing your machine anywhere.

The concern of most people with bulky oxygen concentrators is that they cannot carry their other valuables due to the weight their devices have. There's more space to plan for your next trip or vacation with these small portable oxygen concentrators.

However, keep in mind that machines as small as 6 pounds only come with a pulse flow, as most continuous flow machines weigh over 10 pounds. These machines are supposed to be on a cart if you want to bring them around, but it wouldn't be the most agreeable item to bring in while moving from one place to another.

Battery life

Battery life is another essential aspect that you should look for in a portable concentrator. The essence of portability is that you can use it when away from a power source. Choosing a device that can last for a couple of hours will allow you to do your errands without worry.

Most portable concentrators use lithium-ion batteries these days, the same type of battery on your laptops, phones, and tablets. Despite being lightweight and eco-friendly, they are powerful and can provide enough power to get you through the day. After all, you would want your machine to be as efficient for such investment, right?

Some units come in at least two battery options: single and double battery. A double battery offers twice as many hours of use as the single option. Fortunately, most devices also come in AC/DC power supply, so you can continuously use it safely while plugged in and recharging at the same time.

Portability

This factor depends on how mobile you want your portable concentrator to be. Each unit varies in size. Some can be easily carried in a strap bag, while others will require a cart to be dragged around. If you don't mind bringing a trolley everywhere you go, opting for a higher flow rate machine is fine.

However, if you value convenience and want to minimize the weight of your travels, small oxygen concentrators can still provide you with up to 5 LPM.

Noise level

One thing you need to know about portable oxygen concentrators is they make noise. However, it is not as loud as you may think it is. A portable machine can produce a noise emission of only around 40 decibels (dBA) or less. This is on the same noise level as a quiet conversation or whispering.

They are not as distracting as large oxygen concentrators, but you still need to consider them, especially if you are bothered by hush, continuous noises. On top of that, you can bring your portable oxygen concentrator to a quiet church, libraries, or see a movie without disturbing other people.

Find the Quietest Portable Oxygen Concentrators Here.

Oxygen concentration

The oxygen concentration is another essential factor to keep in mind. Most patients have a specific percentage of oxygen content concentration they need to get. It is mainly affected by the unit's filtration system and how effective the portable concentrator's sieve system is when it comes to eliminating nitrogen. 

Most machines offer a concentration level of anywhere between 97 to 99%. Higher powered units are recommended for patients who require an increased flow of oxygen. On the other hand, lightweight, portable oxygen concentrators have fewer flow rates.

Oxygen output

This is perhaps the most crucial factor to keep in mind when choosing a small portable oxygen concentrator. Due to size, most small concentrator units have limited flow rate settings, and it might not be enough for people who require 5 LPM and more. 

Such units are limited by the efficiency of their compressor. Their pulse flow settings usually range from 2 to 6 LPM, and most patients under low-dose oxygen therapy require 2 to 3 LPM. 

Warranty

Most portable oxygen concentrators come with a warranty upon purchase, and the price may vary depending on how long you like the warranty to last. The minimum is at least one year, while the longest is a lifetime.

The way it works is that the manufacturer will either replace or repair your unit for free or with discounts within the warranty. Warranties can also be a valuable contract to protect your purchase in case something unexpected happens through the process.

You should check out the reliable brands and see if they have units that suit your needs and budget. The majority of the brands like Inogen, CAIRE, GCE, and Phillips have at least three years of warranty that comes with each machine. If you want, you can extend the given warranty for a charge.

FAA approval

If you tend to travel often, be it on land or air, you will want to choose a portable concentrator that has FAA approval. Some oxygen tanks can be dangerous to use on an airplane for many reasons.

On the other hand, portable oxygen concentrators are approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) because they use ambient air and do not contain liquid or gas oxygen. They tend to be easier to store and fit well on most carry bags or under airplane seats.

Find our collection of FAA-approved portable oxygen concentrators here.

Additional features

If you are looking for a particular machine to purchase, you should also check the accessories included in the package. Some brands offer additional items when you buy one of their products, like a custom bag, a padded shoulder strap, and so on. This makes it easier to manage your portable machine, but you will also save more as you won't need to buy extra.

Some units also have unique features that you wouldn't see on anything else, like the ability to manage the unit through an app. Some Inogen products can be connected to the Inogen Connect application and see real-time information about your column status, battery life, etc.

Who Needs A Small Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

People with certain breathing issues utilize portable oxygen concentrators as it helps them get the amount of oxygen required to function. On that note, these are the kinds of people who need small portable oxygen concentrators:

Elderly

Elders with breathing issues may use small portable oxygen concentrators. The compact size of these machines makes it easier for them to bring around and not trigger any back and shoulder pains throughout the day.

If they are under long-term oxygen therapy, this is enough to get the necessary supplemental oxygen supply they need. Most elders are prescribed around 2 LPM if they are experiencing lung problems related to aging.

Asthma

One of the treatments and management for asthma includes oxygen therapy. However, small portable concentrators will only work for some with less severe conditions. Those with frequent and more serious attacks are advised to get immediate help.

Portable concentrators can help adequately supply amounts of oxygen to the lungs if it happens to have low oxygen levels.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Oxygen therapy is used for COPD to increase the PaO2, the partial pressure of oxygen, in the arterial blood without making the acidosis worse. COPD patients are usually given around 2 to 3 LPM through a Venturi mask or 1 to 2 LPM with a nasal cannula. Such levels are prescribed for those in a hospital setting monitored by medical practitioners.

Sleep apnea

Studies show that the utilization of oxygen therapy can significantly improve the condition of individuals suffering from sleep apnea. Small portable oxygen concentrators are small enough that you can use them while sleeping without a problem.

Most units also have an alarm when your breath is not detected, notifying you of such happening. If not managed immediately, it can lead to more severe diseases, like heart trouble and high blood pressure.

What Are The Benefits Of Small Portable Oxygen Concentrators?

Other than providing an adequate supply of oxygen and its convenience for everyday use, the small oxygen portable concentrators have more to offer. These are some of the many benefits you can get from these excellent portable devices:

Better recovery

Patients administered supplemental oxygen for at least 15 hours a day shows greater survival and recovery from severe cases. As portable concentrators are more efficient and can run for as long as 24 hours every day, this can show greater results for people who have breathing issues and are recovering from certain diseases.

Improves mental alertness

Oxygen deprivation has significant negative effects on cognitive function. One of the uses of oxygen on a human body is to increase energy and mental alertness while decreasing the chance of developing sinuses and headaches.

Helps you sleep better

The oxygen levels of an average person drop while asleep, which can be a significant problem for people with lung problems. Using supplemental oxygen can improve sleep quality and help you get the rest you deserve.

Enhances mood

One of the benefits of using supplemental oxygen is improving mood. Oxygen therapy increases your energy, helps your body relax, increases concentration, and many more.

FAQs About Small Portable Oxygen Concentrators

How long does the smallest portable oxygen concentrator last?

Airsep Focus of CAIRE, the smallest portable oxygen concentrator to date yet, can last 1.5 hours on a single battery charge. Upon purchasing, you can order additional batteries if your condition requires a constant flow of oxygen. This will increase its portability, and you won't have to worry about running out of charge when you're outside.

How many liters of oxygen can a portable concentrator produce?

Depending on the machine's size, a portable concentrator can deliver oxygen of 0.5 LPM up to 10 liters per minute. Usually, they come in 5L and 10L options, which indicates the device's maximum flow capacity. You should purchase a product that fits your current needs and is in accordance with your doctor's prescription.

Get Yourself A Small Portable Oxygen Concentrator Today!

If you don't necessarily need high amounts of oxygen liters per minute, getting the smallest oxygen concentrator portable would be best. You can keep living your life without overthinking a machine that will hold you back.