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The Best Hybrid CPAP Masks
Our Top Picks
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Best Overall
ResMed AirFit F30 Full Face CPAP Mask -
Best for combination sleepers
Salter Labs Hybrid CPAP Mask System
Best Overall
The ResMed AirFit F30 Full Face CPAP Mask seals against the nostrils for a comfortable fit.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Magnetic headgear with Velcro straps for a customized fit
- Quick-release elbow allows users to get up at night without removing their mask
- Secure and comfortable nasal cushion
Cons
- Slightly bulkier than hybrid masks with a nasal pillow design
- Headgear design and cushion sizes may not work for all facial shapes
- May not be comfortable for stomach sleepers
Full Details
Best for combination sleepers
The Salter Labs Hybrid CPAP Mask System is a complex model that allows users to fine-tune their fit with 18 different configurations.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Customizable cushion size, nasal pillow size, and nasal pillow height
- Chin flap stabilizes the jaw
- Secure headgear with minimal points of contact
Cons
- Complicated fitting process
- Headgear may be uncomfortable for people with long hair
- Nasal pillows are generally less suitable for use at high air pressure levels
Full Details
How We Make Our Picks
Our team’s decades of experience help us choose the best CPAP machines and accessories, including the best hybrid CPAP masks. Dr. Breus, our product researchers, and medical professionals understand what makes an effective mask and they also know what to avoid. We use our combined knowledge, brand reputation, and ongoing research when recommending products.
We also know that real-world experiences are vital, so we analyze verified reviews, looking specifically for user experiences that reflect comfort, compatibility, and effectiveness. Side, back, and stomach sleepers of all body weights enjoy hybrid masks, so we seek out a representative sample.
What Is a Hybrid CPAP Mask?
Hybrid CPAP masks combine the functionality of a full-face mask with the lower profile of a nasal mask or nasal pillow mask. Instead of covering the user’s entire nose and mouth like a full-face mask, most hybrid CPAP masks seal against or inside the user’s nostrils.
Some hybrid CPAP masks include nasal pillows, which are silicone or gel inserts that extend just inside the nostrils to form a seal. Other models have cushions that rest under the nose and form a cradle that seals against the nostrils.
If you breathe through your mouth but haven’t had luck wearing full-face masks, a hybrid mask may be worth considering. This style is lower-profile and doesn’t cover the bridge of your nose.
Should You Use a Hybrid CPAP Mask?
Hybrid CPAP masks offer a compromise between delivering pressurized air to both the nose and the mouth while being less bulky than a standard full-face mask.
If your doctor has recommended oronasal CPAP therapy, a hybrid model may offer the same benefits as a full-face mask while being more comfortable. However, it is important to speak to your doctor before switching masks or if you have any questions about which mask best suits your needs.
Benefits:
- Can be used by people who breathe through their mouth while asleep
- Lower-profile design may reduce feelings of claustrophobia
- May benefit people who have difficulty achieving a good seal around the bridge of the nose with a standard full-face mask
Drawbacks:
- Models with nasal pillows may be uncomfortable at high air pressure levels
- Might not be comfortable for stomach sleepers
- May require higher pressure settings compared with nasal masks
What Should You Consider When Buying a Hybrid CPAP Mask?
No single mask is right for everyone, so it’s important to consider your needs and preferences when choosing a hybrid CPAP mask. Some factors may be more important to you than others, so it’s worth breaking down these considerations before buying a new mask.
Hybrid CPAP masks
| Price | While hybrid CPAP masks can be more expensive than some other mask styles, most people can find a suitable hybrid mask that fits their budget. As with all CPAP equipment, it’s important to choose the best mask for your needs rather than the least expensive option. |
| Size and fit | Ill-fitting CPAP masks are uncomfortable and tend to leak, which can make treatment less effective. Almost all CPAP masks have different cushion or nasal pillow size options, but some hybrid CPAP masks also feature adjustable headgear or other ways of customizing your mask’s size and fit. |
| Device compatibility | CPAP masks are usually compatible with almost all CPAP machines, though there are some travel CPAP machines that require a specific mask design. However, you should ensure that your chosen mask can be used at your prescribed air pressure level. Information on a mask’s compatibility and suggested air pressure range can usually be found on the manufacturer’s website. |
| Sleeping position | While hybrid CPAP masks are less bulky than standard full-face masks, some models are still likely to be uncomfortable for side or stomach sleepers. People who prefer these sleep positions should look for masks with low-profile headgear that does not add bulk to the side of the face. |
Side and stomach sleepers may want to try out a hybrid mask before committing to daily use. They’re not always ideal for these sleeping positions because they’re more likely to hit your pillow and shift than nasal masks and pillows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Full-face CPAP masks and hybrid masks each have their own benefits and drawbacks, so whether one is better than the other depends on a user’s unique needs and preferences.
People may prefer a hybrid mask if they are a side sleeper, wear glasses, or experience feelings of claustrophobia when wearing a full-face mask. On the other hand, some people may dislike the feeling of a nasal cushion or a nasal pillow, in which case a traditional full-face mask would be a better fit.
Oronasal masks, which include full-face and hybrid CPAP masks, work well for people who breathe through their mouth while sleeping. Air can leak from a user’s mouth if they breathe through it while wearing a nasal mask, while oronasal masks prevent this from happening by delivering pressurized air through both the nose and mouth.
A hybrid CPAP mask should fit snugly and accurately but not too tightly. CPAP masks that are too tight are more liable to leak air, in addition to being uncomfortable and more likely to leave marks on the user’s face.
If you’re unsure how to choose a CPAP mask that fits correctly, your doctor can provide guidance and suggestions. Some hybrid masks also come with a complete set of cushions or nasal pillow sizes, allowing users to find the size that works best for their facial shape.
While cleaning recommendations vary among manufacturers, most CPAP masks should be cleaned by disassembling the individual components and washing each in warm, soapy water. After washing, the components should be rinsed with clean water and left to dry out of direct sunlight.
