Many patients around the United States use oxygen concentrators to assist them with breathing. The concept is relatively simple: an oxygen concentrator takes air from the area around it, then passes concentrated oxygen to the patient through a breathing tube. However, whether or not it is stationary is a different story. Stationary oxygen concentrators, while helpful, may not be the best option all the time. Consider the benefits and drawbacks of both to figure out which one could best suit your needs.

Stationary VS. Portable

Stationary oxygen concentrators are much larger than portable ones, and can deliver up to 10 liters of oxygen per minute depending on the size of the unit. A portable concentrator can deliver up to 5 liters per minute.

Stationary oxygen concentrators can weigh anywhere between 40 and 60 pounds, versus a portable concentrator that can weigh up to 15 pounds.

Stationary oxygen concentrators typically lack lots of portability and require an outlet to function.  It is important to remember that a stationary oxygen concentrator is not built to be portable but focuses on being reliable and providing a higher amount of air flow. A portable oxygen concentrator uses a variety of different power sources such as a battery pack and a car adapter, in addition to a wall outlet. They are small and light enough to carry in a backpack or attach to a walker, and most compact models are FAA-approved for traveling on commercial airlines.

The freedom of mobility offered by a portable oxygen concentrator is also hindered by battery requirements. For example, an Inogen One G4 is incredibly lightweight and small but can only get up to 2 hours and 40 minutes of power on the standard battery. The upgraded battery is necessary to get more distance.

Since a compact model may be out in different environments, they are built to be more durable than stationary models.  Accidents happen all the time, and every patient wants to feel secure with the choice that they’ve made.

The Inogen One G2 is by far the most convenient portable oxygen concentrator because it it can accommodate 2 different battery sizes, which means you can upgrade to more power and a longer travel time.

Regardless of what you decide to buy, having a portable and a stationary oxygen concentrator together only benefits you as a patient. Having the accessibility to both a station and portable oxygen concentrator will allow you to feel secure with your stationary model, while still enjoying the flexibility and freedom of a portable model. It is important to consider all the different options and consult with your doctor before taking the next step to purchase an oxygen concentrator.

For more information on how to breathe easier, contact Oxygen Always, or check out our articles page here.