With so many different CPAP mask types out there, finding the one that's right for you can be overwhelming–especially if this is your first time buying a CPAP mask.
Choosing a mask that fits your needs, breathing style, and preferred sleeping position is essential for maintaining CPAP therapy compliance.
Our helpful guide to the types of CPAP masks breaks down everything you need to know about these products. Here's what we'll cover:
- Features, benefits, and drawbacks of popular types of CPAP masks
- Top-rated masks in each popular category
- Important mask parts that you should know
- Alternative mask types
- How to choose the right mask type for you
Table of contents
Finding the right mask matters
A good CPAP mask makes it a whole lot easier to stick with CPAP therapy. A 2016 study found that people who used a mask that fit better experienced:
Fewer mask leaks
Less discomfort
-
Better toleration for high-pressure CPAP therapy
Comparing popular types of CPAP masks
Nasal pillow masks
Nasal cradle masks
Traditional over-the-nose nasal masks
Under-the-nose full face masks
Traditional over-the-nose full face masks
Nasal pillows, nasal masks, and full face masks fall into one of two breathing styles, depending on whether they cover the mouth or nose. Check out the graphic below for a visual guide.
- Full face masks for mouth and/or nose breathing
- Nasal masks and nasal pillow masks for nose-only breathing
Masks with mouth and nose coverage
- Traditional full face masks: Cover the entire nose and mouth
- Under-the-nose full face masks: Sit below the nose, but covers the nostrils and mouth.
Masks with nose-only coverage
- Traditional nasal masks: Cover the entire nose.
- Nasal cradle masks: Sit below the nose and cover the nostrils only.
- Nasal pillow masks: Rest under the nose with pillow cushions inserted into the nostrils.
| Mask Type | Seal coverage | Breathing style | Pressure range | Sleeping style |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nasal pillow masks | Seals just inside the nostrils | Nose |
4-15 cm H2O |
Any |
| Nasal cradle masks | Seals around the nostrils | Nose | 4-15 cm H2O | Any |
| Traditional nasal masks | Seals over the entire nose | Nose | 4-20 cm H2O | Back and some side sleepers |
| Under-the-nose full face masks | Seals around nostrils and mouth | Mouth and/or nose | 4-20 cm H2O | Back, side, and some belly sleepers |
| Traditional full face masks | Seals around entire nose and mouth | Mouth and/or nose | 4-20 cm H2O | Back and some side sleepers |
Try your next CPAP mask with our 30-day mask fit guarantee!
Reach out to our CPAP Guides within 30 days of purchase if your mask isn't working for you. We'll not only refund your mask, but also help you find a new mask if you don't already have your eye on one.
Nasal pillow CPAP masks
Nasal pillow CPAP masks are compact and lightweight, offering minimal touchpoints, a claustrophobia-friendly design, and an open line of sight. They seal directly at the nostrils, making them ideal for nose breathers and those new to CPAP therapy.
Many people find these masks easier to adjust to compared to other styles, which can improve CPAP compliance rates. However, they can sometimes cause nasal irritation and you may need a chinstrap to keep your mouth closed to prevent air leaks.
Features to look for...
- Top-of-head hose connection
- Front hose connection with short tube
- Mutli-size fit packs to find your cushion size
- Crown straps for stability
Is a nasal pillow mask right for you?
Nasal pillow masks work well for...
✓ Pressure under 15 cm H2O
✓ Nose breathers
✓ CPAP claustrophobia
✓ Any sleeping style
✓ Active sleepers
✓ Beards/facial hair
✓ Watching TV/reading before bed
✓ Wearing glasses
✓ Nighttime bathroom trips
✓ Sensitive skin
✓ New to CPAP therapy
Nasal pillow masks are not ideal for...
✗ Mouth breathing
✗ Pressure over 15 cm H2O
✗ Deviated septum
✗ Chronic allergies or congestion
✗ Sensitive sinuses
Pros of nasal pillow masks
✓ Lightweight
✓ Minimal facial contact
✓ Minimal pressure points
✓ Clear field of vision
✓ Easy to travel with
✓ Minimal air leaks
✓ Fewer mask parts
Cons of nasal pillow masks
✗ Not ideal for high-pressures
✗ Less effective with congestion
✗ Can irritate inside of nose
✗ May leak through open mouth
View our top nasal pillow CPAP masks
Nasal cradle CPAP masks
Nasal cradle masks sit comfortably under the nose, sealing around the nostrils while keeping facial contact minimal and your line of sight open. They're a great option for nose breathers who want a lightweight, low-profile design without feeling claustrophobic.
Unlike nasal pillows, these masks don’t sit inside the nostrils. This can reduce nasal irritation but it can also lead to a less secure seal. Mouth breathers may experience air leaks, though using a chinstrap can easily fix this issue.
Features to look for...
- Top-of-head hose connection
- Front hose connection with short tube
- Mutli-size fit packs to find your cushion size
- Crown straps for stability
Is a nasal cradle mask right for you?
Nasal cradle masks work well for...
✓ Pressure under 15 cm H2O
✓ Nose breathers
✓ CPAP claustrophobia
✓ Any sleeping style
✓ Active sleepers
✓ Sensitive sinuses
✓ Watching TV/reading before bed
✓ Wearing glasses
✓ Nighttime bathroom trips
✓ Sensitive skin
✓ New to CPAP therapy
Nasal cradle masks are not ideal for...
✗ Mouth breathing
✗ Pressure over 15 cm H2O
✗ Deviated septum
✗ Chronic allergies or congestion
✗ Thick mustaches
Pros of nasal cradle masks
✓ Lightweight
✓ Minimal facial contact
✓ Minimal pressure points
✓ Clear field of vision
✓ Easy to travel with
✓ Fewer mask parts
✓ More gentle on the nose
Cons of nasal cradle masks
✗ Not ideal for high-pressures
✗ Less effective with congestion
✗ Not always stable/secure
✗ May leak through open mouth
✗ Higher risk of air leaks
✗ Can be difficult to align nostrils
View our top nasal cradle CPAP masks
Traditional nasal CPAP masks
Traditional over-the-nose nasal CPAP masks cover the entire nose and are often secured with adjustable four-point headgear. They offer a stable and secure fit, making them a popular choice for those who can comfortably breathe through their nose.
These masks tend to handle higher pressure settings better than nasal pillows or cradles and provide a reliable seal. However, they do put pressure on the bridge of the nose, which may cause redness and irritation. If a nasal mask sits high enough on your nasal bridge, it may obstruct your line of sight.
Features to look for...
- Quick-release elbow
- Full swivel connection
- Short tube
- Magnetic clips
- Crown straps
- Multi-size fit packs to find your cushion size
- Memory foam, cloth, or gel cushions for sensitive skin
Is a traditional nasal mask right for you?
Traditional nasal masks work well for...
✓ Pressure up to 20 cm H2O
✓ Nose breathers
✓ Back sleeping
✓ Some side sleepers
✓ Sensitive sinuses
✓ Nighttime bathroom trips
✓ Some facial hair
Traditional nasal masks are not ideal for...
✗ Mouth breathing
✗ Stomach sleeping
✗ Active sleepers
✗ Deviated septum
✗ Chronic allergies or congestion
✗ CPAP claustrophobia
✗ Thick mustaches
✗ Watching TV/reading before bed
✗ Wearing glasses
✗ New to CPAP therapy
Pros of traditional nasal masks
✓ Stable secure fit
✓ Performance at high pressure
✓ Adjustable headgear
Cons of traditional nasal masks
✗ Can block line of sight
✗ Less effective with congestion
✗ Puts pressure on nose bridge
✗ May cause red marks on nose
✗ May leak through open mouth
✗ More surface area for air leaks
View our top traditional nasal CPAP masks
Under-the-nose full face CPAP mask
Under-the-nose full face masks offer full coverage for both mouth and nose but seal around the nostrils rather than over the bridge of the nose. This modern design reduces bulk and keeps your field of vision clearer, making it a good choice for those who find traditional full face masks claustrophobic.
These masks are especially helpful for active and belly sleepers who breathe through their mouth. Under-the-nose full face masks tend to be more adjustable compared to nasal pillows and nasal cradle masks, however, they may cause minor leaks if not fitted properly.
Features to look for...
- Top-of-head hose connection
- Quick-release elbow
- Full swivel connection
- Short tube
- Magnetic clips
- Crown straps
- Multi-size fit packs to find your cushion size
Is an under-the-nose full face CPAP mask right for you?
Under-the-nose full face masks work well for...
✓ Pressure up to 20 cm H2O
✓ Mouth and nose breathers
✓ CPAP claustrophobia
✓ Any sleeping style
✓ Active sleepers
✓ Sensitive sinuses
✓ Sinus congestion
✓ Deviated septum
✓ Sleeping with mouth open
✓ Dry mouth or sore throat
✓ Watching TV/reading before bed
✓ Wearing glasses
✓ Sensitive skin
✓ New to CPAP therapy
Under-the-nose full face masks are not ideal for...
✗ Nose-only breathing
✗ Thick mustaches
Pros of under-the-nose full face masks
✓ Minimal facial contact
✓ Minimal pressure points
✓ Clear field of vision
✓ More gentle on the nose
✓ Adjustable headgear
Cons of under-the-nose full face masks
✗ More surface area for air leaks
✗ Can be difficult to align nostrils
View our top under-the-nose full face CPAP masks
Traditional full face CPAP masks
Traditional over-the-nose full face CPAP masks provide complete coverage of both the nose and mouth, making them a solid choice for mouth breathers or those who struggle to keep their mouth closed during sleep.
These masks are known for creating a stable seal and handling higher pressure settings well, thanks to their secure 4-point headgear design.
However, their bulky shape may block your field of vision, leaving you feeling claustrophobic, particularly if you are a new user. Additionally, they create pressure points on the bridge of the nose, which may not be ideal for sensitive skin.
Features to look for...
- Quick-release elbow
- Full swivel connection
- Short tube
- Magnetic clips
- Crown straps
- Multi-size fit packs to find your cushion size
- Memory foam, cloth, or gel cushions for sensitive skin
Is an traditional full face right for you?
Traditional full face masks work well for...
✓ Pressure up to 20 cm H2O
✓ Nose breathers
✓ Back sleeping
✓ Some side sleepers
✓ Some facial hair
✓ Sensitive sinuses
✓ Sinus congestion
✓ Deviated septum
✓ Sleeping with mouth open
✓ Dry mouth or sore throat
Traditional full face masks are not ideal for...
✗ Stomach sleeping
✗ Active sleepers
✗ CPAP claustrophobia
✗ Watching TV/reading before bed
✗ Wearing glasses
✗ New to CPAP therapy
Pros of traditional full face masks
✓ Stable secure fit
✓ Performance at high pressure
✓ Adjustable headgear
✓ More gentle on the sinuses
Cons of traditional full face masks
✗ Can block line of sight
✗ Puts pressure on nose bridge
✗ May cause red marks on nose
✗ More surface area for air leaks
✗ Bulky design
View our top traditional full face CPAP masks
Anatomy of a CPAP mask
Mask frame: The part that holds your cushion and attaches to your headgear.
Mask headgear: Secures the mask to your head and adjusts for fit.
Mask cushions/nasal pillows: The part that creates a seal against your face.
Mask elbow: connects the mask hose or short tube to the frame.
Short tube: A 6-10 inches long tube that extends from the frame or mask elbow and connects to the CPAP hose.
Less common CPAP mask types
While the majority of sleep apnea patients prefer nasal pillows, nasal masks, or full face masks, it may be worth considering other lesser-known CPAP mask types if you don’t like the more popular styles.
Nasal Prong Mask
Nasal prong CPAP masks deliver air deep inside the nostrils, creating a seal by inflating gently against the nostril walls. This is different from nasal pillows, which seal at the nostril opening.
These masks are secured with headgear worn on top of the head and work best when paired with heated humidification to prevent dryness because there is a higher risk of sinus irritation.
Like other nasal masks, there is a high chance of air leaks if you sleep with your mouth open.
Hybrid Mask
Hybrid full face masks offer the benefits of both nasal pillows and full face masks, but with a lighter, less bulky design. They provide airflow to both the mouth and nasal passages while maintaining an open field of vision, thanks to the absence of forehead supports.
This style is popular among people who want a secure seal without needing a chinstrap, though some may experience initial nasal irritation as they adjust to the nasal pillow component.
Oral Mask
Oral CPAP masks feature an oval-shaped cushion that seals around the mouth, delivering air through two inlets while using flaps to keep the mask securely in place.
They’re especially helpful for people with frequent nasal congestion, as they bypass the nose entirely. However, those without congestion may find the airflow escapes through the nose, leading to dryness, and the design can feel more intrusive compared to other mask types.
Total Face CPAP Mask
Total face CPAP masks create a seal around the entire face—including the nose, mouth, and eyes—secured with four-point headgear.
They’re ideal for people who experience air leaks through the corners of their eyes or who have facial conditions that make other mask types uncomfortable or ineffective.
Like traditional full face masks, they provide even pressure distribution, but their full-coverage design prevents air from escaping through unexpected areas, ensuring effective therapy.
How to choose the right type of CPAP mask
When you're looking for the best type of CPAP mask for you, we suggest finding the masks that work for your breathing style and sleeping position, then trying one that makes the least amount of contact with your face.
As a rule of thumb, the more surface area your mask requires to make a good seal, the more potential you have for a leaky mask, which can affect your therapy results.
Breathing style
If you're a nose-breather you can probably use most CPAP masks. If you breathe through your mouth, you'll need a full face mask or something else with mouth coverage.
If you breathe through your nose but sleep with your mouth open you may also benefit from a full face mask, or you could try a chinstrap.
Read about the best CPAP masks for mouth breathing.
Questions to ask:
- Do you breathe through your mouth or nose?
- Can you breathe exclusively through your nose while sleeping?
- Do you sleep with your mouth open?
| Breathing Style | Mask Type |
|---|---|
| Mouth | Full face, oral, total face |
| Nose | Nasal-only mask, nasal pillow |
| Mouth & nose | Full face, total face |
| Nose breathing with open mouth | Full face, nasal-only with chin strap |
Sleeping position
Back sleepers can use just about any CPAP mask, but finding a CPAP mask for side sleeping or stomach sleeping can take a little bit more research.
Learn how to find a mask for your sleeping position.
Questions to ask:
- Are you a back sleeper, side sleeper, or belly sleeper?
- Do you toss and turn a lot?
- Does your mask tend to pull or drag when you move around?
| Sleeping Position | Mask Type | Helpful Features |
|---|---|---|
| Back | Any | Comfortable back strap, cooling headgear |
| Side | Under-nose full face mask, nasal cradle, nasal pillows, | Full swivel elbow, top hose connection, shallow side profile |
| Stomach | Under-nose full face mask, nasal cradle, nasal pillows, | Top hose connection, shallow side profile |
| Active | Any | Top hose connection, full swivel elbow, short tubes |
Skin sensitivities
While modern masks are usually latex-free, the majority of these masks contain silicone. If you have sensitive skin or a silicone allergy, it may be better to get a CPAP mask with memory foam or cloth.
Questions to ask:
- Do you have an allergy to silicone?
- Do you struggle with eczema or other skin condition?
- Would a memory foam cushion be better for you?
- Should you try a cloth CPAP mask?
- Do you tend to develop irritation across pressure points?
| Sensitivity | Mask Type | Helpful Features |
|---|---|---|
| Latex allergy | Any modern mask | Silicone, gel, cloth, or memory foam cushions |
| Silicone allergy | Any | Gel, cloth, or memory foam cushions |
| Sensitive skin | Under-nose full face mask, nasal cradle, nasal pillows, | Minimal touch points, memory foam cushion, cloth-covered cushions |
Open line of sight
Whether you're concerned about feeling claustrophobic from your CPAP mask or you just want to keep an open line of sight, you'll want a mask with a low-profile design that doesn't require forehead pads, ideally one that sits under the nose.
See our masks for CPAP claustrophobia.
Questions to ask:
- Do you have concerns about CPAP claustrophobia from your mask?
- Will you wear your mask while watching TV or reading before bed?
- Do you wear glasses?
- Do you want to avoid a mask that covers the bridge of your nose?
- Are you okay with a mask that has forehead pads or straps?
| Concern | Ideal Mask Type | Helpful Features |
|---|---|---|
| Claustrophobia | Under-nose full face mask, nasal cradle, nasal pillows | Low-profile design, minimal touch points, easy on and off |
| Watching TV | Any | No forehead support |
| Reading | Under-nose full face mask, nasal cradle, nasal pillows | Low-profile design, minimal touch points |
| Glasses | Under-nose full face mask, nasal cradle, nasal pillows | Low-profile design, no forehead support, slim headgear |
Facial hair
Having facial hair can make it harder to get a secure mask seal, but there are some good options out there if you know where to look.
If you have a lot of facial hair it's better to choose a nasal-only mask when possible. If you need a full face mask it may be helpful to try a memory foam or gel mask.
Check out our review for top CPAP masks for facial hair.
Questions to ask:
- Do you have a mustache, stubble, or full beard?
- How often do you prefer to shave?
| Style | Ideal Mask Type | Helpful Features |
|---|---|---|
| None | Any | Any |
| Stubble | Any | Strong, flexible seal |
| Mustache | Over-the-nose full face, nasal pillows | Strong, flexible seal, adjustable headgear |
| Beard | Over-the-nose full face, under-the-nose full face, nasal pillows | Strong, flexible seal, adjustable headgear |
Arthritis or poor dexterity
Wearing a CPAP mask can be tough if you have dexterity issues. This can affect your mask fit whether you are living with Parkinson's, struggle with arthritis in your hands, or have an old shoulder injury.
Questions to ask:
- Can you grasp and move smaller mask parts?
- Can you assemble and disassemble your CPAP mask?
- Can you raise your arms above your ears to fit your headgear?
- Do you have enough hand strength to pull a velcro fit tab?
| Problem Area | Ideal Mask Type | Helpful Features |
|---|---|---|
| None | Any | Any |
| Fingers & hands | Nasal pillows, over-the-nose nasal or full face | Fewer parts, minimal tiny pieces, save your fit design, magnetic clips, velcro headgear, quick-release elbow, elastic head strap |
| Shoulders & elbows | Any | Save your fit design, magnetic clips, velcro headgear, quick-release elbow, front hose connection, no top-of-head adjustments, elastic head strap |
Magnet safety
If you have a medical implant, talk to your doctor before buying a CPAP mask with magnets. While some people are able to use a magnetic mask even with an implant, the rule is to maintain at least 6 inches between the magnet and the device. If this is not possible, you may be able to replace existing magnetic clasps with regular ones.
Questions to ask:
- Do you have a medical implant?
- Are you required to keep it away from magnets?
- Where is the device located on your body?
- What has your doctor advised?
| Implant Status | Ideal Mask Type | Helpful Features |
|---|---|---|
| No implant | Any | Any |
| Has an implant | Magnet-free | Elastic head strap, velcro adjustments, quick-release elbow, non-magnetic clips, replaceable magnetic clips |
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a prescription to buy a CPAP mask?
Yes, you need a prescription to purchase a complete CPAP mask in the United States. CPAP mask kits , which do not include headgear, do not require a prescription.
Are all CPAP masks compatible with all CPAP machines?
Unless you own a ResMed AirMini, all CPAP masks are natively compatible with your CPAP machine. The AirMini uses a specialized tube connection that is only compatible with a handful of CPAP masks, though the Zephair Hose Adapter allows you to use any standard tube and mask combo with the AirMini.
What are the different types of Resmed CPAP masks?
The different ResMed mask types are nasal pillow, nasal cradle, traditional over-the-nose nasal, under-the-nose full face, traditional over-the-nose full face, hybrid, and pediatric. ResMed is a modern mask manufacturer with a range of masks in both traditional styles as well as modern styles with more open sightlines, swiveling hose connections, and magnetic headgear clips. ResMed is most known for its AirFit CPAP masks.
What are the different types of Philips Respironics CPAP masks?
The different Respironics mask types are nasal pillow, nasal cradle, traditional over-the-nose nasal, under-the-nose full face, traditional over-the-nose full face, total face, and pediatric. Like ResMed, Philips Respironics offers many mask styles with modern design features and is most known for its DreamWear CPAP masks.
How do I clean my CPAP mask?
When cleaning your CPAP mask, you should always disassemble it to the smallest pieces, hand wash those pieces with warm soapy water, and then leave them to air dry out of direct sunlight. You can also use vinegar or CPAP mask wipes, and there are even a handful of CPAP cleaning machines that can help ease the load when it comes to keeping your equipment clean.
Final thoughts
While there are many factors to consider when navigating the different types of CPAP masks, we hope that this guide has helped you better understand the mask types and features you should look for when finding the right CPAP mask type for you!
Remember to always choose a mask based on your breathing style and sleeping position preference first, then consider your other needs like skin sensitivity, claustrophobic tendencies, and medical implants you may need to keep in mind.
If you need more personalized help in choosing the right CPAP mask, don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert customer service team, who is eager to help you reclaim restful sleep and get back to waking up energized and enjoying life!
Need help? Contact us!
- Call: 1-800-356-5221
- Email: support@cpap.com
- Chat: Connectwith a CPAP Guide through our website or app
