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Wondering how loud a CPAP machine will be, or looking for one that won't disrupt your sleep? Good news – modern CPAP machines are designed to be remarkably quiet, with noise levels similar to gentle rainfall or a soft whisper.
CPAP manufacturers measure noise in decibels (dB), but these numbers can be difficult to relate to everyday sounds. To help you understand what these measurements really mean, we've created a comparison table below.
In this guide, we'll cover:
- The quietest CPAP machines on the market (26-30 dB)
- How CPAP noise compares to familiar everyday sounds
- Simple tips to further reduce CPAP noise in your bedroom
If you're short on time: The ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet leads the pack at just 26 decibels, combining whisper-quiet operation with premium features like AutoRamp and Expiratory Pressure Relief for maximum comfort.
Let's start by comparing CPAP noise levels to sounds you're likely more familiar with:
How Loud is a CPAP Machine?
Every CPAP machine comes with a decibel (dB) rating that’s specified by the manufacturer. Most CPAP machines are rated at about 30dB, which is comparable to the sound of a whispered conversation or quiet rainfall.
While the difference between a machine that runs at 26 decibels and one that runs at 32 decibels may not seem like a big deal, consider that with every 10-decibel increase in volume, the sound is actually doubling in intensity.
For reference, a 30 dB sound is twice as loud as a 20 dB sound and half as loud as a 40 dB sound.
To better illustrate this, we put together a table showing different noises most people will be familiar with and their corresponding decibel levels below:
| Decibels | Point of Reference | Typical Response |
|---|---|---|
| 0-10 | The Quietest Sounds Someone With Typical Hearing Can Hear | ✔️ Safe Sound Level |
| 10-20 | Normal Breathing | ✔️ Safe Sound Level |
| 20-30 | Rustling Leaves, The Quietest CPAP Machine | ✔️ Safe Sound Level |
| 30-40 | Whispered Conversation, Average CPAP Machine Volume | ✔️ Safe Sound Level |
| 40-50 | Moderate Rainfall | ✔️ Safe Sound Level |
| 50-60 | Normal Conversation | ⚠️ Sounds Start to Become Annoying |
| 60-70 | City Traffic | ⚠️ Sounds Start to Become Annoying |
| 70-80 | Vacuum Cleaner, Noisy Restaurant | ⚠️ Sounds Start to Become Annoying |
| 80-90 | Heavy Traffic, Lawn Mowers | ⚠️ Hearing Damage Threshold (2 hours) |
| 90-100 | Shouting, Loud Motorcycles | ⚠️ Hearing Damage Threshold (50 minutes) |
| 100-110 | Chainsaw, Leaf Blower | ⚠️ Hearing Damage Threshold At (15 minutes) |
| 110-120 | Rock Concert | ⚠️ Hearing Damage Threshold At (5 minutes) |
| 120-130 | Stock Car Racing | ⚠️ Ear Injury |
| 130-140 | Gun Shots | ⚠️ Ear Injury |
Of course, everyone experiences sound a bit differently, and a noise level that bothers one person may go totally unnoticed by another. The same can be said about the different pitches at which CPAP machines operate.
When switching to a new machine, it often sounds a lot louder at first even when it isn’t on paper. Every CPAP machine has its own sonic quality, so even though machines may have the same decibel rating, they still will sound a bit different.
The HDM Z2 Auto and Luna G3 CPAP machines are great examples of this.
On one hand, the Z2 Auto is actually the quieter machine at 26 decibels, but because it is a travel machine, some people may perceive the higher-pitched motor to be louder than the 30-decibel Luna G3. The Luna G3, while on paper is louder than the HDM Z2, may be perceived as quieter by some people because it is a lower-pitched hum with ‘more machine’ between you and the motor.
Sometimes it just takes a bit of time to get accustomed to the new sound, and background noise doesn’t have to be bad—white noise machines are quite popular, after all. You might even find that your new CPAP machine makes for the best white noise machine to help you sleep after you adjust to it! Only you know how sensitive you are to noises, so keep that in mind when planning for your new machine.
Is the CPAP Machine Really the Main Source of Noise?
While it may seem like it makes more sense to focus on machine noise when shopping for your first CPAP setup, you might be surprised to learn that your CPAP mask often creates more noticeable sounds during actual use. Even with the quietest machine on the market, mask noise can still affect your sleep experience.
Understanding Mask Noise Sources
Mask noise primarily comes from two key factors:
1. Hollow Space Inside Your Mask: The interior chamber of your mask acts like a resonance chamber, similar to a musical instrument. As air flows in and out, this space can amplify sounds, particularly at higher pressure settings.
Full face masks with larger interior volumes tend to produce more resonant noise than nasal pillows or nasal masks with smaller chambers.
This isn't always a hard and fast rule, though. Even spacious full face masks like the AirFit F20 overcome this larger resonant chamber by utilizing exceptionally quiet air vents on the mask elbow.
2. Exhalation Vents: Every CPAP mask includes built-in vents that disperse exhaled air and flush out CO2. These vents create a gentle hissing sound as pressurized air escapes.
At higher pressure settings, this sound becomes more pronounced. Manufacturers continue to improve vent designs with diffusers and specialized patterns to minimize this noise, but it remains an inherent part of CPAP therapy.
Understanding these factors explains why two people using identical CPAP machines might have very different noise experiences based on their mask type, pressure settings, and sleeping environment.
When shopping for the quietest sleep therapy experience, consider both your machine and mask choices as an integrated system.
What are the Quietest CPAP Machines Available Today?
Whether you’re looking for a travel machine, one for regular home use, a fixed-pressure machine, or an auto-adjusting one, here are the quietest CPAP machines for sale right now that deliver therapy at 30 decibels or less:
AirSense 10 AutoSet
The AirSense 10 Autoset is the quietest CPAP machine on the market at just 26.6 decibels. This machine is loaded with comfort features like SmartStart/Stop, AutoRamp, and Climate Control to help you smoothly ease into therapy.
There is no shortage of 5-star reviews for this machine that specifically mention how quiet it is, which makes us confident in picking it as the quietest CPAP machine.
The Perfect CPAP — John K. — 07/07/2024
After 35 years of using a CPAP, I finally found the perfect CPAP in the Airsense 10. It is so quiet I can hardly tell if it is running. The breathing is easier than any other machine I have tried - and that is a lot.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The AirSense 10 AutoSet provides detailed therapy data tracking by default. While there are options with more advanced features, such as the AirSense 11, the AirSense 10 AutoSet remains a popular choice due to its proven reliability and consistent performance.
While the AirSense 10 AutoSet holds a slight edge in noise level at 26.6dB compared to the AirSense 11's 27dB, the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
For a detailed comparison to help guide your decision, check out our AirSense 10 vs 11 article.
Ready to experience whisper-quiet therapy that won't disturb your sleep?
The ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet delivers the quietest operation available at just 26.6 dB - as peaceful as a gentle rainfall.
Perfect for light sleepers, this industry-leading machine provides exceptional comfort with minimal noise disruption.
Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine
Thanks to its inclusion of the Q-lite CPAP tube muffler, the Z2 Auto CPAP machine is one of the quietest travel CPAPs on the market today, with a sound rating of just 26 dBA.
Reviews vary on the noise level, with some reporting they found it a bit loud, and others reporting that their partner found the noise a bit loud. Due to the smaller size of the machine, it may operate at a different pitch than you’re used to, making it seem louder.
Enjoy the freedom!! — Lois V. — 03/07/2025
I have found the Z2 Auto Travel CPAP machine so incredibly convenient. Gone are the days I have to pack a heavy machine to take a trip, and/or spend one night away from home. This little machine is so easy to use, I confess I have been using it every night at home. I am so convinced this is the way to go and I highly recommend this machine!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Its low price and compact design for traveling still make it a great choice, and features like Auto Altitude Adjustments, Advanced Sleep Data Reporting, and the built-in screen and physical buttons make it an attractive option for those seeking a whisper-quiet travel machine.
The Z2 Auto even offers an option for waterless humidification using a Heat Moisture Exchanger for those that prefer it!
Looking for ultra-quiet therapy you can take anywhere?
The Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine with Q-Lite muffler delivers peaceful 26 dB operation in a compact, travel-friendly design.
Perfect for light sleepers and travelers who refuse to compromise on quiet therapy.
AirSense 11 AutoSet CPAP Machine
While not the quietest CPAP machine around, the AirSense 11 IS still a quiet machine, clocking in at 27 decibels. It’s ever-so-slightly louder than the AirSense 10 but brings much more to the table in terms of features.
With the MyAir companion app, you’ll have access to ResMed’s new Care Check-In and Personal Therapy Assistant features which are exclusive to AirSense 11 owners.
After filling out some basic information about your experience level with CPAP, the Care Check-In feature will periodically ask you questions about your therapy and offer advice and coaching to help you meet therapy goals. The Personal Therapy Assistant feature offers troubleshooting tips in video format to help you get your therapy back on track, too!
Updated from the AirSense 10 — Ignacio T. — 02/19/2025
Updated from the Airsense 10 after 9 years of daily use. The experience is as good, if not better, so far. I love the new design and features.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
It also has the same great features you can expect from a ResMed machine, like AutoRamp, SmartStart/Stop, Climate Control, and automatic Over-the-Air software updates to ensure your device has the latest bug fixes and features as soon as ResMed releases them.
Want premium features with impressively quiet operation?
The ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet delivers advanced therapy coaching and smart monitoring while maintaining a peaceful 27 dB noise level.
Discover the perfect balance of quiet comfort and innovative technology.
AirMini AutoSet Travel CPAP Machine
It isn’t the quietest CPAP machine out there and it isn’t even the quietest travel CPAP either, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worthy of a mention. Clocking in at 29 decibels, the AirMini is a capable travel CPAP that delivers therapy at about the same volume as a whispered conversation.
The AirMini is a distilled travel version of the AirSense 10 and is backed by the same Auto-adjusting algorithm. It also carries over SmartStart, Ramp, and Expiratory Pressure Relief for a more comfortable therapy experience.
The AirMini is a unique machine in that it is designed to be paired with a handful of ResMed CPAP masks. Resmed notes specific decibel ratings for these mask pairings which affect the AirMini's volume like so:
- AirFit F20 and F30: 19 dBA
- AirFit N20, N30, and P10: 15 dBA
AWESOME — Steven — 12/13/2024
EXCELLENT little machine! Probably 60% smaller than my AirSense 10 with humidifier, works great. The loudest part was the HumidX compartment, but it's no louder than the sound of my breathing with my regular machine. I use a white noise machine regularly, and it's plenty to cover the sound of the machine and the HumidX. Auto start and stop plus the HumidX humidifier is almost enough to get me to use it daily - but then what do I do with my big machine?
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
While it doesn’t support the use of heated humidification, the AirMini does utilize HumidX for waterless humidification.
Working much in the same way as our own nasal passages, HumidX captures moisture from your exhalation to then slightly humidify incoming air during inhalation.
Lastly, there’s even an optional AirMini Bed Mount that allows you to mount your AirMini on the side of your bed, reducing the sound you’re exposed to at night.
Need ultra-portable therapy that's still comfortably quiet?
The ResMed AirMini AutoSet delivers therapy at just 29 dB—about the volume of a whispered conversation—in the world's smallest CPAP device.
Perfect for travelers who want reliable, discreet therapy anywhere.
Luna G3 APAP Machine
If you’re looking for a modern, whisper-quiet CPAP machine for an affordable price, look no further than 3B’s Luna G3 APAP. It is the loudest machine on our list on paper, but at 30 decibels, the Luna G3 is still more than capable of providing a peaceful night's sleep with an affordable price tag.
One thing we really love about the Luna G3 is its inclusion of a heated hose, standard with your purchase. It features an integrated heated humidifier and AutoHumidity control thanks to the heated tubing, which will reduce rainout and ensure you receive consistent humidification through the night.
Luna is #1! — Paul R. — 03/31/2024
Best APAP/CPAP unit out there, hands down!! I’ve used the two other brands and this unit is by far the quietest, most feature-packed, and innovative. Glad I did not buy the overadvertised and oversold competitor model for $400 more!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Two other design features that set the Luna G3 apart include the humidifier chamber that can be filled without removing it from the device and an optional PM 2.5 filter. Most CPAP machines will require you to remove the humidifier chamber to fill it, but with the Luna G3 you simply need to open the lid and fill with distilled water.
On the other hand, the optional PM 2.5 filter is more efficient at trapping the same large particles that the standard filter will catch and it can also stop significantly smaller particles that would pass right through the standard filter.
If you experience frequent allergy symptoms, the Luna G3 with a PM 2.5 filter may be the right choice for you.
Seeking affordable therapy that doesn't sacrifice quiet operation?
The Luna G3 APAP Machine delivers peaceful 30 dB performance with premium features like integrated heated tubing and an easy access humidifier.
Enjoy whisper-quiet therapy with convenient features at a budget-friendly price.
Transcend Micro Auto CPAP Machine
Looking for a whisper-quiet travel option? The Transcend Micro Auto CPAP machine delivers impressively quiet operation at just 27 dBA while claiming the title of the smallest and lightest CPAP machine currently available on the market.
The Micro comes standard with a WhisperSoft Muffler that significantly reduces therapy noise, making it an excellent choice for light sleepers or those who share a bedroom.
One standout feature is the Micro's universal compatibility – its AirFlex tubing works with any CPAP mask, giving you complete freedom to choose the mask that fits your unique needs without compatibility concerns.
For those concerned about humidification, the Micro offers optional AirMist HME waterless humidification (sold separately) that adds moisture without the bulk and maintenance of a water chamber.
Smaller Suitcase Required — Amy L. — 11/21/2023
This cute little machine is quiet, powerful, lightweight and small. Even without the muffler, the noise (or lack of noise) was great! I wish I would purchased it sooner. It's time to go shopping for a smaller suitcase!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tech-savvy users will appreciate the Micro's modern companion app that tracks your therapy progress, giving you insights into your sleep quality and treatment effectiveness. For travelers, the dedicated PowerAway Battery (available separately) makes this quiet performer even more versatile for use on camping trips or in locations without reliable power.
The Transcend Micro combines ultra-portability with peaceful operation, making it an exceptional choice for anyone who prioritizes both size and sound when selecting a CPAP machine.
Want the ultimate combination of quietness and portability?
The Transcend Micro Auto CPAP delivers peaceful 27 dB therapy in the market's smallest and lightest package with universal mask compatibility.
Perfect for travelers and light sleepers seeking ultra-compact, whisper-quiet therapy.
6 Tips for Creating a Quiet CPAP Environment
Ideally, you’ll become more accustomed to the sound produced by your CPAP machine after using it. When we sleep, our brains are alerted by louder noises that exceed whatever our brain perceives as the ‘noise threshold’, but not necessarily by consistent loud noise.
Once you’ve found a good routine, your brain should adapt to and expect the noise of your CPAP machine, allowing you to sleep more soundly. Thanks to Pavlovian conditioning, you may even begin to get tired just from the sound of your CPAP machine turning on!
However, if you’re still struggling to adapt to the noise or your machine seems louder than it should be, try one or a few of the following tips:
1. Change the Filter Regularly to Keep Your Machine Quieter
It’s important to change your filter regularly to reduce the noise level and improve the performance of your CPAP machine. If your machine seems to get louder, it may need a filter change.
Not only will filter changes reduce the noise level so you can sleep more soundly at night, but a fresh filter also keeps the dust and dirt out of your machine motor and prolongs the life of your machine, too.
2. Keep Your CPAP Machine Away from Your Ears
In many cases, having your CPAP machine below ear level can reduce the noise. Some nightstands have roll-out shelves and compartments that are great for hiding your machine in, which can help reduce noise. Alternatively, you might be able to buy or make a simple bedside tray.
A bedside tray will slide between your mattress and box spring, creating a stable platform for your CPAP machine that isn’t at ear level. You might consider just putting the machine under your bed, but this can wear your machine and filters out more quickly since beds tend to have collections of dust and pet hair beneath them, so we don’t recommend it.
Explore helpful bedside accessories such as bed mounts, hose lifts, and bedside holders to keep your CPAP setup organized, accessible, and quiet.
3. Consider Using Ear Plugs
While it isn’t the greatest solution, some breathable foam earplugs may be a good fix for you if you can’t seem to get used to the noise from your CPAP machine. Silicone earplugs that completely seal the ears may not be ideal, as they tend to exacerbate feelings of tension and pressure in the ears and sinuses.
4. Pair Your CPAP Machine with a Quiet Mask
You may be surprised to learn that a lot of the noise you hear at night as air traveling through the hose and into your mask. While you may already have a CPAP machine that is pretty quiet, a quiet CPAP mask is equally important for those who are sensitive to sounds.
The quietest CPAP masks have diffusion vents and often feature a more minimalistic design, so if you feel like you hear a lot of air noise coming from your mask or tubing, a new style may be worth considering.
5. Reduce Vibration and Sound by Placing Your Machine on a Soft Surface
Sometimes your breathing pattern or pressure settings may result in a louder machine. Lowering the intensity of the machine’s vibration by placing it on a towel or foam pad can reduce the noise.
A silicone protector mat can also be helpful, and has a dual purpose of catching any spills from your humidifier chamber.
6. Consider Using a CPAP Muffler to Help Reduce Hose Noise
Just like a muffler for your car, the Q-Lite Inline CPAP Muffler Kit helps dampen the sound of the air as it moves through the hose to your mask. This helps reduce the level of noise traveling through the tube so that it’s even quieter than what you may be used to. This product is great for anyone who’s extremely noise sensitive.
For the AirMini, noise reduction is best achieved using the Zephair AirMini Universal Adapter. Unlike the Q-lite muffler, which isn't compatible with the AirMini's proprietary tubing system, the Zephair adapter allows you to connect any CPAP mask and standard 22mm tubing. This versatility means you can also use the Q-lite muffler with your AirMini, a combination many users have found effective for noise reduction.
Final Thoughts
Although everyone’s perception of sound is a little different, it is possible to find a quiet CPAP machine that allows you and your partner to enjoy a good night of rest. Try some of our tips for quieter operation or consider upgrading to one of the industry’s quietest CPAP machines, like the AirSense 10.
To help choose your first or next CPAP machines, we’ve created the following comprehensive guide to the best CPAP machines. We hope you find the information helpful as you get on your path to CPAP success!
