Eric Ott - CPAP Product Specialist
Written & Edited by Eric Ott. Since 2021, Eric has been building on his background in journalism to craft insightful content for the cpap.com blog. His research skills and passion for understanding products help him translate complex sleep apnea information into clear, relatable articles. Eric especially values understanding user experiences and pain points to bring you valuable insights. His goal is to empower you with the knowledge you need to make more informed decisions about your sleep health.
Our content undergoes rigorous expert review, evidence-based research, and regular updates for accuracy.
CPAP machines have evolved a lot since the earliest models hit the market. What were once large, clunky devices that weren’t easy to travel with have now transformed into lightweight CPAP machines that weigh less than a laptop.
Despite their size, these machines often provide a similar level of comfort to that of a traditional at-home unit. The best compact CPAP machines often include many exceptional comfort features, such as an adjustable ramp mode, automatic start/stop functionality, humidification (typically waterless), as well as adjustable pressure relief settings.
Our Smallest CPAP Machines
If you're looking for a small machine that's easy to carry with you, you're in luck! We offer several compact machines, some as small as a cup of coffee.
Here's a list of some of our smallest CPAP devices, from travel machines to standard:
Smallest Travel CPAP Machine
The smallest CPAP machine currently available is the Transcend Micro Auto Travel CPAP, which weighs less than half a pound at 0.48 lbs (7.68 oz). The portable Micro is about half the weight of a 12-ounce can of soda and is only slightly larger than a baseball in size, which makes traveling with your CPAP therapy in tow a breeze.
Smallest Standard CPAP Machine
If you’re looking for the smallest traditional bedside unit, the AirSense 11 is incredibly compact for its class at 2.5 lbs (40 oz), which is comparable to a large jar of peanut butter. The AirSense 11 is also the most technologically advanced CPAP machine that ResMed has produced to date. Let’s explore the smallest CPAP machines currently available and the features that set them apart from other models.
A Quick Comparison of Smallest Auto CPAPs
If you're choosing a CPAP machine based on size, it's important to consider two categories of machines. Each group has their own pros and cons.
- Travel Machines
- Standard Machines
The good news is that just because you choose a smaller machine doesn't mean you have to miss out on the features that are most important to your CPAP success.
Travel machines are compact but may offer fewer bells and whistles
While they can be used nightly, travel machines are designed for those on the go.
- Most offer waterless humidification rather than a built-in humidifier
- Session reports are typically only accessible by app
- There may be fewer customization options
- Lifespan tends to be shorter than a standard machine
Standard CPAP machines are heavier because they have more features
Keep in mind that standard devices, like the AirSense 11 and AirSense 10, weigh more due to their extra features:
- More advanced software
- Better humidification
- Therapy reports on the device
- Customize your comfort
Small CPAP Machines Compared
| Machine Name | Weight (lbs/oz) | Length (inches) | Width (inches) |
Height (inches) |
Comparable Object |
| Transcend Micro | 0.48 lbs (7.68 oz) | 3.6" | 3.6" | 2.4" | iPhone |
| Breas Z2 Auto |
0.65 lbs (10.4 oz) |
6.48" |
3.3" | 2.02" | Small Can of Soup |
| ResMed AirMini |
0.66 lbs (10.56 oz) |
5.4" | 3.3" | 2.1" | Small Can of Soup |
| Apex XT Auto |
1.87 lbs (29.92 oz) |
5.7" | 5.1" | 3.9" | Velveta Cheese |
| AirSense 11 |
2.5 lbs (40 oz) |
10.21" | 3.72" | 5.45" | Large Peanut Butter Jar |
| AirSense 10 |
2.75 lbs (44 oz) |
10.04" | 4.57" | 5.91" | 13" MacBook Air |
Need help choosing the right CPAP size?
If you aren't sure how much space you'll need for your CPAP machine, try mapping it out with a piece of paper.
- Check the dimensions of the machine you are considering.
- Cut a piece of paper using the width and length of that machine.
- Place the paper on your nightstand to see how much space it takes up.
- Remember to leave room for hoses and power cords.
An In-Depth Review of the Best Compact CPAP Machines
Let’s explore the smallest CPAP machines and their features. We've included some of these in our review of the best sleep apnea machines as well, so be sure to check that out.
Transcend Micro Auto Travel CPAP Machine
New in July 2022, the Transcend Micro earned the title of the World’s Smallest CPAP Machine at just 3.6” long by 3.6” wide by 2.4” high. It weighs a mere 0.48 lbs and is about half as heavy as an unopened soda can. With its sights set on the AirMini, the Micro Auto offers numerous comfort features, such as SleepStart to automatically start and stop your therapy (dependent upon your mask type and configuration), GentleRise Ramp Technology for an easier start to therapy by reducing your initial pressure, and AirRelief Pressure Adjustments for more natural breathing and exhalation. It also offers waterless humidification with heat moisture exchange units (coming soon) for an even more comfortable therapy experience.
Taking it above and beyond, Somenetics designed the Micro to have built-in sound and vibration dampening technology and an included WhisperSoft Hose Muffler, which shows their dedication to a quiet night. The Transcend Micro also has a unique 30-minute drying mode to make cleaning on the go that much easier, helping protect you from bacteria growth in your mask and tube. The Micro has PureFresh Air Filters (coming soon) that are reusable and should last around six months, though you’ll want to gently wash and dry them every two weeks to keep your air supply fresh. The Transcend Micro is compatible with any CPAP mask that wasn’t designed for another machine (like the AirMini), though you will need to use the included 6-foot AirFlex Hose to connect to the device.
HDM Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine
Measuring just 6.48” long by 3.3” wide by 2.02” tall and weighing a mere 0.65 lbs, the HDM Z2 Auto is a remarkably capable machine that is well-liked by those who own it. It includes most of the comfort features that you’d expect from a modern CPAP machine, such as automatic therapy start/stop, a ramp setting for a smoother therapy start, and waterless humidification for those that prefer it. Like the Transcend Micro, the HDM Z2 also includes a tube muffler to reduce the overall sound of the device while in use.
The Z2 Auto also includes a tube adapter to make your device compatible with any non-heated standard tubing and any CPAP mask that’s compatible with standard tubing. In comparison to the Micro and AirMini, the Z2 has a display screen, so you can easily view your therapy data and settings right on the device, allowing you to not have to worry about cell phone service or additional technology. If you aren’t camping or traveling off-the-grid, you can use the NiteLog companion app to easily view and share your therapy data with your healthcare provider. Through the app, you’ll also be able to conveniently view your pressure setting, ramp progress, remaining ramp time, and power indicator or battery status if you’re using the optional PowerShell With Extended Life Battery.
The ResMed AirMini™ AutoSet™ Travel CPAP Machine
The AirMini AutoSet is the smallest ResMed CPAP machine available today. Weighing in at just 0.66 lbs, this lightweight travel machine uses a small 20W power cord and measures just 5.4” long by 3.3” wide by 2.1” tall, making it ideal for frequent flyers and campers alike. It can be easily paired with the AirMini by ResMed app to adjust your machine settings and track your therapy data. It also offers waterless humidification via HumidX or HumidX Plus cartridges that are compatible with AirMini masks like the AirFit P10 and AirFit N30. Backed by the same auto-adjusting algorithm as the AirSense 10, the AirMini is a compact and capable CPAP machine with excellent comfort features like adjustable pressure relief and the auto start/stop functionality.
Apex XT Auto CPAP With Integrated Heated Humidifier<
The Apex XT Auto Travel CPAP weighs just 1.87 lbs and measures 5.7” long by 5.1” wide by 3.9” tall, making it lightweight and easy to transport when traveling. It isn’t the smallest or lightest CPAP machine out there, but its inclusion of an integrated heated humidifier helps it to stand out in a market of travel CPAPs that only offer waterless humidification. While this is generally a more barebones, low-frills CPAP machine, it does offer adjustable pressure relief and a built-in alarm clock function. Importantly, it’s also compatible with any standard tubing and any mask that wasn’t specifically designed for another machine.
Your therapy data, while not as comprehensive as what some other machines supply, can be conveniently downloaded via an SD card. Overall, this is a machine that gets the job done at an affordable price and can easily fill the role of either a travel CPAP machine or a dedicated at-home unit for your nightstand. However, we do want to note that the ramp feature is only available in CPAP mode.
AirSense 11 AutoSet CPAP Machine
If you’re looking for a small, stay-at-home CPAP machine, the ResMed AirSense 11 is a compact and powerful option. Weighing in at just 2.5 lbs, the AirSense 11 AutoSet has a footprint of 10.2” long by 3.7” wide by 5.5” tall and is an excellent choice for travelers and homebodies alike.
This latest machine in the AirSense series is geared toward those who are just beginning their sleep apnea therapy experience. The Personal Therapy Assistant feature can help you get started with your therapy through the use of voice-guided videos. Another new-to-CPAP therapy feature, Care Check-In, is designed to help you better adhere to your therapy for treatment success. At predetermined intervals, Care Check-In will ask you follow-up questions about your experience and provide troubleshooting assistance when necessary.
Featuring both Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity, the AirSense 11 benefits from automatic Over-the-Air software updates, ensuring you always have the latest feature updates and bug fixes as ResMed releases them. The full-color LCD touchscreen display allows you to effortlessly navigate menu options while the MyAir companion app seamlessly updates with your nightly therapy data, allowing you to easily stay on top of your progress and compliance reports.
Rounding out the offerings of the AirSense 11, the machine features numerous comfort features, such as AutoRamp with Sleep Onset Detection, EPR Adjustable Pressure Relief, heated humidification, and an Auto Start/Stop functionality. This latest machine from ResMed provides a truly modern and comfortable approach to CPAP therapy for new and experienced CPAP owners alike while requiring only a modest amount of nightstand real estate.
AirSense 10 AutoSet
Alternatively, the AirSense 10 AutoSet is a well-loved machine that operates at a quiet 26.6 decibels. Weighing in at just 2.75 lbs and measuring 10” long by 4.6” wide by 6” high, the AirSense 10 Auto is a compact CPAP machine that’s capable of providing an excellent therapy experience whether you’re at home or on the road.
The AirSense 10 was designed with comfort features, such as SmartStart Technology to detect when to begin your CPAP therapy based on if your mask is on or off as well as multiple humidification settings for optimal comfort in a compact and convenient package. EPR Pressure Relief and AutoRamp features bring added comfort while the auto-dimming full-color LCD makes navigating the menu options much easier in dark bedrooms.
While this machine functions similarly to the AirSense 11, the app experience and software have many differences. The AirSense 10 is still a good choice for beginners, but it offers fewer support features and resources.
Get Your Smallest CPAP Machine Today
Did any of these models get you thinking? Small CPAP machines don’t have to be less capable just because they aren’t the size and weight of a microwave oven, and these machines do a great job of proving just that.
We love the Transcend Micro for its incredibly compact size and impressive list of comfort features and recommend the AirSense 11 to anyone that’s looking for a small yet capable full-time CPAP machine for their nightstand.
When it comes to the smallest CPAP machines, these two are our top picks, but rest assured that every other machine on our list is worth considering. If you need help choosing the right machine for you, give us a call at 1-800-356-5221—our award-winning customer service team is available from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Central Standard Time (CST) Monday through Friday and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CST) on Saturday and Sunday. You can also text us at 832-308-2219 during the same hours or reach out using the Live Chat feature on our website for any help with an order or questions you might have about a product or your therapy experience.
What small CPAP machine is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
