With all the new portable oxygen concentrators releasing each year, it can be really difficult to keep up with everything that’s going on. Doing a web search may help you out a bit, but it will likely raise more questions than it will answer. This is why we’ve taken the time to put together guides like this one to help you learn about the best portable concentrators of the new year.

However, as we’ve mentioned in the past, just because a concentrator is widely considered to be the best on the market doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best one for you. Every oxygen patient has different wants, needs, and concerns, so it’s important to take all of these things into consideration first. Once you do so, you’ll be able to weigh the pros and cons of each unit before making a decision.

To further this goal, we’re taking a look at two popular pulse flow portable oxygen concentrators this week: the Inogen One G5 and the ResMed Mobi. Each of these concentrators has been praised by patients and retailers alike for their high-quality design and their focus on portability and freedom above all else. Read on to learn more about each unit and feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions.

ResMed Mobi Overview

ResMed is known for its innovations in CPAP technology. Since its inception in 1989, the company has focused on making sleep apnea treatment more effective, comfortable, and accessible. ResMed is also largely responsible for making CPAP devices more widely available for a global audience, allowing sleep apnea patients to get the products they need to sleep restfully.

So far, ResMed has only produced two oxygen concentrators: the ResMed Mobi and the LifeChoice Activox 4L. The older of which, the Activox 4L, marked ResMed’s first foray into oxygen therapy when it acquired the creators of the machine, Inova Labs, back in 2016. In early 2019, ResMed released the Mobi which saw several major improvements over the LifeChoice Activox 4L.

Like the name “Mobi” suggests, this oxygen concentrator is all about mobility. This device offers a lightweight design, ample battery life, and plenty of carrying options to suit your wants and needs. The ResMed Mobi has an internal battery, so unlike other portable oxygen concentrators, you won’t have to take time to replace batteries unless you want to use the Mobi’s external battery system.

Inogen One G5 Overview

Inogen was created in the early 2000s with the dream of revolutionizing the way COPD patients see oxygen therapy. At the time, oxygen patients dreaded using oxygen tanks because it meant being bound to their homes and expending a significant amount of their savings refilling their tanks once or twice a day. What’s more, these tanks could be dangerous and many people felt insecure even being around them.

The Inogen G5 is the latest pulse flow POC in Inogen’s “G” series of units. It boasts the highest oxygen output of any pulse flow portable oxygen concentrator on the market, coupled with a lightweight design and an incredible battery life. We labeled the Inogen One G5 the best portable oxygen concentrator of 2020 because we believe it’s the best machine for the greatest number of people.  

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Pulse Flow Settings

As aforementioned, the Inogen G5 and ResMed Mobi are both pulse flow portable oxygen concentrators. What this means is that they both use pulse flow technology. This technology was developed as a more efficient alternative to continuous flow which is the oxygen delivery method used on heavier and more cumbersome oxygen concentrators. 

As opposed to continuous flow which puts out a constant stream of oxygen, pulse flow delivers a bolus of oxygen only when the patient inhales. In concentrators like the G5 and Mobi, this plays an important role in keeping the units small, lightweight, and allowing the battery to last as long as they do.

Oftentimes, this is the best place to start when choosing an oxygen concentrator, because if your machine doesn’t meet your oxygen demands, it’s not worth pursuing in the first place. You’ll be happy to know that both the Inogen One G5 and ResMed Mobi offer plenty of options. The G5 can go up to a setting of 6 and the Mobi can go up to a setting of 4.

The vast majority of oxygen patients only need a setting of 2, so both of these units tend to be a great choice. However, if your doctor recommends you use a higher flow setting or you want room to move up, the Inogen One G5 could end up being a safer choice for you.

Battery Duration

In the world of portable oxygen concentrators, battery life equals freedom. Fortunately, the Inogen One G5 and ResMed Mobi are both contenders for the best battery life of any portable oxygen concentrator on the market. However, their batteries work a little bit differently, so it’s important to understand these differences before you make a purchase.

The G5 runs solely on external batteries that can be attached or removed from the device. The G5 single battery (8-cell battery) which comes with the device offers up to 6.5 hours of life on a pulse flow setting of 1. The G5 double battery (16-cell battery) which is sold separately, offers up to 13 hours of battery life on a setting of 1.

Instead of coming with an external battery like the G5, the ResMed Mobi has a battery built into it. This internal battery offers 8.6 hours of battery life on a pulse flow setting of 1. However, there is an external battery you can purchase separately which extends this to 13.1 hours of battery life on one charge.

Weight

Weight is the third most important factor to consider when choosing a portable oxygen concentrator. After all, it wouldn’t be portable if it wasn’t light enough to carry around with you wherever you go. There are several important things to note when comparing the weight of the G5 and the weight of the ResMed Mobi. 

The G5 weighs in at 4.7 pounds and the Mobi weighs in at 4.8 pounds. For the most part, the weight difference is negligible, however, you have to remember that the Mobi has more built-in battery life than the G5 offers with a single battery. If you want more than 6.5 hours of battery life with your G5, you’ll need to purchase an extra single or double battery which will add some extra weight.  

All things considered, the Inogen One G5 and ResMed Mobi excel when it comes to weight. If you suffer from back pain or other conditions that prevent you from carrying heavy objects, you’ll find that these two units are some of the best on the market. Most patients can easily carry these machines over their shoulder without having to use a rolling cart.

Sound Level

Sound level isn’t usually a problem with portable oxygen concentrators. If you’ve never heard one before, most people compare it to a quiet hum, not much louder than a whisper. Some patients notice the sound at first, but after a day or two of using the oxygen device, they get used to it.

It is worth noting the noise level of both units, however, because the Mobi is on the louder side compared to other pulse flow portable oxygen concentrators. The Inogen One G5 is just 37 decibels (dBA) on a setting of 2 and the Mobi is 44 dBA on a setting of 2. In most situations, you probably won’t notice this difference, but if you’re in a quiet place like a library, you may find that the Mobi is too loud.

Usability

Ease-of-use and usability are important factors to consider when buying a portable oxygen concentrator. If you struggle to use your machine correctly while you’re out of the house, you could waste a lot of time that you could be spending enjoying your life. You should strive to find a POC that suits your lifestyle and doesn’t produce any unnecessary hassle for you in your daily life.

Both the Mobi and the G5 have user-friendly interfaces that enable you to easily modify your oxygen flow or check your battery life on-the-go. The control panel is built into the top of the unit and there aren’t a whole lot of buttons that you’ll need to deal with. Most oxygen patients are happy to find that they can learn all the ins and outs of operating their unit within the first day or two of owning it.

Accessories

You’d be remiss to purchase a Mobi or G5 without looking into all the great accessories they have to offer. One of the things you’ll be happy to find is that both units offer plenty of carrying options in order to customize your experience and allow you to live life on your own terms.

The Mobi has a sleek, gray carrying case that can be slung over your arm, worn on your back, or even attached to a suitcase or rolling cart using four different straps that you can purchase separately. The G5, on the other hand, has two different carrying options: the G5 Custom Carrying Case and the G5 backpack. The custom carrying case is for those looking to travel light and the backpack is great if you’re going on a long vacation and need to carry a lot of personal belongings.

The Ideal Candidate for the ResMed Mobi

The Mobi is ResMed’s first foray into medical oxygen devices after acquiring Inova Labs in 2016. While they are new to the oxygen industry, they have three decades of experience with producing sleep therapy equipment and they are largely responsible for the success of CPAP and BiPAP therapy today. Coupled with their prominence and reputability, ResMed has what it takes to put out great portable oxygen concentrators.

ResMed certainly didn’t disappoint with the ResMed Mobi. This portable oxygen concentrator is lightweight, has a small form factor, and has an outstanding internal battery that will keep you going all day. The ideal candidate for the Mobi is someone who wants more freedom in their day-to-day life. This means not having to worry about refilling an oxygen tank, having a long-lasting durable battery, and a reliable machine that can run 24/7 while you’re asleep or while you’re awake. 

The Ideal Candidate for the Inogen One G5

It’s hard to compete with Inogen when it comes to their track record of success. While they haven’t been around as long as other oxygen concentrator companies, the impact they’ve had is undeniable. In fact, Inogen is such a sought-after brand that patients and retailers alike eagerly await the release of their concentrators and accessories.

Having been released this past summer, the Inogen One G5 is a top-tier portable oxygen concentrator. In terms of weight and battery life, the G5 is neck-in-neck with the ResMed Mobi. Most importantly though, the G5 offers two more flow settings than the Mobi, so if you have higher oxygen demands, the G5 will always be a better choice.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, you can’t really go wrong with the Inogen G5 or ResMed Mobi. Both units are backed by reputable and experienced brands and they’re some of the most advanced oxygen therapy devices the industry has to offer. Once you ensure that your oxygen needs are accounted for, it ultimately comes down to preference. If you’ve used ResMed sleep apnea products before, go with the Mobi. However, if you’ve used other Inogen products like the G3 or G4, the G5 may be your first choice.

Oxygen concentrators are a lifeline for many respiratory patients. Those suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or cystic fibrosis (CF) can experience significant relief from symptoms like coughing, wheezing, chest pain, and shortness of breath by using supplemental medical oxygen and following a strict diet and exercise routine.

But oxygen therapy isn’t the same for everyone. If you have mild stage 1 COPD you may only need to use your oxygen tank or oxygen concentrator at night or while exercising. However, if you have severe stage 4 COPD, you may need to use your oxygen therapy device 24/7. Believe it or not, another factor that affects how often you use oxygen is where you’re located.

Denver got its name “the Mile-High City” for a reason; it’s about 5,280 feet above sea level. As you likely know, the higher you go in elevation, the thinner the air gets and the less oxygen you have to breathe. This is known as ‘hypoxia,” the same term that’s used to describe a lack of oxygen in your blood.

So what does this mean for oxygen patients? Are they not able to travel to places with a higher altitude like Denver?

Not exactly… but it does mean that they need access to reliable oxygen machines that won’t give out when they need them the most. 

Whether you’re just visiting Denver for the Holidays or you’ve lived here your whole life, read on to learn about the best place to buy a medical oxygen device in the Denver area.

About LPT Medical

As a veteran-owned company, the respiratory specialists at LPT Medical know what it means to serve the community with an unrelenting commitment to quality and dependability. Despite being a relatively new oxygen retailer, LPT has quickly made a name for itself as one of the top portable oxygen retailers in the Denver area. 

Unlike other retailers which are mainly concerned with reaching sales goals, LPT is very customer-focused. Rather than trying to penny and dime every patient they contact, the respiratory specialists at LPT strive to get portable oxygen concentrators in the hands of everyone who wants and needs them.

Industry-Leading Customer Service

Let’s face it, between speaking with your doctor and pulmonologist, reading about your respiratory condition, and being exposed to the hundreds of medical oxygen units on the market, you probably don’t feel confident in choosing the right oxygen concentrator. You want what’s best for your health, but you also don’t want to spend a fortune if you don’t even know what you’re getting.

What’s more, you’ve probably spent a fair amount of time dealing with Medicare or private health insurance companies who refuse to provide you with the medical oxygen you need. In all honesty, these companies make their paycheck based off how little they can help you. If by some chance you are able to convince them to provide you with oxygen, it will almost always be the bare minimum.

With seemingly everything and everyone working against you, you’ve probably lost hope of ever finding the right medical oxygen device. However, if you decide to get in touch with a respiratory specialist at LPT Medical instead, you’ll find that getting an affordable, high-quality portable oxygen concentrator is much easier than you thought.

LPT Medical prides itself on its industry-leading customer service. Rather than being connected with an unreliable representative, LPT Medical will assign you a respiratory specialist who is trained to uncover the unique needs of each oxygen patient and align them with a medical oxygen device that will serve them best. The best part of all is that you ever need help with anything related to your oxygen concentrator or oxygen therapy, you can always reconnect with your respiratory specialist.

The oxygen therapy industry is a difficult one to grasp because there are so many different facets to consider. First and foremost, you need an oxygen machine that meets your oxygen requirements. Once that’s accounted for, your respiratory specialist will help you compare the weight, battery life, and size of each unit on the market. Throughout the process, you can always feel free to ask any questions or address any concerns that you may have.

Trusted Brands

Unfortunately, scams are all too common in this day and age. Given the popularity of online shopping, it’s easier than ever for someone to hop online and pose as someone that they’re not just to steal someone’s identity or hard-earned money. To ensure that you have no doubts about the quality of the product you’re receiving, LPT Medical only distributes oxygen equipment from the most trusted brands in the industry.

Inogen

Inogen was one of the first companies to pursue pulse flow technology back in the early 2000s. They dreamed of being able to provide high-flow oxygen patients with a lightweight, small, and durable portable oxygen unit that also meets their high oxygen demands. As a company, they believe that no oxygen patient should be homebound and that chronic respiratory disease should not prevent anyone from getting out and doing the things they love to do.

But Inogen didn’t become a trusted brand on hopes and dreams, they have a long track record of success with their “G” series of portable oxygen concentrators. Ever since the release of the Inogen One G1 around two decades ago, Inogen has been breaking boundaries in the medical oxygen field. Oxygen patients, medical professionals, and medical equipment retailers eagerly await the release of new Inogen products because they know they will be a hit.

With 2020 right around the corner, The Inogen One G5 is currently the undisputed king of portable pulse flow oxygen concentrators. This machine weighs just 4.7 pounds making it one of the lightest POCs on the market. It also has the highest oxygen output of any pulse flow POC affording you 6 different flow options based on your needs. If you’re concerned about how much time you’ll have outside the house, you’ll be happy to know that the Inogen G5 gets up to 13 hours of battery life using the double battery (sold separately).  

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Respironics

Respironics was founded by Gerald E. McGinnis in 1976. This new company primarily focused on sleep technology like CPAP and BiPAP machines. Respironics quickly earned a name for itself as one of the primary retailers for sleep apnea products and they eventually began to incorporate oxygen therapy devices into their lineup. A merger with a multinational Dutch company, Philips in 2007, allowed Respironics to reacher a larger customer base than ever before.

While Respironics is mainly known for their CPAP and BiPAP machines, they’ve stressed the importance of treating overlap syndrome — the result of having both COPD and sleep apnea. With their CPAP and BiPAP compatible oxygen concentrators, COPD patients are able to experience healthy and restful sleep without worrying about their respiratory condition.

AirSep

AirSep got its name from the term “air separation.” This refers to the separation of air into its distinct parts: primarily nitrogen and oxygen. Since the 1980s, AirSep has focused on manufacturing high-quality air separation equipment like oxygen concentrators. In 2014, it was acquired by Chart Industries, which had previously acquired SeQual Technologies, another notable oxygen concentrator brand offered by LPT Medical.

AirSep is primarily known for creating the lightest portable oxygen concentrator ever produced: the AirSep Focus. Despite its small form factor, the AirSep Focus provides two pulse flow settings and a battery that can last over 3 hours on one charge. This medical oxygen device remains is the preferred option for many COPD patients who also suffer from back pain and other mobility issues.

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Options to Fit Your Lifestyle

Aside from working with companies that are reliable and established, LPT also offers specific products and product lines that are the most useful and reliable for oxygen patients. Oxygen concentrators were invented in the 1970s but to this day, oxygen manufacturers continue to refine them by improving battery life, reducing their size and weight, and increasing their oxygen output. It’s impossible to say where oxygen technology will be five or ten years from now, but from the way it’s going, it’s hard to imagine anything other than positive changes.

Home Oxygen Concentrators

A home oxygen concentrator is an oxygen device you’d likely find in an oxygen patient’s home pre-2000. While home oxygen concentrators have largely been replaced with portable oxygen concentrators, they still serve an important role for oxygen patients all over the world. What’s more, they’re still frequently used in hospitals as a safe, cost-effective, and reliable source of oxygen.

One of the most notable benefits of home oxygen concentrators is their high oxygen output compared to portable units. Since these oxygen machines need to be plugged into the wall to run, they’re able to put out 5 to 10 LPM of continuous flow oxygen. For patients with severe stage 4 COPD, this will be ideal.

Another benefit of home oxygen concentrators is that you never have to worry about swapping out or refilling oxygen tanks. If you’ve used either oxygen tanks or liquid oxygen tanks in the past, you know how much of a struggle it can be. Alternatively, home oxygen concentrators are “set it and forget it.” Simply turn the device on to your desired continuous flow setting and you’ll be able to use it, day and night, without having to mess with it.

Portable Oxygen Concentrators

There are two different types of portable oxygen concentrators: pulse flow units and continuous flow units. Continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators work the same as home oxygen concentrators in that they provide a constant stream of oxygen through the nasal cannula. Pulse flow units, however, have a built-in delivery system that only emits oxygen when you inhale. Each bolus (dose) of oxygen is timed perfectly so that you receive the most amount of oxygen. In many cases, continuous flow concentrators also offer a pulse flow option.

In this day and age, portable oxygen concentrators make up a large part of the oxygen market. Due to the significant strides that oxygen manufacturers have made with pulse flow technology in the past several decades, respiratory patients are putting aside their home units for something that’s portable and affords them the freedom they need to live life on their own terms. While home oxygen machines and continuous flow machines are less popular, LPT still offers them for patients who require more oxygen.

CPAP and BiPAP Machines

According to sleepapnea.org, about 22 million Americans suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). And about 15 percent of COPD patients also have OSA according to the COPD foundation. Unfortunately, many people who suffer from this overlap syndrome don’t get the help they need. Respiratory patients are often surprised to learn that oxygen therapy and either CPAP or BiPAP treatment can be used simultaneously. Most CPAP machines even have a port on the device where you can hook up an oxygen machine.

LPT Medical sells a number of heavy hitters like the Respironics Dreamstation Auto CPAP machine and the ResMed AirSense 10 with a heated humidifier built in to prevent nasal irritation. These machines will keep your airways open and allow you to breathe easily all night without interruption. Many of these devices also have advanced technology like Bluetooth connectivity, automatic altitude adjustment, and SensAwake technology which adjusts pressure treatment as your sleep pattern changes. 

Oxygen Accessories

Another great luxury of this day and age is being able to customize everything to our liking. Portable oxygen concentrators like the Inogen One G5 are great on their own, but once you learn about the host of high-quality oxygen accessories you can buy for it, you’ll be amazed at all the things you can do. 

Carrying bags are one of the most important accessories LPT Medical has to offer. While most POCs come with a carrying case of some sort, you can also purchase bags that match your lifestyle. For example, the Inogen One G5 backpack offers plenty of carrying space all while holding your G5 oxygen concentrator securely in place and fully usable. On the other hand, you could use something like the G5 custom carrying case which is best for short trips.

Before you purchase an oxygen concentrator, be sure to check out what other accessories LPT Medical has to offer. For units like the G5, you’ll be able to purchase an external battery charger which can be used to charge your batteries separately from your G5. Additional high-capacity batteries can be purchased as well as DC power adapters which allow you to charge your portable oxygen concentrator in the car.   

FAA Approved Devices

Many people reach out to us concerned that they will never be able to fly again once they start oxygen therapy. Fortunately, this couldn’t be farther from the truth because the majority of our portable oxygen concentrators are approved for in-flight use. Several decades ago, when oxygen tanks were the only type of mobile oxygen, COPD patients were not able to fly because tanks are too dangerous and bulky to carry onboard an airplane.

Modern portable oxygen concentrators, on the other hand, contain no compressed oxygen meaning there’s no threat of them exploding or catching fire. Pulse flow units like the Inogen One G3 are so small and lightweight that you can put them under the seat while you’re taking off and landing. It’s a little more difficult to travel with a continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator because they’re bigger and heavier, but most of them are approved by the Federal Aviation Administration as well.

Approved for Use at High Altitudes

Altitude sickness also called “acute mountain sickness” is a condition that results from sudden exposure to a low oxygen atmosphere which can lead  to nausea, shortness of breath, and lightheadedness. Unfortunately, people with COPD or cystic fibrosis are even more susceptible to this condition unless they have a reliable source of oxygen.

The one downside to oxygen concentrators is that they draw in surrounding air in order to remove the nitrogen and output pure oxygen. But if the air coming in doesn’t have enough oxygen, it’s not doing you any good. However, POCs like the Inogen One G3, G4, and G5 can operate up to 10,000 feet above sea level. Some can operate at even higher altitudes like the SeQual Eclipse 5 which works up to 13,123 feet above sea level. In other words, if you’re visiting Denver or you live here, you’ll have no problems using your POC. However, if you’re traveling into the mountains, you’ll need to ensure you follow your user manual guidelines.

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Conclusion

Choosing an oxygen concentrator is not always easy. Every oxygen patient has different needs, wants, and expectations, so it’s best to speak with a specialist who can align you with the exact product you’re looking for. At LPT Medical, we take pride in offering a variety of options no matter your oxygen demands. What’s more, we offer plenty of oxygen accessories so that you can customize your oxygen experience and live life on your own terms.

We’re conveniently located in southeast Denver near the Denver tech center, so if you ever need technical support for your POC or you want to view the units before you purchase one, feel free to come visit us. If you have any questions about anything you’ve read online, please don’t hesitate to give us a call or stay tuned to our blog for more helpful information.

In this day and age, everything seems to be getting smaller. Our phones are getting smaller, laptops are getting smaller, and even our cars are getting smaller. It feels great to invest in a product that’s both small and powerful because it allows us to have more freedom and control in the palm of our hands.

When it comes to investing in smaller and smaller products, however, it’s more important than ever that we’re aware of the potential problems of downsizing. For example, a small car may be able to zip around corners and save you a lot of money on gas, but is it able to provide you with the safety that you want and need?

This is no different when it comes to portable oxygen concentrators. Introduced in the early 2000s, these new medical oxygen devices offered an alternative to the clunky and dangerous oxygen tanks that came before them. Manufacturers wanted to push the limits of what was possible, so they’ve been making portable oxygen concentrators smaller and smaller ever since then — but this has often been at the expense of the consumer.

There’s a lot more that goes into a great portable oxygen concentrator than size; oxygen output, weight, reliability, battery life, and ease-of-use are also very important factors to consider. As such, if you want to find the best POC for you, it’s important to take all of these into consideration. Having a small portable oxygen unit is great, but only if it excels in other ways as well.

In this blog, we’ll take a look at two of the smallest portable oxygen concentrators on the market: the Inogen One G5 and the Respironics SimplyGo Mini to help you determine which one is right for you. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comment section below or address them with a respiratory specialist.

Respironics SimplyGo Mini Overview

Respironics is a world leader in respiratory and sleep products. Founded in 1976 by Gerald E. McGinnis, the company mainly focused on sleep apnea products like CPAP machines but later branched out to include bi-level technology in 1992 and eventually portable oxygen concentrators in the 2000s. 

Respironics boasts two portable oxygen concentrators: the Respironics SimplyGo (continuous flow) and the Respironics SimplyGo Mini (pulse flow). Each unit has its pros and cons, but each one claims to be one of the lightest and most efficient POCs in its class while still offering the quality and reliability you’d expect from a Respironics product.

One unique aspect of this Philips oxygen concentrator is the touch screen display. Where most concentrators have physical buttons you can press, the SimplyGo Mini only has a “power” button and a “home” button. The rest of the unit’s functions are controlled by the touch screen. If you’ve never used a touch screen, however, don’t be intimidated. The SimplyGo mini has on-screen cues that will help you navigate its features quickly and effectively.

Inogen One G5 Overview

Inogen is widely considered to be the best portable oxygen concentrator manufacturer in the world. It was founded in the early 2000s with the conviction that technology in the medical oxygen field was not keeping up with the desires of COPD patients and that medical professions needed to try something new.   

Inogen began work on their Inogen One G series of portable oxygen concentrators which aimed to provide oxygen patients with significantly more freedom than their oxygen tanks. Since then, we have seen five generations of Inogen oxygen machines along with other high quality products such as the Inogen at Home Oxygen Concentrator, as well as a host of accessories like backpacks, carrying cases,  external battery chargers and more which help patients get the most out of their machines.

The Inogen One G5 portable oxygen concentrator is the latest POC by Inogen, offering an extended battery life and higher oxygen output than previous iterations. Having been released this past summer, it’s a relatively new unit, but that hasn’t stopped it from quickly becoming one of the most beloved POCs on the market, especially since it has such a reputable brand to back it up.  

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Oxygen Output

Oftentimes, one of the best places to start when comparing two oxygen concentrators is their oxygen output. After all, it’s very difficult to start examining other features of a medical oxygen device if it doesn’t provide you with the level of oxygen that you need. 

Both the Inogen One G5 and the Respironics SimplyGo Mini are pulse flow units. What this means is that they have built-in technology that only delivers oxygen when you inhale. This enables manufacturers to make much smaller lightweight units, but they may not be ideal for patients with high-flow oxygen therapy needs.

What’s more, the Respironics SimplyGo Mini Offers a flow setting of 5 while the Inogen One G5 offers a flow setting of 6, the highest option available for a pulse flow unit. No other pulse flow oxygen concentrator on the market can go up to a flow setting of 6. If you want to go any higher, you’ll need to switch over to continuous flow machines which are much heavier and bulkier.

This is not to say that the SimplyGo Mini is bad in terms of oxygen output. A setting of 5 is good when compared to most pulse flow oxygen concentrators. If you typically stay at a setting of 2 or 3 and your doctor tells you that a setting of 5 is enough, then the SimplyGo Mini may be a great option for you.

Battery Life

Another one of the most sought-after features of a portable oxygen concentrator is its battery life. A long battery life is what enables oxygen users to go where they want, when they want, and stay out for longer without having to get to a wall outlet to charge their device.

When someone brings up battery life in portable oxygen concentrators, they’re often compared to oxygen tanks. The average portable E cylinder will work for about 5 hours before it runs out of oxygen. An even smaller tank, the D cylinder, will go for about 3 hours before running out. Fortunately, both the G5 and the SimplyGo Mini offer much more freedom than that.

On a flow setting of one, the Inogen One G5 can attain an outstanding 13 hours of battery life on one charge using the double battery pack. The SimplyGo Mini is not far behind with a maximum battery life of 9 hours on a setting of two using the extended battery pack. Either way, this leaves you tons of breathing room (no pun intended) while you’re out and about to do as you please without having to go back home to charge your battery.

If 13 hours of battery life isn’t enough or you need to use a higher setting which drains more battery life, you can always carry an extra battery on you. The double battery only weighs a pound more than the single battery, so you won’t have any trouble carrying an extra one in your G5 backpack or carrying bag. Likewise, with the SimplyGo Mini, you’ll also have the option of carrying an extra battery or extended battery.

Ease-of-Use

The Inogen One G5 and SimplyGo Mini both have a lot to offer in terms of ease-of-use. Just so we’re clear on what this means, ease-of-use refers to how easily settings can be changed or adjustments can be made to your concentrator on the fly. It’s important to have an oxygen concentrator that’s easy to use so that you don’t waste time fiddling with it while you’re away from home. 

Both these pulse flow portable oxygen concentrators have a simple interface. The screen and the controls are built into the top of the unit so you won’t have to lift the device up or strain yourself to make changes to it. The G5 display shows your remaining battery life, flow setting, audible alerts, and errors. The SimplyGo Mini, on the other hand, is almost entirely touch screen. You’ll be able to make pulse flow setting adjustments without ever using any buttons.

Another factor that contributes to ease-of-use is the battery pack. On both the Inogen One G5 and SimplyGo Mini, you’ll be happy to know that the batter can be slipped on and off easily by simply pulling the tab on the front of the case. The G5 battery will slide off the back of the unit and the SimplyGo Mini battery will slide sideways off the device. 

If you decide to purchase a G5, you’ll need to remove your filters and wash them every couple of weeks to a month. Fortunately, this is really easy to do. Simply remove the intake vent filters from the front and back of the unit, clean it using a mild dish soap, and make sure it is thoroughly rinsed and dried before putting it back on the device. It’s imperative that you do not run the concentrator without the filters because it prevents air particles from damaging internal components and ensures that you’re always breathing clean air.

There are plenty of great accessories available for both devices as well that can contribute to how easy they are to use. For example, you can purchase either the G5 custom carrying case or G5 backpack which gives you ample ways to carry your Inogen G5. For the SimplyGo Mini, you may opt for accessories like the external battery charger or the carrying cart. 

Size

Size can really be a deal breaker when you’re choosing an oxygen concentrator. If your device is too large, you’re going to have a lot of problems traveling with it especially if you need to get on a plane or a bus. While bulkier oxygen concentrators like the SeQual Equinox are approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and most cruise lines, that doesn’t mean you’ll have a pleasant experience while you’re traveling with them. 

On the other hand, pulse flow units like the Inogen One G5 and the SImplyGo Mini are small enough that you won’t have any problems traveling with them or finding a place to store them on a plane or bus. The Inogen One G5 is 8.15" H x 7.19" L x 3.26" W and the SimplyGo Mini is 9.4” H x 8.3” L x 3.6” W so the G5 is slightly smaller but not by a huge margin.

If you travel by air a lot, there’s no understating how convenient it is to have a small portable oxygen concentrator. The aisles on most airplanes are really narrow, so if your oxygen concentrator isn’t able to fit between them, you may have to pick it up or have someone else carry it for you. You’re supposed to put your belongings under a seat when you take off but if your concentrator is too bulky, you may have to hold it in your lap, which can be a safety hazard.

Let’s face it, we all have to go to the bathroom at least once when we’re on a flight. Airplane bathrooms are tiny enough as it is, but if you have an oxygen concentrator with you, it can feel nigh impossible. At less than a foot in width and height, however, the G5 and SimplyGo Mini won’t add any unnecessary bulk and you won’t have to worry about bumping other passengers on the way to the bathroom either.

Sound Level

Noise is often a factor that many oxygen users are concerned about when purchasing a portable oxygen concentrator for the first time. They don’t want to disturb people or get kicked out of a library or wherever they’re going. While this is certainly an understandable concern, even the loudest portable oxygen concentrators are pretty quiet. 

The Inogen One G5 is only 37 decibels (dBA) on a setting of 2 and the SImplyGo Mini is only 43 decibels on a setting of 2. That’s about the volume of a quiet whisper or gentle hum sound. Most people report getting used to the sound after a few times of using it and that it doesn’t disrupt other people when they’re around it. A difference of 6 decibels may sound like a lot, but when you hear the two devices side-by-side, you probably wouldn’t even know the difference.

The Ideal Candidate for the SimplyGo Mini

The SimplyGo Mini portable Oxygen Concentrator is one of the most popular units on the market and it’s backed by a company that’s been a leader in sleep and respiratory health for decades. Philips Respironics is known for producing medical oxygen equipment that’s durable, reliable, and powerful.

If you’re considering the Respironics SimplyGo Mini, it’s unlikely you’ll be let down. This medical oxygen device excels in nearly every aspect of its design like weight, size, battery life, and ease-of-use. The one thing to note, however, is that it goes up to a maximum flow setting of 5, as opposed to a flow setting of 6 like the Inogen One G5. So, you’ll need to speak with your pulmonologist beforehand to make sure this won’t be a problem.

When compared to the G5, the SimplyGo Mini lacks in most areas. However, the differences are minimal in many cases, and depending on what your needs are, you may find that the SimplyGo fulfills your needs perfectly. Cost is another aspect to consider when purchasing a portable oxygen concentrator and there are so many deals going around that it’s impossible to say which unit will be cheaper at any given time.

The ideal Candidate for the Inogen One G5

Inogen is unlike Respironics in that it was created with the sole purpose of making medical oxygen more accessible and convenient for respiratory patients. Inogen broke barriers with their G1 oxygen concentrator back in the early 2000s and they continue to break barriers with their latest portable oxygen concentrator, the Inogen One G5.

The G5 broke records for the most external battery life of any POC as well as having the highest oxygen output of any pulse flow POC. This is a deal breaker for many oxygen patients because if they need a device with a flow setting of 6, they no longer need to switch over to a heavier, bulkier continuous flow unit. The added battery life affords oxygen patients the freedom to stay out of their house for longer and have more peace of mind while traveling.

All in all, the Inogen One G5 is the best portable oxygen concentrator for the greatest number of people. The G5 was released this past summer so it’s one of the newest POCs available, meaning replacement parts are widely available and technical support is in full force. However, it’s unlikely you’ll need either of these for some time because the G5 has had a very low failure rate right out the gate.  

Conclusion

Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either the Inogen One G5 or the Respironics SimplyGo Mini. Both oxygen machines are backed by reputable medical oxygen companies that have proven their commitment to customers for decades. Both units are fully supported with replacement parts and technical support so you won’t have to worry about your device breaking a year or two down the line. 

While it’s great to have a preference in which POC you want, you should first consider your medical needs. Before purchasing a portable oxygen concentrator, speak with your doctor and pulmonologist to learn exactly what your oxygen needs are. This way you can invest in a unit that offers you plenty of breathing room in case your disease progresses or you experience an exacerbation.

Possibly the most notable achievement of the Inogen One G5 is its battery life. As opposed to previous portable oxygen concentrators, the G5 afforded oxygen patients ample usage time with up to 13 hours of battery life on a flow setting of 1 and up to 3 hours on its highest setting (a setting of 6). This means that even patients with the highest oxygen demands can stay out and about for longer than ever before. 

By excelling in all aspects of design like weight, size, battery life, cost, oxygen output, and reliability, the G5 set a new precedent for oxygen concentrator manufacturers. No longer would oxygen patients have to “settle” for below-average battery life or sacrifice their personal freedom and independence just to get the oxygen they need — the Inogen One G5 does it all.

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While you’ve probably already read a lot about the G5 itself, you may be wondering what accessories are available for it. G5 accessories are by no means necessary for you to experience the benefits of this oxygen machine, but they certainly help if you want to make the most of it. Read on as we take a look at 7 must-have accessories for your Inogen One G5 portable oxygen concentrator and be sure to leave a comment if you have any questions.

The Inogen One G5 Custom Carrying Case

The most fundamental Inogen One G5 accessory is the custom carrying case. This simple accessory provides G5 owners with the easiest and most effective way to carry their portable oxygen concentrator whether they’re simply taking a trip to the store or going on a long vacation around the world.

The custom carrying case is designed for the minimalist. Rather than offering tons of extra storage pockets, it has just enough room to carry small objects like a driver’s license, a grocery list, or your Inogen One G5 manual. But most importantly, it keeps your concentrator at your side as you go about your daily life. It also has the ability to carry a G5 with either the single or double battery attached.

Prevents Scratches and Dents

If you’re not already aware, the Inogen One G5 doesn’t have any place to clip a shoulder strap onto. As a result, you’ll need to have a case to carry it in like the G5 custom carrying case. Fortunately, this case provides ample protection so you’ll never have to worry about scratches, dents, or cracks.

Although the G5 is already a solid unit that resists damage with its hard outer shell, like any electronic device, it’s still susceptible to internal damage. The custom case is padded enough to prevent minor damage but thin enough that it won’t add a significant amount of bulk to the unit. You’ll be able to carry your oxygen unit wherever you please, even in busy or overcrowded areas, and still have the peace of mind knowing that your concentrator is safe.

Easy to Use

The G5 custom carrying case makes it incredibly easy to transport your POC. If you’re worried that you won’t be able to use your concentrator as easily, think again! When you slip the G5 into the carrying case, simply lift the flap on the top to access the control panel. There’s an open area in the back so that you can plug in an AC or DC power adapter. What’s more, to change batteries, all you need to do is unzip the bottom of the bag. Another reason the G5 carrying case is easy to use is that you can adjust the carrying strap to your liking. The strap has an adjustable pad on it so you’ll never feel uncomfortable while carrying your POC. 

The Inogen One G5 Backpack

The G5 backpack is the opposite of the custom carrying case in many ways. While the custom carrying case opts for a minimalist approach, the backpack is designed for those who want to carry a lot of personal belongings with them. The obvious downside to this is that you’ll need to take the backpack off to check your battery life, oxygen purity status, and alerts, however, the control panel can be easily accessed without even having to remove it from the backpack. Note that the Inogen One G5 backpack can hold both G5s with single batteries and G5s with double batteries.

Perfect for Traveling

If you’re someone who loves to travel and explore the world, the G5 backpack has a lot to offer you. While it’s certainly important to travel light on long trips, you also need to make sure that what you do take is stored in the most efficient way possible. On the G5 backpack, you’ll find a large storage compartment for personal belongings and a pouch on the back of the bag allowing you to keep everything separate. 

Your Inogen One G5 will fit snugly into the pouch meaning it won’t jostle around or fall out. The top of the POC is only partially covered, so you’ll still be able to check the screen, use the buttons, and plug in your cannula while it’s in the pouch. There is also a mesh material where the air intake is so that you ensure it’s always operating how it should be. 

Comfortable to Wear

Let’s face it, if you’re traveling around the world and doing a lot of walking, the last thing you want is an uncomfortable backpack. Fortunately, the G5 backpack delivers in this category. Like the custom carrying case, the G5 backpack has adjustable shoulder straps to help you find the right fit. They’re also padded so they won’t dig into your shoulders.

Another reason the G5 backpack is so comfortable is that the G5 won’t hang down or move around as you walk. Naturally, the farther something protrudes out from a backpack, the more strain it will cause on your back. However, with this backpack, the G5 is held close to the main storage compartment so there won’t be any unnecessary strain on your back and shoulders. 

The Inogen One G5 Single Battery

The single battery is the same one that comes with your Inogen One G5 portable oxygen concentrator. However, if you’re in need of more battery life on the go, an extra one may be just the thing you’re looking for. It’s called a “single battery” because it has just one cell in it. This cell has one anode and cathode which is separated by electrolyte, used to produce both a voltage and a current. 

Lightweight Design

The Inogen One G5 is only 4.7 pounds with a single battery attached to it and a single battery by itself only weighs about 8 ounces. So even when you’re carrying an extra single battery with you, it will still weigh less than most portable oxygen concentrators on the market. Inogen has spent several decades refining the technology in their batteries allowing oxygen patients to have a longer battery life in a smaller and more lightweight battery. The single battery offers up to 6.5 hours of life on a flow setting of 1.

Easy to Replace

If you’re looking for extra batteries for your G5, chances are, you’re on the go often. If that’s the case, you’ll be happy to know that Inogen G5 batteries are extremely easy to remove and replace. Simply press the release tab that’s on the side of your G5. The battery will pop off of the unit and you can then put the new battery in its place. Make sure you push upwards so that it clicks into place and it’s secure while you’re going about your daily business.

The Inogen One G5 Double Battery

Some people get confused when they hear “G5 double battery” because they think it comes with two separate batteries, however, the word “double” is referring to the number of cells in its casing. In this case, the double battery provides twice as much battery life as the single battery. If you’re going on a long vacation or you’re planning on being away from home for a while, there’s no understating the importance of having a G5 double battery with you. 

Ample Battery Life

The G5 double battery pack is equipped with up to 13 hours of battery life on a flow setting of 1. This is the longest external battery life of any portable oxygen concentrator on the market and offers an ample amount of freedom for you to be out and about as long as you please without having to replace your battery or find an outlet to charge your device.

If that’s not enough, you’ll be happy to know that the double battery isn’t a whole lot bigger than the single battery and it’s still very lightweight. The double battery weighs in at just 12 ounces, only 4 ounces more than the G5 single battery. In other words, you’re getting twice the battery life with a 50% increase in weight. This makes the double battery the most efficient battery option for the Inogen One G5.

Plenty of Options to Fit Your Lifestyle

The main takeaway when it comes to Inogen One G5 batteries is that they offer plenty of options to fit your lifestyle whether you’re super active and want to get out as much as possible, or you just need to get to the store once a week.

The Inogen One G5 comes with a single battery attached to it. This means you’ll get up to 6.5 hours of battery life right out of the box. If you want to extend that battery life, however, you can purchase either an extra single battery or an extra double battery. Two single batteries would provide you with up to 13 hours of battery life and a single and double battery would provide you with an astounding 19.5 hours of battery life! What’s more, you’d only be carrying 5.75 pounds of weight in total, that’s still less than other pulse flow portable oxygen concentrators like the Oxlife Freedom and the AirSep Freestyle 5. 

The Inogen One G5 DC Power Cable

One thing we get very excited to tell oxygen patients about is the Inogen One G5 DC power supply. Why do we like this accessory so much? Because it adds to the many ways the G5 offers you freedom and independence throughout your daily life. Nobody wants to live in a world where they have to count down the hours of freedom they have the moment they live their home in the morning, it’s more reassuring to know that you’ll have access to oxygen wherever you go and the DC power supply offers this.

Perfect for Road Trips

We’ve already talked a lot about flying and taking a cruise with the Inogen One G5, but what about taking a road trip? The G5 DC charging cable allows you to charge your G5 in any vehicle with a cigarette outlet, so you’ll be able to keep your concentrator fully charged during your whole trip. 

If you need to get out and do some sightseeing or to stretch your legs, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you have a fully charged battery to work with. Once you get to the hotel or wherever you’re staying, you’ll be able to charge your G5 with the AC adapter as well via a wall outlet. 

The Inogen One G5 External Battery Charger

One of the lesser-known and potentially underrated accessories for the Inogen One G5 is the external battery charger. Typically, in order to charge your G5 batteries, either through AC or DC power supply, you need to have the battery attached to your device. So, if you like to carry more than one battery on you, this accessory will enable you to charge two batteries at once.

Less Downtime

Life can be unpredictable sometimes. One minute, you could be sitting on the couch watching TV and the next you could be rushing out the door to meet with a friend or loved one. While we can’t always predict everything that we’ll do today, tomorrow, or next week, we can do our best to prepare for it.

By being able to charge two batteries at once, the G5 external battery charger will allow you to be prepared no matter what curveballs life throws at you. If you need to jump up and leave the house at a moment’s notice, you’ll have two full batteries to keep you going as opposed to just one.

Convenient and Easy to Use

The G5 external battery charger is very easy to use and can easily be packed with your extra batteries and charging cables when you’re away from home. Weighing in at just 0.85 pounds and about the size of a hockey puck, the external battery charger can easily be placed on a desk or table to charge and can be placed in your G5 backpack or a purse for safekeeping.

This accessory is very easy to use. Simply plug the AC adapter into the wall and into the external battery charger. Take either your G5 single battery or G5 double battery and plug it into the bottom of the external charger. You’ll see a light indicating that the battery is being charged. And once it’s fully charged, the “100%” symbol will illuminate to show you that your battery is fully charged. That’s it! Now you can simply detach the battery and use it on your G5. Remember to use the AC power cable you already own to charge another battery on the G5. That way, you’ll have no downtime. 

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Backup Oxygen Tubing/Cannulas

Last but certainly not least, it’s a good idea to have some extra cannulas lying around in case you need to replace them. Cannulas are the clear tubes that you attach to the G5 and place in your nose in order to inhale oxygen. Many people don’t know that cannulas come in many different shapes, sizes, and designs, so it’s important to find ones that work best for you and allow you to be comfortable throughout the day.

Cannula Quality

Quality is the most important factor to consider when choosing a nasal cannula or oxygen supply tubing. As you’re moving around and going about your day, low-quality oxygen tubing has a tendency to kink and can even tear if it’s bent out of shape enough. You should make it a habit to check your cannula and tubing regularly to ensure this doesn’t happen, but it’s best to just invest in high-quality nasal cannulas in the first place to avoid this situation.

Tubing Length

Another important thing to consider is the length of the oxygen tubing. Tubing is sold in a variety of lengths like 10 feet, 15 feet, and even longer. Ideally, you’ll want to use shorter tubing because longer tubing can be a tripping hazard and can affect the way oxygen is delivered. When you’re using a pulse flow unit like the Inogen One G5, the device needs to be able to recognize your breaths so it can deliver a precisely timed bolus of oxygen. Most specialists recommend a cannula shorter than 35 feet to ensure the oxygen is being delivered immediately upon inspiration.

Cannula Design

The design of the nasal cannula primarily affects its comfort. There are various types of cannula and depending on your preference, you may choose one over another. Below are the types of cannulas you can choose from.

• Curved prong cannulas
• Flared prong cannulas
• Straight prong cannulas
  
  

You’ll also be able to choose between straight oxygen tubing and coiled oxygen tubing which is great if you want to limit the space your oxygen tubing takes up and it will also make it less of a hazard to you and others. If you need help making your oxygen tubing and cannula more comfortable, we wrote a great article about this a while back. You can find it here.

Conclusion

The Inogen One G5 is a fantastic portable oxygen concentrator. In the short amount of time that it’s been on the market, it’s rapidly become the most sought-after machine due to its reliability, long battery life, and high oxygen output. But we’d be remiss not to mention all the great G5 accessories that help you make the most out of your new device.

The seven accessories we listed above will offer you more freedom in the way that you use your G5 and ensure that you always have access to medical oxygen wherever you go. If you have any questions at all about the Inogen One G5 or G5 accessories, don’t hesitate to reach out to us or stay tuned to our blog for updates on the latest Inogen products.

If you’ve been tuning into our blog the last couple weeks, you probably read our post comparing the Inogen G5 and the Inogen G3. In this post, we showed you some of the key differences between the units that you may not have known such as their size, weight, and battery life.

While the G5 and G3 are widely considered to be the best portable oxygen concentrators on the market, they are far from your only options. There are a host of high-quality portable oxygen concentrators by Inogen, Philips Respironics, SeQual, and more that have broken boundaries in the oxygen therapy field.

So, in an effort to better inform buyers about their options, we make it a priority to give each portable oxygen concentrator its fair share of time and shine a spotlight on the unique features of each device. In this post, we’re going to compare the Inogen One G5 portable oxygen concentrator and the Inogen One G4 portable oxygen concentrator.

If you have any questions about what you read here, feel free to leave them in the comment section below or get in touch with one of our respiratory specialists. They will be able to walk you through your options and respond to any questions or concerns you may have about Inogen portable oxygen concentrators.

Inogen One G4 Overview

The Inogen One G4 was released in 2016 to the U.S. market. At this time, it produced more oxygen per pound than any other portable unit and was praised for allowing COPD patients around the world to regain their freedom and independence.

The Inogen One G4 adapted a new design over the G3 which opted for a more sleek and minimalist look. Instead of the sieve beds being visible on the outside of the unit like with the G3, they’re embedded in the front of the unit in one single column. 

Another welcome addition to the G4 was its connectivity. The new Inogen Connect app allowed users to interact with their portable oxygen concentrator via their smartphone or tablet. This app allows people to see their battery life, column condition, and other information without ever having to look at their G4 control panel.

Inogen One G5 Overview

Releasing in the summer of 2019, the Inogen One G5 is the latest and greatest portable oxygen concentrator available from Inogen. Aside from a few minor changes, the look of the G5 remained mostly untouched from the Inogen One G4.  

The most notable improvement with the G5 is that it doubled the oxygen output of the G4. This expanded pulse dose technology significantly and allowed more people to benefit from ultra-lightweight portable oxygen concentrators.

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Weight

For many people, weight is the single most important factor when it comes to portable oxygen concentrators. With a light portable oxygen concentrator, you’ll be able to go where you want and do what you please without being overburdened or becoming breathless after a few minutes of walking. 

Both the Inogen One G5 and the Inogen One G4 are pulse flow concentrators. What this means is that oxygen is only delivered when the patient inhales as opposed to continuous flow where oxygen is put out persistently. Using this technology, oxygen concentrator manufacturers are able to make smaller devices that still provide you with a reliable source of oxygen.

One of the major selling points for the Inogen One G4 is that it’s the lightest Inogen concentrator ever produced. The only concentrator that has it beat in this category is the AirSep Focus which has less oxygen output and shorter battery life. The Inogen G4 weighs in at just 4 pounds with the single battery which is a half-pound lighter than the G5.

Oxygen Output

Oxygen output is probably the most objective aspect of oxygen concentrators; you’re either getting the oxygen you need to stay healthy, or you need a device that puts out more oxygen. If you need to be on a flow setting of 3 or higher, then the G5 will always be a better unit for you because the G4 only goes up to a setting of 3.

Conversely, if you are in the early stages of COPD and see no reason to have a device that goes up to a setting of 6, then the G3 may be perfect for you. Another thing to note about oxygen output is because the G4 is so light you may not need as much oxygen to feel normal. However, before adjusting your flow setting you need to first speak with your pulmonologist.

One thing you need to take into consideration when deciding between the G5 and G4 is whether or not you will be moving to a higher flow rating anytime in the future. If you already use a setting of 3 and your doctor predicts you may need to move up soon, it would be wise to invest in a unit that can go higher than that.

Size

Size is one factor that you may find important when purchasing a portable oxygen concentrator. Large portable oxygen concentrators and oxygen tanks are not only heavy, but they tend to have awkward shapes as well. For example, oxygen tanks are long and have nozzles on the end that tend to get caught on things like clothing. This makes it difficult to store it anywhere without worrying about it getting damaged.

The G4 and G5, on the other hand, are designed in a way that makes them very easy to carry and store. They’re more box-shaped than many portable oxygen concentrators on the market meaning they don’t take up any more space than they have to. There isn’t anything that protrudes from the device either so you won’t have to worry about it getting caught on anything.

In terms of the actual dimensions, the G4 and G5 are pretty similar, however, the G4 is the lighter of the two units. The G4 is 7.2” H x 5.91” L x 2.68” W and the G5 is 8.15" H x 7.19" L x 3.26" W. That’s not a huge difference, but if you’re looking for the smallest unit possible, the Inogen One G4 is a great machine to go with.

Sound Level

People often come to us and express the concern that their oxygen concentrator will be too loud and that they’re worried about taking it places because it may disturb people. Fortunately, most concentrators on the market are pretty quiet, even continuous flow units, and shouldn’t be a cause for concern. 

The Inogen One G5 rings in at just 38 decibels while the G4 is just two higher than that at 40 decibels on a flow setting of two. Either way, that’s about the sound level of a whisper or a quiet conversation. 

Another thing to take note of is the audible alert system that’s built into both the G4 and the G5. The audible alerts will notify you when your battery is low or if certain parts need replacement. If you are in a public area, you may want to disable this and re-enable it once you’re back home because the alerts may be louder than the actual concentrator.

Battery Life

Because portable oxygen concentrators cannot be plugged into the wall at all times like a home oxygen concentrator, they need a power source to draw from. The quality and longevity of your batteries are important because you don’t want to be out of the house without a way to power your portable oxygen concentrator.

Within the past couple of years, Inogen has put a lot of work into making their batteries more lightweight, efficient, and reliable. The Inogen One G5 double battery can go up to an astounding 13 hours on one charge with a flow setting of 1. That’s a steep incline from the G4’s maximum battery life of just 5 hours on a setting of 1.

FAA Approved

Part of regaining your freedom and independence means being able to fly on a plane again without hassle. Fortunately, you can rest easy knowing that both the Inogen One G5 and the Inogen One G4 are approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). What this means is that you’ll be able to bring your oxygen concentrator onto the plane as a carry-on item no matter where you are in the world. Due to the size and weight of the G4, you’ll have more options when it comes to storing your device while in flight.

Connectivity

One thing that’s unique to both the Inogen One G4 and Inogen One G5 is their connectivity. Whenever you purchase one of these devices, you will have access to a free smartphone application that connects to your portable oxygen concentrator. This app is called Inogen Connect.

Using the Inogen Connect app, you will be able to get important updates about your POC without ever having to look at it. Below is some of the information you will see:

• Battery status
• Software updates
• cannula and filter maintenance updates
• Column life
• Troubleshooting tips, FAQS, and the user manual
• Oxygen purity status
  
  

There’s no understating how convenient it is to have Inogen Connect. Unlike with other portable oxygen concentrators on the market, you’ll never have to take your user manual with you or remove the device from its carrying case to check its battery status or view other important information.

G4 and G5 Side-by-Side Comparison

Who Should Buy the Inogen One G4? 

The Inogen One G4 is a fantastic portable oxygen machine that’s still the second lightest unit on the market, despite it being several years old. The best candidate for the Inogen One G4 is someone who wants a lightweight and small form factor concentrator that’s backed by a reputable and reliable brand like Inogen. However, be aware that it only goes up to a pulse flow setting of 3.

While the Inogen G4 is not the newest oxygen concentrator by Inogen, it remains a popular unit among COPD patients all over the world. Due to the high demand for the G4 Inogen still supports it by selling batteries, accessories, and replacement parts. Patients looking to buy a G4 will be happy to find that Inogen will support the device for years to come.

Who Should Buy the Inogen One G5?

The Inogen One G5 is the fifth generation of portable oxygen concentrators by Inogen. It’s the most advanced unit they offer with an impeccable battery life, lightweight design, and high oxygen output. The ideal candidate for the G5 is someone who wants the best battery life and highest oxygen output possible for a pulse flow unit.

Since the Inogen One G5 is the newest device by Inogen, you will always be able to find technical support if you need it. Most oxygen retailers sell this unit and many of them will repair it or send you replacement parts if you need it. Currently, the G5 offers the highest oxygen output of any pulse flow unit and the longest battery life.  

Conclusion

As you can see, both the Inogen One G4 and the Inogen One G5 are viable portable oxygen concentrators. While the G5 is still the most advanced oxygen concentrator on the market, the G4 still has a lot to offer if you want an extremely small and lightweight unit. At the end of the day, it’s a matter of what your oxygen demands and preferences are.

Personally, we love the Inogen One G5 because it’s proficient or excels at everything it does including battery life, weight, size, oxygen output, and more. As such, we gave it the title, “the best portable oxygen concentrator of 2020.” If you’re still not sure which oxygen concentrator is right for you, be sure to get in touch with us and we’ll walk you through your options.

Living healthily and happily with COPD is all about developing healthy lifestyle habits and learning how to keep your symptoms under control. Because it is a chronic disease with no real cure, the only way to manage it is by keeping up with daily medication and carefully following treatment goals.

That's why all COPD patients should have a personalized COPD action plan to help them keep track of their medications and other treatment goals.

A COPD action plan is a comprehensive set of instruction on how to manage and treat your COPD. It's the most important tool you have for keeping your symptoms under control and preserving the health of your lungs and the rest of your body.

A typical action plan includes all the important parts of your COPD treatment, including your medication schedule, what to do when your symptoms act up, and your diet and exercise regimen. It also helps you remember what to do in an emergency and know when to see your doctor for a problem.

In this post, we're going to help you better understand what a COPD action plan is and how you can use it to better manage your disease. We'll show you what a good action plan looks like, how to make one with your doctor, and how to put your treatment plan into action.

Crafting your COPD Action Plan

Putting together your COPD action plan is an individualized process that you and your doctor will go through together. Every patient's action plan is unique and tailored to fit their personal needs.

A good COPD action plan will give you detailed treatment instructions and clear plan for what to do if your symptoms get worse. It should take your medical history, lifestyle, symptoms, and other life factors into account.

As you and your doctor work on your action plan, it's important to have a clear picture of both your current situation and your future goals. Here are some tips to help you and your doctor better understand your condition and get on the same page.

Track Your Symptoms

Helping you manage your COPD symptoms is the most important purpose of a good COPD action plan. But in order for it to be useful and accurate, you and your doctor need to have as much information as possible about all symptoms you experience and how they fluctuate over time.

The best way to get a better understanding of your symptoms is to record them daily with a journal or a symptom checklist. This will help you remember what symptoms you had and when you had them the next time you talk to your doctor, and to track patterns and changes over time.

You should try to make your notes as detailed as you can so that you and your doctor have as much information to work with as possible. Make sure you write down any and all ailments you experience, even ones that seem small or inconsequential.

The more information you have on your condition and symptoms, the more useful your action plan will be. However, it's worth writing down your symptoms even after you have an action plan in place. It will not only make it easier to notice changes in your condition as the disease progresses, but will also help you adjust your action plan as your symptoms change.

Here are some tips for what you should include in your daily symptom diary:

• Write a list of any and all physical and psychological symptoms you experience every day, especially breathing and respiratory problems. (e.g. breathlessness, fatigue, muscle weakness, coughing, anxiety, depression, etc.)
  
  
• Record and notable changes or improvements in your symptoms compared to recent days.
  
  
• Record any changes in the frequency or severity of your cough, and note any changes in the color and consistency of any mucus you cough up.
  
  
• Keep a detailed record of any breathing issues and when they get better or worse throughout the day. Record what kinds of activities cause you to feel short of breath and your general ease of breathing from day to day.
  
  
• Keep track of how much sleep you get (in general) and any sleeping difficulties you have, such as insomnia or waking up frequently during the night.
  
  
• Write down the general time and situation in which your symptoms occurred. (e.g. all day long, in the morning, after eating lunch, after exercising, after going to bed, etc.)
  
  
• Include any special circumstances surrounding your symptoms. (e.g. you were outside in the heat, your allergies were acting up, you forgot to take your daily medication, etc.)
  
  
• Keep track of your overall mood and mental state from day to day. (e.g. you felt tired, you felt motivated, you felt anxious, etc.)
  
  
• Record any prescription or over the counter medications you took that day and approximately what time you took them.
  
  
• Keep track of any exercise or physical activities you do.
  
  
• Record any smoking, tobacco, or other drug use (including alcohol).

As you start your COPD symptom diary, it may help to have a complete list of COPD symptoms on hand to help you know what to look out for. You can also use a COPD symptom checklist, like this one here, to help you remember what's important to keep track of.

Think About Your Goals

In general, it is the goal of every COPD patient to breathe easier and reduce other respiratory symptoms. However, these larger goals are difficult to reach without first breaking them down into smaller goals that are easier to act on.

For example, if you smoke cigarettes, one of your goals could be to reduce the amount of cigarettes you smoke or stop smoking altogether. You could break this goal down into even smaller steps, too, such as going to a smoking cessation counselor or joining a quit smoking program.

You should also think about your lifestyle and any areas that you need to improve. For example, you may need to lose weight, eat more fruits and vegetables, or get more exercise to keep your body strong and prevent COPD complications.

Other goals might relate directly to your symptoms and helping you breathe comfortably throughout the day. Things like always taking your medications as directed, pacing yourself during exercise, and utilizing therapeutic breathing techniques can help you reach those goals.

Once you know what you are striving for, you and your doctor can put together a treatment plan that addresses all of these goals. The following list will give you an idea of some of the major treatment goals that you should consider as you craft your COPD action plan.

General COPD Treatment Goals:

• Quitting smoking
• Improving your ability to breathe
• Getting more exercise to strengthen your body and lungs
• Eating a healthier, COPD-friendly diet
• Reducing coughing, wheezing, and other respiratory symptoms
• Reducing the number of COPD flare-ups and exacerbations you have
• Reducing your risk of COPD complications (e.g. heart attacks and osteoporosis)
• Slowing your disease from progressing further
• Working with your doctor and other medical specialists to track your symptoms and achieve your treatment goals

Consult With Your Doctor

Once you've had time to track your symptoms and brainstorm your treatment goals, it's time to sit down with your doctor to put together a comprehensive COPD action plan. Your doctor may have a standard template, like this one, to fill out, or he might put together a custom document for you to take home.

Make sure you bring your symptom diary and any other information about your medical history that your doctor may need. Your doctor will also use lung function tests, including spirometry, to determine your treatment and medication needs.

It's important for your doctor to include you in his process and thoroughly explain every part of your action plan and how to use it. Take the time to look over your treatment plan carefully and don't be afraid to ask questions or ask for clarification.

While your COPD action plan helps your doctor coordinate your medications and treatment goals, your action plan's primary purpose is to be a resource for you. It is very important that you understand your plan in its entirety and how to use it to manage your disease on a daily basis.

Depending on your condition and situation, you may have a team of doctors and specialists working to help you stay healthy. In this case, you will need to coordinate your action plan with all of your caretakers to ensure your plan is as cohesive and comprehensive as possible.

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The Three Zones of Your COPD Action Plan

It's important to understand that your COPD action plan is actually split up into three distinct plans of action. From here on out, we will refer to these three plans as the green zone, yellow zone, and red zone action plans, as this is the typical way to organize them.

These three zones make up the core of your COPD action plan and tell you what to do in different situations. They tell you how manage your COPD when your symptoms are normal (green), worse (yellow), and severe (red), and how to know which zone's action plan to use.

This scheme is very useful for helping you recognize when you experience a flare-up or you need to call your doctor or seek emergency medical attention. It also helps you remember how to stay healthy and what to do when your symptoms get worse.

Think of each zone as representing a specific plan of action depending on how you feel on a particular day. It is composed of two main parts: your symptoms and the actions you should take.

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The first part is a description of the symptoms and the duration of symptoms that correspond to that particular zone. This is meant to help you recognize when your symptoms fit the requirements for that zone's action plan, so you can always tell when to take the actions for that zone.

The second part is a list of actions you should take whenever you experience the symptoms that correspond to that zone. It may include things like what medication to use, how much exercise you should do, breathing techniques, mental health strategies, and other instructions for keeping yourself healthy.

For example, the green zone would include your normal, baseline symptoms and strategies for managing them on a regular basis. It would also include a list of actions to take on a regular day when your symptoms are at a typical level.

The Yellow zone should include a description of what it looks like when your symptoms flare up, and what to do to manage them and keep them from getting even worse. You would refer to the actions and strategies in this zone when you experience a minor flare up or exacerbation.

The red zone gives you instructions on what you should do when your symptoms get more severe. It will help you recognize at what point you should seek medical attention and what to do in an emergency.

The symptoms and actions that go in each zone will depend on your medical history, lung function, and your personal COPD symptoms. Since it is based on your baseline symptoms, which may be more or less severe, your green zone action plan may differ significantly from other patients, and will change as your disease progresses.

Here is an overview of the different action plan zones and when you should use them:

• Green Zone: “I am doing well today.” Use this plan when your symptoms are at a normal, baseline level, and you feel well enough to continue your usual exercise and activities.
  
  
• Yellow Zone: “I am not feeling well today or I am experience a COPD flare-up.” Use this plan when your symptoms are worse than normal, you are having difficulty breathing during your usual activities, or you notice a change in your mucus, your sleep quality, your appetite, or the frequency with which you have to use your quick-relief medications.
  
  
• Red Zone: “I need urgent medical care.” Use this plan if your symptoms become very severe, to the point that you feel shortness of breath at rest and are unable to do any physical activity. Breathing difficulties that severely interfere with sleep, fever or shaking chills, feeling confused, coughing up blood, or having chest pains are other signs that you need emergency medical care and need to follow your red zone plan.

To see an example of what an actual COPD action plan looks like, you can check out this sample plan from the American Lung Association.

Daily Treatment Goals and Instructions (Green Zone)

Your daily symptom management and treatment goals—the green zone—is one of the most important aspects of your COPD treatment plan. It contains all the medications and actions you should take on a typical-symptom day to stay healthy and keep your symptoms under control.

When your symptoms are at your usual baseline level, you should follow the actions in this plan. If you keep your COPD well-managed and minimize flare-ups, you should be able to use your green zone plan on most days.

It's a good idea to review this part of your plan regularly, even though you use it often, just to jog your memory and review your goals, medications, and treatments. It will help you stay motivated, keep on track, and remind you of any habits or treatment methods you may have gotten lazy about doing.

Your Plan for Managing Flare-ups and Exacerbations (Yellow Zone)

Generally, any noticeable increase in COPD symptoms should direct you to use your yellow zone action plan, including feeling low on energy, experiencing more difficulty breathing, worsened coughing, or changes in your sleep quality and appetite. You should also look for changes in the color and consistency of your mucus and how frequently you have to use your quick relief medications.

When your symptoms flare-up or your breathing problems get worse, your yellow zone plan will tell you exactly what you need to do to keep your symptoms under control. It should include your usual maintenance medication along with instructions on how to use your quick-relief medications effectively.

Your yellow zone action play will likely include other treatments for reducing your symptoms, such as breathing techniques and mucus clearance techniques, which we will discuss more in the following sections. It may also include stricter guidelines for using supplemental oxygen and protecting your lungs from inflammatory environments and irritants.

Your doctor may instruct you to start taking a course of antibiotics or corticosteroid medications when your symptoms get worse as part of your yellow zone action plan. You may also need to call your doctor if your symptoms don't get better within a day or two.

Your Plan For Emergencies (Red Zone)

The purpose of your red zone action plan is to remind you of what to do in an emergency. You should follow this plan when your symptoms become so severe that you have difficulty breathing at rest.

Extreme shortness of breath, severe fatigue that interferes with daily living, or being unable to do light physical activity is a sign that you need to seek immediate medical attention. Other signs include chest pain, coughing up blood, fever, chills, confusion, and symptoms that are so severe that you are unable to sleep at night.

If you experience any of these symptoms, follow your red zone action plan and call 911, or have someone else drive you to the emergency room as quickly as possible. You may also need to take a medication or adjust your oxygen prescription to help you cope until you get to the hospital.

The Components of a Good COPD Action Plan

A good COPD action plan contains everything you need to know about managing your disease on a daily basis and when your symptoms flare up. It should tell you what medications to take every day, what medications to take when your symptoms get worse, and all the actions and habits you need to do on a regular basis to keep your lungs healthy and your symptoms under control.

Many action plans also include information about your diet, exercise, and lifestyle goals related to your COPD. In these next sections, we'll explain all the different components that your COPD action plan may include as part of your green and/or yellow zone plans.

Your Medications

Your COPD action plan should include all of the prescription and over-the-counter medications that you need to treat your COPD. It should tell you what medication to take when your symptoms are at baseline, what medication to use as-needed (and when to use it), as well as the correct dosage and the frequency that you should take it.

Your maintenance medications help you breathe easier on a daily basis and are the cornerstone of daily COPD treatment. However, you have to take them every single day as directed by your doctor in order for them to be as effective as they can be.

On the other hand, not keeping up with your daily maintenance medications can make your symptoms worse and cause your COPD to progress faster. By keeping your symptoms minimized on a daily basis, your maintenance medicine is very important for staving off flare-ups, exacerbations, heart problems, and other serious COPD complications.

Your doctor may also prescribe quick-relief or rescue medications—in addition to your maintenance medicine—to use as part of your yellow zone action plan on days when you experience worsened COPD symptoms. These medications help reduce sudden, uncontrolled symptoms and help you breathe easier when your symptoms flare up.

Your doctor may also give you a course of steroid medication or antibiotics to use when you notice your symptoms getting out of hand. Most of the time, you will be instructed to take them if your symptoms stay worse for more than a day or two or when you notice the signs of an oncoming exacerbation.

Whenever you start a course of antibiotics, it's very important that you continue to take the entire course, even after you start to feel better. As long as you use them correctly and as directed by your doctor, antibiotics and steroid medications can help you avoid serious exacerbations and recover from flare-ups more quickly.

Your COPD action plan should also include information about any vaccines you need, including pneumonia and influenza vaccines. Most adults need another dose of the pneumonia vaccine after the age of 65, and all COPD patients should get their yearly flu shot to stave off exacerbations and infections.

Whatever medications your doctor recommends should be included in your action plan along with enough detail to help you use them reliably and consistently. If you have any questions about your medications or how to use them, talk to your doctor and ask him to clarify the instructions in your plan.

Breathing Exercises

Breathing exercises like pursed lips breathing and diaphragmatic breathing are a vital part of daily COPD management for patients who struggle with shortness of breath. These breathing techniques help you control your breaths and even strengthen the muscles in your chest that you use to breathe.

Practicing breathing techniques every day can help you keep your breathing steady and under control when you exercise and do other active, daily tasks. They can also help you manage minor symptom flare-ups and get through bouts of coughing more easily.

If you deal with breathlessness and coughing often, your doctor may recommend breathing exercises as part of your everyday COPD management plan. They may also be helpful to practice when your symptoms get worse as part of your yellow zone action plan, too.

Managing Airway Congestion

Excess mucus is a common symptom that many COPD patients have to manage. If you don't take care to stay hydrated and clear the mucus out of your lungs, it can make symptoms like coughing and breathlessness worse.

If you let mucus build up in your airways, it narrows the passages that air can flow through and makes it more difficult to breathe. Mucus buildup can also trap bacteria, viruses, and irritating particles that can inflame your airways or cause infections in your lungs.

Because of this, keeping your airways clear of mucus is often an important part of managing COPD. To address this, your treatment plan may include mucus clearance techniques to use when you get excess phlegm.

The goal of mucus clearance techniques is to dislodge stuck mucus from the walls of your airways and cough it up and out of your lungs. Often a two-pronged approach of proper hydration and huff coughing can help you keep congestion under control.

Staying hydrated thins out your mucus, while coughing moves the mucus up through your airways so you can cough it up through your mouth. Your doctor may also recommend a variety of other mucus clearance techniques and aids, such as chest percussion, positional drainage, or using a special high frequency chest wall oscillation vest, as part of your COPD action plan.

Quitting Smoking

If you are a smoker, then quitting should be your number one priority and included as part of your COPD action plan. Quitting smoking will help prevent further damage to your lungs, reduce flare-ups, and preserve the lung function that you still have left.

To help you quit, you may want to include a quit smoking program or therapy as part of your COPD management plan. If you are unable to quit, reducing the number of cigarettes you smoke or seeing a smoking cessation therapist can help put you on the right track to ending your addiction.

If you want help quitting smoking, check out this article, “Where to Get Help When You Decide to Quit Smoking,” from the National Cancer Institute. You can also get more information about smoking cessation and quit smoking resources from the CDC, the American Lung Association, smokefree.gov, and many other places online.

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