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ResMed AirMini Review: The World’s Smallest Travel CPAP
You have finally achieved consistent sleep apnea treatment at home, only to watch your progress unravel every time you travel. Dr. Avinesh Bhar, CEO of SLIIIP and someone who also suffers from sleep apnea, shares his thoughts on the ResMed AirMini review. He and his team of board-certified sleep doctors have helped over 10,000 patients in 40 states sleep better.
ResMed designed the AirMini specifically for people in this situation. Roughly the size of a smartphone and weighing less than a pound, the AirMini packs the same therapy algorithms as ResMed’s popular AirSense 10 home machines into a device that fits in your palm. Its waterless humidification system eliminates the need to carry distilled water, and its FAA approval means you can use it during flights.
Ready to Get Started with the AirMini?
At Sliiip, we offer the AirMini with compatible mask packs to get you traveling with confidence:
- AirMini with AirFit P10 Mask Pack (Nasal Pillows)
- AirMini with AirFit N30 Mask Pack (Nasal Cradle)
- AirMini with AirFit N20 Mask Pack (Nasal Mask)
Book a Consultation with our board-certified sleep doctors to find the right setup for your needs.
This comprehensive review examines the AirMini’s specifications, features, real-world performance, and limitations to help you decide whether it deserves a place in your travel bag.
Specifications at a Glance
The ResMed AirMini measures 5.4 inches long, 3.3 inches wide, and 2.1 inches tall. At just 0.66 pounds (300 grams or 10.6 ounces), it weighs less than most smartphones. For comparison, a standard home CPAP machine like the ResMed AirSense 10 weighs 2.75 pounds and measures roughly 10 by 5 by 6 inches.
The ResMed AirMini delivers therapy pressure ranging from 4 to 20 cmH2O, matching the range of most home machines. It operates at approximately 30 dBA, which ResMed describes as whisper-quiet, though some users report the total system noise (including mask exhaust) feels louder than their home machines.
The device uses a universal power supply accepting 100 to 240 volts at 50 or 60 Hz, making it compatible with electrical systems worldwide without requiring voltage converters. The included power supply unit connects to the machine via a proprietary connector.
ResMed backs the AirMini with a two-year warranty on the device itself, with mask components covered for 90 days.
Have More Questions?
Our sleep specialists are here to help you find the right travel CPAP solution.
Book a Consultation | Email: info@sliiip.com | Call: 478-238-3552
Therapy Modes and Comfort Features
The AirMini uses the same proven therapy algorithms as the ResMed AirSense 10, delivering identical treatment quality in its miniaturized form. Every AirMini includes three therapy modes: fixed-pressure CPAP, AutoSet (APAP), and AutoSet for Her.
In CPAP mode, the machine delivers a constant pressure throughout the night at your prescribed level. AutoSet mode automatically adjusts pressure breath-by-breath based on your breathing patterns, responding to events as they occur and reducing pressure when your airway remains open. AutoSet for Her uses algorithms specifically designed for women, who often experience different apnea patterns than men.
AutoRamp technology starts therapy at a lower pressure to help you fall asleep comfortably, then gradually increases to your prescribed level over 5 to 45 minutes. The machine uses sleep onset detection to determine when you have fallen asleep before ramping up, so you experience minimal disturbance during the transition.
Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR) reduces air pressure during exhalation, making breathing feel more natural. You can set EPR at levels 1, 2, or 3, with higher numbers providing greater pressure reduction. Many users find EPR essential for comfortable therapy, especially at higher pressure settings.
HumidX Waterless Humidification
The AirMini’s most innovative feature is its HumidX waterless humidification system. Traditional CPAP humidifiers add moisture to the air using a heated water chamber, which requires distilled water and adds bulk to the equipment. The HumidX takes a completely different approach.
HumidX is a heat and moisture exchanger (HME) that captures the warmth and moisture from your exhaled breath, stores it in the cartridge, and returns it to you on your next inhalation. This creates a continuous cycle of humidification without any external water source.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/gAaqYufGvqY
ResMed offers two versions: standard HumidX for normal conditions and HumidX Plus for dry environments like airplane cabins, desert climates, or air-conditioned hotel rooms. The cartridges fit into the tubing connector near the mask, positioning the humidification close to your airway.
HumidX cartridges should be replaced every 30 days after opening the packaging, regardless of how many nights they are used during that period. At roughly $5 per cartridge when purchased in bulk, ongoing costs are modest but should be factored into your budget.
The waterless system offers significant convenience advantages: no water chamber to fill or clean, no risk of spills in your luggage, no need to find distilled water in foreign countries, and no condensation buildup (“rainout”) in your tubing. For travelers, these benefits often outweigh the limitations.
Mask Compatibility
The AirMini’s most significant limitation is its restricted mask compatibility. Unlike standard CPAP machines that work with virtually any mask, the AirMini requires specific ResMed masks designed for its proprietary tubing system.
Compatible masks include the AirFit P10 for AirMini (nasal pillows), AirFit N20 and AirTouch N20 (nasal masks), AirFit N30 for AirMini (nasal cradle), and AirFit F20 and AirTouch F20 (full face masks). The AirFit F30 full face mask is also compatible but cannot use HumidX humidification.
Each compatible mask requires a corresponding setup pack that includes the specialized tubing, mask connector, and HumidX cartridges. If you already own one of these masks in its standard version, you will still need to purchase the AirMini-specific setup pack to connect it to the machine.
The HumidX waterless humidification system works only with the P10, N20, N30, and F20 masks. If you use the F30 or connect a non-compatible mask through a third-party adapter, you lose access to HumidX entirely.
Third-party adapters like the Zephair Universal Tube Adapter do allow you to connect standard CPAP masks with 22mm connections to the AirMini. However, this workaround disables HumidX humidification and may produce different noise characteristics. For users committed to their existing non-ResMed masks, this limitation alone may disqualify the
App Integration and Data Tracking
The AirMini connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth, allowing you to control settings and view therapy data through the AirMini app. Available for both iOS and Android, the app provides convenient bedside control without requiring you to interact with the device directly.
Through the app, you can adjust comfort settings including EPR level, AutoRamp duration, and therapy mode. You can also perform mask fit tests to check for leaks, view a simplified daily sleep score, and access 30 days of basic therapy data including usage hours and mask seal quality.
It is worth noting that the AirMini app is separate from the myAir app used with AirSense 10 and 11 machines. If you use both a home machine and the AirMini, your therapy data will be split between two different apps rather than consolidated in one place.
Power Options
The AirMini includes an AC power adapter that works worldwide without voltage converters. Simply pack the appropriate plug adapter for your destination’s outlets, and you are ready to use the machine in any hotel room.
For off-grid use, several battery options are available as separate purchases. The Medistrom Pilot-24 Lite is a popular choice, providing enough power for one to two nights of therapy depending on your pressure settings. ResMed also offers the AirMini DC/DC Converter that allows you to power the device from a 12V or 24V DC source like a car cigarette lighter socket.
Because the AirMini does not have a heated humidifier, its power consumption is significantly lower than standard CPAP machines. This makes battery use more practical and extends run time compared to what you might achieve with a home machine on battery power.
Comparison to Transcend Micro
The Transcend Micro has claimed the title of world’s smallest travel CPAP, measuring smaller and lighter than the AirMini. Understanding how these two leading travel machines compare helps determine which better suits your needs.
The Transcend Micro weighs 0.48 pounds compared to the AirMini’s 0.66 pounds, and its spherical shape packs into smaller spaces. If absolute minimization of size and weight is your priority, the Micro has a slight edge.
Mask compatibility strongly favors the Transcend Micro, which works with any standard CPAP mask using a 22mm connection right out of the box. The AirMini’s restriction to specific ResMed masks, while offering excellent options, limits flexibility for users committed to other brands.
The AirMini’s HumidX waterless humidification is integrated into the system design, while the Transcend Micro uses the AirMist HME or other compatible heat moisture exchangers. Both approaches eliminate the need for distilled water, but the AirMini’s HumidX system is specifically designed for its masks while the Micro’s solution works universally.
The Transcend Micro includes a 30-minute drying mode that circulates air through your mask and hose to reduce bacteria growth, a feature particularly valuable when traveling without easy access to cleaning facilities. The AirMini does not offer this function.
App experience differs between the machines. The AirMini app is generally considered more user-friendly for quick adjustments, while the Transcend’s MySleepDash app provides more detailed compliance data for users who want to analyze their therapy in depth.
Who Should Buy the ResMed AirMini?
The AirMini is an excellent choice for existing ResMed users who already own compatible masks. If you use an AirFit P10, N20, or F20 at home, the AirMini provides familiar therapy in a highly portable package. The ability to use the same mask model reduces the learning curve and ensures consistent comfort.
Frequent business travelers benefit significantly from the AirMini’s compact size and waterless operation. The device slides into a laptop bag, passes through airport security without hassle, and requires no hunting for distilled water in foreign cities. FAA approval means you can use it during overnight flights.
Users who prioritize app integration will appreciate the AirMini’s smartphone connectivity. The ability to adjust settings, check mask fit, and view sleep scores without touching the device itself offers convenience that simpler travel machines lack.
Those who need only moderate humidification will find the HumidX system adequate. If you tolerate your home machine’s humidifier at lower settings or occasionally skip humidification without problems, the waterless system should meet your needs.
Comparison to Transcend Micro
The Transcend Micro has claimed the title of world’s smallest travel CPAP, measuring smaller and lighter than the AirMini. Understanding how these two leading travel machines compare helps determine which better suits your needs.
Feature | ResMed AirMini | Transcend Micro |
Weight | 0.66 lbs (300g) | 0.48 lbs (218g) |
Noise Level | ~30 dBA | 25-29 dBA |
Mask Compatibility | ResMed masks only | Any standard CPAP mask |
Humidification | HumidX (waterless) | AirMist HME (universal) |
Drying Mode | No | Yes (30 minutes) |
App Experience | User-friendly | Detailed compliance data |
Price | $800-$1,000+ | Lower price point |
Size and Weight: The Transcend Micro weighs 0.48 pounds compared to the AirMini’s 0.66 pounds, and its spherical shape packs into smaller spaces. If absolute minimization of size and weight is your priority, the Micro has a slight edge.
Mask Compatibility: This strongly favors the Transcend Micro, which works with any standard CPAP mask using a 22mm connection right out of the box. The AirMini’s restriction to specific ResMed masks, while offering excellent options, limits flexibility for users committed to other brands.
Humidification: The AirMini’s HumidX waterless humidification is integrated into the system design, while the Transcend Micro uses the AirMist HME or other compatible heat moisture exchangers. Both approaches eliminate the need for distilled water, but the AirMini’s HumidX system is specifically designed for its masks while the Micro’s solution works universally.
Noise: Noise levels officially favor the Transcend Micro at 25-29 dBA compared to the AirMini’s 30 dBA. The Micro includes a WhisperSoft muffler and built-in sound and vibration dampening technology. However, real-world noise perception is highly individual, and some users find little practical difference between the two.
Special Features: The Transcend Micro includes a 30-minute drying mode that circulates air through your mask and hose to reduce bacteria growth, a feature particularly valuable when traveling without easy access to cleaning facilities. The AirMini does not offer this function.
App Experience: The AirMini app is generally considered more user-friendly for quick adjustments, while the Transcend’s MySleepDash app provides more detailed compliance data for users who want to analyze their therapy in depth.
Value: The Transcend Micro typically has a lower purchase price than the AirMini. Combined with its universal mask compatibility (eliminating the need to purchase ResMed-specific masks), the Micro may represent better value for budget-conscious travelers.
Prefer the Transcend Micro?
The Transcend Micro is the world’s smallest and lightest travel CPAP, compatible with any mask you already own.
- Transcend Micro CPAP + Essentials Pack + FREE Mask ($100 value)
- Transcend Micro Power Bundle (includes battery for off-grid use)
Book a Consultation to discuss which travel CPAP is right for you.
Can the AirMini be used for central sleep apnea?
No, the AirMini is designed for obstructive sleep apnea only. Central sleep apnea requires different treatment approaches such as BiPAP or adaptive servo-ventilation machines.
Have More Questions?
Our sleep specialists are here to help you find the right travel CPAP solution.
Book a Consultation | Email: info@sliiip.com | Call: 478-238-3552
At Sliiip, we specialize in advanced telemedicine for sleep disorders. Our board-certified sleep doctors can diagnose sleep apnea, prescribe CPAP therapy, and help you find the perfect travel solution for your lifestyle.
