The ResMed AirSense 10 Review and Guide - Everything You Need to Know

If you’re in the market for a new CPAP machine, you’ve definitely heard about the AirSense line. ResMed’s AirSense series machines are some of the most popular and best-selling CPAP devices in the world. AirSense 11 has been released more recently than the 10, but the AirSense 10 remains an extremely popular option. Do these machines live up to the hype?

Today we’ll compare the different models in the AirSense 10 line, explore the features you need to know, and answer the most common questions CPAP users have about these machines!

Table of Contents

• What's the Difference In AirSense Models?
• What Features Make the AirSense Different From Other CPAPs?
• Frequently Asked Questions About the AirSense 10
• Will Insurance Cover the AirSense 10?

What's the Difference In AirSense Models?

“AirSense 10” actually covers a whole line of CPAP and APAP machines, including four different versions: the AirSense 10 CPAP, Elite, AutoSet, and AutoSet for Her. Each comes with a built-in heated humidifier, slimline CPAP tubing, power supply, travel bag, and a filter with cover. They share some of their most popular features, including:

• Climate Control
• Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR)
• SmartStart
• Integrated Humidifier
• AutoRamp with sleep onset detection
• Color LCD screen with simple, user-friendly controls
• Built-in cellular connectivity
• Access to the myAir program and app

The biggest difference is that the AirSense 10 CPAP and Elite models are both fixed-pressure CPAP devices, while the AutoSet and AutoSet for Her offer an auto CPAP (APAP) mode. From there, they differ in which advanced features are included:

The AirSense 10 CPAP machine is ResMed’s entry-level model for the this line, but don’t mistake it for a run-of-the-mill CPAP. While it’s the most budget-friendly fixed-pressure CPAP device of the group, it still comes standard with tons of advanced features– like SmartStart, AutoRamp, and Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR). It also features the whisper-quiet Easy-Breathe motor, integrated humidification, and a built-in ambient light sensor!

The Elite is the premium version of the fixed-pressure CPAP. It includes all of the features of the standard AirSense 10, with the addition of Advanced Event Detection. This detection algorithm monitors your breathing pattern to provide your doctor with important therapy data. It can detect potentially dangerous breathing conditions like Central Sleep Apnea (CSA), Cheyne-Stokes Respiration (CSR), and Respiratory Effort Related Arousal (RERA).

AirSense 10 AutoSet

The AirSense 10 AutoSet is hands-down one of the most advanced PAP therapy devices available today. This premium-level APAP senses your breathing pattern and automatically adjusts your therapy pressure from moment-to-moment and night-to-night. It uses the clinically-published AutoSet algorithm to make sure you only ever get the lowest effective air pressure needed to keep your airways clear.

AirSense 10 AutoSet for Her

The AutoSet for Her is an auto-adjusting APAP with exactly the same features as the AutoSet  –  except its algorithm is specifically designed for the unique ways that sleep apnea can present in women. Its sensitivity to airflow is higher, to help keep your pressure range within the prescribed level even when breathing changes are more subtle.

What Features Make the AirSense 10 Different From Other CPAPs?

It’s easy to dismiss comfort settings as a luxury, but they can make a big difference in getting used to sleep therapy and– more importantly– in sticking with it. Here are some of the features that make the AirSense 10 line among the most top-rated CPAP devices: 

• AutoRamp with Sleep Onset Detection - Starts your therapy at a lower pressure to make it easier to fall asleep. When the AirSense 10 senses that you’re sleeping it gradually raises your airflow up to therapy pressure.    
• SmartStart/Stop - Automatically starts or stops your CPAP therapy when it senses you’ve put your mask on or taken your mask off. 
• Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR) - Reduces air pressure during exhalation so that breathing feels more comfortable and natural.
• Climate Control -  Automatically adjusts your HumidAir humidifier (and ClimateLineAir heated tube, if you have it) to keep a constant temperature and humidity level. Heated tubing gently warms your airflow and helps prevent moisture in your mask. 
• Ambient Light Sensor - Automatically adjusts the brightness of the LCD screen based on the amount of light in your room.
• AirView - Allows your doctor or healthcare provider to remotely access your therapy data, and even to adjust your settings and troubleshoot your machine when necessary.
• Easy-Breathe Motor - Clocks in at only 27 decibels (dBa). For comparison, a whisper is around 30 dBa, so the AirSense 10 won't keep you or your bed partner awake.

Frequently Asked Questions About the AirSense

Is the AirSense 10 a CPAP or a BiPAP? 

The AirSense 10 CPAP and Elite are both fixed-pressure CPAPs, while the AutoSet and AutoSet for her are actually APAPs, or auto CPAPs. 

If you’ve been prescribed a BiPAP machine, you’ll want to check out the ResMed AirCurve 10 instead!

What Masks Are Compatible with the AirSense 10?

The AirSense 10 should work with ANY mask, even from other manufacturers! 

However, if you’d like to stick with the ResMed brand we recommend:

• Full Face Masks: AirFit F30, AirFit F30i, or AirTouch F20
• Nasal Masks: AirFit N30, AirFit N30i
• Nasal Pillow Masks: AirFit P10

Does the AirSense 10 Come with a Humidifier?

Yes! All models of the AirSense 10 include a built-in heated humidifier. You can control your humidifier settings manually through the menu, or let the Climate Control adjust your humidification for you!

Can I Use My AirSense 10 without Water?

You can use your ResMed AirSense 10 without water, but you’ll need to turn the humidification settings off in the menu and insert a side cover in place of the water chamber. 

What Happens If the Humidifier Runs Out of Water?

If your water chamber runs out of water, your AirSense 10 will continue to work just fine, but will no longer provide humidification. 

How Much Water Does the AirSense 10 Use?

The AirSense 10 holds about 380 mL of water, or enough to last throughout the night. 

Any excess water leftover in the water chamber should be emptied that morning and refilled with fresh water the following night to prevent the growth of germs and mold. 

How Do I Adjust the Pressure on My AirSense 10?

Your CPAP pressure settings are prescribed by your doctor– based on factors like your health, AHI, BMI, and anatomy– so you should never adjust your air pressure without the supervision of a healthcare professional. 

Thankfully, all AirSense 10 machines are equipped with AirView, which allows your doctor or Sleep Specialist to remotely adjust your CPAP settings and troubleshoot your problems! 

Does the AirSense 10 Come with a Warranty?

All AirSense 10 machines come with ResMed’s 2-year manufacturer warranty

How Does the AirSense 10 Compare With the AirSense 11?

The biggest difference between the AirSense 10 and 11 is that there are no longer Auto CPAP versions of the machine in the AirSense 11. It has both CPAP and APAP capability, as well as a for-her setting, so there’s no need for separate machines.

Additionally, the AirSense 11 is a bit smaller and lighter than the 10, and it comes with advanced features like personal therapy assistant and Bluetooth connectivity.

Will Insurance Cover the AirSense 10?

If you’re shopping for your first CPAP, or if your current CPAP is 5 years old or older, chances are pretty good that your insurance will cover one of the AirSense 10 models!

That said, every policy is different, and your coverage may come with certain requirements. That’s where Aeroflow Sleep comes in! Your personal Aeroflow Sleep Specialist will reach out to your insurance provider directly… then let you know what’s covered and when. 

Once you’re approved, we handle all of the paperwork on your behalf– from getting your prescription to prior authorization. You just sit back and relax while your AirSense 10 ships straight to your door. To get started, fill out our quick and easy qualify form today!