BiPAP vs. CPAP: What's the Difference and Which One Is Right for You?

Jul 18th 2025

BiPAP vs. CPAP: What's the Difference and Which One Is Right for You?

When it comes to treating sleep-related breathing disorders or chronic respiratory conditions, two commonly recommended therapies are CPAP and BiPAP machines. While both serve similar purposes—helping patients breathe easier during sleep—they do so in different ways and are designed for different medical needs.

At Outfront Medical, we offer both CPAP and BiPAP devices as part of our inventory of high-quality refurbished respiratory equipment. In this post, we break down the differences and benefits of each to help you or your facility make an informed choice.

What Is a CPAP Machine?

CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. It delivers a single, steady level of air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep. CPAP machines are most commonly used to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a condition where throat muscles relax and block the airway.

Benefits of CPAP:

  • Provides a consistent airflow to prevent apnea episodes.
  • Simple to use with fewer settings.
  • Ideal for patients with mild to moderate OSA.
  • More affordable than BiPAP machines.

However, some patients find exhaling against a constant pressure uncomfortable, especially at higher pressure settings.

What Is a BiPAP Machine?

BiPAP stands for Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure. Unlike CPAP, it offers two different pressure settings:

  • IPAP (Inspiratory Positive Airway Pressure) – a higher pressure to help with inhalation.
  • EPAP (Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure) – a lower pressure to ease exhalation.

BiPAP machines are used for patients who require a more complex respiratory support system. This includes individuals with:

  • Central Sleep Apnea
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
  • Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome (OHS)
  • Neuromuscular disorders
  • Or those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy

Benefits of BiPAP:

  • More comfortable exhalation, especially at higher pressures.
  • Helps support patients with weak breathing muscles.
  • Advanced models can provide a backup respiratory rate, making them suitable for hospital use.
  • Better suited for patients with complex respiratory conditions.

CPAP vs. BiPAP at a Glance:

Feature

CPAP

BiPAP

Pressure:

Constant

Two levels (inhalation/exhalation)

Comfort:

Basic

More adaptable and comfortable

Best For:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Complex or central sleep apnea, COPD

Cost:

Lower

Higher

Use:

Home therapy

Home and clinical settings

Which One Do You Need?

The right machine depends on your medical condition and your doctor’s recommendation. If you’ve been diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea and can tolerate a single pressure level, CPAP is likely sufficient. If you have trouble exhaling or require advanced respiratory support, a BiPAP machine may be the better choice.

Refurbished CPAP and BiPAP Machines at Outfront Medical

At Outfront Medical, we carry a wide selection of refurbished CPAP and BiPAP devices from trusted brands like ResMed and Philips Respironics. Our equipment is thoroughly tested, cleaned, and ready for immediate use—offering your facility or patients a cost-effective solution without compromising quality.

? Contact us today to learn more or request a quote on available respiratory equipment.  Phone: 609-388-4635 ext. 223