ResMed AirSense 11 vs F&P SleepStyle+: Which CPAP Machine Is Best?

Introduction: Why the Right CPAP Machine Matters

Choosing the right CPAP machine can make a big difference in your sleep apnea treatment. The right device should feel comfortable, be easy to use and fit seamlessly into your nightly routine; making it easier to stick with therapy long term.

In this article, we’ll take a friendly side-by-side look at two top-tier auto-adjusting CPAPs: the ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet and the Fisher & Paykel SleepStyle+ Auto. Both come from trusted brands and offer features designed to make CPAP therapy more comfortable and convenient.

Whether you're brand new to CPAP or have been using one for years, we’ll walk you through the key differences: comfort settings, humidifiers, design, noise levels, size and ease of use. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which machine might be the best fit for your needs.

Comfort and Pressure Relief

For most CPAP users, comfort is the top concern, especially when falling asleep or breathing out against the pressure. Both machines come equipped with features designed to make therapy more comfortable and easier.

The AirSense 11 includes AutoRamp with sleep onset detection, which starts you off at a lower pressure and gradually increases it once you're asleep. This feature is great if you're someone who finds full pressure uncomfortable at bedtime.

Meanwhile, the SleepStyle+ includes a standard ramp as well, but adds something unique: SensAwake technology. It monitors your breathing throughout the night, and if it senses that you’re waking up, it gently lowers the pressure to help you drift back to sleep more easily.

In short, AutoRamp helps you ease into sleep, while SensAwake helps you stay asleep. Both approaches focus on comfort.

Breathing out against airflow can also be a challenge for some people. ResMed’s Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR) makes it easier by reducing pressure as you exhale and restoring it on inhale. The SleepStyle+ now offers a similar exhalation relief feature as well, adjusting automatically as you breathe.

Humidification and Rainout Prevention

Nobody enjoys waking up with a dry mouth or stuffy nose. That’s why humidifiers are standard on today’s CPAP machines, and both the AirSense 11 and SleepStyle+ do a great job in this area. Each model has a built-in heated humidifier that adds moisture to the air, helping to reduce dryness and congestion overnight.

The SleepStyle+ features an easy-lift lid and a water chamber that’s simple to open, refill, and clean. Its 380 mL integrated humidifier works with ThermoSmart heated tubing, maintaining steady humidity and temperature through the night. It even includes an auto-adjusting algorithm that prevents rainout in the hose, while still giving you the option to manually set humidity from 1 to 7.

The AirSense 11 also includes an integrated humidifier with a removable water tub, and it pairs with ClimateLineAir heated tubing for additional comfort. You can choose auto mode, which adjusts settings based on room conditions, or manual mode, where you can fine-tune humidity (with 8 settings) and set your preferred tube temperature anywhere from 60–86°F (16–30°C).

When it comes to cleaning, the AirSense 11’s tub slides out easily, much like the AirSense 10. The SleepStyle+ takes a different approach, with a top-loading lid that pops open with the press of a button.

Bottom line: both machines deliver excellent humidification and effective rainout prevention, making therapy more comfortable overall.

Power and Efficiency

Let’s talk about how these machines look, feel and sound on your nightstand

The AirSense 11 has a sleek, modern design with a slim rectangular profile. It’s about 24% smaller and 10% lighter than the previous model (the AirSense 10), making it more travel-friendly and easier to fit on smaller bedside tables. It measures roughly 9.45 cm × 25.94 cm × 13.85 cm and weighs just 1.13 kg.

Its standout feature is the large color touchscreen on the front, replacing older buttons and dials. A single Start/Stop button sits on top. With its clean black-and-white finish, it wouldn’t look out of place next to a smart speaker or phone charger.

The SleepStyle+ takes a different, but equally practical approach. It’s slightly taller and heavier at 1.7kg, with a squarer footprint (around 14.4 cm × 17.7 cm × 18.3 cm,). That added weight comes from its built-in power supply, so there’s no external power brick to carry or clutter your floor. Just plug in the cord and you’re good to go. It’s finished in matte black with a glowing ring-style power button on top for easy visibility.

As for sound, both machines are whisper-quiet. The AirSense 11 runs at around 27 dBA, while the SleepStyle+ clocks in at about 28 dBA. In everyday use, the difference is nearly impossible to notice; neither should disturb you or your bed partner.

Usability and Interface

When it’s late or you’re half-awake, a user-friendly interface really makes a difference. These two machines approach ease of use in very different ways.

The AirSense 11 goes all-in on technology with a responsive color touchscreen. Menus are icon-based and easy to navigate, much like a smartphone. It’s simple to change settings like humidity or ramp time, and each morning you can view a summary of your sleep session right on the screen. It also has a light sensor that dims the screen automatically at night. For many, this modern interface feels intuitive and polished. That said, if you’re not a fan of touchscreens, this might take some getting used to.

The SleepStyle+, by comparison, is all about physical simplicity. Instead of a touchscreen, it uses large, clearly labeled buttons that are easy to press—even with limited hand strength. The display is smaller and more basic, but the overall experience is smooth and low-effort. Once your settings are dialed in, you don’t really need to adjust them much.

For users who just want something that “just works”, the SleepStyle+ is a standout. It’s reliable, simple, and doesn’t require much thought to operate, especially appreciated if you’re not a tech enthusiast.

Both machines are intuitive in their own way. It comes down to whether you prefer a touchscreen with lots of data or a no-fuss, tactile design.

Connectivity and Smart Features

In today’s connected world, CPAP machines have also gone digital. Both models offer app-based support and cloud connectivity to help you stay on track with your therapy, but they differ in approach.

The AirSense 11 has built-in Bluetooth and cellular connectivity. It uploads your sleep data daily to ResMed’s cloud system, which your doctor can access via AirView. You also get access to the myAir app, which gives you a nightly sleep score, detailed therapy insights and helpful coaching.

ResMed has also added exclusive tools like Personal Therapy Assistant (with voice-guided setup help) and Care Check-In, which asks how you’re doing and offers advice based on your responses. This level of interaction makes it feel like you have a virtual coach guiding you through your therapy.

The SleepStyle+ offers Bluetooth and, in many cases, a built-in cellular modem as well. It connects to the SleepStyle app, where you can view your AHI, leak rates, and usage over time. While it doesn’t offer as much in-app coaching as ResMed’s system, it still provides a helpful overview of how your therapy is going. It also includes InfoUSB, which allows you to export your data manually to share with a clinician.

If you're not into apps, no problem. Both machines work just fine without ever syncing to a smartphone—you won’t lose access to therapy features.

So, Which CPAP Is Right for You?

Both the ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet and the F&P SleepStyle+ Auto are excellent machines that will effectively treat your sleep apnea. The best one for you depends on your preferences and lifestyle.

To help you decide, here’s a side-by-side comparison of key features:

Feature	ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet	F&P SleepStyle+ Auto
Size (H × W × D)	9.45 × 25.94 × 13.85 cm	14.4 × 17.7 × 18.3 cm
Weight	1130 g	1700 g
Humidifier	Integrated, Climate Control	Integrated, ThermoSmart
Heated Tubing	Optional ClimateLineAir	Included ThermoSmart tube
Noise Level	27 dBA	28 dBA
Pressure Adjustment	AutoSet, AutoSet for Her	Auto-Adjusting, SensAwake
Expiratory Relief	EPR (1–3 cm drop)	Automatic Expiratory Relief
Ramp Options	AutoRamp & Manual (up to 45 mins)	Standard Ramp + SensAwake
Auto Start/Stop	✔	✔
User Interface	Touchscreen	Button-Based
Connectivity	Bluetooth, Cellular, OTA Updates	Bluetooth, Cellular, InfoUSB
Mobile App	myAir	SleepStyle App

The AirSense 11 is a great pick if you like modern tech, touchscreen controls, and detailed app feedback. It’s sleek, lightweight, and gives you tools and data to stay engaged with your therapy. It’s also a top choice if you like to customise your settings or want extra coaching to stay motivated.

On the other hand, the SleepStyle+ is perfect if you want a machine that’s simple, reliable, and easy to use from day one. Its design is user-friendly in the most practical sense, and it doesn’t overwhelm you with screens or options. If you have arthritis or just want a “set it and forget it” experience, it’s hard to beat.

Try Them Out at Sove

If you’re still not sure which one to choose, the best next step is to see them in action. You can shop online or visit a Sove CPAP Clinic in-store to get hands-on experience with both devices. Our knowledgeable team will be more than happy to walk you through the machines, answer your questions and help you find the right fit for your sleep therapy.

ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnea treatment. When considering whether CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor.