Difference between a BIPAP and CPAP
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea, or if you’re exploring your therapy options, you’ve probably heard of both CPAP and BiPAP machines. But what’s the real difference between them—and how do you decide which is right for you? Let’s break it down in a friendly, easy-to-understand way so you can make the best choice for your sleep therapy.
How CPAP and BiPAP Deliver Pressure Differently
Both CPAP and BiPAP machines help treat sleep apnea by delivering pressurised air to keep your airway open while you sleep. But they work in different ways:
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) provides a steady, constant air pressure all night long. It acts like a pneumatic splint, holding your throat open to prevent collapse and keep you breathing freely. CPAP therapy is highly effective for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and is often the first choice recommended by sleep specialists. Popular models include the ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet and the Fisher and Paykel SleepStyle+ Auto, both known for their comfort and reliability. They’re also easy to use and often have features like heated humidification and smartphone connectivity for tracking your sleep data.
BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure), on the other hand, uses two levels of air pressure: a higher one when you breathe in (IPAP) and a lower one when you breathe out (EPAP). This dual pressure system can make breathing feel easier and more natural, especially if you need higher pressures or have trouble exhaling against constant pressure. The ResMed Lumis 100 VPAP S is a popular choice among BiPAP users for its advanced comfort settings and ability to adjust to your unique breathing needs.
Real-world tip: If you find it difficult to exhale against CPAP pressure, ask your sleep specialist if BiPAP might be a better fit. Clinics like Sove CPAP Clinic can set up a trial so you can experience the difference for yourself.
What Your Sleep Study Tells You About Your Condition
Choosing between CPAP and BiPAP often starts with your sleep study results. Your doctor or sleep specialist will review your data from a sleep study (either in-lab or home-based) to determine the severity of your apnea and the best treatment option. Understanding the type of sleep apnea you have—obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), or mixed sleep apnea—can help guide your decision.
For OSA, where your airway physically collapses during sleep, CPAP is usually the go-to therapy. It effectively prevents airway collapse and helps maintain normal breathing patterns throughout the night. But if your sleep study reveals CSA, where your brain doesn’t consistently send signals to your breathing muscles, or if you have mixed apnea, BiPAP might be recommended. BiPAP can deliver a backup breathing rate, which is especially helpful if your brain sometimes “forgets” to breathe.
Real-world tip: Always discuss your sleep study results with a qualified sleep professional. At Sove CPAP Clinic, our experts can help interpret your report, recommend the best therapy, and coordinate with your sleep physician to adjust settings as needed.
ResMed Lumis 150 VPAP ST-A 4G with Built-in Wireless Connectivity, ...
ResMed Lumis 150 VPAP ST with Built-in Wireless Connectivity, Humid...
Philips Respironics DreamStation Auto CPAP Machine with Humidifier
Comparing Comfort and Usage Needs Before Choosing
Comfort plays a big role in successful sleep therapy. CPAP machines are usually simpler to use, with fewer adjustable settings, making them more user-friendly for beginners. They deliver a steady pressure that’s set to the minimum required to keep your airway open comfortably. Many users appreciate the simplicity and reliability of CPAP, especially if they’re new to sleep therapy.
BiPAP machines, however, offer more customization with separate pressures for inhalation and exhalation. This can make breathing out feel easier—especially helpful if you need higher pressures or have underlying conditions like COPD, neuromuscular disorders, or complex sleep apnea. The ResMed AirCurve 10 VAuto is a popular BiPAP option that offers advanced comfort features, quiet operation, and user-friendly design that adapts to your unique breathing patterns.
Other factors to consider include:
Mask Fit: Both CPAP and BiPAP use similar mask styles—nasal, nasal pillows, and full-face. Getting the right fit is essential to prevent leaks and ensure comfort.
Humidification: Modern machines like the AirSense 10 and AirCurve 10 VAuto have built-in heated humidifiers to prevent dryness and improve comfort.
Noise Levels: Both CPAP and BiPAP devices are designed to be quiet, but BiPAPs may produce slightly more motor noise due to their dual pressure system.
Data Tracking: Apps like myAir (ResMed) and DreamMapper (Philips) make it easy to track your therapy progress, set goals, and even share data with your healthcare provider.
Real-world tip: If you’re unsure which feels better, ask to try both CPAP and BiPAP. At Sove CPAP Clinic, you can test different machines in-clinic or through a home loan program before committing.
Not Sure Which to Choose? Talk to our expert CPAP Consultants
Navigating sleep therapy can feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. At Sove CPAP Clinic, our friendly team of Respiratory and Sleep Physicians and CPAP Consultants is here to help you every step of the way.
We offer:
- Personalised consultations to assess your breathing needs and preferences.
- Machine trials so you can experience both CPAP and BiPAP before making a final decision.
- Mask fittings to ensure you get the best seal and comfort for your therapy.
- Ongoing support for settings, cleaning, and any questions that might come up along the way.
Real-world tip: Don’t let confusion or discomfort keep you from a good night’s sleep. Contact Sove CPAP Clinic today to get started with the therapy that’s right for you.
ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&Cs apply.
CPAP and BiPAP Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
Why would a patient need a BiPAP?
A patient might need a BiPAP if they require higher pressures than a CPAP can comfortably deliver or if they have more complex breathing needs—such as central sleep apnea (CSA) or mixed apnea. BiPAP’s dual pressure design (higher for inhalation, lower for exhalation) can make breathing easier, especially for those with COPD, neuromuscular disorders, or anyone who struggles to exhale against steady CPAP pressure. If you’re experiencing persistent symptoms despite good CPAP use, your sleep physician may recommend switching to BiPAP. Clinics like Sove CPAP Clinic can help assess your needs and arrange a BiPAP trial if recommended.
Does BiPAP need an oxygen cylinder?
No, BiPAP machines don’t inherently require an oxygen cylinder. They work by delivering pressurised room air through a mask. However, some patients with low blood oxygen levels or certain lung conditions might need supplemental oxygen. In such cases, an oxygen concentrator or cylinder can be connected to the BiPAP machine using a special port. Your sleep specialist can coordinate this setup if needed, and Sove CPAP Clinic can assist with integrating oxygen therapy into your treatment plan.
Which is better for work of breathing: CPAP or BiPAP?
For people who find it challenging to exhale against constant pressure—especially at higher settings—BiPAP often feels easier and more comfortable. The lower exhalation pressure reduces the effort needed to breathe out, which is especially helpful for patients with COPD or restrictive lung diseases. CPAP, on the other hand, delivers a constant pressure that’s typically sufficient for most obstructive sleep apnea cases. If you find CPAP therapy uncomfortable, talk to your sleep specialist about whether BiPAP might be more suitable.
What conditions is CPAP used for?
CPAP is most commonly used for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where the airway collapses during sleep. It’s also sometimes used for mild cases of hypoventilation. CPAP therapy delivers continuous pressure to keep the airway open and is considered the gold standard for OSA. It’s easy to use, effective, and well-tolerated for most patients. At Sove CPAP Clinic, our team can help you start CPAP therapy and provide ongoing support.
Is BiPAP considered life support?
No, BiPAP is not considered life support. It’s a non-invasive therapy designed for sleep apnea and certain breathing difficulties. While it offers essential respiratory support—especially for complex sleep apnea or respiratory muscle weakness—it’s not the same as a ventilator, which is used for life-support in critical care. BiPAP is used both at home and in hospitals to help patients breathe more comfortably. If you have concerns, Sove CPAP Clinic can explain how BiPAP works and when it’s appropriate.
When should I switch from CPAP to BiPAP?
Switching from CPAP to BiPAP might be recommended if you’re experiencing persistent symptoms despite good CPAP use, or if your sleep study shows significant central apnea events or high pressure needs. BiPAP can also be helpful for patients with certain co-existing health conditions like COPD or neuromuscular disorders. If you’re finding it difficult to exhale comfortably on CPAP, talk to your sleep specialist. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we can help you evaluate your therapy and, if appropriate, arrange a BiPAP trial to ensure you’re on the best treatment plan for your needs.