As the demand for versatile oxygen therapy solutions grows, continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) have become increasingly popular among users requiring consistent oxygen delivery. These devices offer the flexibility of both pulse dose and continuous flow modes, catering to varying oxygen needs throughout the day and night. Whether you’re active during the day or require steady oxygen support during sleep, continuous flow POCs provide a reliable and convenient solution.
Understanding Pulse Dose vs. Continuous Flow
Oxygen concentrators deliver supplemental oxygen through two primary methods: pulse-dose and continuous-flow.
- Pulse Dose: This mode delivers oxygen in bursts, synchronized with the user’s inhalation. It’s efficient for daytime use, especially during physical activity, as it conserves oxygen by providing it only when needed. The oxygen flow is measure in pulse-dose settings.
- Continuous Flow: In this mode, oxygen is delivered at a constant rate, measured in liters per minute (LPM), regardless of the user’s breathing pattern. Continuous flow is often preferred during sleep or for users with specific medical conditions that require a steady oxygen supply.
Additional information on continuous-flow: For individuals managing both chronic respiratory conditions and sleep apnea, integrating oxygen therapy with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines is often necessary. Continuous flow oxygen concentrators are compatible with CPAP machines, as they provide a steady stream of oxygen that aligns with the CPAP’s consistent air pressure delivery. Continuous flow concentrators can be equipped with humidifier bottle kits to add moisture to the oxygen, reducing dryness and irritation in the nasal passages. This is particularly beneficial for users requiring higher oxygen flow rates or those experiencing discomfort from dry air. Additionally, these concentrators can be used with oxygen masks instead of nasal cannulas, providing an alternative for users who prefer or require a different delivery method. The choice between a mask and a cannula depends on personal comfort, oxygen flow requirements, and specific medical recommendations.
Choosing between these modes depends on individual health needs and lifestyle. Some advanced POCs offer both options, allowing users to switch between modes as needed.
Continuous Flow in Home vs. Portable Concentrators
Traditionally, continuous flow oxygen therapy was associated with stationary home oxygen concentrators (HOCs), which are larger and designed for in-home use. However, advancements in technology have led to the development of portable units capable of delivering continuous flow oxygen.
- Home Oxygen Concentrators (HOCs): These units typically offer higher flow rates and are ideal for users who spend most of their time at home. They are not designed for portability but provide robust, continuous, high-flow oxygen delivery.
- Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs): Modern POCs with continuous flow capabilities offer mobility without compromising on oxygen delivery. While they may have lower maximum flow rates compared to HOCs, they are suitable for users who need oxygen therapy on the go.
When selecting a concentrator, consider factors such as oxygen requirements, lifestyle, and the importance of mobility. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate device for your needs.
Top 5 Continuous-Flow Portable Oxygen Concentrators of 2025
Here at The Oxygen Concentrator Store, we carry the largest selection of continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators. Let’s take a look at the Top 5 Continuous-Flow Portable Oxygen Concentrators of 2025 and break down what makes them our favorite.
- CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5
- O2 Concepts Oxlife Liberty2
- GCE Zen-O
- O2 Concepts Oxlife Independence
- Respironics SimplyGo (Discontinued)
1. CAIRE Eclipse 5
The CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5 Portable Concentrator is one of our favorite continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators in 2022 for a multitude of reasons. The Eclipse 5 has a vast range of settings to fit most oxygen users’ needs. It boasts 9 pulse dose settings offering up to 192 ml per pulse. The continuous flow mode starts at 0.5 liters per minute (LPM) and goes up to 3 LPM with increments of 0.5. The Eclipse 5 has the exclusive autoSAT Technology that delivers consistent oxygen bolus as the breathing rate changes. Eclipse 5 also allows users to manually adjust the rise time and bolus size for higher comfort and saturation.
The Eclipse 5 is our favorite for a reliable oxygen concentrator that can go anywhere yet has the power to provide higher output oxygen ranges. This intuitive concentrator also has specialized features such as saving battery life by being able to charge using the DC charger while using the concentrator in a car or RV. Speaking of batteries, the Eclipse 5 battery can recharge in as little as 2 hours while not in use. This easily mobile unit checks all the boxes for a reliable, slim, and rugged design.
Overview of the CAIRE SeQual Eclipse 5
- Most Powerful Pulse and Continuous Flow Unit
- AutoSAT® technology automatically adjusts oxygen delivery
- Up to 5 Hour Battery Life
- FAA-Approved for In-Flight Usage
- Includes the Eclipse unit, battery, AC and DC power adapter, rolling cart, accessory bag, cannula, and manual
2. O2 Concepts Oxlife Liberty2
The O2 Concepts Oxlife Liberty 2 is a versatile and lightweight portable oxygen concentrator designed to meet a wide range of oxygen therapy needs. Weighing approximately 6.35 pounds, it offers both continuous flow and pulse dose delivery modes, making it suitable for various daily activities and sleep. One of the standout features of the Oxlife Liberty 2 is its dual oxygen delivery modes. It provides continuous flow settings from 0.5 to 2.0 liters per minute (LPM) in 0.25 LPM increments and pulse dose settings from 1 to 10, catering to users with varying oxygen requirements. This flexibility ensures that users receive the appropriate oxygen dosage whether they’re resting, active, or sleeping.
The device is equipped with Energy Smart Technology®, enhancing battery efficiency and allowing for extended use. Users can expect up to 4.5 hours of battery life on lower pulse settings and approximately 1 hour on the highest continuous flow setting. Additionally, the Oxlife Liberty 2 can be operated and charged via AC or DC power, providing convenience for users at home or on the go.
Overview of the O2 Concepts Oxlife Liberty2
- Most Versatile Pulse and Continuous Flow Unit
- Provides continuous flow settings from 0.5 to 2.0 liters per minute (LPM)
- Offers up to 4.5 hours of battery life on lower pulse settings
- FAA-Approved for In-Flight Usage
- Includes the Liberty2 unit, battery, AC and DC power adapter, cannula, and manual
3. GCE Zen-O
The GCE Zen-O Portable Oxygen Concentrator is a game-changer for those seeking reliability, performance, and freedom in oxygen therapy. This FAA-approved unit offers up to 2 LPM (liters per minute) of continuous flow oxygen. It features dual-mode operation, allowing users to choose between pulse dose and continuous flow delivery.
Weighing in at just 10.25 pounds, the Zen-O is a medium-sized unit that’s both portable and durable. Its simple-to-use LCD screen and clear button operation make it user-friendly. The concentrator is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, with the capability to hold two batteries for up to 8 hours of life in pulse mode.
The Zen-O’s easy-to-install sieve bed can be replaced in minutes, and its intelligent alert system features audible and visual alarms for low oxygen, low battery, no breath detected, and service required. Discover how the Zen-O Portable Oxygen Concentrator can transform your oxygen therapy experience and bring back the freedom to live an active life.
Overview of the GCE Zen-O
- Continuous Flow and Pulse Dose
- 10.25 Pounds
- Up to 8 Hours of Battery Life (On Pulse Setting of 2)
- Eco Mode
- FAA Approved for Flights
- Includes Zen-O unit, 2 rechargeable batteries, AC power supply, DC power adapter, carrying bag, mobile cart, cannula and manual.
4. O2 Concepts Oxlife Independence
If you want high-end features at a lower price point, the Oxlife Independence Oxygen Concentrator delivers all the exclusive features in a sleek design. With oversized, 6-inch wheels on an integrated mobile cart, the 16.8 lbs unit glides effortlessly even on thick carpet and stairs. The Oxlife Independence offers continuous flow delivery mode up to 3 LPM as well as pulse dose settings from 0.5 to 5.
The Oxlife Independence unit is unique in that it has a two-battery configuration, allowing the unit to draw power from both batteries for a longer battery life. If you need to keep the unit lightweight, it can be operated on a single battery. Additionally, the concentrator can be used while swapping out the batteries for ultimate convenience. The impressive battery life lasts a substantial 5 hours 45 minutes running at a setting of 2 on pulse-dose delivery mode with two batteries.
In addition, O2 Concepts has one of the best warranties on the market, offering 5 years on the concentrator unit. The Oxlife Independence is our favorite design for an all-in-one concentrator that has the power to do it all yet remains mobile.
Overview of the Oxlife Independence
- Continuous Flow and Pulse Dose
- 16.7 Pounds
- Up to 2.75 Hours of Battery Life – Longest In Class
- ESA Technology
- FAA Approved for Flights
- Includes the Independence unit, 2 batteries, AC and DC adapters, integrated cart with 6″ wheels, accessory bag, cannula and manual.
Top Continuous Flow Portable Oxygen Units Video
5. Philips Respironics SimplyGo (Discontinued)
If you are looking for the most portable and compact oxygen concentrator with continuous flow delivery options, this is the unit for you. The Respironics SimplyGo Portable Concentrator does just as the name implies- it goes. This unit is the smallest and most lightweight continuous flow option on the market today. Weighing in at just 10 lbs, this concentrator comes with a carrying case and shoulder strap, allowing you to carry the unit on your shoulders. If the unit is too heavy for you to carry on your shoulders, it also comes with a detachable folding mobile cart with large and durable wheels. Philips Respironics ensures that their units can operate and remain durable in real-life situations. Thus, they go through a rigorous testing process to ensure complete durability when faced with vibrations, impacts, drops, and temperature extremes.
The SimplyGo offers up to 2 LPM of continuous flow oxygen along with 6 different settings for pulse dose. The battery life is impressive for its compact size, lasting 3 hours on a setting of 2 on its pulse dose mode. It is also considerably quiet, running at 43 decibels. The unit features a unique Sleep Mode for more sensitive breath detection and softer oxygen delivery. The SimplyGo is our favorite option for an on-the-go oxygen user who needs both pulse dose and continuous flow modes.
Overview of the Respironics SimplyGo
- Pulse Dose and Continuous Flow
- 10 Pounds with Battery – Lightest Continuous Unit
- Up to 3 Hours of Power with Rechargeable Battery
- FAA Approved for In-Flight usage
- Package includes SimplyGo, standard battery, power adapter, AC and DC power cords, accessory bag, carry cart, cannula, and user’s manual.
Final Thoughts
Portable oxygen concentrators with the ability to switch from pulse dose to continuous flow delivery modes are an all-inclusive option when choosing an oxygen concentrator unit. Whether your needs are using mobile pulse dose during the day and powerful continuous flow at night, this is the one concentrator you will need for any supplemental oxygen demands. Additionally, all these units are approved by the FAA for operating on flights. This means that no matter where you go, whatever type of oxygen delivery you need, these oxygen concentrator units will meet all your needs.
Related Information
- Continuous Flow Buying Guide
- Pulse vs. Continuous Flow
- Sleeping with Continuous Flow Oxygen Concentrators
