ResMed vs Löwenstein: Which CPAP Machine Is Right for You? 

Let’s be honest, choosing a CPAP machine can get overwhelming fast. Between the tech specs, model names, and long lists of features, it’s easy to feel lost, especially when you’re deciding between two of the most trusted names in the industry.

On one side, there’s ResMed, an Australian brand known for its sleek designs, advanced connectivity, and decades of expertise in sleep health. On the other, you’ve got Löwenstein, a German manufacturer praised for its build quality, quiet operation, and no-fuss reliability.

Both brands have strong reputations and loyal users. But when it comes down to the details, they take different paths.

In this guide, we’ll take a close look at what each brand brings to the table. From design and usability to sound levels, connectivity, and therapy modes, we’ll break down the key differences that actually matter. 

Whether you’re new to CPAP or ready to upgrade, we’ll help you weigh the options and find the machine that fits your sleep and long-term comfort. 

What is a CPAP Machine

If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnoea, you’ve probably heard about the CPAP machine. CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. Sounds a bit technical, right? But it’s really just a fancy way of saying it helps people with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) breathe better at night.¹

When you have OSA, the muscles in your throat relax too much while you sleep. That causes your airway to collapse or narrow, making it harder to breathe. To picture it, imagine your throat like a soft drinking straw. As you drift off, that straw can flatten. A CPAP machine works by blowing a gentle, steady stream of air into your throat, like someone softly puffing through the straw to keep it open. No more gasping. No more stopping. Just steady, uninterrupted breathing.¹

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to CPAP machines. Depending on your needs, a quiet machine is essential for restful sleep. Löwenstein machines are the quietest of the bunch, with both Prisma 20A and Smart Max running at just 26.5 decibels. ResMed’s AirSense 10 and 11 are also quiet, around 27 decibels, but not quite as silent. It’s a small difference, but for light sleepers, it might matter.

your sleep specialist will usually recommend one of two main types:

• Fixed-pressure CPAP: Blows air at one specific preset pressure all night
• Auto CPAP (APAP): Automatically adjusts pressure based on how you’re breathing.¹

But does the brand of your CPAP matter? Absolutely.

All brands promise better sleep, but not all deliver. Reputable brands like ResMed and Löwenstein invest in sleep science, comfort, and design — giving you a machine that performs better, feels better, and with fewer problems down the track. 

ResMed Overview

With over 30 years in the sleep health space, ResMed is one of the most trusted names in CPAP therapy. Founded in Australia and now serving more than 140 countries, ResMed focuses solely on helping people with sleep apnoea and respiratory conditions breathe easier.³

Their long-standing commitment to innovative technology, sleek design, and comprehensive support systems has helped shape the CPAP industry.² From device design to clinical care standards, ResMed’s influence is seen across the entire field. Today, their machines are widely used in sleep clinics, hospitals, and homes around the world. For many starting their CPAP journey, it’s the first name doctors recommend, trusted not just for reliability but for consistently leading the way in sleep health.²

Key Features of ResMed CPAP Devices

ResMed’s reputation speaks volumes, but it’s their patient-focused design that truly stands out. Built to support real people through sleep apnoea, their devices combine intuitive technology with comfort-focused features that help you ease into therapy. If you’re starting your CPAP journey or thinking of upgrading, here are five reasons ResMed machines continue to be a top choice.

1. Innovative technology 

Resmed CPAP devices come equipped with built-in wireless connectivity. For the AirSense 10, however, this depends on the model you choose, as some include it while others do not. With wireless connectivity, your therapy data sync effortlessly with the myAir app. This app provides a nightly score based on four key metrics: usage hours, mask fit, events per hour, and the frequency of mask removal. Think of it as a fitness tracker for your sleep, offering insights and encouragement to keep you motivated on your therapy journey.

2. User-Friendly Features for a Smooth Start

Pressure discomfort is one of the main reasons people stop using CPAP therapy, especially in the beginning. That’s why ResMed includes features like:

• AutoRamp: which starts therapy at a lower pressure and builds up once you’re asleep
• Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR): which makes exhaling feel easier
• SmartStart and SmartStop: taking the guesswork out by automatically starting and stopping therapy when you put your mask on or off.

3. Designed for Comfort and Quiet Operation

ResMed’s AirSense machines are built to help you settle in with as little disruption as possible. They run at just 27 decibels, which is quieter than a whisper. The Easy-Breathe motor cuts down on vibration, while the built-in humidifier helps stop dry mouth and congestion. The Mask Fit feature checks for leaks before you start therapy, giving you a chance to adjust early and avoid interruptions in the middle of the night. Every detail is designed to keep you comfortable and supported, from the first breath to the last.

4. Personalised Therapy Modes

Recognising that sleep apnoea affects individuals differently, ResMed offers multiple therapy modes to suit your needs. The AutoSet mode automatically adjusts pressure levels based on your breathing patterns, while the AutoSet for Her, is specifically designed to suit the different ways sleep apnoea can appear in women. These personalised settings help tailor your therapy to your specific requirements, making it feel more comfortable and effective night after night. 

5. Smart Climate Control

ResMed machines feature an advanced Climate Control system that keeps humidity and temperature steady throughout the night. When paired with the ClimateLineAir heated tube, it automatically responds to changes in your room’s environment to help prevent dryness and minimise condensation. If you prefer more control, you can switch to manual mode and adjust the temperature and humidity to match your comfort needs. It’s a smart, responsive feature that makes your therapy feel smoother from start to finish.

Most Popular ResMed Models 

Two of the most popular CPAP machines from ResMed are the AirSense 10 and AirSense 11. 

Airsense 10

The AirSense 10 has been around for nearly a decade and remains a widely used option for those starting CPAP therapy. While it may not have all the latest bells and whistles, it delivers dependable performance with all the essentials.

The key features of Airsense 10 include: 

• Simple LCD Screen with Dial Control for setting adjustments
• Built-in Humidifier to reduce dryness and discomfort
• SmartStart and SmartStop that begin and pause therapy automatically
• AutoRamp and EPR to ease you into the right pressure level
• Wireless Connectivity (select models only) to transmit data via AirView
• Compatible with the myAir app (select models only) for basic sleep tracking
• Available in Multiple Models, including a separate AutoSet for Her
• Trusted, No-Fuss Design that focuses on core functionality

Airsense 11

On the other hand, the AirSense 11 is ResMed’s most advanced CPAP machine yet, designed to make therapy easier from the very beginning. Whether you’re new to CPAP or just ready for an upgrade, it offers a sleek design, smart features, and personalised support to help you feel confident each night.

The key features of Airsense 11 include: 

• Touchscreen Display that makes navigating settings quick and simple
• Built-in Bluetooth and 4G Connectivity for seamless data syncing with the myAir app and AirView
• Test Drive, Personal Therapy Assistant and Care Check-In for guided support in the early weeks
• Remote Software Updates to keep your device up to date with the latest improvements
• Integrated Heated Humidifier that adds warmth and moisture to your airflow for added comfort
• SmartStart and SmartStop so therapy begins and ends automatically with your mask
• AutoRamp and EPR to gently ease you into the right pressure
• AutoSet for Her Mode included as part of the standard AutoSet model

If you’re looking for a more detailed breakdown of the AirSense 11, you can explore our in-depth review here.

AirSense 10 Vs 11

But how do these two machines really compare? They might seem similar, but there are a few key differences worth knowing before you decide.

Physical Design and Interface

The AirSense 10 has a solid build, a clear display, and a dial or knob to scroll through settings. It’s a trusted option that’s been around for years, and many still love its straightforward setup. The AirSense 11, on the other hand, takes things up a notch. It’s 24% smaller, 10% lighter, and has a modern touchscreen that’s easier to tap through. The redesigned menu makes navigating settings simpler, and the updated tube design is easier to clean and less bulky at the back. 

Both models include an auto-dimming screen and a handy “Therapy Start” button that makes things quick and easy. One small bonus with the AirSense 11 is its 65W power supply, which is more energy-efficient compared to the 90W used by the AirSense 10. As for noise, both devices operate at approximately 27 decibels, ensuring minimal noise disruption during sleep.

Therapy Comfort and Setup

Both AirSense models include helpful tools that ease you into therapy, like AutoRamp, Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR), intelligent Climate Control, and SmartStart. These features help reduce the feeling of pressure when you’re settling in for the night. But if you’re someone who’s sensitive to cool or dry air, the AirSense 11 adds some smart extras that could improve your comfort.

One standout is the humidifier warm-up function. The AirSense 11 has a dedicated “Warm-Up” button that preheats the humidifier water before therapy starts, called HumidAir, it gradually reaches 40°C over 20 minutes and holds that warmth for another 10. That means you’re not breathing cold air when you lie down. The air feels warm, gentle, and more soothing from the very beginning. While the AirSense 10 also warms the air, it does so automatically only once therapy begins. There’s no manual warm-up button, and starting it early takes a bit more effort.

Another quiet upgrade? The AutoSet for Her mode comes built into the AirSense 11. With the AirSense 10, you’d need to buy a separate model to access that same functionality. It’s a small but smart inclusion, offering flexibility and personalised therapy from the start without any extra decisions or add-ons.

App Support and Connectivity

Both the AirSense 10 (with wireless connectivity) and AirSense 11 works with ResMed’s myAir app. But when it comes to how these machines connect and share your data, there are some key differences worth knowing.

The AirSense 11 uses internal memory and transmits data via Bluetooth or a built-in cellular modem. Your therapy data is automatically synced to the cloud, which means you don’t have to rely on SD cards or manual uploads. This also opens the door for over-the-air software updates, so your machine can continue to improve and stay current long after you’ve brought it home. For anyone who prefers a simple, seamless setup that just works, this kind of connectivity is a real game changer.

The AirSense 10 also supports wireless data sharing, but not across all models. Some have a built-in cellular modem that allows remote monitoring, while others depend entirely on SD cards for storage. If you’re using a Card-to-Cloud model, you may need to manually share your data with your sleep clinic.

What truly elevates the AirSense 11 is the smart digital support ecosystem built directly into the device and app. Designed with new users in mind, it offers a more guided and personalised experience through:

• Test Drive, to ease you into therapy with pressure previews
• Personal Therapy Assistant, offering step-by-step setup help with video support
• Care Check-In, which follows up during your first few weeks and gives tips based on how you’re adjusting

These features aren’t just nice to have, they’re the kind of thoughtful tools that can make starting CPAP therapy feel less intimidating and more manageable. 

Our Pick

Both machines do a great job, but if you’re going with ResMed, the AirSense 11 is the one we’d recommend. It takes what worked in the AirSense 10 and adds a layer of support and comfort that makes a real difference, especially early on. A lot of people give up on CPAP therapy simply because it feels overwhelming or uncomfortable at first. That’s where the 11 shines. With features like Test Drive, Care Check-In, and a sleek touchscreen, it’s built to ease you in gently and help you stay on track. 

And it’s not just about comfort on day one. It’s also designed to grow with you, thanks to remote software updates. If you’re looking for something that’s not only reliable but also built to support you long-term, it’s the better pick.

The AirSense 10 remains a solid and dependable choice, especially if you’re after a machine that simply gets the job done, but the 11 just makes the whole experience that much easier.

Löwenstein Overview

Löwenstein might not be the first name that pops up when you’re shopping for a CPAP machine, but across Europe, it’s a brand that sleep clinics trust and it’s for good reason. This family-owned German company has spent more than 35 years in the respiratory care game, and their machines are built with clinical precision, long-term reliability, and comfort in mind. When they took over the CPAP division of Weinmann, a ventilator manufacturer with over 70 years of experience, they added even more expertise and depth to their range.⁴

Unlike brands that focus on flashy touchscreens or app-heavy features, Löwenstein takes a more grounded approach. Their machines are known for being rock solid, functional, and easy to trust night after night. That’s why you’ll find them in hospitals and sleep labs all over Europe.

If what you care about most is proven performance and a machine that gets the job done without fuss, Löwenstein is definitely a name worth keeping on your radar.⁵

Key features of Löwenstein CPAP Devices

So, what’s it actually like to use a Löwenstein machine? Whether you’re new to CPAP or just exploring other brands, it’s the details that make all the difference. Löwenstein doesn’t throw in features just for show. Their machines are packed with clever tools that work quietly in the background to keep your therapy effective and consistent.

From how it handles humidification to the way it adjusts pressure while you sleep, every feature is designed with your comfort and progress in mind. Let’s take a look at some of the standout features that make Löwenstein devices not just reliable, but truly supportive from the moment you press start.

1. Built to Last

Löwenstein’s Prisma line is often described as “built like a tank,” and it’s easy to see why. These machines are made with medical-grade materials and are trusted in sleep clinics across Europe. With a maintenance-free design and robust construction, they’re built to give you the reliable therapy you need.

2. Smart Humidification That Adapts to You

Nobody wants to wake up with a dry throat. That’s why Löwenstein’s PrismaAQUA humidifier includes a preheat setting to warm the water before therapy begins. It also features leak compensation, so if your mask shifts during the night and causes air leaks, the machine adjusts the humidity automatically to keep you comfortable.

3. Deeper Insights with Prisma RECOVER

Prisma RECOVER takes sleep tracking a step further. It doesn’t just look at how long you’ve used your machine. It also checks how much deep, restorative sleep you’re actually getting.⁶ It uses a smart algorithm to analyse your therapy data and estimate sleep quality, not just how long you wore the mask. It’s a level of insight you don’t get with many other CPAP machines, and it can be especially helpful if you want to understand how well your therapy is really working. 

4. Precision Therapy with Advanced Algorithm and FOT

Löwenstein uses an intelligent pressure algorithm that responds in real time to your breathing patterns. With Flow Oscillation Technology (FOT), it can distinguish between central and obstructive apnoeas and adjust pressure accordingly. This results in more precise, personalised, and comfortable therapy. In fact, many consider Löwenstein’s algorithm to be one of the best, if not the best, APAP algorithms available on the market today, especially when it comes to clinical-grade performance and responsiveness.

5. 4G Connectivity for Remote Monitoring

Löwenstein devices support 4G connectivity, making it easier to share your sleep data securely with your healthcare provider. This allows for remote monitoring and adjustments if needed, giving you more support without extra appointments or effort. Data is also transmitted safely using secure, encrypted channels, so sensitive therapy information stays protected at every step.

Most Popular Löwenstein Models 

When it comes to Löwenstein’s CPAP lineup, the Prisma 20A and Prisma Smart Max are two of the most sought-after options. But what exactly sets them apart from the rest? Let’s break it down.

Prisma 20A 

Often called the pinnacle of sleep therapy, the Prisma 20A combines precision, comfort, and clinical-grade technology in one powerful device. Originally developed with hospital use in mind, it brings serious performance and durability to home therapy, making it an excellent choice for users who want reliable, high-level support.

Key features of the Prisma 20A include:

• Swiss-engineered blower motor for precise, whisper-quiet pressure delivery
• Touchscreen with smart graphic interface that adapts therapy in real time
• FOT technology to detect and respond to central and obstructive apnoea
• Multiple therapy modes (APAP and CPAP) with softPAP, softSTART ramp, and SmartStart/Stop for smooth pressure transitions
• Built-in 400ml humidifier with advanced leak compensation and rod-based heating to reduce mineral build-up
• High-resolution therapy tracking, including prismaRECOVER, lung volume monitoring, and deep sleep insights
• Up to 14 days of detailed data, with 365-day summary reporting stored on-device
• 4G modem with app support, allowing real-time remote monitoring via prismaCLOUD and the prismaAPP
• Durable, maintenance-free design, with extra features like bacteria filter compatibility and disconnect alerts

If you’re looking for a more detailed breakdown of the Prisma 20A, you can explore our in-depth review here.

Prisma Smart Max

The Prisma Smart Max is a well-rounded, automatic CPAP device built on the precision of German engineering. It combines dependable therapy with advanced 4G and Bluetooth connectivity, giving you reliable performance and easy access to your data. With a quiet motor, compact form, and high-quality design, it’s a strong choice for users who value solid build quality and seamless digital support.

Key features of the Prisma Smart Max include:

• Automatic CPAP therapy (APAP) with dynamic dual-pressure adjustment and softPAP relief
• Built-in 4G and Bluetooth for automatic or manual syncing with prismaCLOUD and the prismaAPP
• Smart humidification control with optional leak compensation and preheating via Smart Aqua Control
• Same high-resolution reporting as the 20A, including prismaRECOVER and 14-day detailed data with 365-day summaries
• Quiet operation, softSTART ramp, and autoSTART-STOP for a more comfortable nightly routine
• Physical button interface with a simple, easy-to-read screen
• Compact, travel-ready build, with 24V battery compatibility for backup or portable use
• Leak and disconnection alerts for added safety and uninterrupted therapy

20A Vs Smart Max

The Prisma 20A and the Prisma Smart Max might look alike, and on paper, they do have a lot in common. But once you dig into how they actually work (and feel), a few key differences start to stand out. And those little details? They might be what helps you sleep better, stay comfortable, or stick with therapy long-term.

Physical Design and Interface 

The Prisma 20A features a responsive touchscreen and a modern graphic user interface. It’s designed not just to look clean, but to help the machine adjust therapy more precisely throughout the night, all while keeping your settings just a tap away. The Smart Max sticks with buttons underneath the screen. If you prefer a cleaner, more modern feel, the 20A’s interface might be quicker to get used to.

Now, here’s something most people don’t realise until setup day. The 20A powers the heated tubes straight from the machine, while the Smart Max needs a separate power pack plugged into the wall. Not a dealbreaker, but it might matter if you want fewer cords in your setup.

And for those thinking about travel or backup power, the Smart Max runs on a 24V power system, which works with most portable CPAP batteries. The 20A, on the other hand, runs on 37V, so it usually needs a larger battery setup. That said, Löwenstein now offers a USB-C power supply for the 20A, giving users a more flexible and travel-friendly option than before.

Therapy Comfort and Blower Technology

This is where the Prisma 20A quietly pulls ahead, especially if comfort and precision matter to you.

Inside the 20A is a premium Swiss-made blower. It’s known for being one of the best in the world, and you’ll feel the difference. Pressure delivery is smooth, stable, and highly responsive, particularly if your therapy needs vary through the night. The Smart Max also uses a quality German-made blower, but it doesn’t quite match the same level of refinement.

Both machines help you breathe out more comfortably with softPAP settings. But only the 20A has Level 3 softPAP, which gives you a boost when you breathe in as well. This subtle boost might not seem like much, but if your breathing feels a bit strained at night or you’ve got upper airway resistance, that extra support can make all the difference.

On the humidification front, the 20A gives you seven levels of moisture control, compared to five on the Smart Max. It also manages mask leaks more effectively by adjusting humidity levels in real time. These are small touches, but they add up to better comfort and fewer disruptions during the night.

App Support and Connectivity

Both machines are designed to connect to Löwenstein’s prismaAPP and prismaCLOUD system, but how they get there differs.

The Smart Max comes with built-in Bluetooth and 4G, which means it starts syncing data as soon as you begin therapy. It’s ready to go without any extra setup.

The Prisma 20A uses a separate modem to upload your data to the cloud. While it’s not built in, it’s often included as part of a bundle when you purchase the machine, so most users won’t need to buy it separately. Once connected, it uploads your sleep data just as reliably as the Smart Max. For users working with a sleep clinic or needing remote monitoring, both options support automatic data sharing and therapy tracking.

Our Pick

Both machines are built with comfort and performance in mind, but if you’re deciding between the two, the Prisma 20A is the one we’d recommend. While it shares the same pressure algorithm and humidification system as the Smart Max, the Prisma 20A uses a Swiss-engineered blower that delivers incredibly smooth and precise pressure adjustments. You can feel the difference, especially if you’re sensitive to changes in airflow.

It also includes extra clinical features like leak alarms and support for bacteria filters, giving it a more durable and professional edge. And it’s fully compatible with Prisma RECOVER and Prisma CLOUD, so you can get deeper sleep insights and remote support whenever you need it.

The Smart Max is still a great machine, but if you’re after the best Löwenstein has to offer in both comfort and control, the Prisma 20A is the better fit.

ResMed vs Löwenstein: Which CPAP Device Offers The Best Features?

You’ve seen what ResMed and Löwenstein have to offer on their own, but what happens when they go head-to-head? From interface and comfort to design, noise, and connectivity, we’re ranking ResMed AirSense 10 and 11 with Löwenstein’s Smart Max and 20A to see how they perform across real-world categories that actually impact your therapy. 

User Interface 

When it comes to navigating your machine, simplicity makes a big difference. The AirSense 11 leads the pack with its large, clear digital touchscreen and clean menu system that’s easy to use even when you’re half asleep. Prisma 20A comes in second with its physical touch interface and large screen, as it is not as responsive or practical as a true touchscreen. AirSense 10 keeps things straightforward with a dial and screen combo, while Smart Max trails behind with buttons that can feel clunky.

Ranking:

1. AirSense 11
2. Prisma 20A
3. AirSense 10
4. Prisma Smart Max

Design, build quality, size, and weight

AirSense 11 comes first with its sleek, compact design that looks right at home on a modern bedside table. It’s also the lightest out of the four, making it easy to pack for travel. Prisma 20A might not be much to look at, but it lives up to the saying “built like a tank,” solid, sturdy, and clearly designed with durability in mind. Prisma Smart Max follows closely behind, offering similar build quality in a lighter and more portable form. AirSense 10 rounds out the list. While dependable, it has a bulkier frame and a dated design that lacks the same degree of sophistication as the others.

Ranking:

1. AirSense 11
2. Prisma 20A
3. Prisma Smart Max
4. AirSense 10

Noise

Nobody wants a noisy machine at night. Löwenstein machines are the quietest of the bunch, with both Prisma 20A and Smart Max running at just 26.5 decibels. ResMed’s AirSense 10 and 11 are also quiet, around 27 decibels, but not quite as silent. It’s a small difference, but for light sleepers, it might matter. 

Ranking:

1. Prisma 20A & Prisma Smart Max (tied)
2. AirSense 11
3. AirSense 10

Reliability and Warranty

Prisma 20A ranks highest for its hospital-grade build, leak alarms, and support for bacteria filters. It’s made for long-term use and backed by a full 5-year warranty. Prisma Smart Max shares the same internal components but comes in a lighter, more portable design. It also includes a 5-year warranty.

ResMed’s AirSense 11 and 10 are also trustworthy options. Both come with standard 2-year warranties in Australia, extendable to 5 years through some providers. AirSense 11 has a slight edge over the 10 thanks to its updated internal components and more modern platform. 

Ranking:

1. Prisma 20A
2. Prisma Smart Max
3. AirSense 11
4. AirSense 10

Pricing

If you’re looking for a reliable CPAP machine without spending too much, the AirSense 10 is usually the most affordable option. Prisma Smart Max comes next, offering great value with features like built-in Bluetooth, 4G connectivity, and strong performance. AirSense 11 is priced a little higher but gives you a modern touchscreen, sleek design, and extra support features that help guide you through therapy. Prisma 20A is the most premium of the group, made with clinical-grade components and packed with advanced tools for detailed sleep tracking. It’s ideal if you want long-term durability and deeper insights into your therapy.

Ranking:

1. AirSense 10
2. Prisma Smart Max
3. AirSense 11
4. Prisma 20A

Connectivity and Data Access

AirSense 11 takes the lead with a fully connected experience. It includes Bluetooth, 4G, automatic cloud uploads, and remote software updates, making therapy tracking simple and seamless. Prisma Smart Max follows closely, offering built-in Bluetooth and 4G plus strong app support. Prisma 20A provides equally detailed data, but it requires an external modem to connect online, which adds an extra step. AirSense 10, especially the Card-to-Cloud version, is the least connected, relying more on manual uploads and basic connectivity.

Ranking:

1. AirSense 11
2. Prisma Smart Max
3. Prisma 20A
4. AirSense 10

Algorithm and Therapy Comfort

Löwenstein leads in therapy comfort thanks to its advanced pressure algorithm and precision engineering. Prisma 20A features a Swiss-made blower, responsive pressure adjustments, and Level 3 softPAP support for easier exhalation. Prisma Smart Max uses the same algorithm and comfort features, though its blower is slightly less refined. AirSense 11 follows with ResMed’s trusted AutoRamp and EPR features, offering a smooth, gradual pressure experience. AirSense 10 still provides a solid experience but lacks some of the newer enhancements found in the latest models.

Ranking:

1. Prisma 20A
2. Prisma Smart Max
3. AirSense 11
4. AirSense 10

Advanced Features and Technology

If you’re after the latest tech, AirSense 11 has it covered. From remote software updates to Bluetooth pairing and cloud syncing, it’s designed to work smarter behind the scenes. The myAir app adds personalised coaching, while auto start-stop and adaptive humidity features help streamline your routine. Prisma 20A leans more clinical but packs in serious tools: lung volume tracking, mask fit checks, and support for accessories like bacteria filters and heated tubing. Prisma Smart Max shares much of the same DNA, but with slightly pared-back data insights. AirSense 10 still does the job well, but it misses out on newer conveniences like remote updates or app integration.

Ranking:

1. AirSense 11
2. Prisma 20A
3. Prisma Smart Max
4. AirSense 10

Water Chamber Size

When it comes to tank size, bigger usually means fewer refills and better overnight coverage. Prisma 20A leads here with a generous 400 ml chamber and a rod-style heating element that helps minimise mineral build-up. Prisma Smart Max offers the same 400 ml capacity, though it uses a flat heater plate instead. AirSense 11 and 10 both come with 380 ml tanks, which are slightly smaller but still capable of lasting through the night for most users.

Ranking:

1. Prisma 20A
2. Prisma Smart Max
3. AirSense 11
4. AirSense 10

Data Completeness

When it comes to how much data each machine actually captures, Prisma 20A takes the top spot. It tracks everything from lung volume and breathing stability to deep sleep markers, with high-resolution reporting that gives a full picture of your therapy. It also supports Prisma RECOVER, which helps assess not just how long you slept, but how well you recovered. Prisma Smart Max offers the same depth of data and also supports RECOVER, making it just as capable on the analysis front. AirSense 11 delivers solid user-facing stats like sleep scores, AHI, and mask fit, but doesn’t go quite as deep clinically. AirSense 10 keeps things basic, especially if you’re using the Card-to-Cloud version with no wireless uploads. 

Ranking:

1. Prisma 20A
2. Prisma Smart Max
3. AirSense 11
4. AirSense 10

Data Accessibility

Having great data is one thing, but how easily you can access and understand it matters too. AirSense 11 leads here with automatic cloud syncing, Bluetooth, 4G, and the user-friendly myAir app that shows your sleep score, progress, and helpful tips with no extra effort required. Prisma Smart Max comes next with built-in Bluetooth and 4G, syncing easily to the Prisma APP and Prisma CLOUD for remote viewing. Prisma 20A gives you the same level of detail but needs an external modem for wireless access, which makes things a little less convenient. AirSense 10, especially the Card-to-Cloud model, offers the most limited access. Without built-in connectivity, you’ll likely need to upload data manually using an SD card.

Ranking:

1. AirSense 11
2. Prisma Smart Max
3. Prisma 20A
4. AirSense 10

Humidification 

Consistent humidity can make a big difference in comfort, especially if you’re prone to waking up with a dry mouth or nose. AirSense 11 takes the lead with automatic Climate Control and a built-in preheat feature that warms the water before therapy begins. To get the most from these features, you’ll need to use the ClimateLineAir heated tube. Prisma 20A and Smart Max follow closely, offering reliable humidification through Smart Aqua Control and the prismaAQUA humidifier, which also includes preheating. Both support heated tubing to help maintain consistent moisture throughout the night. AirSense 10 delivers similar Climate Control when paired with the ClimateLineAir tube, but it doesn’t offer preheating, so you may notice cooler air at the start of therapy.

Ranking:

1. AirSense 11
2. Prisma 20A
3. Prisma Smart Max.
4. AirSense 10

Mobile App Features

Your CPAP machine keeps you breathing through the night, but it’s the app that helps you understand how well things are working. Both ResMed and Löwenstein offer mobile apps that show your sleep data, track your progress, and make therapy feel a bit more personal. They’re built for the same goal, but the experience you get from each one might be quite different.

MyAir App

The myAir app pairs with AirSense 11 and compatible AirSense 10 models, giving you a simple sleep score each morning based on how long you used your machine, how well your mask sealed, how many breathing events you had (AHI), and whether the mask came off during the night. The interface is user-friendly and easy to navigate, so you don’t need to be tech-savvy to make sense of your results. Everything is laid out clearly, making it effortless to spot patterns and stay on track.

But the real magic happens with AirSense 11. That’s when you unlock exclusive features like Test Drive, which lets you practise with air pressure before you even start therapy, and the Personal Therapy Assistant, a voice-guided, step-by-step setup tool that makes getting started feel simple. Making your first few nights less intimidating.

myAir also works with Apple Health, Google Health Connect, and Wear OS watches, so your sleep data fits right in with your other health stats without needing to dig around.

Prisma App

On the other hand, The Prisma APP works with Prisma Smart Max and Prisma 20A (when used with a modem). It gives you a clear breakdown of your nightly data, including usage time, AHI, mask leaks, and pressure changes, making it easy to spot patterns and track your progress. It also includes a built-in therapy diary and lets you generate PDF reports to share with your doctor.

What makes it stand out is how much it actually tells you. While most apps stick to the basics, Prisma APP digs deeper, giving you access to advanced metrics that help you understand exactly how your therapy is working. And if your machine is connected to Prisma CLOUD, your doctor can review your data remotely and adjust your settings when needed. Apple Watch support is built in too, so you can check your progress anytime.

It’s a solid choice for users who prefer more insight and control, rather than just a surface-level summary.

Here’s a side-by-side look at the two apps. Both give you great sleep data and helpful tools, but the little differences in how they work might just help you decide which machine feels like a better fit for you.

The Final Verdict: ResMed Vs Löwenstein 

Choosing a CPAP machine is a bit like picking the right pair of shoes. It needs to suit your lifestyle, feel comfortable to use, and support you on the path to better sleep. And just like shoes, what works for one person might not be the best fit for someone else.

If comfort, smart support, and a smooth start to therapy are what you value most, the ResMed AirSense 11 is a great choice. It’s modern, thoughtfully designed, and packed with features that guide you gently into therapy. If you’re after clinical-level performance, The Löwenstein Prisma 20A delivers durable and reliable therapy with tools that dig deeper into your sleep health.

But if you’re more budget conscious, the Prisma Smart Max offers excellent value. It packs in many advanced features, making it a smart pick without the premium price tag.

At the end of the day, choosing between two excellent options can feel tricky, but here’s the good news: there’s no wrong move here. Whether it’s ResMed or Löwenstein, you’re in good hands. Both are trusted leaders in sleep therapy, backed by smart technology and decades of experience helping people sleep better.