Nasal Pillow Vs Nasal Mask: CPAP Mask Comparison
Key Takeaways
- If your prescribed pressure is above 14 cm H20, opt for a nasal mask or cradle; the larger surface area prevents the "air-jet" sensation often felt with high-pressure nasal pillows.
- Active sleepers who "spin" in bed should choose tube-up designs; these models keep the hose at the crown of the head, preventing the mask from being pulled off during the night.
- If you have a mustache or beard, nasal pillows are the superior choice; they seal at the nostril entrance, bypassing the hair entirely and eliminating the "hissing" leaks common with masks that seal against the skin.
Whether you are new to CPAP or well versed in the many styles and features of CPAP masks, this brief summary will give you an idea about two different CPAP mask styles and which might be best for you.
What Is a Nasal Mask?
Traditionally, CPAP nasal masks have been the most common type of mask used in the home. In general, a nasal mask consists of a plastic frame with a triangle or pear-shaped silicone cushion. This cushion surrounds the nose from the nose bridge to the lip. Some manufactures implement gel and foam along with the silicon to help minimize leaks and allow a more customized feel.
Since these silicone and gel cushions come in constant contact with your face, they have a limited effective life. Masks typically need to be replaced every six to eight months because oils from the skin break down the silicone. Many models now allow these parts to be replaced, which helps customers save money from buying a complete new mask.
Many masks that have additional replacement parts are also available such as head straps and forehead pads. SOME BENEFITS of this mask:
Benefits of Nasal Mask
Nasal masks benefits include:
- Secure seating for a better seal
- Less claustrophobic than full face masks
- Best for high pressure settings
- For comfortable for unique face shapes and sizes
Who Is a Nasal Mask Best For?
- If you are an active sleeper, nasal masks offer a more secure seal while changing sleeping positions
- If you find the full face masks too claustrophobic, nasal masks have less facial contact
- If you have been prescribed a high pressure setting a nasal mask may be preferred over a full face mask
- If you had difficulty fitting a full face mask, nasal masks are easier to conform to unique face shapes and sizes
What Is a Nasal Pillow Mask?
Another mask style is a CPAP nasal pillow mask. Instead of a cushion surrounding your nose, nasal pillows fit comfortably at the base of your nose and slightly into the nostril. These nasal pillows are made out of a very soft silicone and typically have an oval shape to help match your nasal opening.
Once on, the nasal pillows expand slightly as pressure from the CPAP machine is introduced into the mask. The nasal pillows then hug the inner nasal wall and create a superior seal. A simple head strap design is used to hold the nasal pillow mask to your face.
There are many benefits to this type of mask. Most nasal pillow masks are extremely lightweight, some as light as only a few ounces. They offer a clear field of vision, so watching TV or wearing glasses will not interfere with its use.
Side sleepers tend to prefer nasal pillow masks because there is less pressure on the cheeks and reduced impressions on the skin because of reduced headgear. The nasal pillow masks come with different size pillows, eliminating the chance of an improper fit. People with a mustache or beard tend to prefer these masks because of limited facial contact.
The most notable drawback to the nasal pillow mask is the irritation some people experience inside their nose. A heated humidifier can usually relieve this irritation. Another downside is felt on higher CPAP pressures. Many people feel discomfort on pressures exceeding 15cm h20.
Who Is a Nasal Pillows Mask Best For?
Choose a nasal pillow mask if:
- You breathe through your nose
- Other masks do not fit comfortably over your beard or mustache
- You like to watch TV, or read during PAP therapy
- You are an active sleeper
Remember that finding that perfect fitting mask often involves trying many different masks. This can become frustrating and is one of the top reasons why people discontinue using their sleep apnea machines. When ordering a mask don’t be afraid to ask questions, try all the fitting tools available on our website and inquire about customer feedback.
Feel free to give us a call at 866-414-9700 or email questions@thecpapshop.com
This post was posted on June 9, 2021 and updated on November 9, 2023.
This post was updated with the latest information in March 2026.
Nasal Cushion vs. Nasal Pillow: What’s the Difference?
While often used interchangeably, a nasal cushion (or nasal cradle) and a nasal pillow are physically different:
• Nasal Pillows: These feature small, cone-shaped inserts that rest inside the entrance of the nostrils. They are the most minimalist option.
• Nasal Cushions (Cradles): These feature a soft silicone cup that sits underneath the nose, "cradling" the nostrils without entering them.
• Nasal Masks: These are the traditional triangle-shaped masks that cover the entire nose from the bridge down to the upper lip.
Whether you are new to CPAP or well versed in the many styles and features of CPAP masks, this brief summary will give you an idea about two different CPAP mask styles and which might be best for you. If you breathe exclusively through your nose, you’ve already won half the battle. You get to skip the bulk of full-face masks and choose between the two most popular, lightweight options on the market. But in 2026, the choice isn't just about "pillows" or "masks"—it's about how you move and how much pressure you need.
What is a Nasal Mask (CPAP Nose Mask)?
A CPAP nose mask (clinically known as a nasal mask) is a device that delivers pressurized air through a silicone cushion that covers only your nose. Unlike full-face masks that cover the mouth, a nose mask is preferred by patients who breathe through their nose and want a more compact, less intrusive therapy experience.
Since these silicone and gel cushions come in constant contact with your face, they have a limited effective life. Masks typically need to be replaced every six to eight months because oils from the skin break down the silicone. Many models now allow these parts to be replaced, which helps customers save money from buying a completely new mask.
Benefits of a Nasal CPAP Mask
- Sits securely on the face for a better seal
- Less claustrophobic feeling than traditional full face masks
- Able to sustain high-pressure settings
- Accommodates unique facial shapes and sizes
Who is a Nasal Mask Best For?
- If you are an active sleeper, nasal masks offer a more secure seal while changing sleeping positions
- If you find the full face masks too claustrophobic, nasal masks have less facial contact
- If you have been prescribed a high-pressure setting a nasal mask may be preferred over a full face mask
- If you had difficulty fitting a full face mask, nasal masks are easier to conform to unique face shapes and sizes
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Philips Respironics DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask With Headgear6 ReviewsAs low as $79.00 Regular Price $109.99
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What is a Nasal Pillow Mask?
A nasal pillow mask is a lightweight CPAP mask that uses two small silicone "pillows" inserted into the nostrils to deliver air pressure. Unlike traditional masks that cover the entire nose, nasal pillows provide a minimal seal at the base of the nose, offering a clear field of vision and reducing the risk of skin irritation on the nasal bridge.
Once on, the nasal pillows expand slightly as pressure from the CPAP machine is introduced into the mask. The nasal pillows then hug the inner nasal wall and create a superior seal. A simple head strap design is used to hold the nasal pillow mask to your face.
There are many benefits to this type of mask. Most nasal pillow masks are extremely lightweight, some as light as only a few ounces. They offer a clear field of vision, so watching TV or wearing glasses will not interfere with its use.
Side sleepers tend to prefer nasal pillow masks because there is less pressure on the cheeks and reduced impressions on the skin because of reduced headgear. The nasal pillow masks come with different-sized pillows, eliminating the chance of an improper fit. People with a mustache or beard tend to prefer these masks because of limited facial contact.
The most notable drawback to the nasal pillow mask is the irritation some people experience inside their nose. A heated humidifier can usually relieve this irritation. Another downside is felt on higher CPAP pressures. Many people feel discomfort on pressures exceeding 15cm h20.
Benefits of a Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask
- Only has minimal contact with the face
- Provides an open field of vision to allow users to read a book or watch TV before bed
- Accommodates those with facial hair or those who move around in their sleep
Who is a Nasal Pillow Mask Best For?
- You breathe through your nose
- Other masks do not fit comfortably over your beard or mustache
- You like to watch TV, or read during PAP therapy
- You are an active sleeper
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ResMed Swift FX Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with HeadgearAs low as $104.00 Regular Price $127.00
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ResMed AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with Headgear3 ReviewsAs low as $105.00 Regular Price $118.00
Comparison at a Glance: 2026 Edition
| Feature | Nasal Pillows | Nasal Mask/Cradle |
| Facial Contact | Minimal (Nostrils only) | Moderate (Under or around nose) |
| Field of Vision | Completely Clear | Clear (with cradle models) |
| Side Sleeping | Excellent | Very Good |
| High Pressure | Can feel intense | Excellent distribution |
| Facial Hair | Best option | Good (if cradle style) |
Which One Should You Choose?
Choose Nasal Pillows if...
You feel claustrophobic with anything on your face. You like to read with glasses on before bed, and you want the lightest equipment possible.
Choose a Nasal Mask if...
You require a pressure setting higher than 12 Cm H20. If you find that nasal pillows make your nostrils feel sore or dry, a cradle-style nasal mask provides the same "open" feeling but with a much softer air delivery.
2026 Tech Tip: Not sure which one to get? Most of our top-selling 2026 masks now come as "Fit Packs," which include multiple cushion sizes in one box so you can find your perfect fit without the guesswork.
ResMed Mask Settings: Should I use "Nasal" or "Pillows"?
When using a ResMed AirSense machine, you must select the correct mask setting to ensure the device accurately calculates "leak" and delivers the right pressure.
1. Select "Pillows": Use this setting for any mask that has inserts going into the nostrils (e.g., AirFit P10, Swift FX).
2. Select "Nasal": Use this setting for both traditional nasal masks (covers the whole nose) AND "cushion" or "cradle" masks (e.g., AirFit N30, DreamWear Nasal).
Why it matters: Nasal pillows have a higher resistance to airflow than nasal cushions. Selecting the wrong setting can lead to inaccurate therapy data and "hissing" noises from the vent.
Pro Tip: Modular Masks (DreamWear & AirFit 30i)
Some modern masks, like the Philips DreamWear and ResMed AirFit N30i/P30i, use a "modular" frame. This means you can switch between a nasal cushion and a nasal pillow using the same headgear and frame. If you are unsure which style you prefer, look for a "Fit Pack" that includes both cushion types to test in the comfort of your own bed.
Conclusion
Remember that finding that perfect fitting mask often involves trying many different masks. This can become frustrating and is one of the top reasons why people discontinue using their sleep apnea machines. When ordering a mask don’t be afraid to ask questions, try all the fitting tools available, like MaskFit AR, on our website and inquire about customer feedback. Feel free to give us a call at 866-414-9700 or email questions@thecpapshop.com.
The CPAP Shop has partnered with MaskFit AR to offer hassle-free, personalized shopping recommendations that will help you find the perfect CPAP mask to fit your needs. Simply answer some questions, scan your face, and we’ll help you find the right mask for you.
