Selecting an oxygen concentrator often comes down to one question: how much oxygen do you actually need to stay healthy and maintain safe blood oxygen levels? A 5-liter oxygen concentrator provides a maximum flow rate of 5 liters per minute (LPM), while a 10-liter model delivers up to 10 LPM for patients with greater oxygen demands.
That said, portability, battery performance, noise levels, power consumption, and cost factor into selecting the device that fits most comfortably into your daily life while meeting your prescribed oxygen requirements. Your healthcare provider will work with you to determine the best device for your lifestyle.
This guide walks through the key differences between 5L and 10L concentrators to help you have a more informed conversation with your healthcare provider about which option best supports your therapy.
Oxygen concentrators work by pulling in the air around you, filtering out nitrogen through columns called sieve beds to deliver 90-95% purified oxygen. The concentrated oxygen is then delivered through a nasal cannula or mask, as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Unlike compressed or liquid oxygen tanks that require refills, concentrators continuously purify surrounding air — no deliveries and no tanks to swap out.[3,4] Every patient is unique and may have different oxygen requirements, so it’s important to talk to your health care provider about your prescription.[1]
A 5-liter home oxygen concentrator provides up to 5 liters per minute (LPM) of continuous oxygen flow and is commonly used for patients with respiratory conditions that produce mild to moderate hypoxemia such as COPD or interstitial lung disease. These units are designed for everyday home use but offer greater mobility than higher-capacity systems, with many models weighing 33–36 pounds and some advanced designs weighing under 20 pounds. They typically deliver 90–95% oxygen purity, operate quietly, and consume less power than larger devices, making them a practical option for patients who need reliable oxygen support without high-flow requirements.[1-4]
A 10-liter home oxygen concentrator delivers up to 10 LPM of continuous oxygen flow and is intended for patients with more advanced oxygen needs, including severe COPD, advanced pulmonary fibrosis, or significant chronic hypoxemia that cannot be corrected with lower-flow devices. These units are stationary systems designed exclusively for home use due to their size and power requirements, typically weighing 42–60 pounds. They provide higher oxygen output to maintain safe saturation levels in patients who require ≥5 LPM and are often used as part of long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) for progressive lung disease.[1-4]
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Your physician prescribes oxygen therapy measured in liters per minute based on your specific respiratory condition. This prescription defines whether you need continuous flow or pulse dose delivery and determines your equipment capacity requirements.[5]
It is important that you do not adjust your oxygen flow rate without consulting your doctor first, as proper dosing maintains your health status and prevents complications.[6]
Oxygen consumption varies based on your physical state and activity patterns.[1,2] Those who remain active or travel regularly may find that portable options help them maintain their independence. Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) are typically smaller and lighter than 5L or 10L stationary units, and offer more flexible power sources, but they tend to have lower oxygen output than stationary units and may not be adequate for patients with higher oxygen needs.[3]
On the other hand, patients who require oxygen primarily during sleep or while at rest often do well with a stationary concentrator set up at home, such as a 5L or 10L unit.[1,2] Work with your healthcare provider to match your supplemental oxygen prescriptions to the best device for your lifestyle.
Your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate oxygen delivery device based on your medical needs and lifestyle. Whether you choose a stationary oxygen concentrator or a portable oxygen concentrator, both types of Inogen systems are designed to be moved around your home as needed. Portable oxygen concentrators offer added flexibility, allowing you to continue your prescribed oxygen therapy outside the home, during travel, or while maintaining an active lifestyle. Stationary units provide continuous-flow oxygen for patients who require a steady, uninterrupted oxygen source.[1-3]
It is important to maintain a secondary source of oxygen for safety and continuity of therapy. For example, patients using a stationary oxygen concentrator may also use a portable oxygen concentrator as a backup option when leaving the home or during power outages, based on clinical guidance.[3]
Once your physician prescribes supplemental oxygen therapy, you’ll be referred to an oxygen supplier. Your oxygen supplier is not your doctor and cannot make decisions for you and your oxygen, but they can make equipment recommendations. Many oxygen suppliers have respiratory therapists or other oxygen professionals on staff who will help you select a device that complies with your prescription and supports your lifestyle. You can also contact an Inogen Oxygen Specialist or search for oxygen suppliers on the Medicare website at www.medicare.gov/medical-equipment-suppliers. Once you have your equipment, you generally cannot change the type of equipment or type of delivery system for five years without medical necessity.
When you get your oxygen equipment, be sure to have the respiratory therapist, technician or delivery person show you how to use it. You may want to ask questions like:
There are several key features to consider when selecting an oxygen concentrator. That said, remember to always consult with a healthcare provider before choosing a device. Current guidelines require clinical assessment and lifestyle review to ultimately determine the best choice of oxygen delivery equipment.[1,2]
The defining specification separating these 5L and 10L oxygen concentrators is maximum oxygen output, measured in liters per minute (or sometimes shown as milliliters per minute). This difference directly impacts which device will effectively deliver your prescribed therapy and whether it can adequately support your needs over time.[3]
5L oxygen concentrators typically weigh between 33-36 pounds on average and measure approximately 24″ H x 13″ W x 12″ D, which is similar in size to a large, checked airline suitcase. Smaller and lighter units are available today for patients prioritizing portability. The Inogen At Home® stationary oxygen concentrator, weighing in at approximately 18 pounds, is one of the lightest home oxygen concentrators available, often coming in at half the weight of other home concentrators in use today. The compact design makes it easier to move from room to room or transport out of the home as needed.
10L units tend to be heavier, weighing between 43-60 pounds, some may be larger in size than the 5L versions. Most home oxygen concentrators have casters to make it easier to move the device from room to room.
Because they are designed to run continually, energy consumption may be a concern to some home oxygen concentrator users.[3] 5L models draw 275-400 watts on average, which is roughly comparable to running several light bulbs simultaneously. However, some models such as the Inogen At Home® are designed to be energy-efficient, using just 100 watts at flow setting. 10L concentrators tend to use more power, ranging from 400-1,000 watts, depending on the model.
Home oxygen concentrators are reliable, but they depend on electricity and can be affected by power outages, equipment malfunction, or routine maintenance. For this reason, major respiratory organizations recommend that patients using concentrators have a backup oxygen source available at all times to ensure uninterrupted therapy.[3]
Noise level may be a clinical and quality-of-life concern for patients using home oxygen concentrators — and it’s not just about comfort. It affects sleep, anxiety, adherence, communication, and overall well-being, which is why respiratory organizations consistently highlight noise as a factor in device selection.[1]
5L concentrators typically operate between 40 and 48 decibels — roughly comparable to a quiet library or a refrigerator hum. 10L units tend to run louder, generally falling between 50 and 60 decibels due to their larger capacity and higher power demands.
Portable concentrators tend to be quieter than higher-output models; however, both are quiet enough for most daily activities and rest without significant disruption.
Selecting an oxygen concentrator often involves deciding whether to rent or purchase your equipment. The best choice depends on how long you’ll need oxygen therapy, your insurance coverage, and your lifestyle needs.[5] Respiratory organizations and home-care guidelines consistently note that short-term oxygen therapy is usually more cost-effective when rented, while long-term or permanent oxygen needs often make purchasing a concentrator more economical over time.[1]
5L concentrators can start at around $600 for basic models up to $2,400 for units with more advanced features and higher flow precision. 10L models are considerably more expensive, ranging upwards of $2,000 depending on specifications.*
Your care provider or equipment specialist can help you weigh which approach best fits your situation.
*Based on 2026 cost estimates.
The table below puts the key specifications side by side so you can see at a glance how these two concentrator categories differ across the factors that matter most to daily oxygen therapy.
|
Attribute |
5-Liter Oxygen Concentrator |
10-Liter Oxygen Concentrator |
|
Maximum Flow Rate |
Up to 5 LPM |
Up to 10 LPM |
|
Weight Range |
18 to 36 pounds |
43 to 60 pounds |
|
Typical Dimensions |
Approximately 24″ H x 13″ W x 12″ D |
Similar to 5L models |
|
Power Consumption |
100 to >400 watts |
400 to >1,000 watts |
|
Portability |
Lighter weight makes it easier to move room-to room Most models have casters Some models available as portable units |
Heavier than 5L models; Available exclusively as home systems Most models have casters |
|
Noise Level |
40 to 48 dBA (library-quiet conditions) |
50 to 60 dBA |
|
Cost Range* |
$600+ |
$2,000+ |
|
Typical Use Cases |
Moderate oxygen needs |
More severe respiratory conditions requiring higher flow |
*Based on 2026 cost estimates.
The choice between 5-liter and 10-liter oxygen concentrators depends on your prescribed flow requirements and lifestyle patterns. Depending on your oxygen therapy needs, a 5L unit may provide sufficient capacity with better portability and energy consumption, while a 10L model delivers higher flow for advanced respiratory conditions.[1-3] Noise levels, power consumption and cost differ significantly between models.
Your healthcare provider will consider your oxygen prescription, activity level, and home setup, before prescribing an oxygen delivery device. It is important to work with your clinician or care provider to determine which concentrator capacity most reliably supports your therapy goals.
If you are unsure where to start, do not hesitate to contact an Inogen Oxygen Specialist, who will be happy to help walk you through your options.
The decision depends on your prescribed oxygen flow requirements and medical condition. A 5-liter concentrator delivers up to 5 LPM may work well for patients with mild to moderate hypoxemia due to their respiratory condition. A 10-liter model provides up to 10 LPM for those with more severe conditions requiring higher oxygen flow.[1-3] Your healthcare provider will assess your specific needs, including your lifestyle, and recommend the appropriate oxygen flow rate and delivery device.[5]
5-liter home oxygen concentrators are more portable, with some models weighing under 20 pounds and featuring compact designs that make them easier to move between rooms or transport. They also tend to consume less power, making them energy efficient. In contrast, 10-liter concentrators are designed for patients with higher supplemental oxygen requirements. They are available exclusively as stationary home systems, weighing between 42-60 pounds — typically heavier than 5-liter models.[3]
10-liter concentrators require more power to operate. 5-liter home oxygen concentrator models typically consume between 275-400 watts, about the same as a desktop computer. 10-liter concentrators draw 400-1,000 watts or more, similar to a full size refrigerator or microwave on high power.[8]
Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) are generally limited to lower flow settings and pulse dose delivery. If you require continuous high-flow oxygen therapy up to 10 LPM, a stationary home concentrator is more likely to be prescribed. Some patients benefit from having both systems — a stationary unit for home and overnight use, and a portable concentrator for daytime activities. This approach should be discussed with your healthcare provider based on your specific oxygen requirements.[1,3]
5-liter oxygen concentrators typically range from $600 to $2,400 depending on features and specifications. 10-liter concentrators are considerably more expensive, ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 or more.
*Based on 2026 cost estimates.
The noise level of a portable oxygen concentrator (POC) can directly impact the daily comfort, rest, and overall quality of life of its user. Let’s explore what POC noise ratings mean, how they vary across today’s devices, and ways that POC users can improve their rest and relaxation while on oxygen therapy.
Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) are devices developed in response to demand for a lightweight, portable source of supplemental oxygen.[1] Pulse dose delivery allows concentrators to deliver medical grade oxygen all day, every day while remaining convenient to carry.
Do you ever wonder how to purchase an oxygen concentrator? Thoughts of learning new equipment, changing your routine and engaging with your insurance provider may make the process more daunting than promising. If an oxygen tank is what you know and are used to, the thought of getting a new oxygen concentrator may be enticing. Don’t let the purchasing process be the obstacle that stands between you and your new machine. If you want to know, “How can I buy an oxygen concentrator?” read on. Learning about the buying process and ordering an Inogen oxygen concentrator can all be accomplished in minutes if you have all necessary information.
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Inogen Announces Divestiture of U.S. Oxygen Rental Business to Rotech Healthcare
