HHZ Respiratory Review

ResMed AirFit N20 vs N30: nasal mask vs cradle

2 min read By HHZ Editorial Next review

Choose the AirFit N20 if you want a traditional nasal mask over the nose, rated up to 30 cmH2O, and you have no magnet-sensitive implants. Choose the AirFit N30 for a smaller under-the-nose cradle with no magnets, rated up to 20 cmH2O; get the QuietAir frame for ResMed's lower sound figures. Both cost $105 on ResMed's eShop on 13 October 2026. This comparison is based on ResMed's user guides, not hands-on testing.

How we reviewed this: HHZ didn’t test these masks hands-on. This comparison is written from ResMed’s U.S. user guides, linked below, plus prices checked on ResMed’s eShop on 13 October 2026. Mask fit is personal; we don’t report comfort impressions we haven’t measured.

Side by side

SpecAirFit N20AirFit N30Source
Price (ResMed eShop)$105$105ResMed eShop
TypeNasal (over the nose)Nasal cradle (under the nose)User guides
Pressure range4–30 cmH2O4–20 cmH2ON20 guide, N30 guide
Sound power / pressure at 1 m24 / 16 dBA25 / 18 dBA (QuietAir frame); 28 / 21 dBA (standard frame)User guides
Dead space (large cushion)103.3 mLNot listedUser guides
Resistance at 50 L/min0.3 cmH2O0.4 cmH2OUser guides
MagnetsYes (lower straps and frame)None mentionedUser guides
Device mask settingPillowsPillowsUser guides
Patient weightOver 66 lbOver 66 lbUser guides

ResMed’s combined AirFit N20/AirTouch N20 guide lists the N20’s sound pressure as 15 dBA rather than 16; the difference is within ResMed’s stated ±3 dBA uncertainty.

Magnet safety (N20)

ResMed says to keep the N20’s magnets at least 2 in (50 mm) away from active medical implants such as pacemakers or defibrillators. Masks with magnetic parts are contraindicated if you have a metallic aneurysm clip or metal splinters in one or both eyes. If that applies to you or your bed partner, the N30 is the magnet-free option of the two.

Who should pick which

You…Better fit
Need pressure above 20 cmH2ON20
Have a magnet-sensitive implantN30
Dislike a cushion over the bridge of your noseN30
Want the lower published soundN20, or N30 with the QuietAir frame
Breathe through your mouthNeither alone (full-face options)

Verdict

At the same eShop price, the choice comes down to pressure and fit style. The N20 handles higher pressures and seals over the nose. The N30 is minimal and magnet-free but capped at 20 cmH2O. For a foam-cushion version of the N20, see AirTouch N20 vs AirFit N20.

Related: best CPAP masks, AirFit P10 vs N30i, CPAP mask leaks.

See also: F&P Nova Micro and Evora Nasal reviews.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between the AirFit N20 and N30?
The N20 is a nasal mask with a cushion that sits over the nose, magnetic headgear clips and a 4–30 cmH2O range. The N30 is a nasal cradle that sits under the nose, has no magnets in its user guide and is rated 4–20 cmH2O, per ResMed's U.S. guides.
Which is quieter, the N20 or N30?
On ResMed's figures, the N20 is 24 dBA sound power and 16 dBA sound pressure at 1 m. The N30 is 25/18 dBA with the QuietAir frame and 28/21 dBA with the standard frame. We didn't measure either.
Does the AirFit N20 have magnets?
Yes, in the lower headgear straps and the frame. ResMed says to keep them at least 2 in from active medical implants and lists contraindications such as aneurysm clips and metal splinters in the eye. The N30 user guide doesn't mention magnets.
How much do they cost?
On ResMed's eShop on 13 October 2026, both the AirFit N20 and AirFit N30 complete mask systems were $105.
Which works with higher CPAP pressure?
The N20 (rated to 30 cmH2O). The N30 is rated to 20 cmH2O.

AirTouch N20 vs AirFit N20: foam vs silicone

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ResMed AirFit F40 review: specs and price

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