Choosing between the AirSense 10 and the AirSense 11 from ResMed? This is one of the most common questions in the world of CPAP. Both devices share many core features - the AutoSet algorithm, integrated humidification, pressure ramp, EPR. The real question is: do you need the improvements of the 11th generation, or does the AirSense 10 still meet your needs?
This guide covers the concrete differences: connectivity, algorithm, humidifier, accessories, the myAir app and a recommendation based on your profile.
- 30-second summary
- Full comparison table
- Key differences
- Accessory compatibility
- myAir: what experience on each device?
- Which device is right for you?
30-second summary
AirSense 10 AutoSet
DiscontinuedReleased in 2014. Dial control + LCD screen. Hugely popular, appreciated for its simplicity and reliability. No longer manufactured - limited stock.
AirSense 11 AutoSet
Current modelReleased in 2021. Touchscreen, native cellular connectivity, improved algorithm, enhanced myAir (Care Check-In, Personal Therapy Assistant). OTA updates. HumidAir 11 Cleanable humidifier.
Full comparison table: AirSense 10 vs AirSense 11
| Feature | AirSense 10 AutoSet | AirSense 11 AutoSet |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Discontinued (end of production) | Current model |
| Interface | Rotary dial + colour LCD screen | Colour touchscreen |
| Connectivity | WiFi module (depending on version) | Native integrated cellular (no WiFi required) |
| AutoSet algorithm | Standard AutoSet | Improved AutoSet + integrated AutoSet For Her |
| Humidifier | HumidAir II (standard water chamber) | HumidAir 11 Cleanable (washable design, fewer deposits) |
| Compatible heated tubing | ClimateLineAir (standard) | ClimateLineAir 11 (new generation) |
| myAir app | Standard myAir (score, basic data) | Enhanced myAir (Care Check-In, Personal Therapy Assistant, Test Drive) |
| OTA software updates | No | Yes (over-the-air) |
| Pressure range | 4 - 20 cmH₂O | 4 - 20 cmH₂O |
| EPR (Pressure Relief) | Yes (levels 1, 2, 3) | Yes (levels 1, 2, 3) |
| SmartStart / SmartStop | Yes | Yes |
| Pressure ramp | Yes | Yes |
| SD card | Yes (OSCAR-compatible data) | Yes (OSCAR-compatible data) |
| Airplane mode | Yes | Yes |
Key differences between the AirSense 10 and AirSense 11
1. Native cellular connectivity
This is the most significant difference for remote monitoring. The AirSense 11 has built-in cellular connectivity: treatment data is transmitted automatically without requiring a WiFi network. This facilitates monitoring by your doctor or sleep centre, even when travelling.
The AirSense 10, depending on the version, had a WiFi module - but data transmission depended on home network quality and required the device to be within range of the router.
2. AutoSet algorithm and AutoSet For Her
Both devices use ResMed's AutoSet algorithm. On the AirSense 11, the algorithm is an improved version that directly integrates AutoSet For Her mode - adapted to the female apnea profile (often more hypopnea-related, linked to REM sleep). On the AirSense 10, this mode existed only on the dedicated "For Her" device version.
3. Humidifier: HumidAir II vs HumidAir 11 Cleanable
The AirSense 11 comes with the HumidAir 11 Cleanable, an open, washable water chamber design - easier to clean and less prone to visible limescale deposits. The AirSense 10 used the HumidAir II, a more enclosed chamber, harder to clean thoroughly.
4. Heated tubing: ClimateLineAir vs ClimateLineAir 11
Both generations use different and non-interchangeable heated tubes:
- AirSense 10: ClimateLineAir
- AirSense 11: ClimateLineAir 11
5. myAir: enhanced experience on the AirSense 11
The myAir app works with both devices, but the AirSense 11 offers coaching features absent on the AirSense 10:
- Care Check-In: daily wellbeing questionnaire to monitor how you feel.
- Personal Therapy Assistant: personalised coaching based on your treatment data.
- Test Drive: familiarisation function with the device before the first full night.
To learn how to read your myAir results, see our guide on reading your myAir results.
Accessory compatibility
| Accessory | AirSense 10 | AirSense 11 | Interchangeable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard tubing | Universal standard tubing | Universal standard tubing | Yes |
| Heated tubing | ClimateLineAir | ClimateLineAir 11 | No |
| Humidifier | HumidAir II | HumidAir 11 Cleanable | No |
| Masks (all brands) | Compatible (standard connection) | Compatible (standard connection) | Yes |
| Filters | AirSense 10-specific | AirSense 11-specific | No |
Which device is right for you?
The AirSense 10 is still relevant if…
- You want a simple, robust and reliable device at a reduced price (clearance stock).
- You already own AirSense 10 accessories (ClimateLineAir, HumidAir II) you wish to keep.
- You don't need cellular connectivity (WiFi monitoring is sufficient, or no remote monitoring required).
- Advanced myAir coaching is not a priority for you.
The AirSense 11 is recommended if…
- You want the most recent device with the best long-term support outlook.
- Native cellular connectivity matters to you - for easy remote monitoring without depending on WiFi.
- You want the HumidAir 11 Cleanable humidifier (fewer deposits, easier cleaning).
- You want access to advanced myAir features (Care Check-In, Personal Therapy Assistant).
- You are starting CPAP therapy and want new equipment with guaranteed software updates.
For more detail, see our complete AirSense 11 guide.
What about the AirSense 11 Elite?
The AirSense 11 Elite is the fixed-pressure version of the AirSense 11 (no AutoSet algorithm). Your doctor will tell you whether a fixed-pressure CPAP or an Auto-CPAP is right for your situation. In the absence of a specific indication, most new patients are equipped with an Auto-CPAP (AutoSet mode).
Frequently asked questions about AirSense 10 vs AirSense 11
The AirSense 11 is the next generation after the AirSense 10 and brings three major changes: a new colour touch screen, built-in 4G connectivity (no more optional modem) and a more reactive AutoSet algorithm. The AirSense 10 remains a proven excellent machine with years of clinical use. For an out-of-convention buyer, the choice is mainly between the modernised ergonomics of the 11 and the value of an AirSense 10 if still available.
Both machines are already very quiet (around 27 dBA at therapeutic pressure). The AirSense 11 benefits from a redesigned motor that slightly reduces sound signature, especially at higher pressures or during ramp. The difference is perceptible but subtle: if you already find your AirSense 10 quiet enough, this is not the main reason to upgrade.
Partly. Masks are fully compatible: ResMed kept standard connectors. However, the ClimateLineAir 10 tube is not compatible with the AirSense 11 which uses the ClimateLineAir 11. The HumidAir water tank is also generation-specific. If you change machine, plan for a new heated tube and water tank. Filters and masks stay the same.
Both. The AirSense 11 has native 4G cellular and Wi-Fi (4G takes over without Wi-Fi). This is a major improvement over the AirSense 10 which needed an optional cellular modem. You can therefore connect your 11 to myAir without setting up Wi-Fi at home - convenient in holiday rentals or at relatives.
If your AirSense 10 works well and you are satisfied, no, the upgrade is not essential. If you are renewing an end-of-cycle device (5 to 7 years), the AirSense 11 is now the standard and offers superior daily use (touch screen, native 4G, refined algorithm). For technical profiles (OSCAR users), both machines remain excellent. See our upgrade comparison AirSense 11 vs AirSense 10.
The AirSense 11 has been ResMed's main model for several years. The AirSense 10 is still available at some distributors clearing stock or via INAMI convention in specific centres. For out-of-convention purchase at VivaRespire we default to the AirSense 11; contact us if you specifically need an AirSense 10 (for example existing accessory compatibility).
No, the myAir app is the same for both devices. The difference lies in the richness of the synced data: the AirSense 11 sends some additional metrics and benefits from more frequent algorithm updates. The visual experience in the app is identical: daily score out of 100, leak tracking, usage hours, residual events. Both can also be read by OSCAR for deeper analysis.
Yes. CPAP is a class IIa medical device: at VivaRespire we systematically request a prescription from your sleep physician or GP when ordering, whether AirSense 10 or 11. This ensures that the therapeutic pressure is suited to your case. For details, see CPAP prescription Belgium without INAMI.