Oxygen Therapy Guide · 2026
Choosing between a pulse flow and continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator is one of the most important decisions for anyone starting oxygen therapy. We've broken it all down — how they work, who they suit, top Australian models, and prices.
⏱ 8 min read
📅 Updated May 2026
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If your doctor has prescribed supplemental oxygen therapy, you've likely encountered two terms: pulse flow and continuous flow. These aren't just marketing buzzwords — they describe fundamentally different ways a portable oxygen concentrator delivers oxygen, and the wrong choice can significantly impact your therapy.
At Rapid Medical Supplies, we stock both types from leading brands including Inogen, GCE Zen-O, CAIRE and Kingon. In this guide, we walk through how each type works, the key differences, and which Australian models are worth considering in 2026.
ℹ️
Always consult your doctor or respiratory specialist before purchasing an oxygen concentrator. The correct flow type, rate, and duration should be determined by your clinical team based on your specific condition.
What Is a Pulse Flow Oxygen Concentrator?
Pulse / Breath-Triggered
A pulse flow oxygen concentrator uses sensor technology to detect when you breathe in. The moment it senses an inhalation, it delivers a precisely timed burst of concentrated oxygen — only when your body is actually drawing air in. Between breaths, the device is essentially idle.
This makes pulse flow units significantly more energy-efficient, which translates to:
- Longer battery life — often 4–13 hours per charge
- Lighter, more compact device design
- Quieter operation in many models
- Better suitability for air travel
Who Are Pulse Flow Concentrators Best For?
- Active users needing oxygen during walks, outings, or exercise
- Those with mild to moderate oxygen requirements
- Daytime-only use (not overnight sleep)
- Frequent travellers needing a FAA-approved device
- Anyone prioritising portability — most pulse flow units weigh under 3kg
⚠️
Pulse flow units are generally not recommended for sleep use. Breathing slows and becomes shallower during sleep, which can prevent the breath sensor from triggering reliably. If you need oxygen overnight, discuss a stationary or continuous flow unit with your clinician.
Browse our full range of pulse flow portable oxygen concentrators — all TGA-approved and many FAA-cleared for air travel.
What Is a Continuous Flow Oxygen Concentrator?
Continuous / Uninterrupted
A continuous flow oxygen concentrator delivers a constant, uninterrupted stream of oxygen regardless of your breathing pattern — whether you're inhaling, exhaling, or holding your breath. This makes continuous flow units the gold standard for users with more significant respiratory impairment or those who require oxygen during sleep.
The trade-offs are:
- Heavier — typically 3–5kg for portable models
- Larger form factor — often with a trolley wheel design
- Shorter battery runtime per charge
- Higher power draw — many benefit from dual battery configurations
Who Are Continuous Flow Concentrators Best For?
- Users requiring oxygen 24/7, including during sleep
- Advanced COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or severe respiratory conditions
- Higher flow rate prescriptions (typically 2 LPM+ continuous)
- Users who cannot reliably trigger a pulse sensor due to irregular breathing
- Anyone needing portable oxygen compatible with CPAP/BiPAP setups
✅
Many users combine both types: a continuous flow or stationary concentrator at home for nights, paired with a lightweight pulse flow device for daytime activities and travel. Call our team on 1300 758 613 to discuss a dual-unit setup.
View all continuous flow portable oxygen concentrators at Rapid Medical Supplies.
Our Top 3 Pulse Flow Portable Oxygen Concentrators
Pulse Flow
These are our best-selling pulse dose oxygen machines. All are TGA-approved and eligible for NDIS funding where applicable.
Save 32%
Inogen One Rove 6 (16-cell)
- Up to 6 pulse flow settings
- FAA-approved for air travel
- Up to 13 hrs battery life
- Approx. 2.8kg
- SmartDose auto-adjust tech
$3,389
$4,999
View & Buy →
Save 35%
Kingon P2-E (New 2026 Model)
- New 2026 upgraded model
- 5 pulse flow settings
- Lightweight & compact
- Long battery runtime
- NDIS supported
$2,599
$3,999
View & Buy →
Save 44%
GCE Zen-O Lite™
- Ultra-lightweight design
- 5 pulse dose settings
- FAA-approved for flights
- Carry bag included
- Trusted global brand
$2,397
$4,299
View & Buy →
Our Top 3 Continuous Flow Portable Oxygen Concentrators
Continuous Flow
For users requiring uninterrupted oxygen delivery, these three models are the best available in Australia for portability without compromising consistent flow.
Save 28%
GCE Zen-O Continuous (Dual Battery)
- Up to 3 LPM continuous flow
- Also offers pulse dose mode
- Dual battery for extended use
- Suitable for sleep therapy
- FAA approved
$3,599
$4,990
View & Buy →
Save 26%
CAIRE Eclipse 5
- Up to 3 LPM continuous / 6 pulse
- Dual-mode: pulse + continuous
- Clinician-recommended brand
- NDIS supported
- Wheeled carry bag design
$4,089
$5,550
View & Buy →
Save 13%
Kingon P2 TOC Transportable
- Continuous flow portable design
- Transportable (TOC) format
- Best-value continuous unit
- NDIS supported
- Australia-wide support
$3,899
$4,499
View & Buy →
Not sure which type you need?
Our oxygen therapy team can help match the right portable concentrator to your prescription and lifestyle.
Pulse Flow vs Continuous Flow: Full Comparison
Use this table to quickly compare both types across the features that matter most.
| Feature |
🫁 Pulse Flow |
🔄 Continuous Flow |
| Oxygen delivery |
Burst on each inhale |
Constant stream at set LPM |
| Weight (portable) |
1.5 – 3.5 kg |
3 – 5.5 kg |
| Battery runtime |
4 – 13+ hours |
2 – 6 hours |
| Suitable for sleep |
✗ Generally no |
✓ Yes |
| FAA approved (flying) |
✓ Most models |
✓ Select models |
| Best for activity / walking |
✓ Excellent |
◎ Possible, heavier |
| Advanced COPD / respiratory |
◎ Mild–moderate only |
✓ Ideal |
| Price range (Rapid Medical) |
$2,299 – $4,750 |
$3,599 – $4,089 |
| NDIS eligible |
✓ Yes |
✓ Yes |
| TGA approved |
✓ All our models |
✓ All our models |
| Regular travellers |
✓ Best choice |
◎ Some models |
✓ = recommended | ✗ = not recommended | ◎ = possible with caveats
Who Should Choose Which?
Here's a practical guide to help you and your clinician decide.
🫁 Choose Pulse Flow If…
- You're prescribed oxygen for activity or exertion
- You don't need oxygen overnight
- You travel frequently, including flying
- You want maximum portability and light weight
- You have mild-to-moderate oxygen needs
- Longer battery life per charge is a priority
- Your prescription is under 3 LPM
Shop Pulse Flow →
🔄 Choose Continuous Flow If…
- You need oxygen 24 hours a day
- You require oxygen while sleeping
- You have advanced COPD or pulmonary fibrosis
- Your pulse sensor doesn't trigger reliably
- You need higher continuous LPM delivery
- You're transitioning from a stationary unit
- You need a portable compatible with CPAP
Shop Continuous Flow →
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between pulse flow and continuous flow oxygen concentrators?
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Pulse flow concentrators deliver oxygen only when you inhale — a sensor detects your breath and releases a timed burst. Continuous flow concentrators deliver a constant stream at a set litres-per-minute rate, regardless of your breathing. Continuous flow is generally needed for sleep use and more advanced respiratory conditions.
Can I use a pulse flow oxygen concentrator while sleeping?
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Most pulse flow concentrators are not recommended for overnight sleep use. During sleep, breathing becomes shallower and slower, which can prevent the inhalation sensor from triggering reliably — meaning you may receive less oxygen than prescribed. If you need oxygen overnight, consult your respiratory specialist about a stationary concentrator or continuous flow portable unit.
Are portable oxygen concentrators covered by the NDIS?
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Yes, portable oxygen concentrators may be funded through the NDIS under the appropriate support category. Rapid Medical Supplies is an NDIS-registered supplier. Call our team on
1300 758 613 or visit our
NDIS page for help with your NDIS plan.
Which portable oxygen concentrators are FAA approved for flying?
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How long do batteries last on portable oxygen concentrators?
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Battery life varies by model and flow setting. Pulse flow units typically last 4–13 hours per charge — the
Inogen Rove 6 with 16-cell battery can reach 13 hours at low settings. Continuous flow units generally provide 2–6 hours, though dual-battery models like the
GCE Zen-O Dual Battery extend this significantly.
Do I need a prescription to buy a portable oxygen concentrator in Australia?
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Portable oxygen concentrators are classified as medical devices in Australia and should be used under clinician guidance. We strongly recommend consulting your GP or respiratory specialist before purchasing, so the correct flow type, rate, and duration are prescribed for your condition.
Our Final Word
The choice between a pulse flow and continuous flow portable oxygen concentrator comes down to your clinical needs, lifestyle, and how you'll use the device day-to-day.
For active Australians needing oxygen during walks, travel, and daily activities — a lightweight pulse flow concentrator like the Inogen Rove 6 or Kingon P2-E is an excellent, cost-effective solution.
For those with higher oxygen requirements or who need oxygen around the clock — particularly during sleep — a continuous flow portable concentrator like the CAIRE Eclipse 5 or GCE Zen-O provides the reliable, constant delivery your body needs.
Still unsure? Call us on 1300 758 613 or browse our full oxygen concentrator range.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Oxygen Concentrator?
Browse Australia's best range of TGA-approved portable oxygen concentrators. NDIS supported. Best Price Guarantee. Australia-wide delivery.
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