Look & Feel
The gray and black Z2 weighs less than a pound and features a footprint only slightly larger than an average smartphone.
Ideal For
- Frequent travelers interested in a small CPAP machine with a battery-powered option
- Individuals who want to use their travel CPAP machine while flying
- Sleepers who prefer using their own mask with a travel CPAP machine
Who Should Keep Looking
- Those who only need a CPAP for at-home use
- People who don’t need to consider a machine’s size
- Sleepers who require a machine that can connect to supplemental oxygen
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Price
$799
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Dimensions
6.5″ x 3.3″ x 2″
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Noise Rating
26 dBA
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Weight
0.65 lbs.
The Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine by HDM, a division of Breas Medical, is a positive airway pressure (PAP) machine with both continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and automatic positive airway pressure (APAP) functions.
First released in 2019, the Z2 Auto Travel CPAP is an updated form of the Z1 Auto Travel CPAP Machine. In addition to being quieter than the Z1, the Z2 also starts and stops automatically.
We’ll walk you through the Z2 Auto Travel CPAP’s features, performance, and cost so you can decide whether it’s right for your needs.
Use this SleepApnea.org link for the most current discount on HDM products
Shop NowWhat You Need to Know About the Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine
The Z2 Auto Travel CPAP offers both CPAP and APAP settings. The CPAP setting provides a fixed level of air pressure, which is determined in a CPAP titration study, while the APAP setting uses an algorithm to automatically adjust the air pressure to accommodate a sleeper’s changing breathing patterns. A sleep specialist can determine which mode is best for you and program the machine accordingly.
The Z2 Auto Travel CPAP is highly streamlined, even compared to other travel CPAP machines. Traditional humidifiers can be bulky, but the Z2 uses a disposable heat and moisture exchanger (HME) that uses moisture in the sleeper’s breath to provide humidification without a water tank.
Other Z2 features include ramp mode, a reusable Qlite muffler to quiet the sound, automatic start and stop, a Nitelog app to track sleep data, and a proprietary Z-Breathe algorithm that provides a more comfortable air pressure level.
What Comes With It
The Z2 Auto Travel CPAP comes with the components required to use the machine, such as a power cable, tubing, tube adapter, USB cable for data transfer, and filter. The user must purchase their mask separately, as is common with CPAP machines.
The Z2 also has two unique components, an HME and a Qlite muffler. The HME recycles moisture from the sleeper’s breath to humidify the pressurized air, while the Qlite uses foam to dampen noises produced by the device.
PAP Type: CPAP and APAP
Components:
- Z2 Auto Travel CPAP Machine
- AC adapter and power cord
- USB cable
- 4-foot slim-style CPAP tube
- 8-inch CPAP tube
- Tube adapter
- Filter
- Heat and moisture exchanger (HME)
- Qlite muffle
Features You Might Like
The Z2 offers features that are common among travel CPAP machines, like a small size and battery compatibility, as well as less common features such as the disposable HME and the proprietary Qlite muffler. The Z2 is also approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for in-flight use.
Special Features:
- Heat and moisture exchanger (HME): To combat sinus and airway irritation that can result from dry air, the Z2 uses a small cartridge to provide humidity rather than a bulky water tank. Called an HME, this cartridge recycles moisture from the sleeper’s breath. The HME is disposable and should be replaced every seven days of use.
- Qlite muffler: This small, reusable piece fits between the CPAP device and hose and is designed to dampen noises produced by the machine. This piece does not require cleaning.
- Z-Breathe algorithm: The Z-Breathe feature offers three settings of pressure relief, or reduced air pressure, as a sleeper first exhales. This setting makes breathing with the CPAP machine easier for some people and must be set by a health care professional.
- Automatic start/stop: The Z2 starts and stops automatically when the user puts on and takes off their mask.
- Ramp mode: Ramp mode can make it easier to fall asleep while using a CPAP machine by initially releasing air at a low air pressure level and gradually increasing it to the desired level. Users can set and save their preferred ramp time in five-minute increments.
- Nitelog Bluetooth app: Users can download an optional app onto Apple or Android devices. This app connects to the CPAP machine via Bluetooth and allows sleepers to view their sleep data and control the machine from the app.
- Desktop software: Those who prefer not to use a phone app can still access their sleep data by downloading software from the Breas Medical site to a Windows computer.
- Optional battery power source: For people who want to use the Z2 Auto Travel CPAP without plugging the device into a wall outlet, a PowerShell accessory is available for an additional cost. This accessory provides enough power to run the device for a full night of sleep.
CPAP Machine Size and Cost
The Z2 Auto Travel CPAP is exceptionally streamlined and fits easily into a carry-on bag or purse. At 6.5 by 3.3 inches and only 2 inches tall, the Z2 weighs less than a pound and is one of the smallest travel CPAP machines on the market. The use of an HME also provides humidification without a bulky tank, so sleepers don't have to choose between small size and comfort.
APAP and travel CPAP machines tend to cost more than standard CPAP machines. The Z2 has an average price-point for a travel CPAP machine and is priced lower than most small APAP machines.
However, users should factor in the cost of replacing the disposable HME cartridge when considering upkeep costs. Each cartridge lasts for seven nights of use before needing to be replaced.
Dimensions: 6.5″ x 3.3″ x 2″
Weight: 0.65 lbs.
Price: $799
How This CPAP Machine Performs
Each CPAP machine has its pros and cons, so considering specific factors may make it easier to decide whether a machine is right for your needs. Not all categories may be important to you, so consider your own needs and preferences before making a decision.
The Z2 Auto Travel CPAP features a backlit LCD screen and a settings menu that users can navigate using three large buttons. Most people are likely to find the Z2 easy to use, though some users may need to use glasses to read the display information.
Like most other CPAP machines, the Z2 is compatible with all standard size and slim-style tubing as well as CPAP masks that work with standard tubing. The Qlite muffler is also compatible with all standard tubing.
Sleepers must purchase replacement heat and moisture exchanger cartridges from Breas Medical. Breas does not recommend purchasing a separate humidifier tank to use with the Z2 Auto instead of the HME cartridges, since using a humidifier may affect the Qlite muffler.
Sleepers who want to use battery power for their Z2 must use the PowerShell battery.
The Z2 Auto Travel CPAP displays the air pressure settings on the LCD screen. Air pressure is measured in centimeters of water pressure (cm H2O), with a pressure range of 4 to 20 cm H2O. This range is standard for most CPAP machines and is likely to fulfill the needs of most users.
At 26 decibels, the Z2 Auto Travel CPAP runs more quietly than most of its competitors. This level is considered quieter than a whisper and is unlikely to bother light sleepers. However, the Z2 is slightly louder when not used with the Qlite muffler.
The Z2 Auto Travel CPAP uses an HME for humidification, which is a self-contained cartridge that cannot be adjusted. Its design lessens the chance of humidification-related problems, such as excess moisture in the tubing, but some users may prefer a traditional tank-based humidifier that allows for additional temperature and humidity adjustments.
The Z2 Auto Travel CPAP requires standard maintenance and cleaning for a CPAP machine, though its accessories also require upkeep. Daily care involves washing the tubing with warm, soapy water. Users can wipe off the machine with a damp cloth, if needed. The Qlite piece does not require cleaning, though it should be checked for cracks and replaced when needed.
Weekly replacement of the HME is also required for sleepers that choose to use that optional function. Unlike traditional CPAP machines with humidifiers, adding water to a tank is not necessary.
Thanks to its streamlined weight and size, the Z2 Auto Travel CPAP is exceptionally portable, even for a travel CPAP device. While the machine is FAA-approved for in-flight use, users must turn off the machine’s Bluetooth before takeoff.
Use this SleepApnea.org link for the most current discount on Breas Medical products
Shop NowWhat Do Customers Have to Say About the Z2 Auto Travel CPAP?
The majority of users report being very satisfied with their Z2 Auto Travel CPAP, though many note that it should be used for travel, not for daily use. The machine’s compact size and easy-to-use design receive the most praise, followed by the Qlite muffler’s ability to keep noise to a minimum.
Users report mixed reviews for the HME. Most state that it works appropriately in most conditions, though extremely dry or humid conditions may cause it to be less effective. However, other users say that they require more humidification than the HME can provide.
Trial, Warranty, and Shipping Policies
| Availability | CPAP machines like the Z2 Auto Travel CPAP are only available with a prescription and must be purchased from an authorized CPAP retailer. The machine is available at online and brick-and-mortar CPAP retailers but cannot be purchased directly from the manufacturer. |
| Shipping | Shipping fees vary depending on the retailer, though many online CPAP retailers offer free shipping for CPAP machines. The time it takes to receive your new CPAP machine will depend on your location, retailer, and shipping method. |
| Sleep Trial | Trial periods vary by retailer. Customers should review their retailer’s return policies before making a purchase. |
| Warranty | Breas Medical provides a two-year non-transferable limited warranty for the Z2 Auto Travel CPAP. The company will repair or replace the machine if it fails under normal use, though the warranty does not cover damage caused by the owner, misuse, or water damage. |
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a health care provider prior to starting a new treatment or making changes to your treatment plan.
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Written by
Tochukwu Ikpeze, Staff WriterTochukwu grew up in New York and has a passion for creative and scientific writing. Tochukwu holds an undergraduate degree in Biology and Psychology, a Master’s degree in Biomedical Science, and a Medical Degree as well. In his free time, Tochukwu enjoys reading, learning, exploring various topics pertaining to the human condition and conveying that information to the public through writing.
Reviewed by
Dr. Sherrie Neustein, Medical ReviewerDr. Sherrie Neustein is a board certified Pediatrician and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics who has enjoyed over 15 years in practice. She graduated magna cum laude from Brandeis University and with honors from the Tufts University School of Medicine. Dr. Neustein completed her residency training at the Northwell Health Cohen Children’s Medical Center and an international fellowship in medical ethics.
