Senior SavingsOxygen·May 1, 2026
Portable Oxygen Concentrators: Cost, Coverage, and Top Models
A POC can replace tanks, fly with you, and last 10 years. Here's how to get one covered — or buy smart if it isn't.
How they work
A Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) pulls in room air, filters out nitrogen, and delivers concentrated oxygen. No tanks to refill — just plug in or use the battery.
Top models in 2026
- Inogen One G5 — 4.7 lbs, up to 13 hours battery, 5 pulse settings. The gold standard for active patients.
- Inogen Rove 6 — newer Inogen, lighter at 4.8 lbs, FAA-approved.
- Respironics SimplyGo Mini — pulse only, ultra-light at 5 lbs.
- SeQual Eclipse 5 — heavier (18 lbs) but continuous flow for higher oxygen needs.
Cost
- New retail: $2,500–$4,500.
- Refurbished from reputable seller: $1,500–$2,500.
- Rentals through DME (durable medical equipment) suppliers: $200–$400/month.
Medicare coverage
Medicare covers oxygen equipment as a 36-month rental, then it becomes yours. You must have:
- A doctor's prescription.
- Documented oxygen saturation (SpO₂) at or below qualifying thresholds.
- Demonstration that you've tried other treatments.
Your monthly out-of-pocket is usually 20% of the Medicare-approved rate.
Travel-ready features to require
- FAA-approved sticker (required for flying).
- At least two batteries to cover layovers and delays.
- Pulse + continuous flow if your needs may change.
Bottom line
If you qualify, Medicare's rent-to-own pathway is the cheapest route. If buying out of pocket, refurbished Inogen units from reputable medical-equipment sellers offer the best value. Always insist on a 30-day return policy.