CPAP Mask Types: Full Face vs Nasal vs Pillow — Which Should You Choose?

Published 2026-07-21

Every CPAP or BiPAP mask does the same core job: forming a seal so pressurised air reaches your airway all night. The three common styles — full face, nasal and nasal pillow — differ mainly in coverage, comfort and how forgiving they are of your sleep position.

Full face masks

A full face mask covers both the nose and mouth. It's the usual recommendation if you breathe through your mouth at night, have nasal congestion, allergies, or need higher pressures for BiPAP or AVAPS therapy. The trade-off is more surface area to seal, which can mean more contact points for leaks if the fit isn't right.

Nasal masks

A nasal mask covers just the nose, using a smaller cushion that sits over or under the nostrils. It's lighter, has a smaller field of vision (good for side sleepers and reading in bed), and generally seals more easily than a full face mask — but it only works if you keep your mouth closed during sleep. Chin straps are a common accessory if occasional mouth leaks are the only issue.

Nasal pillow masks

Nasal pillows are the smallest option — soft silicone inserts that sit just inside the nostrils. They're popular with people who feel claustrophobic in a full mask, wear glasses in bed, or want minimal contact with the face. Because the seal area is tiny, pillow masks usually need slightly lower pressures to stay comfortable and can feel more direct at higher settings.

How to decide

Mask fit matters more than mask type. Our product specialists can walk you through sizing over a call before you buy, and most of our masks are available with a cushion-only replacement option so you don't have to replace the whole frame every few months.

Browse related products