CPAP vs BiPAP: what does your prescription mean?
CPAP uses one steady pressure. BiPAP uses a higher pressure as you breathe in and a lower one as you breathe out.
Your doctor chooses the mode and settings based on your assessment and care plan.
How CPAP works
CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. It delivers one steady pressure through a mask. APAP (auto-adjusting CPAP) adjusts pressure within a set range. Both names describe how pressure is delivered. Each machine page shows its mode.
How BiPAP works
BiPAP, also written BiLevel or BPAP, stands for bilevel positive airway pressure. It uses a higher pressure as you breathe in and a lower pressure as you breathe out. That two-level pattern is the defining difference from CPAP.
CPAP vs BiPAP at a glance
| CPAP / APAP | BiPAP | |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure pattern | One steady level; APAP adjusts within a set range | Two levels: higher in, lower out |
| Exhale pressure | One pressure level | Lower than the inhale pressure |
| Respyre purchase offer | See the full CPAP and BiPAP purchase inclusions. | |
| Typical PH price | ~₱40,000 to ₱100,000. See current CPAP prices. | ~₱90,000 to ₱140,000+. See current BiPAP models. |
| Warranty | The manufacturer warranty varies by machine. See purchase details for warranty and support. | |
What should you look at before paying?
Each machine page gives its pressure mode and manufacturer warranty. The CPAP price guide has current CPAP prices; the BiPAP page shows available machines and prices, and purchase details explain included support.
Buying CPAP online? Our guide to buying CPAP online in the Philippines explains what to look for.
What comes with a CPAP or BiPAP purchase?
The purchase details page has the full list of what comes with a CPAP or BiPAP.