For millions of Americans living with chronic respiratory conditions like COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or emphysema, supplemental oxygen is a lifeline. However, traditional oxygen tanks, with their bulk and limited supply, often hinder mobility and independence.

This is where Inogen oxygen concentrators have revolutionized oxygen therapy in the USA, offering lightweight, portable, and reliable solutions that empower users to maintain active lifestyles.  

Inogen, Inc. is a leading American medical technology company focused on providing innovative respiratory products. Their flagship product line, the Inogen One, consists of portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) designed for active users who require pulse dose oxygen delivery. They also offer a stationary home oxygen concentrator, the Inogen At Home.  

The Inogen One Series: Redefining Portability

The core of Inogen's appeal lies in its commitment to portability. Their "Inogen One" series has consistently pushed the boundaries of lightweight and compact design, making it easier for oxygen users to travel, run errands, socialize, and simply enjoy life outside their homes.  

• Inogen One G5 (and newer Rove 6): The Inogen One G5 is often considered the most powerful portable concentrator in Inogen's lineup, offering flow settings from 1 to 6. Weighing around 4.7 pounds (with a single battery), it provides ample oxygen for many users and boasts impressive battery life – up to 6.5 hours with a single battery and up to 13 hours with a double battery on a setting of 1 or 2. It's designed for 24/7 use and is FAA-approved for air travel, a critical feature for those who wish to fly. The newer Inogen Rove 6 is an evolution of the G5, often seen as a direct successor, offering similar advanced features and performance.  


• Inogen One G4: Known for being the lightest and smallest Inogen model, the G4 weighs less than 3 pounds with a single battery. It offers flow settings from 1 to 3, making it ideal for users with lower oxygen requirements who prioritize ultimate portability. Its battery life is up to 2.7 hours with a single battery and 5 hours with a double battery (on setting 1). Like the G5, it's designed for 24/7 use and is FAA-approved.  


• Inogen One G3: An earlier, still popular model, the G3 offers pulse dose settings from 1 to 5. It is slightly heavier than the G4 but lighter than the G5, typically around 4.8 pounds. It provided up to 4.5 hours of battery life with a single battery and up to 9 hours with a double battery on a setting of 1 or 2.  

Key Features and Benefits of Inogen Oxygen Concentrators:

• Pulse Dose Technology: Inogen POCs utilize intelligent pulse dose delivery, meaning they deliver oxygen only when the user inhales. This efficient delivery conserves oxygen, allowing for smaller units and longer battery life compared to continuous flow portable concentrators.  


• Lightweight and Compact: A hallmark of the Inogen brand, these concentrators are designed to be easily carried over the shoulder or in a backpack, promotinguser mobility.  


• Extended Battery Life: Inogen offers single and double batteries for their portable units, providing varying durations of oxygen therapy to suit different daily activities and travel needs. Batteries can be recharged with AC (wall) or DC (car) power.  


• FAA Approved: All Inogen One models are approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for use on commercial flights, making air travel a reality for many oxygen users.  


• Quiet Operation: Inogen concentrators are known for their relatively quiet operation, minimizing disruption for both the user and those around them.  


• 24/7 Use Capability: Despite their portability, Inogen's portable concentrators are built for continuous use, allowing them to serve as both a portable and a home oxygen solution for many individuals.


• User-Friendly Interface: With clear LCD screens and simple controls, Inogen devices are designed for ease of use.  


• Inogen Connect App (for G4, G5, Rove 6): Newer models integrate Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to monitor their device's status, battery life, and perform basic troubleshooting via a smartphone app.  

The Inogen At Home: Stationary Efficiency

Beyond their portable line, Inogen also manufactures the Inogen At Home stationary oxygen concentrator. This unit is designed for continuous flow oxygen therapy within the home environment. It stands out for being one of the lightest and most energy-efficient 5-liter per minute continuous flow concentrators on the market, typically weighing around 18 pounds. Its low power consumption can lead to lower electricity bills compared to heavier, older stationary models.  

Cost and Insurance Coverage in the USA

Inogen oxygen concentrators, particularly the portable models, represent a significant investment. Prices for new Inogen One G5 units typically start around $2,500 to $4,000, with the G4 ranging from $2,000 to $3,000. The Inogen At Home stationary concentrator can range from $1,700 to $4,800. Prices vary based on the model, included accessories (such as extra batteries, carrying cases), and the vendor.  

In the USA, oxygen concentrators are medical devices requiring a prescription from a licensed physician. Insurance coverage, including Medicare and private health insurance, can be complex. While many insurance plans cover oxygen therapy equipment, they often prefer rental agreements or may only cover the least expensive option that meets medical necessity. Patients often need to work with a Durable Medical Equipment (DME) provider that is in-network with their insurance plan to determine coverage, co-pays, and rental vs. purchase options. Medicare Part B typically covers 80% of the approved amount for oxygen equipment rental, with the patient responsible for the remaining 20% after meeting their deductible.  

Choosing an Inogen Concentrator

The choice of an Inogen concentrator depends on individual oxygen needs, lifestyle, and budget. It is paramount for patients to consult with their physician to determine the appropriate oxygen flow setting (pulse dose vs. continuous flow) and prescription. Subsequently, researching different models, comparing prices from reputable medical equipment suppliers, and understanding insurance coverage are essential steps to acquiring an Inogen oxygen concentrator that provides the freedom and support needed for a better quality of life.