Oxygen Concentrator vs Nebulizer – What's the Difference?
- Punya Bajaj
- 7 hours ago
- 6 min read
Introduction – Do You Know Which Device You Actually Need?
Lakhs of Indian families dealing with COPD, asthma, pneumonia, and post-COVID breathlessness search online for a “breathing machine.” Unfortunately, many people buy the wrong device because they do not clearly understand the difference between an oxygen concentrator vs nebulizer.
Both devices are used for respiratory problems — but they work differently and treat completely different conditions.
An oxygen concentrator increases oxygen levels in the blood (SpO₂).A nebulizer delivers medicine directly into inflamed airways.
At Healthy Jeena Sikho — India’s trusted home healthcare provider serving 1 Lakh+ customers across 15+ cities — families are guided daily to choose the correct respiratory equipment.
This guide explains everything in detail — including prices, types, features, and when to use each device.
You will also learn about the latest oxygen concentrator price in India, the current nebulizer price in India, and how to choose the best oxygen concentrator for home use based on your medical condition. If you are looking for a reliable portable oxygen concentrator India, this guide will help you understand your options clearly.
What Is an Oxygen Concentrator?
An oxygen concentrator is a medical device that takes in room air, removes nitrogen, and supplies oxygen-rich air (90–96% purity) to patients who have low blood oxygen levels.
Unlike oxygen cylinders, it does not require refilling. It continuously produces oxygen as long as electricity is available.
The working process is simple but medically advanced:
• Air is pulled in from the surroundings
• Air is compressed and filtered
• Nitrogen is removed using sieve beds
• Oxygen (90–96% pure) is delivered via nasal cannula or mask
• Flow rate can be adjusted (usually 1–10 LPM)
This makes it ideal for long-term oxygen therapy at home.
Who Needs an Oxygen Concentrator?
Doctors recommend oxygen concentrators for:
• SpO₂ consistently below 95%
Oxygen therapy must always be used under medical supervision.
Healthy Jeena Sikho offers both rental and purchase options.
Suitable for most patients requiring low to moderate oxygen flow.
Examples include models from:
Philips Healthcare (EverFlo)Oxymed Mini
Rental starts from ₹3,500–₹4,500 per month.
Purchase price ranges approximately ₹28,000–₹46,000 depending on brand and model.
Other available brands include Evox, Medoxy, Niscomed, Contec, BPL, and Nidek.
If you are researching the oxygen concentrator price in India, 5L models are the most cost-effective option for home oxygen therapy and are considered the best oxygen concentrator for home use in most non-critical cases.
Recommended for patients who need higher oxygen flow.
Models include Oxymed 10L and Medoxy 10L.
Rental ranges between ₹5,000–₹6,500 per month.
Purchase prices are approximately ₹42,000–₹50,900.
Portable oxygen concentrators are designed for travel and mobility. They operate on batteries and are lightweight.
Popular models include:
Philips SimplyGo MiniOxymed P2 Portable Oxygen Concentrator
Rental starts at around ₹30,000 per month.
Purchase price ranges between ₹1,50,000 and ₹2,55,000.
Portable models are more expensive because of battery technology, compact design, and travel approval.
For patients searching for a portable oxygen concentrator India, these battery-powered models provide mobility and travel convenience while maintaining oxygen support outside the home.
What Is a Nebulizer?
A nebulizer is a medical device that converts liquid medicine into a fine mist (aerosol) that is inhaled directly into the lungs.
Important: A nebulizer does NOT increase oxygen levels.
It is used for delivering medication to reduce airway inflammation and open bronchial passages.
How Does a Nebulizer Work?
• Medicine (bronchodilator or saline) is added to a medication cup
• The machine converts it into aerosol mist
• Patient inhales fine particles (1–5 microns)
• Medicine relaxes airway muscles and reduces inflammation
Each session typically lasts 10–15 minutes.
Who Needs a Nebulizer?
• Asthma patients (acute & chronic)
• Chronic bronchitis
• Children with respiratory infections
• Patients unable to use inhalers
• Patients requiring bronchodilator therapy (Salbutamol, Budecort)
Types of Nebulizers
Jet Nebulizer (Compressor type) – Most common and affordable Ultrasonic Nebulizer – Faster and quieter Mesh Nebulizer – Most efficient, ideal for children and travel
Price range in India: ₹1,500–₹10,000 depending on type.
The nebulizer price in India depends on whether you choose a basic jet model or an advanced mesh nebulizer for children and travel use.
Oxygen Concentrator vs Nebulizer – Key Differences
When comparing oxygen concentrator vs nebulizer, the biggest difference is what they deliver.
An oxygen concentrator supplies purified oxygen and increases SpO₂ levels. It is used in hypoxia and oxygen deficiency cases.
A nebulizer delivers medicated mist to treat airway inflammation. It does not affect oxygen saturation.
Oxygen concentrators can be used continuously. Nebulizers are used in short 10–15 minute sessions.
Oxygen concentrators cost significantly more and usually require prescription. Nebulizers are affordable but still need doctor-prescribed medication.
Oxygen Concentrator vs Nebulizer
Feature | Oxygen Concentrator | Nebulizer |
What It Delivers | Purified oxygen (90–96%) | Medicated aerosol mist |
Main Purpose | Increases SpO₂ levels | Treats airway inflammation |
Used For | Hypoxia, low oxygen levels | Asthma, bronchitis, wheezing |
Session Duration | Continuous use possible | 10–15 minutes per session |
Affects Oxygen Levels? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Prescription Required? | Yes | Yes (for medication) |
Price Range (India) | ₹28,000–₹2,55,000 | ₹1,500–₹10,000 |
In simple words, the difference between oxygen concentrator vs nebulizer is that an oxygen concentrator increases blood oxygen levels, while a nebulizer delivers medication to the lungs.
The Most Important Difference — One Gives Oxygen, One Gives Medicine
A nebulizer does NOT increase blood oxygen levels.
Only an oxygen concentrator can raise SpO₂.
Never substitute one device for the other.
Oxygen Concentrator
Oxygen concentrator:
• Best for continuous home use
• No refilling required
• Cost-effective for long-term therapy
• Ideal for flow up to 5 LPM
For non-critical cases, a concentrator alone is usually sufficient. In severe cases, keeping a cylinder as backup is advisable.
Can You Use Both a Nebulizer and Oxygen Concentrator Together?
Yes.
Patients with severe COPD or advanced asthma may need both devices.
The oxygen concentrator maintains oxygen levels. The nebulizer delivers bronchodilator medication.
Some oxygen concentrators come with built-in nebulizer ports — which can reduce additional setup cost.
At Healthy Jeena Sikho , you can get the Oxymed Oxygen Concentrator, which comes with an inbuilt nebulizer port — making it a 2-in-1 respiratory solution for home use.
This is especially useful for:
• COPD patients requiring oxygen + nebulization
• Severe asthma patients
• Post-COVID recovery cases
• Elderly patients needing combined respiratory support
Choosing a concentrator with an inbuilt nebulizer saves space, reduces equipment clutter, and ensures smoother daily therapy management at home.
Key Features to Check Before Buying
• Flow rate (5L or 10L per minute)
• Oxygen purity (93% or above recommended)
• Built-in purity analyzer
• Nebulizer attachment option
• Battery backup
• Noise level
• Warranty & after-sales service
Nebulizer
• Particle size (1–5 microns ideal)
• Medication cup capacity
• Mask options for children & adults
• Noise level
• Ease of cleaning
Why Choose Healthy Jeena Sikho?
Healthy Jeena Sikho is one of India’s leading respiratory equipment providers.
Families trust Healthy Jeena Sikho because:
• 10+ years of experience
• 1 Lakh+ customers served
• 4.9 Google rating with thousands of reviews
• Same-day home delivery
• On-site technician installation
• Rent & Buy options• 24×7 support
• ISO certified and licensed provider
• Featured in leading national media
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a nebulizer increase SpO₂?
No. It only delivers medication.
When should I use an oxygen concentrator?
If SpO₂ falls below 95% consistently and a doctor prescribes oxygen therapy.
Do oxygen concentrators run out of oxygen?
No. They continuously process room air.
What is the rent price of an oxygen concentrator in India?
At Healthy Jeena Sikho, rental starts from ₹3,500 per month for 5L models and goes up to ₹6,500 per month for 10L models.
Is a portable oxygen concentrator worth buying?
Yes, if mobility and travel are important.
Conclusion – Choose the Right Device, Breathe the Right Way
Understanding the difference between oxygen concentrator vs nebulizer can prevent serious medical mistakes.
An oxygen concentrator corrects dangerously low oxygen levels. A nebulizer treats inflamed or blocked airways.
Different medical conditions require different devices — and in some cases, both are necessary.
Always consult your pulmonologist before renting or purchasing.
For trusted, same-day delivery of oxygen concentrators and respiratory equipment, contact Healthy Jeena Sikho today
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⚠ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified doctor before starting oxygen therapy or nebulization treatment.
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