Inogen One G5 vs. Hidgeem SJ-OX1C vs. Caire FreeStyle Comfort Portable Oxygen Concentrator
by AdminHIDGEEM on Nov 17, 2025
We know how confusing it can be when you're looking for a portable oxygen concentrator (POC) — there are many models and features to weigh. To help you make a smart choice, let’s compare three strong options side-by-side: Hidgeem SJ-OX1C, Inogen One G5, and CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort.
Here’s a detailed comparison table, followed by a discussion of which model is best for and why you might pick one over another.
Comparison Table: Key Specifications
Here are the specs for the three POCs:
| Feature | Hidgeem SJ-OX1C | Inogen One G5 | CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flow Type | Continuous flow, 1–6 L/min | Pulse flow, settings 1–6 | Pulse flow, settings 1–5 |
| Oxygen Concentration / Output | High, stable continuous oxygen, Purity 90% for 1L/min. | Up to ~1260 mL/min per Inogen spec sheet | Purity ~90% +5.5% / -3% per CAIRE spec |
| Noise Level | ~45 dB(A), suitable for sleep | ~38 dBA at flow 2 | ~43 dB(A) @ setting 2 |
| Weight | 3.5 kg with battery (SJ-OX1C spec) | ~4.7 lb (2.2 kg) with single battery | 5 lb (2.3 kg) with 8-cell battery; 6 lb with 16-cell |
| Battery / Run Time | 5400 mAh Li-ion, ~100 minutes per battery, 4 batteries up to 7 hours | Single battery up to ~6.5 hours; double up to ~13 hours (at lower settings) | 8-cell = up to 4 hours @ setting 2; 16-cell = up to 8 hours @ setting 2 |
| Continuous-Flow Capability | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (pulse only) | ❌ No (pulse only) |
| Warranty | 2-year free warranty,Paid warranty service is available after 2 years | 3-year warranty on unit, 1 year on molecular sieve /battery | 3-year warranty on concentrator, includes molecular sieve |
| Maintenance / Sieve | Requires molecular sieve care; designed for longevity | Sieve requires periodic maintenance; G5 has replaceable columns (per Inogen) | Also requires standard POC maintenance; CAIRE provides preventive maintenance guidelines |
| Typical Price Range | Around $470-$550 (varies by promotion) | Around $1,995 MSRP for base G5 model (varies by supplier) | ~$2,395 (depending on seller) |
What These Differences Mean for Real Life
1. Usage Scenarios
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If you need steady oxygen day and night: The HIDGEEM SJ-OX1C is clearly the best choice because its continuous-flow design supports steady breathing (including during sleep).
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If you’re highly mobile / travel a lot: The Inogen One G5 shines — its ultra-lightweight body and long battery life with double-cell battery make it ideal for long trips without plugging in.
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If you want smart pulse efficiency plus comfort: The CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort is a great candidate. Its UltraSense technology adapts to your breathing, and its ergonomic design makes it comfortable to carry or wear.
2. Battery Life Trade-offs
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The G5 offers the longest battery runtime (especially with double cell), but that adds weight.
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The FreeStyle Comfort gives moderate runtime with its 8- or 16-cell options, but with less flow flexibility than a continuous-flow unit.
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The SJ-OX1C has a more modest runtime per its built-in battery, but if you travel a lot you can carry spare batteries.
3. Noise Considerations
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All three are relatively quiet, but the G5 is the quietest at certain settings — great if noise is a concern in public or shared spaces.
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The SJ-OX1C is engineered for low-noise continuous output — helpful if you're using it while relaxing or sleeping.
4. Maintenance & Longevity
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Continuous-flow units like the SJ-OX1C typically rely heavily on molecular sieve performance, so keeping up good maintenance is key.
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For all three, filter cleaning and battery care are important. The CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort also has clear preventive maintenance instructions, which helps with long-term reliability.
5. Cost & Value
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The G5 is a premium POC — you’re paying more, but gaining excellent portability, battery time, and brand reliability.
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FreeStyle Comfort falls in a similar price range depending on battery pack, but trades off continuous flow for comfort and pulse-dose intelligence.
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The HIDGEEM SJ-OX1C may offer the best value for continuous-flow users, especially for those who don't want to rent and who prefer owning.
Our Recommendation
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Choose the Hidgeem SJ-OX1C if your prescription calls for continuous flow, or you want a reliable POC that supports both sleep and mobility. And if your budget is limited, SJ-OX1C is also the best choice, the price is only 25% of Inogen or CAIRE, but the functions are very similar.
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Go with the Inogen One G5 if you want the lightest, most travel-friendly option with long battery capability for pulse flow.
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Consider the CAIRE FreeStyle Comfort if you prefer ergonomic design, smart pulse delivery, and an intuitive user interface.
