ResMed AirFit N20 vs AirTouch N20 Nasal Mask: What's the Difference?

Introduction

Choosing a nasal CPAP mask often comes down to one thing: how it feels against your face night after night. The ResMed AirFit N20 and the ResMed AirTouch N20 are two masks built on the same platform — sharing the same frame, headgear, magnetic clips, and fit system — but they differ in one fundamental way: the cushion material. The AirFit N20 uses a silicone InfinitySeal cushion, while the AirTouch N20 uses a memory foam cushion designed to reduce pressure marks and improve comfort for skin-sensitive users.

Because these two masks share so much in common, the comparison is unusually focused. Understanding the difference in cushion technology, how each should be cleaned, and which type of sleeper each suits best will help narrow down the right choice. Both masks are compatible with any CPAP machine from any manufacturer, and the cushions are interchangeable — meaning patients can own one frame and switch between both cushion types as needed. As always, consult your healthcare provider or sleep specialist regarding any changes to your therapy setup.

Quick Comparison Overview

The shared frame and headgear system means patients are not choosing between two entirely different products — they are primarily choosing a cushion type. Both masks use the same magnetic clip system, the same headgear, and the same no-rules fit philosophy that does not require a strict fitting process to achieve a reliable seal.

Design, Build, and Fit

Both the AirFit N20 and AirTouch N20 are built on the same N20 platform, which ResMed designed around a philosophy of simplicity. The magnetic clips guide the headgear to the frame quickly and intuitively, without the need for threading straps through clips or adjusting multiple points. The soft, flexible frame with integrated padding is shared across both masks and is designed to move with the user throughout the night rather than pressing rigidly against the face.

ResMed describes the N20 fit system as a "no rules fit" — meaning there is no single correct way to position the mask, and patients with different facial profiles can typically achieve a comfortable seal without following a strict fitting protocol. Both masks are designed to accommodate a wide range of facial structures, and fitting templates are available for both to assist with cushion size selection.

The Core Difference: Silicone vs Memory Foam

AirFit N20 — InfinitySeal Silicone Cushion

The AirFit N20 uses ResMed's InfinitySeal cushion, made from silicone. Silicone is the most widely used cushion material in CPAP masks and has a long track record of providing reliable sealing across different facial profiles. The InfinitySeal design is described by ResMed as their most adaptive silicone cushion, able to maintain a seal as the user moves throughout the night and shifts sleep position.

Silicone cushions are durable, easy to clean with warm water and mild soap, and generally maintain their shape well over the recommended replacement period. For most CPAP users, a well-fitting silicone cushion provides a consistent, effective seal night after night. Patients whose skin tolerates standard silicone well and who prioritise a proven, low-maintenance seal typically find the AirFit N20 straightforward to live with.

AirTouch N20 — Memory Foam Cushion

The AirTouch N20 replaces the silicone cushion with a memory foam cushion that conforms to the shape of the user's nose and surrounding facial contours. Memory foam is softer against the skin than silicone and is specifically designed to reduce the pressure marks and redness that some users experience around the nose and bridge area after a full night of wearing a silicone mask.

For patients with sensitive skin, those who are prone to irritation from silicone, or those who have found that standard cushions leave noticeable marks each morning, the AirTouch N20 may offer a more comfortable experience. The conforming nature of memory foam also means the cushion adapts to facial features that might be challenging for a standard silicone seal, potentially improving fit for patients who have had difficulty achieving a reliable seal with the AirFit N20 cushion.

Cleaning and Maintenance Differences

Cleaning requirements are one of the most practically significant differences between these two masks, and it is worth understanding before purchasing.

The silicone cushion on the AirFit N20 can be cleaned the same way as most other CPAP mask components — a daily rinse with warm soapy water is all that is required. This straightforward routine is familiar to most CPAP users and requires no special products.

The memory foam cushion on the AirTouch N20 requires a different approach. Because soap and water will break down the foam material over time, ResMed specifically recommends using mild cleaning wipes or a CPAP sanitizing device instead of traditional washing. Patients who already own or are willing to invest in a CPAP sanitizer will find this routine easy to manage. Those who prefer a simple water-and-soap cleaning routine may find the AirFit N20 more convenient to maintain day to day.

Compatibility and Accessories

Both masks are compatible with any CPAP machine from any manufacturer and use a standard hose connection. The shared N20 platform means the following components are interchangeable between the two masks:

• The cushion — AirFit N20 silicone and AirTouch N20 memory foam cushions click into the same frame
• The frame — the same flexible, padded frame fits both cushion types
• The headgear — the same headgear with magnetic clips is used across both masks
• The short hose connector — included with both and identical across the platform

This interchangeability is a practical advantage for patients who want to experiment with both cushion types or who find their preference varies seasonally or with changes in their skin condition. Purchasing only the cushion as a replacement component, rather than an entire new mask system, keeps ongoing costs lower.

Health Canada recommends replacing CPAP mask components every six months. Over time, cushion materials — both silicone and memory foam — stretch, lose their shape, and accumulate bacteria and organic material from skin and breath, reducing seal quality and hygiene. Replacement cushions for both the AirFit N20 and AirTouch N20 are available through CPAP Machines Canada.

Which Users May Prefer Each Mask

Because these two masks share the same frame and fit system, the question of which to choose is almost entirely about cushion preference and skin sensitivity.

The AirFit N20 may suit patients who:

• Have no significant skin sensitivity or irritation from silicone cushions
• Prefer a straightforward daily cleaning routine using warm water and mild soap
• Want a cushion material with a long track record of reliable sealing performance
• Do not currently own a CPAP sanitizing device and prefer not to invest in one
• Are new to CPAP therapy and want a mask with a familiar, proven cushion type

The AirTouch N20 may suit patients who:

• Experience redness, pressure marks, or skin irritation from silicone cushions
• Have sensitive facial skin and want a softer material in contact with their face
• Have had difficulty maintaining a reliable seal with silicone and want a conforming alternative
• Already use or are willing to use CPAP cleaning wipes or a sanitizing device
• Currently use the AirFit N20 frame and want to try a different cushion without replacing the whole mask

Frequently Asked Questions