F&P Nova Nasal vs ResMed AirFit N20 CPAP Mask: Compared

Introduction

Nasal CPAP masks come in a wide range of designs, and two that patients frequently compare are the Fisher and Paykel Nova Nasal and the ResMed AirFit N20. Both are well-regarded nasal masks from established manufacturers, both are designed to provide a reliable seal across a range of facial profiles, and both are built with active sleepers in mind. However, they take meaningfully different approaches to cushion design, headgear fitting, hose routing, noise management, and machine compatibility.

Patients choosing between these two masks are often weighing factors like how much mask they want on their face, whether they share a bedroom with a partner sensitive to noise or airflow, whether they use or plan to use a specific CPAP machine, and how much flexibility they want in how the hose is routed. This article covers those differences based on manufacturer-published product information to help you make a more informed decision. As always, consult your healthcare provider or sleep specialist regarding your therapy setup.

Quick Comparison Overview

Both masks are nasal designs intended for patients who breathe through their nose during sleep. They share a daily cleaning routine using warm water and mild soap, and both follow Health Canada's six-month replacement recommendation. The differences lie in how each mask is engineered to sit on the face, manage headgear, route the hose, and reduce nighttime noise.

Design, Cushion, and Fit

F&P Nova Nasal — RollFit Cushion and SwingFit Headgear

The Fisher and Paykel Nova Nasal is built around two proprietary technologies designed to reduce the physical presence of the mask on the face. The RollFit cushion is positioned lower on the nose than a standard nasal cushion, which opens up the field of view and reduces contact with the upper nose bridge area — a common source of pressure marks and discomfort. The cushion is designed to roll and adjust as the user moves during sleep, maintaining the seal without requiring constant readjustment.

The SwingFit headgear uses pivoting clips that move in response to position changes rather than pulling against the face. This reduces the tendency for headgear to tighten or shift when the user rolls from one side to another. The Nova is explicitly a magnet-free design, which may be important for patients who have implanted medical devices such as pacemakers or cochlear implants, where magnets in mask components could be contraindicated. Patients in this situation should always confirm safety with their physician.

ResMed AirFit N20 — InfinitySeal Cushion and Magnetic Clips

The ResMed AirFit N20 uses the InfinitySeal cushion, a silicone cushion designed to be the most adaptive in ResMed's nasal mask range. The cushion is engineered to maintain a consistent seal across different facial profiles and sleep positions, with a soft, flexible frame that includes integrated padding. ResMed describes the N20 as a "no rules fit" mask, meaning it can be put on and adjusted without following a specific fitting protocol — the simple modular design guides placement intuitively.

The AirFit N20 uses magnetic clips to connect the headgear to the frame. These allow for quick removal and reattachment and are a well-known feature of the N20 platform. Patients who prefer not to use magnets — whether for medical reasons or personal preference — should note this distinction compared to the magnet-free Nova.

Features and Technology Differences

Noise and Exhalation Diffuser

The Nova Nasal includes a washable diffuser that softens the sound and draft from exhalation. This is a practical feature for patients who share a bedroom and whose partner is sensitive to the sound of CPAP airflow or the sensation of exhalation draft from the mask. The diffuser is washable, meaning it does not need to be replaced as a consumable — it can be cleaned as part of the regular mask maintenance routine. The AirFit N20 does not list an equivalent diffuser or noise-reduction accessory in its product specifications.

Hose Routing Options

The Nova Nasal supports two hose routing positions: the standard front connection and an optional top-of-head placement using the included headgear clip. Top-of-head routing can reduce the risk of the hose catching on bedding or pulling on the mask during the night, and is preferred by some side and stomach sleepers. The AirFit N20 uses a standard front hose connection only and does not list a top-of-head routing option.

App and Fitting Support

The Nova Nasal is supported by the F&P myMask app, which provides fitting guidance and mask care instructions. This digital support tool can be useful for patients who prefer to reference an app during setup rather than reading a printed guide. The AirFit N20 offers a downloadable PDF fitting template for determining the correct cushion size. Neither approach requires any ongoing digital subscription — both are free tools to support the initial fitting process.

Machine Compatibility

This is one of the most important practical differences between these two masks. The AirFit N20 is compatible with all CPAP machines from all manufacturers, including the ResMed AirMini travel CPAP when used with the appropriate AirMini N20 setup pack. The Nova Nasal is compatible with all CPAP machines from all manufacturers except the ResMed AirMini. Patients who use or plan to use the AirMini as a travel device should be aware that the Nova Nasal will not function with it and should factor this into their mask selection.

Compatibility and What Is Included

Both masks require daily cleaning with warm water and mild, unscented soap, and both should be replaced on a six-month schedule as recommended by Health Canada. The Nova Nasal's washable diffuser can be cleaned as part of the regular routine without needing separate replacement. Replacement cushions and headgear for both masks are available through CPAP Machines Canada.

One additional compatibility note for AirFit N20 users: the N20 silicone cushion is interchangeable with the AirTouch N20 memory foam cushion, giving patients who find silicone uncomfortable the option to switch cushion types within the same frame. The Nova Nasal does not have a comparable interchangeable cushion option. Full AirFit N20 details are available on the product page.

Which Users May Prefer Each Mask

Both masks are well-suited to nasal breathers who sleep in varying positions, and both are designed to maintain their seal with movement throughout the night. The decision between them comes down to specific feature priorities and machine compatibility requirements.

The F&P Nova Nasal may suit patients who:

• Want a lower-profile cushion that sits further down the nose and reduces pressure on the bridge
• Share a bedroom and want the washable diffuser to soften exhalation noise and draft
• Prefer or require a magnet-free mask design for medical or personal reasons
• Want the flexibility of top-of-head hose routing to reduce hose drag during sleep
• Prefer to try all three cushion sizes at once with the Fit Pack before committing to one
• Want app-based fitting support through F&P myMask
• Do not use the ResMed AirMini as a travel device

The ResMed AirFit N20 may suit patients who:

• Use or plan to use the ResMed AirMini travel CPAP and need a compatible nasal mask
• Want the option to switch between silicone and memory foam cushions in the same frame
• Are comfortable with magnetic clips and value the quick headgear connection they offer
• Prefer a well-established, widely available mask platform with a broad accessory ecosystem
• Are already within the ResMed mask ecosystem and familiar with the N20 platform

Frequently Asked Questions