Oxygen Concentrator vs Cylinder: Which Should You Rent or Buy?

Prathamesh P.

Medical Equipment
14-Oct-25
225

For patients with breathing difficulties whether due to COVID-19, COPD, or post-surgery weakness oxygen support is often required at home. Families often wonder: Should we choose an oxygen concentrator or an oxygen cylinder? Both serve the same purpose but differ in cost, convenience, and usage. At Aarogyaa Bharat, we provide both concentrators and cylinders on rental and purchase, ensuring families get the right solution for their needs.

Oxygen Concentrator

A machine that filters oxygen from the air and delivers it to the patient.

Benefits

Provides continuous oxygen supply (no refilling needed).
Easy to operate at home.
Long-term cost-effective.
Portable models available.

Limitations

Works on electricity (needs backup during power cuts).
Higher upfront cost compared to cylinders.

Oxygen Cylinder

A steel container filled with compressed oxygen.

Benefits

Ready-to-use and portable.
Useful as emergency backup.
No electricity needed.

Limitations

Needs regular refilling.
Limited oxygen supply per cylinder.
Heavy and difficult to move.

Oxygen Concentrator vs Cylinder: Comparison

Feature	Oxygen Concentrator	Oxygen Cylinder
Oxygen Supply	Unlimited (with electricity)	Limited (needs refilling)
Cost	Higher upfront, cost-effective long-term	Low upfront, high recurring cost
Convenience	Easy to use, no refilling	Needs frequent refills
Best Use	Long-term oxygen therapy	Short-term use or backup

Which One Should You Rent or Buy?

Choose Oxygen Concentrator if:

Patient needs daily oxygen therapy.
Long-term use is expected.

Choose Oxygen Cylinder if:

Patient needs oxygen occasionally.
Backup during emergencies is required.

👉 Best Solution: Many families use both a concentrator for daily use and a cylinder for emergencies.

Aarogyaa Bharat Advantage

With Aarogyaa Bharat, families get:

Affordable rentals and sales of concentrators and cylinders.
Portable oxygen concentrators for easy home use.
Doorstep delivery and installation.
Quality assurance and maintenance support.

FAQs

1. Which is cheaper oxygen concentrator or cylinder?
Cylinders are cheaper initially but costly over time due to refilling. Concentrators save more in the long run.

2. Do oxygen concentrators work during power cuts?
No, they need electricity. It’s recommended to keep a cylinder as backup.

3. Can I rent oxygen equipment from Aarogyaa Bharat?
Yes, we provide flexible rental plans for both concentrators and cylinders.

4. Which is safer for home use?
Both are safe when used properly. Concentrators are more convenient for daily use.

5. How do I decide between the two?
Consult your doctor, then consider usage frequency and budget. Aarogyaa Bharat can guide you further.

Conclusion

Both oxygen concentrators and cylinders are essential for patients with respiratory issues. While concentrators are cost-effective for long-term use, cylinders are reliable as emergency backup.

At Aarogyaa Bharat, we make both options accessible with rental and purchase services, ensuring families never struggle for oxygen support.