Inogen One G3 vs. G4 - Which Inogen Oxygen Concentrator is Right for You

In regular day-to-day life, some individuals might find themselves needing extra respiratory help. For this, they may need to use an oxygen tank. An oxygen aide is quite a lifesaver and makes breathing easy for the people who use it. 

Yet, there is one drawback to using an oxygen supply tank. Dragging a bulky oxygen concentrator with you as you move is nobody's dream.  They are heavy, unstable, and can exhaust patients who are already wound up due to a lack of oxygen. 

They aren't precisely handy or portable. This means that carrying it can be a hassle, and traveling with it an absolute nightmare. 

Are you tired of breaking your back carrying your oxygen concentrator wherever you go? Are you looking for a more portable solution to your oxygen needs? Do you want to relax, be active, and free of this nuisance? Then the Inogen One Line just might be the answer for you. 

The Inogen One Line 

Luckily, the Inogen One product portfolio has the perfect solution to the problem. The purpose of the product is that patients should not worry about the oxygen tank's bulkiness. These mobile oxygen concentrators are compact and portable. They help users continue receiving the treatment they need. It does not disturb their everyday life.

Compared to its earlier G2 model, Inogen now provides two compact devices: the Inogen One G3 and the Inogen One G4. It is easy to think the G4 is the latest and upgraded version of the G3; both have their own set of pros and cons. 

This article also covers how each model may affect your life for the greater good.

Let's find out! 

Benefits of Using an Inogen Oxygen Concentrator

Oxygen tanks can make a huge difference in your everyday life. They supply the supplementary oxygen you need. However, there is no question that they can be somewhat of an annoyance. Usually, even smaller tanks are too massive to be hauled around. This is because the tank needs to be big enough to hold the oxygen you need during the day. Of course, they could be tied to a wheelchair or vehicle, but that doesn't exactly solve the problem. 

However, Inogen One devices aren't designed to contain pressurized oxygen. Instead, they are concentrators of oxygen. Peer-reviewed clinical trials have validated these continuous-flow oxygen devices. People use Inogen oxygen concentrators for daily use, travel, and even when sleeping. When diluted, the Inogen One provides an interrupted supply of oxygen. 

Their devices seldom go out of fashion. This is another crucial thing to remember about Inogen. Inogen launches a new product every couple of years. Even so, their previous versions continue to be popular. This means that you don't have to think about buying a unit, worrying that it might become redundant the next day. 

We have discussed the many pros of using an Inogen oxygen concentrator. Let's address our discussion's focal point. The Inogen G3 or The Inogen G4 oxygen concentrator- which one is right for you? 

The Inogen G3 vs. The Inogen G4

The Similarities 

There are some significant variations between the Inogen One G3 and the Inogen One G4. However, there are also several parallels. For instance, both models are built to be lightweight, compact, and easy enough to fit into a carrying case. This ensures that you can continue completing daily tasks while using the Inogen CP.

Both Inogen One solutions meet FAA specifications. This means that you can travel around the world with it. Both variants are battery-powered for better performance. They are also fitted with an AC/DC power source to allow you to charge the lithium-ion battery or fuel your computer at home.

By using Intelligent Delivery Technology, Inogen supplies the maximum levels of oxygen whenever you use it. For example, as respiratory rates slow down at night, the size of each dosage of bolus increases. These pulse doses, rather than supplying a constant supply of oxygen, allow more efficient treatment.

This system also allows quicker oxygen distribution to have a greater effect on the flow of air. 

In reality, the Inogen One devices have been proven to guarantee that they can operate 24/7 without affecting quality.

All Inogen One models come with a manufacturer warranty as well. A standard three-year warranty covers the concentrator itself. A one-year guarantee also provides insurance for the batteries and other auxiliary parts. Some bundle offers also come with some extra services at a fraction of the usual cost. Such coverage means that you can fix any efficiency problems with your device. There are no additional expenses.

Both models use an LCD that makes changing settings and running your computer simple. These devices' flexibility and functionality make them a perfect match for portable usage, work, and stationary at-home use.

The Differences

• Battery Power 

One of the main determining factors contributing to a portable device is how long the concentrator can provide oxygen. Battery life relies on the pulse rate and battery cell type. Consider both aspects when determining what suits your needs.

Their batteries are also very similar to one another as both variants allow single and double batteries. The double batteries provide twice the recharge duration of the single ones.

However, battery length often depends on the Inogen One design that you are using. Single batteries can last up to 4.5 hours for the Inogen One G3. The double batteries can last for an incredible 10 hours. 

The battery length is much shorter with the Inogen One G4. Single cells can last three hours, while a two-battery pack can help it last for four hours or so. 

Single and double battery options are available for both the Inogen One G3 and the Inogen One G4.  The dual batteries usually give twice the recharge duration.

Your batteries' length can differ depending on the actual use for all battery types.  It should go without saying that battery lifespan would decline at high discharge conditions.

The batteries are removable and reusable on Inogen One systems (and you can take several batteries while on the go). Battery capacity should be a key concern for those who travel often. An Inogen One G3 has a more powerful battery that you choose to use a POC for long hours. If you are always away from places where you can refuel, you can always recharge your device using AC/DC combinations. 

• Weight 

Weight is a very significant consideration for many individuals when selecting a portable oxygen concentrator. In the past, for many, the word 'compact' had a different connotation. It was considered a luxury to get out of the building since the units were much larger and heavier. These days, most individuals hope to hold their oxygen concentrator on their back without getting tired.

The Inogen One G3 and the Inogen One G4 have many similarities. However, their sizes are very different. Both devices are lightweight. However, the Inogen G4 is a smaller model. 

Even with the entire battery set, the Inogen One G3 is light. At only around 3 lbs. equipped with its pack of batteries, the Inogen One G4 weighs even less.

Both concentrators have carrying bags that make traveling even more effortless. To provide a comfortable and safe fit, these bags are custom fitted to the machine of your choosing. The bag's base is padded, and a zipper down the side helps adjust the batteries while keeping the concentrator device within the bag.

The Inogen G4 was redesigned to be more modern and minimalistic. It comes in a sleeker design compared to the G3, and the sieve beds are not positioned on the outside of the unit. They are installed in a single column in the front of the unit.

Nothing is as problematic as a compact concentrator of oxygen weighing a ton. Inogen has placed special attention to making this line of oxygen concentrators. 

In terms of weight and size alone, the Inogen G4 is a clear winner. 

• Settings for Oxygen Flow

Another important field of concern where there are some noticeable variations between the Inogen One G3 and the Inogen One G4 is the oxygen flow setting.

Remember, a doctor will advise patients to opt for the most optimal oxygen flow rates. This is determined by how many liters per minute are required for your treatment. Many patients need less than two liters per minute for their treatment, although some might need as much as 10 liters per minute. Furthermore, you can need more or less airflow at various times of the day based on your daily routine.

The Inogen One G3 and the Inogen One G4 use various flow parameters to better respond to client therapy modified as necessary.

These two portable oxygen devices provide a pulse-dose air delivery system. This mode retains oxygen. The settings of these devices can be adjusted to fit your requirements. The Inogen G3 has five knobs. The Inogen G4 has three knobs for adjustment. 

For those who have a range of things they need oxygen for, having several settings is useful. These settings can provide the correct concentration of oxygen during all stages of daily work and rest.

The settings in the Inogen One G3 help supply up to 1.05 liters of oxygen per minute. The Inogen G4 has three settings and supply 630 milliliters per minute. These flow settings, as well as the patient's respiratory rate, affect bolus volume. 

Many patients will do great with flow levels one through three. The Inogen One G3 may better support those who often need greater oxygen delivery concentrations. It is important to have the correct airflow for your different activities to manage your condition better.

• Inogen App Connection

The Inogen G4 has a key advantage over its G3 counterpart; it can work with an app! 

The past discrepancies seem to offer the Inogen One G3 more of a benefit. The Inogen One G4 has the unique characteristics that can make it the right option for you. The most noticeable addition is its alignment with the Inogen Connect app to use with the device. 

This app is designed to notify the user of any upgrades, updates, or replacements the device might need. Notifications can allow you to remember when the columns or capillary tube of the system should be replaced.  This means you are always sure that your unit works as it should. Even something as basic as choosing when to disinfect or upgrade your particle filter will help you get better quality therapy. It also increases your device's efficiency. 

The Inogen Connect app helps you receive important updates for your POC. After you swap your unit's columns, the app will connect to your Inogen One G4 to offer software upgrades or perform column reboots.

This interactive smartphone app is only available for the Inogen One G4. 

The Inogen Link app plays a pivotal role in managing your device. For instance, the app allows users to:

• monitor battery capacity, 
• column life filter life of their oxygen concentrator
• quick access to the device's instruction manual
• provides helpful tips for debugging and answers to commonly asked questions
• be able to take better care of your system with easy, accurate answers to your questions and complaints

Finally, this app offers special deals and discounts for consumers, making some parts more economical. It is not yet compatible with the Inogen One G3. However, this app can simplify the way you use and look after your oxygen concentrator.

Software updates are available for the Inogen G3 as well. However, a compatible USB system will involve collecting data or implementing upgrades. This can be accomplished with Inogen Connect via your mobile device.

The Final Verdict 

As the details above show, there is no right answer when deciding between the Inogen One G3 and the Inogen One G4. Both versions have a convenient oxygen therapy solution that is much easier to integrate as part of your everyday routine than an oxygen cylinder.

The Inogen One G3 provides longer battery life based on battery capacity over more pulse settings. It is the best option if you take regular family vacations, enjoy hiking, or need higher pulse configurations.

There's No Right Answer!

You have to make your decision based on what suits you best. You can go with the Inogen One G4 with its more compact size and app connection. Or you can choose the Inogen One G3 that provides you with:

• heavier oxygen delivery,
• greater pulse selection capacity
• a better battery

Both devices come with a good warranty; 3-years for the Inogen One G4 and 5- years for the Inogen One G3. 

An oxygen concentrator can have a higher initial cost than a traditional oxygen tank. This is because you won't have to think about filling up your device on a routine basis; it can produce long-term benefits. You also wouldn't have to struggle with the discomfort of taking a heavy tank with you as you go about your day.

Instead, you can save money over time by using an Inogen oxygen concentrator while also ensuring you get more satisfaction out of your everyday activities.

Have the active, fun-filled life that you've wanted for so long with this portable oxygen concentrator. Happy breathing!