Pulse Flow vs Continuous Flow Oxygen: What’s the Difference and How to

If you’re thinking about getting an oxygen device, it helps to understand the difference between pulse flow vs continuous flow oxygen. This is especially useful if you’re looking for a portable oxygen concentrator Australia. Here’s the thing: each type works a bit differently, and knowing how they work can help you pick the one that fits your daily life best. In this guide, we’ll explain the basics, compare two popular models, and give you tips for choosing the right device.

What is Pulse Flow Oxygen?

Pulse flow gives oxygen in short bursts instead of a constant stream. The device senses when you inhale and delivers oxygen at that moment. This makes it lighter, saves battery, and is easy to carry around.

The VARON VP-1 Pulse Portable Oxygen Concentrator | 24H Operation, CE-Approved is a great example. It’s compact and weighs only 6.05 lbs with a size of 7.1 × 4.9 × 10.6 inches. You can adjust the flow from 1 to 6, and it provides a high oxygen level of 93% ±3%.

Why the VP-1 is popular:

Delivers oxygen when you inhale
Adjustable flow from 1–6
Lightweight and easy to carry
Battery lasts 1–3 hours
Touchscreen display with alerts and timer
Comes with a travel bag and car adapter

Pulse flow is ideal if you want a device that moves with you and doesn’t feel heavy.

What is Continuous Flow Oxygen?

Continuous flow gives a steady stream of oxygen no matter when you breathe. It’s perfect if you need consistent support throughout the day.

The VARON VP-6 Continuous Portable Oxygen Concentrator | 1–6 Setting Flow, CE-Approved delivers continuous oxygen at adjustable settings from 1 to 6. Its oxygen concentration ranges from 90% at 1 L/min down to 28% at 6 L/min. Even with this capacity, it’s still portable at 7.9 lbs and measures 8.7 × 3.7 × 9.1 inches.

Why the VP-6 is useful:

Constant oxygen delivery, 1–6 flow settings
Built-in nebulizer for extra convenience
Quiet at ≤45 dB
Rechargeable, replaceable battery
Remote control to adjust settings easily
Compact and easy to carry

Continuous flow is best for people who need steady oxygen support and want a device that also supports additional therapy.

Pulse Flow vs Continuous Flow – Quick Comparison


Feature	VARON VP-1 Pulse Portable Oxygen Concentrator	VARON VP-6 Continuous Portable Oxygen Concentrator
Oxygen Delivery	Pulse Flow	Continuous Flow
Flow Rate	1–6	1–6
Oxygen Concentration	93% ±3%	90% at 1 L/min to 28% at 6 L/min
Battery Life	1–3 hours	Up to 2 hours
Weight	6.05 lbs	7.9 lbs
Noise Level	<58 dB	≤45 dB
Portability	Lightweight & travel-ready	Portable with bag
Special Features	Touchscreen, alerts, timer	Remote control, nebulizer support
Best For	Active lifestyle, mobility	Steady support, home & daily activity

This table gives you a simple snapshot of how the two types compare.

How Pulse Flow Can Match Higher Continuous Flow

Even though pulse flow delivers oxygen in bursts, it can sometimes give the same effect as a higher continuous flow. That’s because it gives oxygen only when you inhale, so less is wasted.

For example, using pulse flow at setting 2 can be similar to using continuous flow at setting 4, depending on your breathing. This means you can use a lighter, smaller device without losing oxygen support for everyday activities.

Choosing the Right Device for You

Choose VP-1 (Pulse Flow) if you:

Want something light and easy to carry
Are active or moving around a lot
Need a longer-lasting battery for short trips

Choose VP-6 (Continuous Flow) if you:

Need steady oxygen throughout the day
Want a device that also works with a built-in nebulizer
Prefer quiet operation for home or daily use

FAQs

1. Can I use pulse flow overnight?
Some people prefer continuous flow at night, but pulse flow works fine for most daily activities.

2. Which device is quieter?
VP-6 runs at ≤45 dB, while VP-1 is <58 dB.

3. How long do the batteries last?
VP-1: 1–3 hours | VP-6: up to 2 hours. Both can be charged with external power.

4. Can these devices be used at home or in health clinics?
Yes! Both are portable, lightweight, and suitable for home use, nursing homes, or health clinics.

Important Tips for Use & Maintenance

Replace air intake filters after 100–200 hours or if they look dirty
Clean nasal cannula weekly
Wipe down device gently to remove dust
Clean filters monthly to keep the concentrator working longer

Key Takeaways

Pulse flow vs continuous flow oxygen devices work differently; your choice depends on your lifestyle.
VP-1 is light, portable, and works with pulse flow for active users.
VP-6 provides steady continuous flow, quiet operation, and extra features like a built-in nebulizer.
Proper care and cleaning help devices last longer and perform better.