ResMed AirFit F20 vs AirTouch F20: Which CPAP Mask Is Right for You?
ResMed AirFit F20 vs AirTouch F20:
Which Mask Is Right for You?
Both masks share the same trusted frame — but differ in one crucial way. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to make the right choice for your sleep apnoea therapy.
When it comes to choosing between the ResMed AirFit F20 and the AirTouch F20, you are not choosing between two different masks — you are choosing between two different cushion technologies within the same trusted mask system. Understanding the distinction clearly will help you find the best fit for your face, your sleep style, and your therapy needs.
What Both Masks Have in Common
Despite their cushion differences, the AirFit F20 and AirTouch F20 share a significant amount — which means switching between them is simple and cost-effective.
Because both masks use the same F20 frame, you can switch between the silicone AirFit F20 cushion and the memory foam AirTouch F20 cushion without buying a new mask. Many users keep both cushion types and rotate based on preference or season.
Cushion Technology — The Core Difference
The cushion is the only meaningful difference between these two masks. Everything else — the frame, headgear, clips, and elbow — is shared. Here is how the two cushion technologies compare.
- Traditional medical-grade silicone construction
- Durable and long-lasting — typically 1–3 months per cushion
- Easy to clean daily with mild soap and water
- Maintains a firm, consistent seal even during movement
- Excellent choice for active sleepers and stomach sleepers
- Lower cost per replacement cushion
- ResMed UltraSoft™ memory foam technology
- Molds to the unique contours of your face overnight
- Significantly softer feel — reduced pressure on facial skin
- Ideal for users with skin sensitivity or irritation
- Cannot be washed — requires gentle wiping only
- Higher cost per replacement cushion
Comfort Comparison — Who Should Choose Which?
Your sleep style, skin type, and priorities will determine which cushion suits you best. Here is a practical breakdown.
- Prefer a silicone cushion with a firm, reliable seal
- Move frequently during sleep and need a stable fit
- Want a cushion that is straightforward to clean daily
- Are looking for a durable, cost-effective everyday option
- Sleep on your stomach or side against a pillow
- Have no particular skin sensitivity to silicone
- Prioritise comfort and a soft feel above all else
- Have sensitive skin or experience redness from silicone
- Find that traditional cushions leave marks on your face
- Prefer a cushion that adapts to your face shape overnight
- Are a relatively still sleeper who stays in one position
- Are willing to pay a little more per cushion replacement
Which Mask Seals Better?
Both masks are capable of delivering an excellent therapy seal — the difference lies in how that seal is achieved and under what conditions each performs best.
The AirFit F20 silicone cushion creates a seal through consistent, firm contact with the skin. Because silicone holds its shape rigidly, it performs particularly well when the face moves during sleep — the seal does not deform or lose contact as easily. This makes it a strong choice for restless sleepers.
The AirTouch F20 memory foam cushion creates a seal by conforming precisely to the contours of the individual face. Because it molds to the skin rather than pressing against it, many users find it seals well with less headgear tension — which means less facial pressure overall. However, the foam can be more susceptible to seal loss if the face moves significantly during the night.
Both cushions are available in small, medium, and large. Using the wrong size is the most common cause of seal failure — more so than the cushion material itself. If you are experiencing persistent leaks with either mask, try sizing down before switching cushion types.
Which Is Better for Side Sleepers?
Side sleeping is one of the most common sleep positions, and it presents a specific challenge for full face CPAP masks — the pillow can press against the mask and distort the seal.
The AirFit F20 silicone cushion is often favoured by side sleepers because its firm structure resists distortion when compressed against a pillow. The seal is less likely to break from lateral pressure.
The AirTouch F20 memory foam cushion can work well for side sleepers who sleep relatively still, but the foam may compress more easily when pressed against a pillow, which can occasionally affect the seal.
Side sleepers using either mask often benefit from a CPAP-specific contoured pillow, which is designed with cutouts to accommodate the mask without applying pressure to the cushion.
Maintenance & Replacement
Both masks require regular cleaning and scheduled part replacement — but their maintenance routines differ meaningfully due to the cushion materials.
- Wash cushion daily with mild soap and warm water
- Allow to air dry — avoid direct sunlight
- Replace cushion every 1–3 months with regular use
- Wipe down frame and headgear weekly
- Replace headgear every 6 months
- Replace elbow connector every 6–12 months
- Do not wash with water — foam will degrade
- Wipe gently with a damp cloth — no soaps or chemicals
- Replace cushion every 1 month — foam degrades faster
- Wipe down frame and headgear weekly as normal
- Replace headgear every 6 months
- Replace elbow connector every 6–12 months
Because the AirTouch F20 foam cushion cannot be washed, it accumulates skin oils and loses its structural integrity more quickly than silicone. Most manufacturers recommend replacing it every 4 weeks — compared to 1–3 months for the AirFit F20 silicone cushion. Factor this into your ongoing cost comparison when choosing between the two.
Full Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | AirFit F20 | AirTouch F20 |
|---|---|---|
| Cushion Material | Silicone | Memory Foam |
| Frame & Headgear | Identical — shared | |
| Comfort Feel | Firm, structured seal | Soft, contouring feel |
| Best For | Active / restless sleepers | Still sleepers, sensitive skin |
| Daily Cleaning | Wash with soap & water ✓ | Wipe only — no water ✗ |
| Replacement Frequency | Every 1–3 months | Every 4 weeks |
| Cost Per Cushion | Lower | Higher |
| Seal in Movement | Excellent | Good |
| Facial Pressure | Moderate | Low |
| Skin Sensitivity | Standard | Ideal for sensitive skin |
| Interchangeable | Yes — same F20 frame | |
Our Recommendation
If you want an all-round performer that is easy to maintain and delivers a reliable seal through the night, the ResMed AirFit F20 with its silicone cushion is the best starting point. It is durable, washable, and suitable for the widest range of sleepers.
If comfort is your primary concern — particularly if you have sensitive skin, experience facial marks, or have tried silicone cushions and found them uncomfortable — the AirTouch F20 memory foam cushion is worth the additional cost per replacement. Many users describe it as a significant upgrade in comfort.
The good news: because the frame is shared, you can start with one and switch to the other at any time — only the cushion needs replacing.
Shop ResMed F20 Cushions & Parts
Browse our full range of genuine ResMed AirFit F20 and AirTouch F20 replacement parts — delivered quickly across the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
The information in this article is provided for general educational and product guidance purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for guidance from a qualified healthcare professional or sleep clinician.
CPAP therapy is a prescribed medical treatment. The mask and cushion that is right for you depends on your individual facial anatomy, prescribed pressure, sleep style, and clinical requirements. We recommend consulting your sleep specialist or CPAP supplier before making changes to your therapy equipment.
Product compatibility information is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of writing. Always verify compatibility with your specific CPAP device before purchasing replacement parts or accessories.