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FullLife Full Face CPAP Mask

Average Category Ratings

Seal
2.5
Average
Comfort
3.6
Above Average
Quietness
3.7
Above Average
Ease of Use
2.6
Average
Ease of Cleaning
4
Above Average
Durability
3.6
Above Average
Headgear
2.7
Average


FullLife Full Face CPAP Mask

Number of participants who choose to switch to this product:
5 (10%)

Mirage Quattro Full Face CPAP Mask

Average Category Ratings

Seal
4
Above Average
Comfort
3.9
Above Average
Quietness
3.9
Above Average
Ease of Use
4.3
Above Average
Ease of Cleaning
3.4
Average
Durability
3.9
Above Average
Headgear
4
Above Average


Mirage Quattro Full Face CPAP Mask

Number of participants who choose to stay with this product:
45 (90%)

User Reviews     

FullLife Full Face CPAP Mask Reviews   Mirage Quattro Full Face CPAP Mask Reviews
  By Challenge participant

General impression: this mask, at a first impression fits well, it is soft and comfortable. It is made up of a very small frame connecting head gear and hose to the soft mask body. The head gear is quite complex with five different adjustments that need to be set in the proper order. Additionally, the lack of a quick disconnect or fasteners require to readjust the mask every time it is donned. This not being an intuitive operation is mostly inconveniencing for those who get up a night for a sip of water or other physiological need and prefer to remove the mask. Further to this, the hose quick disconnect adapter requires to press two tabs in order to release. Not very easily managed.
Further details: the completely soft body requires a greater tension in the headgear in order to achieve a good seal. This causes the mask to sit closer to the face and its inside touches the nose. The additional tension, lacking the forehead pad taking it up at least partially, is completely distributed on the seal and tends to be exercised on the nose bridge with consequent irritation and possible long term usage soreness. Additionally sleeping on sides and face down tends to destabilize the mask and break seal requiring further adjustment of all five straps. Cleaning is very easy the mask is made up of a very limited number of parts. Reassembly is rather tricky since I had some difficulties matching again the soft body and the hard frame in order to avoid leaks (I assume that with practice this becomes less of a problem). The mask hose connector seal is excellent and very silent. The mask exhale/vent port are slightly more noisy than the Quattro pro (my wife complained about the increased noise). I only had the mask for just over 2 weeks therefore I cannot comment on durability.

   By Challenge participant

This mask is my usual mask and I have been using it for slightly over 2 years. The mask is my elected choice due to comfort, durability and fit.
General impression: the mask fits very well and the headgear is very easy to adjust. The mask it is made up of an hard shell to which the head gear and hose are connected, supporting a silicon seal below the shell there is provision for an oxygen intake port. It has two straps on top with Velcro adjustment and two on the bottom. It has a forehead pad, which can be adjusted with a numbered knob to finely tune how close the mask sits to the face. This in my view is the most important difference between this mask and the Respironics model. In fact this pad adds stability to the mask irrespectively of sleeping position and ensure the minimum pressure necessary to avoid leaks is applied to face and, most importantly, nose bridge. Additionally, this mask has a hard shell which helps stabilizing the mask and help achieve a good seal. Also the hard shell, forehead pad and shape provide a deep enough mask preventing the mask to make contact with the nose even in case of pronounced noses like in my case.
Additional details: the hose is inserted in a quick disconnect which is simply pressed in an elbow connector housing the anti-suffocation valve. This elbow connector is the weak point of the mask. In fact it is known that the mask, once disassembled the first time, will leak noisily around the junction between the elbow and the hard shell of the mask. I solved this issue by avvolgere several spires of sewing cotton thread around the end of the elbow connector that goes in the mask. Once this is done this mask is more silent that the Respironics. The normal exhale/vent holes are very quiet and the only noise comes from the elbow and can be easily address as mentioned. Disassembly and reassembly are very easy and cleaning is rather simple. All the crannies in the silicon seal are easily reached for cleaning. The mask has proven itself very durable. Headgear on my first mask is still in use (2 years down the road) and I elected to replace the silicon seal after 12 months of use (seal was still good, but the silicon turned opaque and started loosing elasticity). Finally the head gear has two fast disconnect fasteners allowing to don and remove the mask very quickly and without changing headgear fitting.

  By Challenge participant

I really wanted to like this mask, but it did not work out that way. I find the headgear much to cumbersome and very hard to adjust.
The chin strap did not work well for me, as it pulled and tangled my beard.

The mask is very light and comfortable, and it is probably a very good mask for someone without facial hair. I love the fact that it comes with all three sizes in one kit. Al though I use a small in the Quattro, I needed a medium in this mask.

Over all I would say a good mask, but it will never replace my Quattro.

   By Challenge participant

This is my current mask of choice. I have used it almost exclusively for the past year. I find it to be very comfortable, apart from a small problem on the nose bridge. Even with a full beard I have no problems getting a seal. I do wish the sizes were a bit different. I fall right in the middle of a small and a medium. I can not use a medium, as I get leaks. The small does not leak, but it sometimes touches my nose when I am sleeping. Which can be annoying.

Very easy to clean, and very easy to adjust.

  By Challenge participant

There needs to be a petite size for this mask. Headgear is awfully large, and when it stretches will be too big. I had difficulty keeping a seal, because the ″small″ is too big. I need a petite. That said, this is a great mask. The quick release is very nice, and having so few parts, it's easy to clean. The headgear does need a quick release. How PR could leave this out is beyond me, but they did the same with the OptiLife, so I guess they don't ″get it″ or aren't listening to us patients.

   By Challenge participant

Even the ″extra small″ in this mask is too big for me, but I make do. They need a petite size! This mask is not all that comfortable, but it's the smallest I can find in a full face mask. It has way too many pieces and is a pain to clean.

  By Challenge participant

Headgear is too complicated for quick wear. There are no quick disconnects for quick removal.

   By Challenge participant

My first mask and still in love with it.

  By Challenge participant

The FullLife is definitely more comfortable to wear; however, adjusting the headgear to maintain seal failed for me two out of 5 nights. Also, the FullLife is much easier to clean and maintain.

In the written material that comes with the mask emphasize a visit to the web site and viewing the videos

11/Sep/2009 8:04
Last night was first night on FullLife mask. Very easy to assemble mask. Easy to put on mask. Very comfortable. No vibratory snore reported from Encore Viewer software - this is a first after 10 months of CPAP therapy. Able to sleep almost face down and move side to side easily and comfortably. This mask does these things better than the Mirage Quatro. Will experience be the same on following nights? Will the mask last as long? Re-read cleaning instructions. Necessary to clean hose nightly? Report on cleaning and reassembly. - 11/Sep/2009 17:31 Disassembly and cleaning is a breeze compared to the ResMed Mirage Quatro. Simply peel the cushion away from the frame and wash it off in warm water, let dry and reassemble.

12/Sep/2009 9:30
Second night: I experience some mis-steps when putting on the mask. I had straps velcro stuck on wrong parts. I had to refresh with pictures. Also I had an right eye leak initially and could not locate the strap adjustment guidance. All in all I am very impressed with the limited number of ″parts″ to deal with and the subsequent ease and efficiency of handling of the mask. Saves a great deal of time. Advise Respironics to put leak information is a more obvious place. Also to encourage use of their excellent web features including videos, and sleep information.

14/Sep/2009 11:31
Third night: Disaster. Following the instructions with a FullLife mask I attempted to lessen preasure on bridge of my nose. I made the preasure worse. Have a red sore spot that is tender to the touch. Also, the leak was awful. See Encore View report. (ARNetDoc13Sep09.pdf) Large Leak 202.0 mins 40.6 % of night Average Leak 83.00 AHI: 12.1, OA: 7.0, H: 5.1, VS: 0.2

Note: I must contact Respironics for a solution. Tonight I must use the Quatro Mirage to give my nose bridge a rest.

18/Sep/2009 08:40
Another disaster with bad leaks and poor therapy. I have learned how to rock the mask below the lower lip and attain comfort, but keeping the straps ajusted comfortably as recommended lead to unacceptable leaks. I will have to try again at some future time to see if I can learn to use this mask.
______________________
My message to Respironics:

Third night of using my new FullLife mask. Following the instructions with the FullLife mask as well as the on-line guidance, I attempted to lessen preasure on bridge of my nose. I made the preasure worse. Have a red sore spot between my eyes that is tender to the touch. Also, the leak reported by my Encore View reportwas (Large Leak 202.0 mins 40.6 % of night Average Leak 83.00 AHI: 12.1, OA: 7.0, H: 5.1, VS: 0.2

   By Challenge participant

Cleaning the Quattro is definitely more labor intensive then the FullLife. However, maintaining excellent seal is very reliable with the Quattro and the comfort is OK.

  By Challenge participant

Mask is reasonably comfortable. Could not get a good seal no matter what I tried. The mask balloons a lot on each breath out.
Headgear is very complicated and has to be tightened in order for it to seal properly but the mask is so soft it tends to crush against the face easily and leak. It is comfortable on the face but not great for side sleeping. It is very loud compared to the Quattro.

   By Challenge participant

The Mirage is easier to adjust and has a far better seal than the FullLife. It feels heavier on my face than the FullLife. It is quieter also. The Mirage is better than the FullLife in every category for me.

  By Challenge participant

As much as I tried, I could never get this mask to seal properly (I do have a full mustache and beard). I tend to roll around a lot while I sleep and this mask was constantly springing leaks, at different spots.

   By Challenge participant

it cuts a notch in the bridge of my nose;
otherwise this is the finest mask I have ever found for my bearded face.

  By Challenge participant

I liked the ability to have better vision without something on my forehead.

I did not like the frequent air leakage and the instability while it was on my face. It seemed to move around quite a bit and break the seal.

I found the headgear to be difficult to adjust, and put on and take off.

   By Challenge participant

I like the better seal, less leakage, and stability. It is comfortable to wear at night, and has little leakage.

The only problem I ever had with the Mirage Quattro Full Face was that when I first started using it I had difficulty connecting the bottom right connector to the mask, but I have masterd that now.

  By Challenge participant

I found the head gear w/chinstrap uncomfortable. Even with the china strap removed I found the two strap system inconvenient.

   By Challenge participant

I found the noise level meets my needs. The head gear is not perfect but better than other masks I have tried.

  By Challenge participant

The design looked great at first glance, but once using the mask, I had to choose betwwen face pain from the mask being too tight - or - a leaky noisy mask.

   By Challenge participant

This is a comfortable well made and well fitting mask. The overall size with the forehead pad is big, but it makes for a more adjustable and better fitting mask.

  By Challenge participant

Pros:
• Better than most
• No forehead clamp to create wrinkles & indentations
• More ″female face-friendly″, with mostly soft plastic & Velcro and only a few hard plastic pieces
• More compact for travel (which I do a lot)
• Straps dry quickly when washed
Cons:
• Not yet ″female face-friendly″ – too hard on a woman's delicate skin
• Velcro adjusting straps ruin manicures
• Sizes don't fit – small is too small and crushes my face, and medium is too large and leaks and digs into my cheeks and chin
• Rubs nose and breaks down tissue on nose and cheeks, or it leaks – couldn't adjust to a middle ground
• Back & top straps slide on my baby fine hair and won't stay in place, creating top leaks
• No easy way to unhook at night to get up (lower front needs clips or hooks)
• Chin strap on full-face mask is annoying and unnecessary

   By Challenge participant

Pros:
• Best of all masks I've tried
• Clips on front make it easy to remove to get up at night
• Easier to adjust and more ″manicure-friendly″
• Stretchy headgear straps ″grab″ baby fine hair better
• It sleeps well and doesn't shift or leak when I turn onto my sides
• Parts are easily removable to pack for travel
• Fits well
Cons:
• Hard plastic shell digs into cheeks and can be hard to ″seat″ without leaks
• Not ″female face-friendly″--it destroys my face and breaks down the tissue on my nose, cheeks, and forehead (my skin has aged 20+ years in the 1 year I've been on CPAP with this mask, but it still works better than any other)
• Bulky to travel with

  By Challenge participant

During the evaluation, I alternated with two nights on the FullLife and then two on the Quattro. Initial fit and comfort of the FL were good. The freedom from a forehead support felt nice. However, during each night I had difficulty keeping the mask sealed above my nose. I tried two sizes and various strap tightness levels just to be sure.

As a side sleeper, the mask seemed to press against the pillow causing a poor seal around the nose. The lack of clips for the lower strap made it difficult to remove and install. Cleaning was a breeze.

   By Challenge participant

Although I was looking forward to not having the forehead support, I determined that I needed it due to being a side sleeper. With the Quattro, the forehead support helped to maintain the seal above my nose when the mask pressed into my pillow.

  By Challenge participant

I was very disappointed with this mask. I had problems fitting the mask properly. Further, the air noise was much higher (even with a good seal). I do not like the headgear, and would have much preferred a latch mechanism to make it easier to put the mask on and off.

On the positive side, the mask is very light and comfortable.

   By Challenge participant

I've used the Mirage Quattro for 2 years. By far, this is the best full face mask I have used. The fit is very comfortable, and the air noise is very quiet. I especially like the ″fit once″ headgear and dial on the mask. Biggest complaint is the disassembly required for proper cleaning.

  By Challenge participant

THE MASK IS VERY COMFORTABLE ONCE YOU GET IT ADJUSTED. IT IS EASY TO SLEEP IN AND DOESN'T PUSH ON YOUR PILLOW AND LEAK LIKE SOME MASKS. I HAD TO TRY 2 DIFFERENT SIZES BEFORE I GOT IT CORRECT. I DON'T LIKE THE WAY YOU HAVE TO ADJUST THE STRAPS EVERYTIME YOU TAKE IT OFF OR PUT IT ON. I PREFER TO ADJUST IT ONCE AND THEN HAVE CLIPS TO PUT IT ON OR TAKE IT OFF. TOOK SOME TIME TO GET USED TO IT BUT THEN IT WAS OK. SOMETIMES THE HEADGEAR WOULD SLIP OFF MY HEAD AT NIGHT. THIS MAY BE AN ADJUSTMENT, BUT I NEVER GOT IT TO STOP HAPPENING.

   By Challenge participant

I LIKE THE CLIPS TO PUT IT ON AND TAKE IT OFF. YOU ONLY HAVE TO ADJUST IT ONCE IN A WHILE. IT IS EASY TO CLEAN ONCE YOU LEARN HOW TO TAKE IT APART AND PUT IT BACK TOGETHER. THIS MASK FITS ME BETTER THAN ANY MASK I HAVE EVER USED. IT DOES LEAK IF YOU LAY ON YOUR SIDE AND THE MASK TOUCHES THE PILLOW.

  By Challenge participant

Good points: 1. This mask seemed lighter and quieter than my Quattro. 2. It is easier to clean than my Quattro. 3. The FullLife seems quieter than my other mask.

Bad Points: A. I tried all the sizes and ended up with the medium. I had to use my piece of cloth to try to fill the gap on either size of my nose. I had to tighten it up so much that it caused my skin to get irritated/infected on the bridge of my nose. B. The head gear is much more complicated than the Quattro's.

   By Challenge participant

I have had this mask for some time. Even though it seals on my face in most positions, I can't get it to seal 100% without the use of a small piece of folded cloth which I use to fill the gap on either size of my nose caused by deeply inset eyes and upper cheek bones. It will seal though but only up to a pressure of 10. I need more pressure than this to completely eliminate all ″events.″
Good points: 1. It is very easy to put on and/or remove. 2. The head gear has been easy to adjust even though it has become stretched out because of how tight I have to have it in order to get a seal.
Bad Points: A. To get a seal, I have to have it so tight that it is difficult to go to sleep. B. The air relief can blow toward my wife and disturb her sleep.

  By Challenge participant

The mask continuously fell off my head during the night.

   By Challenge participant

The mask seals nicely whereas numerous other masks didn't prevent air from getting into my eyes.

  By Challenge participant

I liked that it did not have a forehead pad and I liked the hose disconnect feature.

I was not able to get the mask to fit comfortably while maintaining a good seal. The stiffeners in the cushion pushed into my nose and were very irritating no matter how loose I made the mask. I have not worn the mask in 5 nights and my nose is still sore from it.

I tried both the medium and large cushions over multiple nights and tried all combinations of strap adjustment and could not achieve a comfortable seal.

It is a shame that they could (or did) not use a comfort gel cushion.

This is not the mask for me.

   By Challenge participant

The Quattro has a better seal than could be accomplished with the FullLife. I also like that it includes disconnect clips on the headgear.

The forehead pad is annoying, but it does not interfere with my sleep. If that is the price that needs to be paid for the level of comfort and seal, than I am willing to put up with it.

Overall, I am quite happy with the Mirage Quattro.

  By Challenge participant

By the time I could get a proper seal,
my nose was firmly pressed against
the mask, it is possible that an inner
liner would help, the seal itself would
″blow out″ and loose it's seal anytime
I moved, rolled over, scratched my
face or even smiling would loosen the
seal to the point the seal would be on
the outside of the mask not the inside,
and always on the nose between the
eyes, I use the medium size, it is not
long enough to seal around the mouth
as well. As I stated, unless it was so
tight that it would put pressure on my
nose, it would leak. The head gear is a
great idea, but it needs to snap on,
not pull over the head. At this time I
will stay with the Quattro mask!

   By Challenge participant

I love how it has an easy way to snap on the lower strap, it makes taking the mask on and off easy. The only problem I have with this mask is the hose connector will come off the mask when turning over.

  By Challenge participant

Overall, the FullLife mask seems to be a good mask. It provided a pretty good seal, seems durable, and is easy to clean.

On the down side, it took some time to find the right adjustment to get the proper seal, the headgear lacks clips to ease removing and putting on the mask, and is not quite as comfortable as I had first thought it might be. Worst of all, like several other masks I have tried, it directs exhausted air directly out the front of the mask, which is tremendously annoying for a spouse sharing the same bed.

Seal: Good seal. But it took a bit of adjustment and change of mask cushions to find a configuration that maximized the seal and comfort, especially at high pressures above 16.

Comfort: Not as good as I hope originally. One I found a cushion size and headgear adjustments to maximize the seal, the cushion did not seem to be deep enough to prevent my nose from touching part of the mask frame. Also, with the lack of a forehead support, getting a proper seal cause a bit of pressure on the bridge of my nose.

Ease of Use: The headgear lacks clips to easily install and remove the mask without having to readjust the straps each time or stretching them over the head.

Ease of Cleaning: The mask custion is easy to remove and replace for cleaning.

Durability: The mask seems to be built of durable materials and is fairly compact for a a full face mask making it easy to travel with.

Headgear: The head gear had wide straps that helped improve comfort. However, the strap that goes behind the neck was not as thick as the others though it is probably the one that most affects overall comfort. While the instructions stated the headgear strap that goes under the chin is not meant to be a ″chin strap″. However, it does seem to perform that function to some degree.

While there were some nice features of the mask, a couple of the deficiencies mentioned earlier were to critical for me to choose this mask over the Quattro. The fact that it exhausts air directly at my spouse is most severe. And the lack of disconnects on the headgear to simplify install and removal were the biggest factors why I prefer the Quattro.

   By Challenge participant

The Quattro is still the best full face mask I have used. It has the best seal, comfort, quietness, it is one of the few masks I have used that direct the exhaust upward above the head rather than forward, which is significant for those who share a bed with a spouse.

Seal: The Quattro has one of the best seals of any mask I have used and is very easy to adjust to achieve a good seal, even at pressure to the maximum of 20.

Comfort: Overall comfort of this mask is very good. The headgear is fairly comfortable and unintrusive.

Quietness: The mask is very quiet on both the machines I have used. The exhaust is diffused very efficiently making the mask very quiet.

Ease of Use: The head gear is well designed with easy to use clips making installation and removal of the mask very easy without having to readjust the fit.

Ease of cleaning: Not as easy to clean as the FullLife mask but not too difficult. The cushion is a little harder to replace.

Durability: The Quatrro has been fairly durable but has a few parts that are susceptable to breakage, especially if used for travel frequently as I do.

Headgear: The headgear over all is pretty good with the Quattro, especially the more recent version which I believe has a bit thicker straps. Unfortunately, the strap behind the neck is still a bit thin and can become uncomfortable.

Overall, this mask is the best full face mask I have used. The seal, comfort, and ease of use are unmatched from any mask I have used so far.

  By Challenge participant

The FullLife mask is very comfortable. Unlike the Mirage Quattro, no part of the FullLife extends above the nose/mouth cushion. This makes it easy to forget that you are wearing a mask. As an added bonus, there are no forehead marks in the morning.

Both masks are very quiet, but the FullLife was just a bit more so. The difference is minimal, so I wouldn't choose between the two based on that.

Because the only part of the FullLife that comes in contact with your face is the cushion, cleaning is a breeze. It can be a bit difficult to reattach the cushion correctly, however.

It is hard to evaluate the durability of the FullLife after only two weeks of use. It may, very well, hold up for as long as my Mirage Quattro has, but I just haven't had it long enough to tell.

The FullLife's headgear is comfortable and seems to be made well.

My only real complaint about the FullLife is that, no matter what I did, I could not get a tight seal that would last all night. As a predominate stomach sleeper, I know that this is a real challenge for a manufacturers. But because the cushion is much deeper on the FullLife than the Mirage Quattro, my movements throughout the night would just leave me leaking air and needing to readjust. For me this is a deal breaker.

   By Challenge participant

The Mirage Quattro was, before the FullLife, the most comfortable mask that I had ever used. But, while the Mirage Quattro looses in this category, it is the part of the Mirage Quattro that makes it loose this category that wins it my vote.

Both masks are very quiet, but the FullLife was just a bit more so. The difference is minimal, so I wouldn't choose between the two based on that.

Cleaning is more involved on the Mirage Quattro, but not prohibitively so.

I have had a Mirage Quattro last several years with only the headgear and cushion needing replacement, which is a good thing given the exorbitant cost. Because I have only had the FullLife for two weeks, I cannot say how durable it is.

The Mirage Quattro's headgear is comfortable enough.

While the FullLife is more comfortable, quieter, and easier to clean, my choice has to be about the treatment. So the reason I will continue to use the Mirage Quattro is because it almost always achieves a perfect seal.

  By Challenge participant

The FullLife Full Face Mask looks like a great idea. And at first, it seemed to work wonderfully. Not having the forehead brace makes wearing it considerably more comfortable than the Mirage Quattro. At first, with beginning pressures (4 cm H20), it was fine.

Once I fell asleep, though, and the pressure got to my usual mean pressure (11 cm H20), the leak was unbearable. Right along the sides of the nose, and along the upper cheek, it's like it came off. I adjusted the headstraps, I tightened them, I loosened them, to no avail. Unacceptable leak, blowing right at my eyes.

Although I'd like to say it's a great mask, it won't fit my face with a meaningful amount of pressure.

(I used the size L mask; the M is too small. I use a L Mirage Quattro.)

   By Challenge participant

The Mirage Quattro, although I'm not entirely a fan of the design, is superior to the FullLife Full Face mask. It is quiet and generally comfortable, but I did make myself a pad for the forehead brace. I wish it were made out of softer plastic, but I wonder if part of its superior seal hinges on the fact that the mask itself is rigid. It's relatively easy to clean, and has proved durable.

  By Challenge participant

The best thing I can say about the FullLife is that it has very few parts and is very easy to clean. It is also very quiet and makes a good seal. You don't have to make it very tight to get that seal (and the instructions clearly tell you not to make it too tight), but even with the minimum tightness necessary to get that superior seal, I awoke with excruciating pain at the bridge of my nose. Unfortunately, by eliminating the forehead piece, all of the force of upper part of the mask is pressed against your nose and that pressure made things painfully sore. I never had that before, even with the old Resmed mask that didn't have a forehead piece. Also, putting the mask on and off is somwthing of a pain, and it could really benefit from having clips like the Quattro. Finally, while my nose isn't especially long, it felt like there was very little depth in the mask and there was an occasional feeling of ″turbulence″ between the tip of my nose and the inside of the mask. I was actually quite disappointed in the FullLife because in many ways I really liked it, and I don't care much for the Quattro. If it didn't hurt so much to wear it, I'd probably stick with it, because it has so much going for it.

   By Challenge participant

I was disappointed in the FullLife, but I really hate the Quattro. Other than the ease of putting it on and off because of the clips, and some mild improvement in adjustment because of the dial, this mask is inferior in every way to its predecessor, the Mirage Ultra. When Resmed created the extra small size, they also changed the dimensions of the other sizes as well. Instead of the perfect fit that I got with the Ultra size Medium, the Quattro Medium is too big and the Small is too small. Either size gives terrible leaks and farting noises. Although fewer parts means that it is easier to clean that the Ultra, it just feels cheap, especially the configuration of the elbow, which whistles if you twist it the wrong way. And the valve is nothing more than a simple flap. I used it for about two weeks and then went back to the Ultra, which is better than either the FullLife or the Quattro. I'm really sorry that the FullLife didn't work for me but the Quattro is simply awful.

  By Challenge participant

I liked that there were less replacement parts. One main body with interchangeable sized seals. Ease of cleaning. The medium mask put too much pressure on my nose. I tried the larger size and it was too big. I found this to be an excellent product, however it didn't quite fit my face as well as the Mirage Quattro.

   By Challenge participant

Fit my face well. It was easy to set the headgear to the correct size then allowed you to remove the mask without having to re-adjust. Made the whole process just that much easier.

  By Challenge participant

In spite of many efforts over a period of more than a week, I could not get this mask to seal. It consistently leaked around my eyes. The mask is also very inconvenient to put on and take off---clips on the lower straps would solve this problem. Although the mask sits comfortably on my face, the gel cushion does not have sufficient structural rigidity to provide a good seal.

   By Challenge participant

This mask worked well from the first day I used it and continues to be my preferred choice of the four masks that I have tried in the past year. The adjustable dial on the forehead is especially useful to minimize leaks. The only downside I have experienced with this mask is that it makes deep impressions on my face. The firm supporting structure of the gel cushion provides a good seal, but makes for a harder seat against my face.

  By Challenge participant

When I first started using the full life I thought I had found ″the one″ but later when the bridge of my nose became sore, I decided it wasnt. It dosent need much improvement to be as good as the Quattro but it does. There are two vents, one on each side, that are very quiet but having two and on each side meant that when you were on your side or the hose got near them they were noisy. I tried many adjustments to make it work better and waffled between the large and the medium. The large was far more comfortable but the medium was easier to seal. The headgear needs some clips so that you don't have to ruin your adjustments to take the mask off. I do like the idea behind not having the forehead piece and I will keep trying it, but the quattro is still my favorite.

   By Challenge participant

The Quattro is still my favorite. It does not hurt the bridge of my nose once adjustments are make they remain the same because of the clips. It does take more time to clean it up because of the double lips but nothing I have found works better.

  By Challenge participant

I love the concept, especially not having the forehead support. However, hard as I tried, I could not get it to stay sealed. I am a side sleeper and it continually broke its seal, no matter how loose or tight I adjusted it. I also disliked the straps that didn't unclip. That also caused me to rate its durability low since it seems there is a lot of pressure on the straps when stretching them over your head. Overall, I found the mask to be a huge disappointment.

   By Challenge participant

I have been a Quattro user for over a year. It is the best full face mask I have found. It seals much better than the FullLife. I like the straps that unclip to take it off, and the top ones that ″unhook″ which saves bulk at the forehead and avoids clips that can break. I find it as comfortable as a piece of plastic, that is strapped to your face, could possibly be. It seemed just a bit quieter than the FullLife. I always fear that unfamiliarity will effect my opinion when trying something new, but I am confident in saying that, for me, the Quattro is a far better mask than the FullLife.

  By Challenge participant

The Full Life mask itself was soft and comfortable, but I never got a really good seal that would withstand switching positions in the night. I always felt it was leaking a bit (and woke up numerous times because of the sensation of air on my face) and my data confirmed it. The Average Tidal Volume was noticeably lower, the Average Leak was noticeably higher, and the AHI, HI, and EPI were slightly higher. I was using the medium size, which I felt might be a bit big, but the small was definitely too small so I couldn't switch to that. If there was a size in between the two maybe I would have had a better fit.

The Full Life was a very easy mask to clean and put back together.

The Full Life mask's headgear was far more comfortable; however, it was not as easy to put on and take off. I had to stretch it quite a bit to get it over my head (not comfortable) or loosen the settings - which was not preferable; it means more work when I put it back on the next time. And there was no easy release.

Every day after using the Full Life mask, I felt I needed a nap. On occasion, I feel the same way after using the Quattro, but not every day. I would use this as a back-up mask.

   By Challenge participant

The Mirage Quattro mask has an excellent seal. I rarely woke up because of a leak. And that's what therapy is all about, isn't it? – if the mask doesn't leak, it's much easier to stick with the treatment. And my data was better with the Quattro.

The headgear is not as comfortable on the Quattro – the Full Life mask is definitely better. However, it's much easier to put on and take off the headgear on the Quattro and the best feature is that the settings don't need to be changed and the clip system gives it an easy release.

Cleaning the Quattro is more involved – more pieces to take apart and put together, but it's not much of a problem after a couple cleanings.

I can't see changing from the Quattro to the Full Life.

  By Challenge participant

At 19.5/15.0 on a Respironics BiPAP, I never could get an adequate seal.

   By Challenge participant

Still my favorite mask of the 20 or so I've tried.

  By Challenge participant

At first the bridge of my nose was really hurt and abraided by the mask.
After I healed up, I refitted it with a much looser seal. It worked great with some small air leaks which were eliminated with small adjustments.

   By Challenge participant

The fit was a difficult to obtain a leak free status. When air leaks were eliminated, I had to tighten it too much and caused bad redness and soreness on bridge of my nose.

  By Challenge participant

I really wanted this mask to work for me. There is much that is good about this mask. The elimination of the forehead support is a nice advance. I like how the vents are incorporated into the cushion - less parts to replace is always good. The cushion feels soft and seems like it would be comfortable, if only I could have gotten a good, reliable seal.

I also like that the frame of the FullLife is made of softer plastic than any other masks that I have tried. It would seem that this will make the frame more durable and less-likely to break (although I haven't had this happen with my other masks yet.)

The quick-release between hose and mask is something that ALL manufacturers need to include in ALL masks. I am happy that the quick-release was included in the FullLite, but it is a bit awkward to use, the clips might be too small for some. These tiny clips also seem to be the weak-link, that is, the most likely first part to eventually break off.

The extra height of the cushion (it is taller than most cushions) seems to cause troubles with the seal, though. It seems to make the entire mask too ″floppy″, that is, too unstable and thus the seal was easily lost for me.

I do not like the headgear system at all. I don't like that you must undo everything in order to remove the mask. Later, when putting it back on the user must re-adjust all settings all over again. Some sort of clip system, allowing for the adjustments to remain intact would be a huge improvement.

I really wanted this mask to work for me. The cushion itself seems comfortable. There are some good ideas incorporated into the FullLife mask. For those who can get a good seal, it should be very comfortable. I will continue to experiment with this mask, but for now, I will stick with the Quattro.

   By Challenge participant

The cushions on this mask are the most forgiving of all the full-face masks that I've tried. Especially in the chin portion of the cushion, the extra height allows for more inflation under air-pressure and provides more comfort.

A quick-release between the hose and mask for over-night bathroom breaks (the Mirage Liberty has one) would be a big bonus.

I do wish that the Quattro had four clips on the headgear (2 high and 2 low, like the Ultra Mirage FF) rather than only two. This would make the Quattro considerably easier to put on than it currently is.

  By Challenge participant

Seemed more secure to face, yet my nose touched the inside hard plastic piece versus the Mirage Quattro. Was slightly more comfortable around face and secure but much more of an effort to put on. Leaked less than the Quattro.

   By Challenge participant

The Mirage Quattro leaks more than the FullLife. THe Mirage Quattro is easier to get on and off.

  By Challenge participant

The Full Life was soooo comfortable that I was thrilled that I found a CPAP mask that felt like a cloud on my face. Unfortunately, it leaked like a sieve. I tried endlessly to fit the mask so it wouldn't leak and couldn't.

The headgear was comfortable, although it could use a clasp on the lower strap so I didn't have to undo the velcro every time I took it off.

Cleaning the mask wasn't as easy as I'd like. I took off the cushion to wash it, put it back on, went to sleep to find it gushing out air. I hadn't fit it on tight enough.

If, it didn't leak, it would be the perfect mask!

   By Challenge participant

The Quattro is very reliable! The mask rarely leaks, although it could be more cushier. It's not uncomfortable, but it's not real comfortable either.

The headgear is great! It's so easy to put on the mask. I can undo both clips on the bottom and hold it up to take medicine, etc. I also love the fact that I can disconnect the hose so quickly. I still haven't figured out the 10 adjustments on the forehead pad.

Cleaning the Mask is really easy, no hassles.

I've tried many full face masks and will stay with the Quattro!

  By Challenge participant

Sizing is a problem. The small sits on the bridge on my nose and creates a red mark and the small is not wide enought in the mouth area. The mediun is too close to the eyes causing blowing into the eyes and the mouth area is acceptable.
Headgear is atrocious. Velcro must go. I do not like to get up in the night and have something hanging on my neck (based on the directions to remove the mask) yet if I remove the entire mask it is not easy to readjust when I go back into bed as I am half asleep. As a result it doesn't get put back on every time I get up. Hubby said it is the quietest mask I have had (and believe me, I've had many) and it doesn't blow on him. Much more redness on the checks than the Mirage and it lasts longer. Having recently gotten the software I find my AHI is higher with the FullLife Mask.

   By Challenge participant

Once the fit is adjusted it doesn't have to be adjusted again. Cleaning is more intricate with more removable parts. The headgear is so easy to put back on the mask. Getting up at night is one click off and one click on with minor adjustments. I also noticed I am able to sleep for longer periods and some nights have gone through the night with an AHI of less than 10.(I was diagnosed with 30). Thank you for including me in the trial it gave me the opportunity to try a newer mask but I will remain with the Mirage

  By Challenge participant

It was liberating, small soft flexible, easy to fit headgear, a very easy mask to wear. Didnt like the fact that the headgear was not quick release.

   By Challenge participant

the only advantage I can say this mask had was the quick release on the headgear

  By Challenge participant

PRO - very small profile
easy hose release from front of mask
liked the chin strap
numerous ways of adjusting fit

CON - took forever to figure out the diagrams of how to put on headgear and adjust- once I did it wasn't as difficult as it first looked.
no way to keep adjustments (pretty much need to redo it nightly).
getting off quickly is a pull down around neck - not off of head.

Measurements say I should wear a M - and tried this numerous times and could not get it to seal. (tried L - NO). Finally tried the small - was surprised at how well is sealed and finally went to sleep. The next morning major deep marks on all of face (no headgear was not too tight) and it was clear would have a pressure sore on bridge of nose if I wore it for 3 more nights. IT WAS CLEAR THAT MY FACE WAS BETWEEN A Small AND A Medium - I would happily wear this mask daily if I could get a mask between these two ... but until then I can not wear it.

   By Challenge participant

This was my first foray into using a full face - so there was a learning curve for me.
PRO - easy to adjust and get on (though I did do a lot of minor alterations to try varying settings)
quiet,
swivel for the hose on front worked much better then I expected.
Clips for easy of getting mask off quickly worked well.

CON - worried about how well those clips would last over time - since using them to get mask on and off daily seemed better then re-adjusting it nightly.

My personal problem was that I have a problem with the cervical region of my neck (C 2&3) - this headgear did not allow for ease of flexation on my neck and I had major problems after wearing the mask. Though it worked well enough for me I CAN NOT WEAR THIS MASK BECAUSE OF ITS IMPACT ON MY NECK.

  By Challenge participant

Loved everything about this mask.
It is the most comfortable masked Ive ever worn. The headgear alone makes this mask the best. Though it is alittle fun to initialy adjust. After that it's been a dream.

Probably if there has been a down side
that would be I had more difficulty with a chin strap. Yes I still need one with s full face mask

   By Challenge participant

The fit is good but not as good as the fulllife mask. Headgear is no where near as good. I had no leakage problem our any other real issue. Just not as comfortable

  By Challenge participant

The biggest concern I have with this mask is that I cannot pull it up tight against the bridge of my nose. I am one of those folks who tends to wear the mask pretty tightly against my face. As my pressure increases during the night I don't like to have to get up and re-adjust so I keep mine tight to start. The FullLife mask sort of floats on my face which is very comfortable at low pressures and for some folks might be a very nice fit. As a result of this floating I got a lot of air leaks at the top of the bridge of my nose during the night as my pressure increases.

Taking off the mask isn't as easy as some masks who feature quick release buckles or snaps like the Quattro Pro. The first night I woke uo in a complete panic and couldn't figure out how to take off the mask even though I had practiced it several times before I went to sleep. You have to find the end of the vecro straps and when they are new they tend to stick close to the mating surface and are hard to find in the middle of a darkened bedroom.

I probably will not use this mask on a regular basis. I think that is mostly due to my preference for ease of putting on and taking off and also due to the constant leaking problems I had.

The best feature of the mask is the very comfortable mask fitting. For someone who keeps their mask loose or doesn't have high pressure settings this would probably work very well.

   By Challenge participant

There are a couple of features that I really like about the Quattro Pro. First, I like the headband. It easy to put on and take off and has a minimum number of Velcro tabs making adjustment very easy. The best feature of all for me is the tightness adjustment knob. If I start getting leaks in the middle of the night a simple turn of the plastic knob fixes most of my issues and I am right back to sleep. No fumbling around trying to find the ends of Velcro straps so I can adjust the fit.

As someone who keeps my mask pretty snug this mask works great. I have very few leaks and those that occur are quickly fixed by a turn of the knob.

Cleaning this mask isn't as easy as some masks. I don't care much for how the rubber piece connects to the mask using the hard plastic ring, so many times I just leave it on when washing which isn't probably the best way to wash the mask.

Overall this is still one of my favorite masks. The design allows me to keep my mask comfortable with a minimum of leaks, which for me translates into a better sleep.

  By Challenge participant

The full life mask design had a good idea keeping a minimum number of parts with just the all silicone face piece that fits the plastic. However, it did not work well for me I was unable to get a good fit and had many leaks and it flapped and made noise. The headgear requires some sort of a degree to master with 4 different adjustments on top, sides, and chin.It had no quick snap points for easy access, I got a phone call late one night and almost hung myself getting out of it.

   By Challenge participant

This is my favorite mask it fits very nicely and just clips on after the first fitting. With the numbered adjustment on the head brace I can set a new one just like the old right out of the bag. This mask is soft yet ridged enough to hold form and not leak. The head gear is easy on/easy off with the quick click access point on either side. There is very little noise from the mask.

  By Challenge participant

this face mask had really soft rubber that felt good on my face but as the pressure was increased I began to have leaks. After many adjustments I had to have it really tight to seal.There were times during the night the top straps slipped off waking me with a leak. The quality is not the best.

   By Challenge participant

I like this mask better. It is more durable and the fit stayed with me through the night. Choosing between the two I would choose the mirage quattro.

  By Challenge participant

The concept of the FullLife is good, but for me it just didn't follow through. It was impossible for me to get a good seal, and still be comfortable. I had a problem with air blowing in my eyes, unless I really cranked the mask down, and also air leaks down the sides of my mouth. It was so irritating that I could only wear the mask for 2-3 hours, and then would end up pulling it off, and waking to find it in my hand with air hissing out. It is not an easy mask to get on and off, and the lack of quick releases is a real negative in my opinion. The mask itself was fairly comfortable, but having to crank it down to get it to seal kind of defeated the purpose. It is an easy mask to clean, but having to undo the straps makes you lose the adjustments you got dialed in, so you have to start over everytime. It is a better mask for side sleeping though!!

   By Challenge participant

I like all of the adjustments on the Quattro. You can dial things in pretty well. I also really like the quick release clips on the headgear!! I was disappointed in the seal of the mask. I have a problem with leaks down the sides of my mouth. Also I did not like the large footprint of the mask, and the fact that you have so much up on the forehead. Not a good mask for side sleeping, in my opinion. It is an easy mask to clean, and having the quick release clips, you do not lose your adjustments. Of the 2 masks, this one would probably be my choice, but this one does not really work completely for me either. Still in search of the perfect full face mask!!

  By Challenge participant

The seal was very good. Mask was light and comfortable. The headgear was complicated, and cumbersome.

   By Challenge participant

Ease of headgear use. Quick connects, and once set it stays set.

  By Challenge participant

The FullLife mask could be the best of the lot - I love the concept: the top half of the face is free from equipment or straps. I imagine it is a boon for eyeglass wearers. Its downfall is the terrible instructions and difficult headgear. The instructions are very sparse. One booklet has only text - and not much that helps really. And the only place to see how to assemble the mask after cleaning and/or put the headgear straps back on is in a very, very tiny pamphlet that has the most confusing diagrams I've seen in 10 years of CPAP use! And no text at all; just smiley and frowny faces.I have used more than two dozen masks over the years and this one had the most frustrating instructions and headgear configuration. There are three separate headgear parts and none have a quick clip or quick connection. All must be threaded through slots each time. You must stretch out the chin straps and force it over your head - or remove the strap and then try to reinsert it while the mask is on - which is next to impossible. The FullLife is comfortable enough to be my regular daily use mask IF they were to do a complete redesign on that headgear. Otherwise I wouldn't recommend it as is.

   By Challenge participant

The Quattro is one of the best masks I have used in the last 10 years. While the MicroFit dial is easy to use it is virtually equivalent to the UltraMirage Push & Slide feature that preceded it. Generally the Quattro is easy to use, easy to clean, and relatively quiet. Best feature IMO is the way the cushion attaches to the mask frame. Biggest problem? The cushion fit is very different from the UltraMirage, which it's design is based on, and you only get to use one size cushion per mask. IOW, if you usually wear a medium UltraMirage and get that same size in Quattro, if it does not fit you cannot simply replace the cushion; you must get a whole new mask, which is ludicrous! I rate it second only to the UltraMirage in Full-Face masks for its ease of use and cleaning, and its comfort.

  By Challenge participant

Like: Very quiet and comfortable if I sleep on my back, good seal. However I am a restless sleeper rolling from side to side and this mask doesn't do well for me as leaks occur and the head strap slides loosening the mask which alters the seal and causes leaks. I find myself adjusting the mask and head strap when I switch sides which is disruptive to my sleep. I tried to tighten the straps to avoid the leaks but this just made the mask uncomfortable leaving red marks on the bridge of my nose. Initially the mask was cumbersome to put on with all the various straps but I got used to that.

   By Challenge participant

Quiet. Easy to get on and off. Stays on without leaks when I roll from side to side.

Not Like: I have to have the straps tight so in the morning there is a red mark on the bridge of my nose from the mask.

  By Challenge participant

The mask was generally a good fit and comfortable except at the bridge of the nose and did have issues with air leaking there and no way to fine tune the adjustment at the top of the mask without making the middle too tight. Fist headgear that I actually had to study the directions for. No quick release means you need to readjust each time you put it on or just stretch the band over your head which also means frequent readjustments due to stetching the band. The front top band is also very uncomfortable because of the way it pushes your hair backwards but this can becorrected by pulling it farther back and then sliding back to the front. The best attribute is that once adjusted the mask maintains the seal in various positions.

   By Challenge participant

I have had very good luck with this mask. The headgear that ships with it is not so good especially the part that runs behind your neck. If you move your chin to your chest the strap becomes very tight and if you lift your chin it loosens to the point of air leaking. I have been using this mask with th FP flexifit 391 headgear (I think that is the right number) with trully excellent results. very comfortable headgear and the geometry changes the angles to allow even preasure top to bottom on the mask. I highly recomend this combo.

  By Challenge participant

The major detractor to me was the diffculty attaining a good seal. I believe because it is so soft, lacking sufficient hard backing, you need to pull the headgear straps very tight to attain the seal. The firmer structure of the Quattro seems better in that regard.

   By Challenge participant

More comfortable and better seal.

  By Challenge participant

Headgear is very complicated and hard to adjust but works well once it is on.

Why not take a look at the mask used by the Airforce for their jet pilots and copy their design.

   By Challenge participant

Headgear is easy to use but not very comfortable for high pressure situations.

  By Challenge participant

I believe that I would have really liked this mask if it fit my face better. I wear a medium with the Quattro, but the medium on the FullLife felt a little small. When I used the large seal, I had leakage in the area at the corners of my mouth just between where the straps connect and couldn't stop the leak without overtightening the strap so I had to use the medium. It had a good seal with the medium. It would be nice if they would add the clips for easy realease of the strap going around the neck. I like not having the forehead piece. It is easier to take apart and clean. I'll be staying with my Quattro because it give me the better fit.

   By Challenge participant

For me, this mask was very easy to adjust and even though I would like to do away with the forehead piece, the adjustment knob on this mask does make it easier to make small fine adjustments. I like the neck strap release on this mask, it keeps from wearing out the elastic by not having to pull over my head and I don't have to bother with always having to adjust from having to unvelcro to release like you do with the FullLife mask. I have problems with leaks around my eyes when I move around too much at night and have to adjust the mask a little.

  By Challenge participant

The headgear system and overall layout was more usable than most fullface masks. The mask design allowed full range of vision with the mask on, whic is not the case with most fullface masks. Had difficulty getting a good seal at higher pressures (my bilevel auto can scale up to 16 when needed).

   By Challenge participant

The overall seal was better on the quattro. The forehead rest disrupts vision though, and the 'slip over' headgear design of the FullLife is easier to use than the clips on the Quattro.

  By Challenge participant

While this is a very comfortable mask, thanks to no forehead piece, it was well below average in seal quality. No matter how I adjusted and re-adjusted the headpiece and mask I could not get a satisfactory seal. It leaked consistently, and on numerous nights I wound up taking it off in the middle of the night.

   By Challenge participant

While this mask feels a little more constraining due to the sie, and forehead brace, it offers a superior seal. After over a year of use, it is holding up well and still works as well as it did on day one.

  By Challenge participant

At first I really liked it. The headgear was very comfortable. Then reality set in. The chin strap would never stay in place . I think if I had a defined chin it would have worked very well but with my fat face and no chin there was no way to keep the mask in place. Because of this it leaked very badly during the night. The mask rubbed the bridge of my nose raw in use, maybe putting tape on my nose would have helped but I wanted to test as is.

   By Challenge participant

Good old quattro. Keeping it located on my face to maintain a seal is much easier. The forehead bridge does a great job of helping the mask stay in place. While it does irritate my nose bridge it never has rubbed it raw unless I wasn't careful putting it on for the night. With the Quattro I get a better seal that maintains itself through the nite, which translates into a better night of sleep.


Our Comments

Product Challenge 11 is at once significant and disappointing. The CPAPtalk community believed that this match up was to be a title fight between the brand new Philips Respironics FullLife and the successful but aging ResMed Quattro. The FullLife design concept was admired by participants but it simply did not deliver good results. One participant summed it up this way, "The design looked great at first glance, but once using the mask, I had to choose between face pain from the mask being too tight - or a leaky noisy mask."

While the Resmed Quattro comments include plenty of improvement opportunities, it does a reasonably good job. For now it may be the best full face. Our congratulations to ResMed.

A Product Challenge participant wrote of the FullLife "The headgear does need a quick release. How PR could leave this out is beyond me, but they did the same with the OptiLife, so I guess they don't 'get it' or aren't listening to us patients." Philips Respironics released a new mask and it is not ready for patients. Ouch.

The Product Challenge seeks to mimic a true home use environment. Participants are instructed not to discuss trial products online or offline until after the Challenge. Should these rules ever be violated, that participant's vote and review will be removed. Challenge participants do not see other's votes or reviews until results are formally released. These procedures ensure that we collect and aggregate individual opinions formed based on product performance, not mob emotion. This is an important factor in making our results as unbiased and reliable as possible.

Thank you challenge participants! Thank you also to the hundreds who enrolled and supported the product challenge but were not selected. Together, we will improve the industry CPAP equipment by making product quality transparent to all.

Until the next Product Challenge,
John Goodman, President, CPAPtalk.com


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