Portable Oxygen Concentrators South Africa | Prices, Best Options & Guide (2026)

Portable Oxygen Concentrators South Africa | Prices, Best Options & Guide (2026)

Looking for a portable oxygen concentrator in South Africa? Whether you need a lightweight oxygen machine for travel or a reliable device for daily use, this guide will help you compare the best portable oxygen concentrators, understand pricing, and choose the right unit for your needs.

At Oxymed, we supply medical-grade portable oxygen machines for sale in South Africa, backed by expert support, fast nationwide delivery, and trusted service.

Man standing by open car door wearing a light blue shirt and carrying a black shoulder case.

What is a Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

A portable oxygen concentrator is a medical device that provides oxygen therapy by extracting oxygen from the surrounding air and delivering it to the user. Unlike traditional oxygen cylinders, portable oxygen machines do not require refilling and can be used anywhere - at home, outdoors,
or while travelling.

These devices are designed for people who need supplemental oxygen but want to maintain mobility and independence in their daily lives.

Who Needs a Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

Portable oxygen concentrators are commonly used by individuals with:

Common conditions

  • COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
  • Asthma or chronic lung conditions
  • Post-COVID respiratory issues
  • Heart conditions requiring oxygen therapy
  • Elderly patients needing mobility support

They are also ideal for:

  • Travel (local and international)
  • Active lifestyles
  • Patients transitioning from hospital to home care

How Does a Portable Oxygen Concentrator Work?

Portable oxygen concentrators draw in ambient air, remove nitrogen through a filtration process, and deliver concentrated oxygen to the user.

Key steps:

  • Air is drawn into the machine
  • Nitrogen is filtered out
  • Oxygen is concentrated and delivered through a cannula

Best Portable Oxygen Concentrators in South Africa (2026)

Portable Oxygen Concentrator Prices in South Africa

Portable oxygen concentrator prices in South Africa typically range from R10,000 to R50,000+, depending on:

Battery life
Oxygen output (flow settings)
Brand and build quality
Portability and weight

Price Breakdown:

Entry-level units

R10,000 – R20,000

Mid-range units

R20,000 – R35,000

Premium units

R35,000 – R50,000+

Investing in a high-quality portable oxygen machine ensures reliability, safety, and long-term performance.

Can You Use a Portable Oxygen Concentrator During Load Shedding?

Yes - one of the biggest advantages of a portable oxygen
concentrator is that it is battery powered.

This means:

  • It can operate during load shedding
  • You are not dependent on wall power
  • Extended batteries can provide several hours of use

Always ensure you have a fully charged battery or backup battery for uninterrupted oxygen supply.

Can You Travel with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

Yes - most modern portable oxygen concentrators are designed for travel and are airline approved (FAA approved).

Benefits for travel:

  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Long battery life for flights
  • No need for oxygen refills
  • Suitable for road trips and flights

Portable oxygen machines are ideal for maintaining independence while travelling.

Portable vs Home Oxygen Concentrators

Feature Portable Oxygen Concentrator Home Oxygen Concentrator
Mobility High Low
Battery Yes No
Oxygen Output Lower Higher
Best For Travel & active use Continuous home use
Many users benefit from having both a home and portable unit.

How to Choose the Best Portable Oxygen Machine

When selecting the right portable oxygen concentrator, consider:

  • Weight & portability

    For ease of movement

  • Battery life

    Especially for travel or load shedding

  • Flow settings

    Pulse vs continuous flow

  • Noise level

    Quieter units for comfort

  • Durability & warranty

    Long-term reliability

Choosing the right machine ensures optimal oxygen therapy and improved quality of life.

Why Buy from Oxymed?

At Oxymed, we go beyond just selling oxygen machines - we provide complete support and peace of mind.

  • Trusted by leading healthcare providers including Netcare, Mediclinic, and Life Healthcare
  • Nationwide delivery across South Africa
  • 24/7 after-sales support
  • Warranty included on all machines
  • Expert advice to help you choose the right device

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best portable oxygen concentrator in South Africa?

The best unit depends on your needs, but premium options like the Inogen Rove 6 offer excellent performance, battery life, and portability.

How much does a portable oxygen machine cost?

Portable oxygen concentrators typically cost between R10,000
and R50,000+ in South Africa.

Do portable oxygen concentrators need refilling?

No - they generate oxygen from the air and do not require refilling like oxygen cylinders.

How long does the battery last?

Battery life varies by model, typically ranging from a few hours up to 10+ hours depending on settings.

Can I sleep with a portable oxygen concentrator?

Some models are suitable for sleep, while devices such as CPAP machines are commonly used for sleep-related breathing conditions. Always consult your healthcare provider to determine the correct solution.