Lightweight at 4.7 pounds and capable of up to 18 hours of runtime, the Inogen One G5 stands out among portable oxygen concentrators. But is it the right fit for your lifestyle and needs?
For oxygen users who want to stay active, portability is everything.
The Inogen One G5 strikes that balance, weighing just 4.7 pounds with its standard 8-cell battery and measuring 8.15 inches high by 7.19 wide by 3.26 deep. The compact profile slips easily into a shoulder bag or backpack, avoiding the bulk of traditional oxygen tanks.
Battery performance is where the G5 makes its mark. The standard 8-cell battery offers up to 6.5 hours of operation at pulse setting 1, while the larger 16-cell battery extends that range to up to 18 hours. Experts at Main Clinic Supply explain that the option to switch between battery sizes allows patients to match their therapy to their daily routine—shorter trips, longer outings, or even air travel.
This endurance comes from lithium-ion technology that delivers steady power across the entire discharge cycle. Unlike older batteries that weaken as they drain, the G5's design maintains consistent oxygen output until the very end. For users, that reliability can make the difference between enjoying a full day out and worrying about where to recharge.
The Inogen One G5 offers 6 pulse flow settings, ranging from 210 ml/min at setting 1 to 1,260 ml/min at setting 6. This flexibility helps accommodate a wide range of oxygen needs—from light support during rest to higher demands during activity. While the G5 delivers oxygen in pulse doses rather than continuous flow, its maximum output of 1,260 ml/min makes it a strong option for patients with more advanced prescriptions who benefit from pulse therapy.
Each setting is engineered to deliver oxygen boluses that adjust to the user's breathing rate. For example, at 10 breaths/minute on setting 6, the device provides 126 ml per bolus. At a faster rate of 30 breaths/minute, the bolus decreases to 42 ml—but the total oxygen delivered per minute remains consistent. This adaptive design ensures therapy stays effective no matter the pace of activity.
Intelligent Delivery Technology builds on this by monitoring breathing patterns in real time. When activity increases and breathing quickens, the device responds with smaller but more frequent doses. At night, when breathing slows and deepens, the system automatically shifts to larger boluses and longer timing, helping maintain adequate oxygen throughout sleep. The G5 operates at just 39 decibels on setting 2—about the volume of a quiet room—supporting restful sleep without disruption.
Battery life is one of the biggest concerns for portable oxygen users, and the Inogen One G5 offers two configurations to fit different lifestyles. The standard 8-cell battery keeps the device at just 4.7 pounds—light enough to carry all day—and provides practical runtime for shorter outings. For patients who need longer coverage, the 16-cell battery doubles that capacity with only a modest increase in weight, making it a strong choice for travel, full workdays, or extended social activities.
As with any concentrator, higher flow settings reduce battery life. Even so, the G5 delivers efficient performance across the range. At setting 2, the standard battery provides more than 5 hours of therapy, while the extended battery exceeds 10 hours. At the highest setting, users can still expect nearly 3 hours of continuous support with the extended configuration—enough to cover most real-world scenarios without interruption.
These figures reflect everyday usage rather than controlled lab conditions. Factors such as temperature, breathing patterns, and battery age can affect actual performance. To help users plan with confidence, the G5 includes a built-in management system that displays real-time battery estimates, also accessible through the Inogen Connect smartphone app.
For added convenience, an external charger allows batteries to be recharged independently of the device, eliminating downtime. A full charge takes about 4 hours for the 8-cell battery and 8 hours for the 16-cell, with LED indicators showing charge progress.
Like most lithium-ion batteries, the G5's units are designed for about 500 full cycles before capacity starts to decline. The system's safeguards against overcharging and inefficient discharge help extend battery life. Main Clinic Supply experts recommend rotating between two batteries rather than leaving one idle, which helps maximize long-term performance.
For frequent travelers, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval is a must—and the Inogen One G5 checks that box. Certified for use on commercial flights worldwide, the device can be taken onboard as long as passengers follow standard airline procedures for medical equipment. Most carriers require advance notice and sometimes a doctor's note, but once cleared, the G5 fits easily under an airplane seat and runs quietly enough not to disturb nearby passengers. It can function at cabin altitudes of up to 10,000 feet, ensuring consistent oxygen delivery throughout the flight, even during altitude changes.
The G5 also connects via Bluetooth through the Inogen Connect app, turning it into a smart device that's easier to manage day-to-day. Users can track battery status, flow settings, and alerts directly from their phone — helpful when the concentrator is tucked in a backpack or travel bag.
Beyond convenience, the app provides real-time insights into oxygen purity, sieve bed condition, and filter maintenance schedules. This early-warning system helps prevent therapy interruptions and keeps the unit running at peak performance. For caregivers and family members, remote monitoring adds another layer of reassurance, offering peace of mind when loved ones are traveling or away from home.
The Inogen One G5 sits at the higher end of the portable concentrator market, reflecting its advanced design and extended features. Prices vary depending on the retailer and included accessories, but the G5 consistently costs more than entry-level options (starting from ~$2,882). For many patients, however, the value lies in what the device delivers: longer battery life, lightweight portability, and adaptive technology that can keep up with active lifestyles.
This kind of investment often appeals to patients who travel regularly or need reliable performance throughout the day. While budget models can meet basic oxygen needs, the G5's capabilities make it a preferred choice for users who place a premium on independence and convenience.
Like any medical device, ownership extends beyond the initial purchase. Replacement parts include batteries, sieve beds, filters, and cannulas. Extended-life batteries carry a higher price tag but are essential for users who need all-day operation without recharging. Sieve beds and filters, by contrast, represent routine maintenance and remain affordable compared to professional servicing.
Accessories such as the external battery charger, carrying cases, and travel gear allow users to customize the G5 to their lifestyle, though they do add to overall expenses. Factoring in these long-term costs gives patients a more accurate picture of the total investment—and helps ensure the concentrator continues performing at its best for years to come.
For patients who want more than the basics, the Inogen One G5 delivers features that directly support an active lifestyle. An 18-hour maximum battery life, a 4.7-pound frame, and six adjustable flow settings give it a level of flexibility few competitors can match. Frequent travelers, busy professionals, and anyone determined to maintain independence often find these advantages outweigh the higher upfront cost.
Beyond portability, Intelligent Delivery Technology ensures oxygen is delivered in sync with breathing patterns, while user-replaceable sieve beds help manage long-term costs. Added benefits such as smartphone connectivity and warranty coverage further extend the device's value, making it not just an oxygen concentrator but a tool that supports daily life with greater ease and confidence.
That said, patients with lower oxygen needs or less mobile lifestyles may find adequate support from more budget-friendly alternatives. But for those who see their concentrator as an investment in freedom and peace of mind, the G5's premium features make it a compelling choice for years of reliable use.
Respiratory specialists at Main Clinic Supply emphasize that choosing the right concentrator comes down to aligning features with lifestyle needs. The company specializes in helping patients find oxygen therapy solutions suited to their individual requirements, ensuring support that fits both medical and day-to-day demands.
