DeVilbiss SIMO2 Portable Oxygen Concentrator — Review: Worth it?
Introduction — the problem and the promise
For people who need oxygen therapy, everyday freedom depends on portability, reliability, and compliance with travel rules. Many portable concentrators are bulky, noisy, or offer limited battery life — making travel and day-to-day mobility a hassle. The DeVilbiss SIMO2 is positioned as a lightweight, FAA-compliant pulse-dose concentrator designed to solve those pain points: low weight, quiet operation, and clear controls. This review looks at whether the SIMO2 actually delivers on that promise in real-world use.
Key specifications & materials (Material & Quality)
| Model | DeVilbiss SIMO2 |
| Weight (with battery) | 4.76 lb |
| Dimensions (with battery) | 7.36″ × 3.46″ × 7.24″ |
| Flow settings | Pulse dose 1–6 |
| Oxygen concentration | ≈90% (−3%, +6%) |
| Max O2 production | 1260 mL/min |
| Sound level | ≈43 dBA (typical at setting 2) |
| Battery runtime | Up to 4 hours (setting 2) |
| Trigger sensitivity | < 0.12 cm H₂O |
| FAA compliant | Yes |
| Materials & build | Durable plastics, compact sieve-bed assembly, matte finish; solid-feeling controls and protective rubber feet |
| Included accessories | AC/DC adapters, single 8-cell battery, external battery charger, carry bag, inlet and particle filters |
| Warranty | 5 years (device), sieve beds 2 years, battery 1 year (carry case not covered) |
| Price (USD) | $1,449 |
Real-world experience — Pros & Cons
Pros
- Truly lightweight: At under 5 lb with the battery, the SIMO2 is easy to sling over a shoulder or tuck into a travel bag. It noticeably reduces fatigue on longer outings.
- FAA-compliant travel option: Getting through airport security and on-board is straightforward, which removes a major barrier for frequent travelers.
- Quiet operation: Around 43 dBA at a mid setting, the unit is unobtrusive in conversation, restaurants, or in a hotel room.
- Clear, intuitive controls: The LCD and button layout are simple to use; the on-board oxygen purity sensing and alerts provide extra reassurance.
- Solid warranty on core components: Five-year device warranty and two-year sieve bed warranty mean DeVilbiss backs the hardware.
Cons
- Battery life is limited for long days: Up to 4 hours on setting 2 is respectable but requires planning — a spare battery or external charging solution is often needed for extended outings.
- Pulse-dose only: No continuous flow option means it’s not suitable for users who require continuous oxygen delivery while sleeping or during exertion.
- Battery warranty only one year: Batteries are consumable and replacement costs add up over time.
- Carry case not covered: The included bag is convenient but not protected under warranty, so damage or wear is an out-of-pocket consideration.
- Screen visibility outdoors: Like many small LCDs, the display can be harder to read in very bright sunlight.
Usage notes from hands-on testing
In daily use the SIMO2 performs as a practical travel concentrator. Trigger sensitivity is good for shallow breaths and the pulse-dose delivery feels responsive. On short errands and flights it’s unobtrusive — you can carry a spare battery in your carry-on to extend use. For multiple-day excursions, plan for charging opportunities or purchase the external battery charger and an extra battery. Filtration is straightforward; changing the inlet and particle filters is an easy homeowner-level task.
Quick comparison with competitors
SIMO2 vs. Inogen One (G5 series)
- Both are designed for portability and pulse-dose delivery. The Inogen line often gives users more modular battery options and sometimes longer runtime per battery configuration, while the SIMO2 emphasizes simplicity, built-in oxygen sensing, and a compact footprint.
- If battery runtime flexibility is your primary need, Inogen’s multiple battery sizes can be an advantage. If you want a straightforward, lightweight unit with a strong device warranty, the SIMO2 is attractive.
SIMO2 vs. Philips Respironics SimplyGo (and similar hybrid units)
- Philips’ hybrid units (continuous + pulse-capable) cater to users who need continuous flow at times (for sleep or high exertion). Those devices are generally heavier and bulkier.
- If you require continuous flow, choose a hybrid/continuous-capable unit. If you’re a pulse-dose user who prioritizes weight and travel compliance, the SIMO2 is the better match.
Who is the DeVilbiss SIMO2 best suited for?
- Frequent travelers who need FAA-compliant, lightweight oxygen support.
- Active adults who want a discreet, quiet pulse-dose unit for daily errands and short outings.
- Users with stable oxygen needs who do not require continuous flow at night.
- Caregivers and families who value a solid manufacturer warranty and simple servicing (filters, battery swaps).
Bottom line: The DeVilbiss SIMO2 is a well-built, travel-focused pulse-dose concentrator that delivers dependable performance for daytime mobility. It’s not meant for continuous flow users or full-day excursions without spare batteries, but for many people who need portable oxygen, it strikes a good balance of weight, noise, and usability.
Practical buying notes & recommendations
- Plan for at least one spare battery or the external battery charger if you intend to be out longer than a few hours.
- Confirm with your prescribing clinician that a pulse-dose device meets your therapeutic needs before switching from continuous flow.
- Consider the warranty coverage: the 5-year device warranty is excellent, but battery replacements are a likely long-term cost.
- Price: the SIMO2 is listed at $1,449 — factor in spare batteries and a charger if you travel frequently.
Call to action
If the SIMO2 looks like the right fit for your mobility and travel needs, it’s worth considering as a lightweight, FAA-ready option. When purchasing through my store, there are often limited-time discount codes and special offers available to help with initial accessories like spare batteries and chargers — ask about current offers to get the best value on your order.