If you’re in the market for a reliable, travel-friendly portable oxygen concentrator but aren’t sure whether to choose the Inogen Rove 4 vs. the Rhythm P2-S4, you’re not alone. These two popular machines are top contenders for people who need supplemental oxygen on the go—but which one is best for you?

For those living with COPD, IPF or other respiratory conditions, a portable oxygen concentrator isn’t just an oxygen supply, it’s a life changer. It wasn’t long ago that being on oxygen meant no more travel, loss of independence, and living a relatively sedentary lifestyle. Not anymore! With the advent and ever evolving improvements of portable concentrators, respiratory patients can travel, maintain dignity and independence, and continue making memories with friends and loved ones.

In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll break down their features, performance, portability, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.

Of course you can also reach out to our respiratory specialists at 1-888-643-4921. They can answer any questions you may have about traveling with oxygen or choosing a concentrator as well as Medicare or financing.

What Do the Inogen Rove 4 and Rhythm P2-S4 Have in Common?

When considering Inogen Rove 4 vs Rhythm P2S4 Portable Oxygen Concentrators, both are great choices for the active oxygen user. They’re  lightweight, easy to use, and travel friendly. Let’s start by reviewing what both units share:

• Pulse Dose Settings: Both offer oxygen delivery in pulse mode with settings from 1 to 4.
• FAA-Approved: Perfect for air travel, both devices meet the Federal Aviation Administration’s standards for in-flight use.
• Power Options: Each machine includes A/C and D/C power supplies, so you can plug into wall outlets, car cigarette lighters, RVs, or even boats.
• Battery Options: Two battery options are available for each machine. Standard batteries are slightly lighter weight and ideal for running quick errands or outings when you’ll be in the car a lot and can plug the concentrator into a D/C outlet. Extended batteries are slightly heavier but can be useful for longer jaunts or air travel.
• Quiet Operation: These concentrators are whisper-quiet, making them ideal for public spaces or quiet environments.
• Easy-to-Use Displays: Both units provide clear readouts showing battery life, flow settings, and alerts for any maintenance issues.
• User-Friendly Controls: Designed with accessibility in mind, both models are easy to operate—even for users with dexterity issues.

But while they have many features in common, the differences between the Rove 4 and P2-S4 can significantly affect your user experience. Let’s explore those in detail.

Size, Weight, and Design: Which Is More Portable?

Inogen Rove 4:

• Dimensions: 5.8” W x 2.7” D x 7.5” H (with standard battery)
• Weight: 2.9 pounds (standard battery), 3.4 pounds (extended battery)
• Battery Access: Can be swapped out quickly and easily without removing from the carry case

Rhythm P2-S4:

• Dimensions: 6.2” W x 3.4” D x 6.7” H (with standard battery)
• Weight: 3.3 pounds (standard battery), 4.4 pounds (extended battery)
• Battery Access: Must be removed from the case to change the battery

Takeaway: The Inogen Rove 4 is slightly smaller and lighter, making it a better choice for those prioritizing compactness and ease of use while on the move. The added convenience of changing batteries without removing the case is a thoughtful bonus and is especially useful for those that battle wrist strength or dexterity challenges.

Battery Life: Standard vs. Extended Options

Battery life is often one of the most important factors in choosing a portable oxygen concentrator. This is of particular interest for those traveling by air. We suggest you check with your airline on their particular requirements but most want you to have 150% of battery life to flight time. I.e. if your flight is 2 hours you must have 3 hours of battery life. If it is 4 hours, you must have 6 hours…etc.  Here’s how the two stack up regarding battery life. Inogen Rove 4 vs Rhythm p2S4 portable oxygen concentrators both have multiple battery options.

Standard Battery Life (at Setting 1):

• Inogen Rove 4: Up to 3 hours
• Rhythm P2-S4: Up to 2.5 hours

Extended Battery Life (at Setting 1):

• Inogen Rove 4: Up to 5.75 hours
• Rhythm P2-S4: Up to 7.2 hours

Important Note: These figures are manufacturer estimates based on use at the lowest setting (setting 1) and around 20 breaths per minute. Real-world usage—like walking through a grocery store—may reduce battery life. If you’re sitting quietly reading a book, your battery life may be longer.

Both machines support external battery chargers (sold separately), allowing you to keep a second battery charging while you’re out and about. This can be a great convenience for active users or travelers. You can leave a battery charging while you’re out sight-seeing and return to swap out the used battery for a fully charged one without missing a beat. 

For more information on traveling with oxygen please click here to download our FREE OXYGEN TRAVEL GUIDE!

Takeaway: If extended battery life is your top priority, the Rhythm P2-S4 has a slight edge with up to 7.2 hours of run time using the extended battery. However, it’s also a bit heavier with that setup.

Inogen Rove 4 vs Rhythm P2S4 Sound Levels: How Quiet Are They?

• Inogen Rove 4: ~39 decibels
• Rhythm P2-S4: ~36 decibels

Both machines are extremely quiet—comparable to a whisper or rustling leaves. In a quiet room, you might notice a gentle hum, but in a public space like a restaurant or shopping center, the noise will likely go unnoticed.

For users who have hearing aids, keep in mind that if the lower registers are amplified on your hearing aid, your machine may sound louder to you. You can ask your audiologist for advice on how to adjust it so it’s less intrusive.

Takeaway: The P2-S4 has a marginally lower sound rating, but both are exceptionally discreet. Both can also be used with longer tubing so the machine can be placed out in a hallway or bathroom behind a closed door at night so your sleep won’t be disturbed.

Controls and User Interface

Both machines have user-friendly interfaces, but they differ slightly in operation:

• Inogen Rove 4: Uses plus (+) and minus (–) buttons to change flow settings.
• Rhythm P2-S4: Uses a single button that cycles through all settings.

While both are easy to operate, users with dexterity concerns may find the Rove 4’s separate buttons more intuitive and quicker for adjusting settings.

Takeaway: If ease of control is a concern, especially for elderly users or those with arthritis, the Rove 4 may be a better fit, both for the button and battery changing systems.

Inogen Rove 4 vs Rhythm P2S4 Brand Reputation and Warranty

Inogen:

• A trusted name in oxygen technology with years of experience and who set the industry standard in many ways..
• Standard 3-Year Warranty with an Optional Lifetime Warranty Upgrade for added peace of mind.
• Known for innovation and reliability.

Rhythm Healthcare:

• A newer player in the oxygen space but well-established in mobility and healthcare devices.
• Also offers a 3-year warranty on the P2-S4.

Takeaway: Inogen’s long-standing reputation and lifetime warranty option may give it a slight advantage in trust and peace of mind, especially for first-time buyers.

Exclusive OxiMedical Protection & Support

Here’s something unique you won’t find elsewhere: OxiMedical’s exclusive Drop It & Swap It protection.

If you drop your machine and damage it while it’s still under warranty we’ll exchange it for a working machine with no delays or hassles.

In addition, OxiMedical offers:

• We can check Medicare eligibility and ensure you get all the benefits to which you are entitled.
• Financing options with instant approval
• Monthly payments starting as low as $59/month (with approved credit)
• Friendly, knowledgeable oxygen specialists ready to assist

We don’t just sell machines—we support your journey to better health and more independence. Give us a call today at 1-888-643-4921!