Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a powerful way to supercharge recovery rates, be it from injury or an intense workout. These machines, known as hyperbaric chambers, create a pressurized environment that increases oxygen availability to the tissues needing it most.
But not all hyperbaric chamber types are created equal. There are many different types of hyperbaric chambers, each of which has its own unique pros and cons. As the #1 choice for hyperbaric chambers for sale online, we’re here to help you pinpoint the perfect style.
From soft to hard-sided chambers, monoplace to multiplace chambers, and a range of different pressure ratings, it can feel overwhelming trying to narrow it down to the ideal unit for your healing needs. That’s why we encourage you to get in touch with our experts today.
We’ve helped professional athletes, world-renowned clinics, and everyday people bring the benefits of HBOT into their own space, and we can do the same for you. Reach out for one-on-one support and we’ll help you choose with confidence!
What is a Hyperbaric Chamber?
As we touched on already, these are pressurized enclosures where users breathe in highly concentrated oxygen (usually between 90% to 100%) at pressures beyond normal atmospheric levels.
The body can absorb way more oxygen into the bloodstream at elevated air pressure, in turn supporting faster cellular repair, a stronger inflammatory response, and accelerated healing processes.
Most chambers work within a range of 1.3 to 2.0 ATA (atmospheres absolute) - that’s something we’ll dig into a bit deeper as we unpack the different types of hyperbaric chambers.
The pressure combined with the oxygen-rich environment pushes more oxygen into the plasma, not just red blood cells, which helps reach areas with limited blood flow. This leads to benefits such as:
- Supporting brain recovery after concussion or TBI
- Reducing fatigue, brain fog, and inflammation from Long COVID
- Promoting wound healing and tissue repair
- Improving circulation and oxygenation in diabetic patients
- Easing symptoms related to Lyme disease and autoimmune issues
- Speeding up muscle recovery after intense workouts
- Supporting overall cognitive function and sleep quality
- Helping with altitude sickness or decompression sickness
While all chambers work off the same principle (oxygen under pressure), there are quite a few nuances in the way they’re built, the pressure they reach, and how they’re used. So, let’s take a look at the different hyperbaric chamber types below.
What are the Different Types of Hyperbaric Chambers?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to HBOT, and that’s part of the beauty of it. You can tailor the unit you buy to your exact needs. It all comes down to your health goals, space, budget, and how often you plan to use it.
Hard-Shell vs Soft-Shell Hyperbaric Chambers
The simplest way to describe the different types of hyperbaric chambers is to break them down into two categories: hard or soft-shell units.
A hard shell hyperbaric chamber is usually made from aluminum, steel, or acrylic. These can safely support higher pressures (1.5-3.0 ATA depending on the model), so they’re used by those with medical conditions that call for deeper tissue oxygenation. That includes:
- Chronic wounds
- Long COVID
- TBI recovery
- Post-surgery healing
Hard-shell chambers also offer better pressure stability and more comfort features, like climate control, built-in entertainment, and adjustable recliners. But, they’re big, bulky, and expensive. That’s why some choose to go with a soft shell hyperbaric chamber instead.
These are made from durable, medical-grade fabric with reinforced zippers and internal support structures. They work at lower pressures, usually no more than 1.3 ATA, and are designed for mild HBOT usage. Common uses cases include:
- Fatigue
- Brain fog
- Wellness maintenance
- Recovery from mild injury
They’re lightweight, collapsible, and perfect for home use. You’ll find soft-sided units starting under $7,000, so they’re a much more accessible entry point to HBOT.
Monoplace vs Multiplace Hyperbaric Chambers
This classification refers to how many people the chamber can accommodate at once.
Monoplace chambers are made for one person at a time. They’re common for home users and small clinics. You lie down or sit inside, and the chamber pressurizes around you. You can find them in both soft- and hard-sided varieties.
On the other hand, multiplace chambers (as the name suggests) can be used by multiple people at once, each wearing an oxygen mask or hood. They’re much bigger and more common in clinical settings than in homes. They also require trained operators.
Portable Hyperbaric Chambers
Portability is a huge advantage when you want to bring HBOT anywhere life takes you. Or, maybe you just want to be flexible in how you use it at home, breaking it down when you have guests over.
At any rate, the appeal of a portable hyperbaric chamber is in that it can be packed down, moved between rooms, or even transported between homes. They’re usually soft-sided and run between 1.3 and 1.5 ATA.
Don’t let the lightweight nature fool you, though. These top-tier models still offer consistent pressure and oxygen delivery, usually with external compressors and dual-zipper seals for added safety.
Professional-Grade Hyperbaric Chambers
On the complete opposite end of the spectrum of portable chambers, you’ll find professional-grade models built for wellness clinics, physical therapy centers, or any other medical practice in between.
These hard-shell, high-pressure units are made to be used frequently by multiple clients. They provide higher oxygen saturation, better control systems, and extra features like touchscreen interfaces, internal lighting, audio-visual modules, and reclining seating.
They’re also ADA-friendly, perfect for wheelchair users or patients who need help entering and exiting. As you can imagine they’re the most expensive types of hyperbaric chambers, costing anywhere from $40,000 to $80,000.
Pressure Ratings Explained
There’s another way you can look at the hyperbaric chamber types - by pressure rating, or ATA specification. This directly correlates to the therapy’s depth and effectiveness. Popular ratings include:
- 1.3 ATA hyperbaric chamber: Used in most soft-shell chambers. This mild pressure helps improve circulation, reduce fatigue, and support general wellness.
- 1.4 ATA hyperbaric chamber: A modest yet meaningful step up from 1.3 with enhanced oxygen absorption for deeper recovery benefits. Popular for injury recovery and post-op healing.
- 1.5 ATA hyperbaric chamber: A middle ground often found in portable or upgraded home chambers. Useful for tissue healing and mild neurorecovery.
- 2.0 ATA hyperbaric chamber: High-pressure chambers used in clinical environments for deep inflammation, non-healing wounds, and advanced medical conditions.
The higher the ATA, the more oxygen your body absorbs into tissues and plasma. But more isn’t always better. In fact, too much can be detrimental. It's about matching pressure to need.
That’s why we encourage you to get in touch with our team for one-on-one support choosing among the different types of hyperbaric chambers today!
“The customer support team at Morelli Medical provided me with assistance, in choosing the right product. It has proven to be a valuable investment for my practice. I look forward to returning in the future!” - Dr. Emily J.
“What stood out for me was the safety. The dual pressure readings and easy release valves gave me peace of mind, especially during my first few sessions. I use this chamber 4x a week for inflammation and circulation issues, and results are subtle but definitely there.” - Sophia
“As a practitioner, using the Oxyrevo Forward 90 chamber has significantly boosted my clients recovery and performance.” - Dr. Isabella D.
Find Any Hyperbaric Chamber Style at Morelli Medical Today!
Whether you’re looking for a soft chamber for wellness at home or a hard-shell, clinic-grade setup for deeper therapy, Morelli Medical makes it easy to find the right fit.
We carry a wide range of pressure ratings, styles, and setups, whether you’re looking for the best hyperbaric chamber for home use or something to elevate your clinical setting. Every model has been handpicked from a manufacturer we trust, like Macy-Pan and OxyRevo.
Our team offers personal support, not just during the purchase, but before and after. We’re here to answer your questions, walk you through installation, and troubleshoot if anything comes up.
You also gain access to hassle-free financing options, so you don’t have to delay access to HBOT that could help you feel better, faster. Take the next step towards HBOT on your terms today!
Final Words on the Various Hyperbaric Chamber Types
All the different types of hyperbaric chambers have their place in healing. The ideal unit all depends on your specific health goals, budget, and setup preferences. But no matter your needs, your search for the various hyperbaric chamber types ends here at Morelli Medical.
Our blog has more resources on topics like the hyperbaric chamber vs oxygen mask or hyperbaric chamber vs cryotherapy if you want to weigh your options. You really can’t beat the versatility and performance HBOT has to offer, though - and it’s well within reach.
Compare models, get expert advice, and place your order with confidence today. Find out firsthand why customers trust Morelli Medical for honest guidance and top-tier HBOT solutions!