What is the difference between N95 mask with and without exhalation valve?

The N95 mask with exhalation valve can discharge exhalation, reduce exhalation resistance, while keeping the inside of the mask cool, improving the comfort of wearing.

N-series masks such as N95, N99, and N100 are not only difficult to breathe when worn, but also filled with exhaled heat, making them sultry and intolerable. In order to improve this problem, there is another mask with an “exhalation valve” on the market.

This mask with an exhalation valve can discharge exhalation, reduce exhalation resistance, while keeping the inside of the mask cool, improving the comfort of wearing.

Some people are worried that the N95 mask with an exhalation valve has poor filtering effect and is unsafe. Experts pointed out that regardless of whether the mask has an exhalation valve or not, the test standards are the same. As long as the mask is certified by NIOSH, it can be used with confidence.

In a study published in The Annals of Occupational Hygiene in 2008, N95 masks with and without exhalation valve were also tested separately. The results show that there is no difference in the protection efficiency of the two against viruses and bacteria.