Face masks have become an extremely more important item in 2020 than ever before. Since the beginning of the year, we were recommended different types of masks, but what are the main differences between the most popular ones: KN95 vs N95?
First of all, to be more specific in this article, let’s discover the first difference between KN95 vs N95 face masks. N95 face masks are certified and follow the USA standards, while KN95 are certified in China. As you’ll find out in this article, both are required to pass high and strict tests to be commercialized.
The Interim Guide by the World Health Organization reported that N95 or similar respirators might be associated with a greater reduction in risk than medical or 12–16-layer cotton masks.
Also, according to an infographic by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the main difference between KN95 vs N95 masks are
However, there is much more to it, and we’ll go through more in-depth differences in this article.
If you’re here to see the comparison between the KN95 vs N95 masks, if the N95 or KN95 face mask you bought online is good, or even to check if it can protect you enough, you’re in the right place.
Without further ado, let’s go deeper into the subject and see the comparison between a KN95 face mask and an N95 one, as well as their main differences.
What Are N95 Masks Good For?
If you are looking for a mask that will keep your mouth and nose protected, as well as yourself, you’ll be glad to know that you can find a wide variety of N95 masks available. However, what exactly are these N95 face masks, and why should you get one? Here is a look at these masks, and some tips on finding the best mask for you.
First, N95 masks are especially popular as they will help keep you from breathing in any dust or other particles. Of course, this applies to particles and droplets affected by COVID-19.
Secondly, N95 has particularly become popular in 2020 for being used as a protection against COVID-19. Most nurses at hospitals use these N95 face masks to remain protected from their patients, and, therefore, they’re one of the most effective protective facial masks.
In addition, they are also usually made out of materials that will keep your airway open, so you won’t have any difficulty breathing.
Furthermore, the N95 masks can also help protect you from mold particles. Because mold is extremely hard, it has to be cleaned very well. Molds can be removed by hand, but there are other methods that you can use in order to keep them clean and working properly.
Before buying an N95 face mask, make sure that you check out all the available options, and learn how much money you want to spend on your mask. In fact, N95 face masks tend to be expensive, especially in 2020 with the current COVID-19 pandemic.
What Are KN95 Masks and Are They Effective?
KN95 masks are respirators certified in China and are known to be protective face masks to be used for protection against COVID-19. Their design and construction guarantee filtration efficiently, a tight seal, and, of course, a minimum leakage.
There are several benefits of using KN95 face masks. First of all, they have a foldable and portable design which makes them very practical and convenient. They have a nosepiece and also provide a great fitting and sealing, which we of course appreciate.
Moreover, and just like the N95 face masks, the KN95 masks provide 95% protection against all particles that are known to be greater than 0.3 µm in diameter. For instance, they protect against bacteria, viruses including coronaviruses, fine particles, and even dust and smog.
Lastly, KN95 masks have 5 layers of protection and that is one of the reasons why they’re currently approved by the World Health Organization to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.
How To Wear N95 or KN95 Masks?
If you’re the type of person that likes to wear masks to feel protected and to protect others, you probably want to know how to properly wear KN95 and N95 face masks to get the most out of them.
Wearing a face mask or a cloth face covering is mandatory in certain states or countries and is highly recommended to stop the spread of the coronavirus.
One thing you should keep in mind when wearing KN95 masks is that they are designed so that people can wear them without having to worry about them falling off.
If you’re wondering how to wear N95 masks, it’s pretty simple. Most of them are made of polyester with a filter that is breathable so they allow air to flow through your mouth. The face mask will fit right on your face which allows it to have a much more secure fit and remain protected during the day.
First of all, position the face masks under your chin and cover both your nose and mouth. After, while you’re holding the KN95 or N95 face mask, pull the ear bands over your 2 ears.
Lastly, using both hands, fit the face masks to your nose properly in order to remain protected the whole time you have it on. That’s it, the face mask is positioned correctly and you’re protected against small particles and droplets.
Masks offer a number of benefits that allow you to breathe easier and help you fight off bacteria and other airborne irritants.
Also, as mentioned previously, molds can cause problems in people with respiratory issues. For this reason, you should always ensure that you’re wearing a mask when in any environment where there is a possible mold but also crowds.
Similarities Between N95 vs. KN95 Masks
While the N95 and KN95 face masks aren’t the same, they are more similar to each other than many people think.
First of all, one of the biggest similarities between N95 and KN95 face masks is that they both provide 95% of filter performance. Also, they both offer protection against some of the more serious respiratory conditions such as COVID-19.
Secondly, both N95 and KN95 face masks can be reused. However, you should put on and take off your face masks carefully, washing your hands afterwards, and, above all, discard them if they’re damaged or broken.
Last but not least, both KN95 and N95 masks are tested at a flow rate of 85 L/minute which is another advantage and reason why their price is slightly higher than normal surgical masks.
To conclude, both the US’ N95 and Chinese KN95 are great protection against COVID-19, small particles, and droplets. However, there are most tests conducted and higher requirements for N95 face masks to be commercialized. For this reason, we tend to recommend N95 masks more although KN95 are very good alternatives.
Difference Between N95 vs. KN95 Masks
When it comes to getting protected from dust particles and droplets, it is very important to wear a good and efficient face mask.
As mentioned previously, N95 face masks have stricter and higher requirements compared to KN95 ones. For this reason, they are known to be more protective and better for the COVID-19 pandemic.
In addition, KN95 face masks provide a looser fit compared to N95 ones. In fact, the Chinese government requires a fit test for their masks and they need to pass 8% or less leakage. On the other hand, fit tests are not required for N95 masks.
It is important to note that N95 respirators have strict requirements in terms of breathability. In fact, the pressure drop on inhalation must pass their 343Pa (which is a unit of pressure) requirement or less. Regarding the exhalation, they must pass the 245 Pa results which is another essential point to consider between KN95 vs N95 Masks.
KN95 masks only need to have an inhalation pressure drop of less than 350 Pa and an exhalation pressure drop of 250 Pa. Of course, this isn’t a massive difference but it is still something worth noting. In short and simple words, N95 respirators are slightly more breathable than KN95 face masks.
Last but certainly not least, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention constantly update their list of approved facepiece respirators. While the N95 face masks are widely popular and recommended with lots of variety and brands, the KN95 ones do not appear on that list.
Are N95 and KN95 to Remain Safe and Protected?
While both N95 and KN95 are great, protective, and high-quality face masks, are they enough to remain safe? Wearing one of them will greatly increase your protection, however, you get even safer.
The Canadian Government published an overview of COVID-19 and the facial masks and recommended wearing appropriate face protection. For instance, face shield, goggles, and more.
This will not only help to stop the spread of the coronavirus but it will also fully protect your nose, mouth, and eyes properly. On top of that, avoiding crowded areas as much as possible is a great way for you to stay protected.
While they claim that surgical respirators and N95 face masks must be kept for medical professionals and patients, we highly recommend purchasing some. We’re never too safe nor too protected and wearing a mask as well as a face shield will highly increase your protection.
Where to Buy KN95 and N95 Masks?
While there are many stores, pharmacies, and shops where you can buy face masks, we’d recommend purchasing them online.
For example, you can purchase them online through Clinical Supplies and get a reasonable price. To give you an idea, a set of 20 N95 masks will cost you $149.95 while a set of 100 masks will set you back $649.95.
Sure, N95 face masks can be expensive. However, you pay for a premium item that will definitely protect you more.
On the other hand, you can also purchase KN95 online through, for example, Well Before. Unlike the N95 ones, there are different models available with ear loops or head straps, and also in black or white.
In addition, KN95 face masks will cost you $2.95 per piece and that’s a massive difference with their competitors the N95.
Other good online resources:
Amazon (Best Sellers in Safety & Security, they are cheaper but mostly out of stock)
Powecom KN95 Respirator Mask – FDA Authorized, they are out of stock on Amazon, but you can get from premier authorized distributor bonafidemasks.com.
Black KN95 Face Mask and Black Disposable Face Masks (#1 best seller )
As we saw in this article, both masks are protective and useful in any situation, however, the N95 ones go through deeper tests and it, therefore, reflects on the price.
Know more: KN95 Mask: Ultimate Buying Guide
KN95 vs N95 Masks – The Bottom Line
Now that you know the similarities, differences between KN95 vs N95, and the main benefits of both face masks, you should be able to see more clearly.
Both KN95 and N95 are great options as a protection against droplets, small particles, bacteria, and ultimately against COVID-19. While both face masks are approved by the World Health Organization and are valid protection, the N95 ones do have to pass stricter tests.
For this reason, we’d recommend getting N95 face masks for your own peace of mind and to be more protected. We highly recommend purchasing either a KN95 or N95 face mask when going to a crowded area such as an airport, train station, or even a supermarket.
To conclude, both KN95 vs N95 offer safety to its user, are much more protective than basic surgical masks and cloth face coverings, and use premium material.
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