The Little Badger TDX is a portable oxygen concentrator designed for people who need supplemental oxygen while moving around

The Little Badger TDX is a small, battery-powered machine that pulls oxygen from the air around you and delivers it through a nasal cannula or mask. It weighs about 10 pounds and is roughly the size of a small backpack, which makes it possible to carry during daily activities, travel, or outdoor time. Unlike larger stationary concentrators that stay plugged into a wall outlet at home, the TDX goes with you.

The machine works by drawing in room air, filtering out nitrogen, and concentrating the oxygen to a higher level than what you breathe naturally. You set the flow rate — measured in liters per minute — based on what your doctor prescribes. The TDX can deliver oxygen at settings from 1 to 3 liters per minute, which covers most people's portable oxygen needs.

Power comes from rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. A full charge typically lasts between 2 and 4 hours depending on the flow rate you use — higher settings drain the battery faster. The machine comes with a charging cable and can plug into a standard wall outlet or a car charger, so you can recharge during the day if you are out for longer periods.

Key Takeaways

  • The Little Badger TDX is a portable oxygen concentrator that weighs about 10 pounds and runs on rechargeable batteries for 2 to 4 hours per charge.
  • You need a prescription from your doctor to obtain one, and your insurance or Medicare may cover part or all of the cost depending on your coverage.
  • The machine delivers oxygen at flow rates from 1 to 3 liters per minute, which your doctor will set based on your oxygen needs.
  • Battery life depends on the flow rate — using it at higher settings drains the battery faster than lower settings.
  • The TDX is designed for daytime use and activity; it is not intended to replace a stationary concentrator for overnight use at home.

How to get a Little Badger TDX

You cannot purchase a Little Badger TDX without a prescription. Your doctor must order it for you after determining that you need portable oxygen. During an office visit or telehealth appointment, tell your doctor if you spend time away from home and need oxygen while you are out — this is the main reason doctors prescribe portable concentrators.

Your doctor will write a prescription that specifies the flow rate (liters per minute) and how many hours per day you should use it. Once you have the prescription, you work with a durable medical equipment (DME) supplier — a company licensed to rent or sell medical equipment. Your doctor's office usually has a list of suppliers they work with, or you can ask for a referral.

The DME supplier handles the paperwork with your insurance company or Medicare. They submit your prescription and medical information to determine whether your coverage will pay for the device. If you have Medicare, the supplier must be enrolled in Medicare to bill for the equipment. Private insurance coverage varies — some plans cover portable concentrators fully, others require a copay or coinsurance, and some require you to try a stationary concentrator first.

Once coverage is approved, the supplier delivers the machine to your home, shows you how to use it, and explains the charging routine. This process typically takes one to two weeks from the time your doctor writes the prescription.

What the battery life really means for your day

The stated battery life of 2 to 4 hours is measured under specific conditions in a lab. Your actual time between charges depends on three things: the flow rate your doctor prescribed, how much you actually use the machine during the day, and the age of the batteries.

If your doctor prescribes 1 liter per minute, you will get closer to 4 hours on a full charge. If you use 3 liters per minute, expect closer to 2 hours. Most people fall somewhere in the middle — a 2-liter prescription typically gives you about 3 hours.

This matters for planning. If you work an 8-hour day and use oxygen the whole time, you will need to charge the machine during your lunch break or have a second battery available. The TDX comes with one battery, but you can purchase additional batteries separately if you need longer stretches away from a power outlet. A second battery costs several hundred dollars, so ask your DME supplier whether your insurance covers it before you buy one out of pocket.

Batteries also lose capacity over time. After about two years of regular use, you may notice the machine does not run quite as long on a full charge. This is normal and does not mean the machine is broken — it means the battery is aging. Replacement batteries are available from the manufacturer or your DME supplier.

Maintenance and daily care

The Little Badger TDX requires minimal maintenance. You should clean the air inlet filter once a week by gently rinsing it with water and letting it air dry completely before putting it back in the machine. A clogged filter makes the machine work harder and drains the battery faster, so this weekly step actually extends your battery life.

The nasal cannula or mask you wear should be cleaned daily with mild soap and water. Replace the tubing every few months or sooner if it cracks or becomes stiff. Your DME supplier provides replacement tubing and cannulas, and most insurance plans cover these as consumable supplies.

Store the machine in a cool, dry place when you are not using it. Do not leave it in a hot car or in direct sunlight for long periods, as heat can damage the batteries and internal components. If you travel by air, let the airline know you are bringing a portable oxygen concentrator — most airlines allow them in carry-on luggage, but you need to notify them in advance.

Have your machine serviced annually by your DME supplier or the manufacturer. They will check that it is delivering oxygen at the correct flow rate and that all parts are working properly. If something stops working or the machine makes unusual sounds, contact your supplier right away rather than trying to fix it yourself.

When a portable concentrator is not enough

The Little Badger TDX works well for people who need oxygen during the day while they are active, but it is not designed for overnight use or for people who need very high oxygen flow rates. If your doctor prescribes more than 3 liters per minute, you will need a different machine — either a larger portable concentrator or a stationary concentrator at home with oxygen tanks for when you go out.

Some people use both: a stationary concentrator at home for sleeping and sitting, and a portable concentrator like the TDX for daytime activities. This combination gives you continuous oxygen coverage without the weight and battery limitations of carrying a portable machine all day and night.

If you find that the TDX does not meet your needs after using it for a few weeks, talk to your doctor. They can adjust your prescription, switch you to a different machine, or add supplemental oxygen tanks for times when the concentrator alone is not enough.

Cost and insurance coverage

The Little Badger TDX costs between $2,000 and $3,000 if you buy it outright, though most people do not pay this amount out of pocket. Medicare covers portable oxygen concentrators as durable medical equipment, which means you typically pay 20 percent coinsurance after you meet your deductible. The exact amount depends on your specific Medicare plan and whether you have supplemental coverage.

Private insurance coverage varies widely. Some plans cover the full cost with just a copay, others cover 80 percent and you pay 20 percent, and some require prior authorization or proof that you have tried other options first. Your DME supplier will check your coverage before ordering the machine, so you know what you owe before it arrives.

If you do not have insurance or your insurance does not cover it, ask your DME supplier about rental options. Some suppliers rent portable concentrators for $200 to $400 per month, which can be a lower-cost way to try one before committing to a purchase. Rental payments sometimes count toward the purchase price if you decide to buy later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the Little Badger TDX on an airplane?

Yes, most airlines allow portable oxygen concentrators in carry-on luggage, but you must notify the airline at least 48 hours before your flight. The machine must be turned off during takeoff and landing. Check your specific airline's policy before you book, because rules vary slightly between carriers.

What happens if the battery dies while I am using it?

The machine will beep and display a low-battery warning before the battery completely dies, giving you time to turn it off and find a charger. If you are far from a power outlet, having a second battery or a portable power bank designed for medical devices can keep you going. Always carry the charging cable with you when you leave home.

Do I need to use the Little Badger TDX every day?

Your doctor will prescribe how many hours per day you should use it based on your oxygen levels. Some people use it only during exercise or activity, while others use it most of the day. Use it exactly as prescribed — using it less than recommended can leave you short of oxygen, and using it more than necessary does not provide additional benefit.

Can someone else use my Little Badger TDX?

No. Portable oxygen concentrators are prescribed specifically for one person based on their medical needs and oxygen requirements. Sharing it with someone else could be dangerous if their oxygen needs are different. Each person who needs portable oxygen should have their own machine with their own prescription.

What should I do if the machine stops delivering oxygen?

First, check that the air inlet filter is clean and the nasal cannula is connected properly. If oxygen still is not flowing, turn off the machine and contact your DME supplier. Do not try to repair it yourself. If you need oxygen when ready and cannot reach your supplier, go to an urgent care or emergency room.