Moldex 2200N95 vs 2300N95: Unvalved vs Valved N95 — Which to Buy? (2026)
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Quick answer
The Moldex 2200N95 and 2300N95 are the same USA-made N95 cup — the 2300N95 simply adds a Ventex exhalation valve. Both share the collapse-resistant Dura-Mesh shell and identical N95 filtration. The unvalved 2200N95 also filters exhaled air (needed for source control); the valved 2300N95 vents heat for comfort. Choose 2200N95 for source control or lower cost, 2300N95 for comfort in heat.
Moldex 2200N95 vs Moldex 2300N95: at-a-glance
| Spec | Moldex 2200N95 | Moldex 2300N95 |
|---|---|---|
| NIOSH rating | N95 (≥95% non-oil) | N95 (≥95% non-oil) |
| Exhalation valve | No | Yes — Moldex Ventex |
| Outer shell | Dura-Mesh | Dura-Mesh |
| Country of origin | Made in USA | Made in USA |
| Source control / sterile use | Yes | No (valved) |
| Comfort in heat | Standard | Cooler, vents moisture |
| Relative cost | Lower | Slight valve premium |
| Best for | Source control, value | Hot, dusty work |
The two respirators
Moldex 2200N95
The Moldex 2200N95 is a USA-made, unvalved N95 cup with the collapse-resistant Dura-Mesh shell and a soft Softspun lining. Because it filters exhaled air too, it suits source control and is the lower-cost option.
Moldex 2300N95
The Moldex 2300N95 is the valved version of the same cup — it adds a Ventex exhalation valve to vent warm, moist air for comfort on hot, dusty jobs. Protection on the inhale is identical to the 2200N95.
Key differences
Only the valve differs
These are the same Dura-Mesh N95 cup; the 2300N95 just adds a Ventex valve. Inhalation protection and fit geometry are otherwise the same.
What the valve costs you
The valve makes the 2300N95 cooler and drier but releases unfiltered exhaled air, so it can’t be used for source control or in sterile areas — pick the 2200N95 there.
Comfort vs cost
For hot or long jobs the valve improves comfort and compliance; for budget or source-control needs, the unvalved 2200N95 is the better fit.
Which should you buy?
| Your situation | Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Source control / protecting others | Moldex 2200N95 | Unvalved — filters exhaled air |
| Hot, humid, or outdoor dust work | Moldex 2300N95 | Ventex valve vents heat |
| Lowest cost / high volume | Moldex 2200N95 | No valve premium |
| Glasses fogging | Moldex 2300N95 | Valve cuts exhaled moisture |
| USA-made supply requirement | Either | Both are made in the USA |
| Oil mist present | Neither — use R95/P-series | N-series are not rated for oil |
Fit & compatibility
Both are one-size Dura-Mesh N95 cups requiring a clean-shaven seal, an OSHA fit test, medical evaluation, and a user seal check. For the valve decision in general, see valved vs unvalved; for the 3M cross-brand pairing, see 8210 vs Moldex 2200N95. Browse all N95 respirators.
Related guides
- Disposable respirators & N95 masks: the complete guide
- Valved vs unvalved N95
- 3M 8210 vs Moldex 2200N95
- 3M 8511 vs Moldex 2300N95
- N95 vs KN95 vs P100
- How to fit test a respirator
- Valved respirators
- N95 respirators
- All disposable respirators
Key takeaways
- Moldex 2200N95: Source control / protecting others — Unvalved — filters exhaled air.
- Moldex 2300N95: Hot, humid, or outdoor dust work — Ventex valve vents heat.
- Moldex 2200N95: Lowest cost / high volume — No valve premium.
Bottom line
Both the Moldex 2200N95 and Moldex 2300N95 meet their NIOSH rating, so the choice is about matching the respirator to the task, the wearer’s fit, and your budget — not whether you are protected. Work through the at-a-glance table and the scenarios above, then fit-test your pick before relying on it in a hazardous atmosphere. For the full selection framework across every rating and form factor, see our complete disposable respirator & N95 mask guide, or browse all disposable respirators to check current pricing and availability.
Frequently asked questions: Moldex 2200N95 vs Moldex 2300N95
What is the difference between the Moldex 2200N95 and 2300N95?
They’re the same USA-made Dura-Mesh N95 cup; the 2300N95 adds a Ventex exhalation valve for comfort. The 2200N95 is unvalved and filters exhaled air too.
Is the 2300N95 better than the 2200N95?
Not for protection — both are N95. The 2300N95 is more comfortable in heat thanks to its valve; the 2200N95 is cheaper and works for source control.
Does the Moldex 2200N95 have a valve?
No, the 2200N95 is unvalved. The valved version is the 2300N95.
Can I use the 2300N95 for source control or in a sterile area?
No. Its valve releases unfiltered exhaled air, so use the unvalved 2200N95 (or a surgical N95) where source control or sterility is required.
Are both the 2200N95 and 2300N95 NIOSH N95?
Yes. Both filter at least 95% of non-oil airborne particles and carry full NIOSH N95 approval.
Are the Moldex 2200N95 and 2300N95 made in the USA?
Yes. Both are USA-made and use the collapse-resistant Dura-Mesh shell.
Do the 2200N95 and 2300N95 require fit testing?
Yes. Both are tight-fitting respirators requiring fit testing, medical evaluation, and a user seal check for regulated work.
Are the 2200N95 and 2300N95 reusable?
No. Both are single-use; discard when damaged, soiled, wet, or harder to breathe through.
Which is better for hot weather?
The valved 2300N95, which vents heat and moisture; the Dura-Mesh shell on both also resists collapse in heat.
Do either protect against oil mists?
No. Both are N-series (non-oil). Use an R95 or P-series respirator where oil aerosols are present.
About this guide. Written by Steven Eaton, founder of WC Safety, drawing on published NIOSH approvals and manufacturer datasheets for each respirator. WC Safety is an independent industrial-PPE retailer; we do not accept payment for rankings. Reviewed by the WC Safety Editorial team. Always follow your employer’s written respiratory-protection program and OSHA 29 CFR 1910.134.