AED Buying Guide (With an AED Comparison Chart)

Choosing the right AED machine is crucial for ensuring safety in emergencies, but with so many options available, it can feel overwhelming— but we’re here to help. 

We’ve created a comprehensive comparison chart to showcase our AEDs, highlighting their features and benefits so you can decide based on your unique needs.

AED Comparison Chart

The chart below summarizes every AED we carry, updated for 2026 with current pricing and specs. Compare battery life, energy delivery, IP rating, and warranty side by side to find the right fit for your space. 

Need a printable copy? Download table as PDF

AED Comparison Chart

Model/Manufacturer	Battery / Pads Life	Energy Delivery	Self Tests	Weight	Languages	IP Rating	Warranty	Price
LIFEPAK CR2 Defibrillator Stryker-Physio Control	4 / 4 years	Configurable 150J - 360J	Automatic Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Self Tests	4.5 lbs / 2.0 kg	English French +16 more	IP55	8 years	From $2,395
LIFEPAK 1000 Stryker-Physio Control	5 / 2 years	Configurable 150J - 360J	Automatic Daily Self Tests	7.1 lbs / 3.2 kg	English French	IP55	5 years	From $2,947
Philips HeartStart OnSite AED Philips	4 / 2 years	150J	Automatic Daily Self Tests	3.3 lbs / 1.5 kg	English French	IP21	8 years	From $1,939
Philips HeartStart FRx AED Philips	4 / 2 years	150J	Automatic Daily Self Tests	3.5 lbs / 1.6 kg	English French	IP55	8 years	$2,339
Philips HeartStart FRx Aviation AED Philips	4 / 2 years	150J	Automatic Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Self Tests	3.5 lbs / 1.6 kg	English French	IP55	8 years	$2,339
Zoll AED Plus Zoll Medical	5 / 5 years	120J / 150J / 200J	Configurable automatic self-test every day or every week	6.7 lbs / 3 kg	English French	IP55	5 years	$2,265
Zoll AED 3 Zoll Medical	5 / 5 years	120J / 150J / 200J	Configurable automatic self-test every day or every week	5.5 lbs / 2.5 kg	English French	IP55	6 years	$2,555
HeartSine samaritan 350P HeartSine	4 / 4 years	150J / 150J / 200J	Automatic Weekly Self Test	2.83 lbs / 1.3 kg	English French	IP56	8 years	From $1,889
HeartSine samaritan 360P HeartSine	4 / 4 years	150J / 150J / 200J	Automatic Weekly Self Test	2.83 lbs / 1.3 kg	English French	IP56	8 years	From $1,889
HeartSine samaritan 500P HeartSine	4 / 4 years	150J / 150J / 200J	Automatic Weekly Self Test	2.4 lbs / 1.1 kg	English French	IP56	8 years	From $2,332
Powerheart G5 Cardiac Science	4 / 2 years	Configurable 95J - 354J	Automatic Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Self Tests	5.7 lbs / 2.6 kg	English, Spanish, French	IP55	8 years	$2,280
Lifeline Semi Defibtech	5 / 2 years	150J / 150J / 200J	Automatic Daily, Weekly, Monthly, and Quarterly Self Tests	4.3 lbs / 2 kg	English	IP54	8 years	$2,127
Lifeline VIEW Defibtech	4 / 2 years	150J	Automatic Daily, Weekly, Monthly, and Quarterly Self Tests	3 lbs / 1.4 kg	English	IP55	5 years	$2,700

What Specifics You Should Pay Attention to When Buying an AED

When choosing an AED, understanding the key features that suit your environment and user needs is essential. 

Here’s a closer look at the main aspects to consider:

Ease of Use

Ease of use means how quickly someone with no medical training can operate the AED correctly under stress. Prioritize clear, audible voice prompts that guide first-time users through the step-by-step resuscitation process. 

LED indicators can provide additional visual cues for pad placement and device status. Pre-connected electrode pads remove the need to attach pads during a crisis, cutting response time. 

Some models also offer real-time CPR feedback to help you perform chest compressions with the right depth and rate. 

Portability and Size

Portability refers to an AED's weight and dimensions, which determine how easily it moves between rooms, vehicles, or storage spots. Devices under 3 lbs, like the HeartSine samaritan series, suit frequent transport; heavier units like the LIFEPAK 1000 suit fixed, high-durability placements.

Compact, lightweight AEDs fit easily in small spaces such as AED cabinets or carry cases and move quickly to the scene of an emergency. For stationary locations such as schools or offices, a slightly larger device with added features can be the better fit.

Battery Life

Battery life is how many years a battery lasts in standby mode before it needs replacing, ranging from two to five years across the AEDs we carry. Longer battery life means fewer replacements and lower maintenance costs over time.

Make sure replacement batteries stay available for the model you choose. Some AEDs use rechargeable batteries, while others use disposable ones, so pick whichever fits your maintenance routine and budget. Always check the battery's shelf life to confirm the device stays ready.

Cost and Warranty

Total cost of ownership includes the AED itself plus replacement pads, batteries, and storage, not just the upfront sticker price. Warranties on the AEDs we carry range from five to eight years.

The initial purchase price of an AED is only part of the equation. Accessories such as replacement pads, batteries, and wall mounts add to the total cost over time. 

Maintenance

AED maintenance means keeping the device's battery and pads up to date so it's ready the moment it's needed. Most models we carry run automatic daily, weekly, or monthly self-checks.

Regular AED maintenance reduces the burden of manual checks and gives you peace of mind that your AED is always ready. Maintenance alerts for pad and battery replacements support long-term reliability.

IP Rating

The IP (Ingress Protection) rating shows how well an AED withstands dust and moisture, which matters most in environments exposed to outdoor elements or debris. 

An IP55 rating means an AED resists dust and water spray, the minimum worth considering for outdoor or industrial placement. Our lineup ranges from IP21 (light indoor use only) to IP56 (rugged, dust- and water-resistant).

Which AED Is Best?

There’s no universal “best” AED—it depends on your specific needs, such as the environment, your level of training, and your budget. But below, we’ve included some of our top picks for 2026 to get you started. 

ZOLL vs. Philips AED for the Workplace (2026) 

Both ZOLL and Philips are renowned for their high-quality AEDs, but they cater to slightly different needs:

ZOLL AEDs

• Ease of Use: ZOLL AEDs are celebrated for their real-time CPR feedback, which provides clear guidance on compression depth and rate. This makes them particularly valuable if you have minimal training.
• Durability: These devices often feature robust construction and IP ratings, making them suitable for outdoor use and demanding environments.
• Notable Models: The ZOLL AED Plus stands out for its emphasis on CPR assistance, ensuring high-quality chest compressions.

Philips AEDs

• User-Friendly Design: Philips AEDs, like the HeartStart FRx and the Philips HeartStart OnSite, are known for their intuitive operation and lightweight build, making them accessible for professionals and everyday heroes.
• Portability: Philips AEDs are lighter and more compact, ideal for settings where quick transportation is a priority.
• Features for Specific Audiences: They often include infant/child key compatibility, making them versatile for families or fitness centres.

Comparison Table ZOLL vs. Philips AED for the Workplace (2026)

AED / Feature	ZOLL AED Plus	ZOLL AED 3	Philips OnSite	Philips FRx
Real-time CPR feedback	Yes (Real CPR Help®)	Yes (Real CPR Help®)	No	No
IP rating	IP55	IP55	IP21	IP55
Warranty	5 years	6 years	8 years	8 years
Battery type / life	10-battery backup set / 5 years	Single lithium pack / 5 years	Disposable lithium / 4 years	Disposable lithium / 4 years
Pediatric handling	Separate Pedi-padz® II required	Same pads, child button	Separate infant/child pad cartridge	Pediatric key, same pads
Languages	English, French	English, French	English, French	English, French

Our verdict for most workplaces: Philips HeartStart OnSite, based on its cost-effective reliability. Choose the ZOLL AED 3 instead when budget isn't an issue, or you want built-in child mode without separate pads and real-time CPR feedback. 

ZOLL vs. LIFEPAK AED for the Workplace (2026) 

ZOLL and LIFEPAK AEDs also offer unique advantages tailored to different scenarios:

ZOLL AEDs

• CPR Support: ZOLL excels in CPR feedback technology, guiding users in real-time for effective compressions.
• Durability: These devices are designed to withstand harsh conditions, making them a top choice for outdoor or industrial settings.

LIFEPAK AEDs

• Advanced Technology: LIFEPAK AEDs, such as the CR2, often feature cutting-edge connectivity options, like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling remote monitoring and easy data access.
• Bilingual Prompts: LIFEPAK devices cater to diverse users by offering prompts in multiple languages, making them ideal for public spaces.
• Ease of Use: LIFEPAK AEDs prioritize intuitive interfaces and streamlined setups, ensuring rapid response in emergencies.

Comparison Table ZOLL vs. LIFEPAK AED for the Workplace (2026)

AED / Feature	ZOLL AED Plus	ZOLL AED 3	LIFEPAK CR2	LIFEPAK 1000
Real-time CPR feedback	Yes (Real CPR Help®)	Yes (Real CPR Help®)	No	No
IP rating	IP55	IP55	IP55	IP55
Warranty	5 years	6 years	8 years	5 years
Battery type / life	10-battery backup set / 5 years	Single lithium pack / 5 years	Lithium, 4-year standby	Lithium, 5-year standby
Pediatric handling	Separate Pedi-padz® II required	Same pads, child button	Same pads, child button	Separate pads required
Languages	English, French	English, French	English, French +16 more	English, French

Our verdict for most workplaces: LIFEPAK CR2’s best-in-class technology lets users continue compressions while the AED scans a patient's heart rhythm. Choose the ZOLL AED 3 instead when you’re most interested in CPR feedback.

If your LIFEPAK CR Plus or EXPRESS AED is reaching end of life, it's important to note that Stryker has discontinued support for both. Learn about our trade-in program that offsets the cost of upgrading your AED.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better for a workplace, ZOLL or Philips?

The right choice depends on your priorities. For most workplaces, we recommend the Philips HeartStart OnSite as the most cost-effective option. Choose the ZOLL AED 3 instead if budget isn't a constraint and you want built-in child mode plus real-time CPR feedback during a rescue.

Which is easier for untrained employees?

ZOLL and Philips AEDs are both built for non-medical responders, but they help differently. For example, the ZOLL AED Plus gives real-time compression depth and rate feedback during CPR, which is especially reassuring with minimal training. Philips models lean on clear step-by-step voice and visual prompts to guide the whole rescue.

Are all AEDs Health Canada licensed?

AED Advantage is a Health Canada-licensed AED distributor, and every device in our lineup meets Health Canada's regulatory requirements. You can confirm licensing details for any specific model by checking its product page or contacting our team directly.

Which is cheaper to own over five years, AED Plus or OnSite?

The ZOLL AED Plus costs more upfront, but both its pads and battery last for five years, so it needs no consumable replacements in that window. The Philips OnSite has a lower sticker price, but two-year pads and a four-year battery mean two pad swaps and one battery swap by year five. Factor that in, and the ZOLL AED Plus is the more cost-effective AED to own over five years.

Which one has cheaper replacement pads?

The Philips OnSite has lower-priced pads upfront, but consider that Philips pads only last two years to ZOLL's five, so over a five-year span you'd buy Philips pads twice versus ZOLL's pads once.

Ready to Choose the Right AED? Let Us Help You.

Selecting the perfect AED doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At AED Advantage, we’re here to guide you through the process and help you choose the right device for your needs and environment. Whether you’re equipping a school, office, or public space, our team is ready to answer your questions and provide expert advice.

Explore our AED options or reach out for personalized support—we’re here to help you choose the right AED for your budget and needs.