ZOLL AED Plus vs AED 3 vs Powerheart G5: Which AED Is Right for You?

Choosing an AED (Automated External Defibrillator) is a life-saving decision. With several reliable options available, understanding the differences between ZOLL AED Plus, ZOLL AED 3, and Cardiac Science Powerheart G5 can help you confidently select the right unit for your needs. Below, we compare them side-by-side across CPR feedback, ease of use, maintenance, pediatric use, language support, and more.

Product Overview

ZOLL AED Plus

The original ZOLL unit with Real CPR Help®, designed for schools, offices, and public areas. Known for its ruggedness, long battery life, and simple user interface.

ZOLL AED 3

ZOLL’s next-generation AED featuring touchscreen, Wi-Fi connectivity, and enhanced CPR coaching with visual compression monitoring.

Powerheart G5 AED

From Cardiac Science (now part of ZOLL), this unit features Intellisense CPR®, dual-language voice prompts, and a fully or semi-automatic configuration—ideal for bilingual workplaces.

Feature Comparison Table

Key Differences Explained

1. CPR Coaching Technology

• ZOLL AED Plus uses Real CPR Help® with a metronome and “Push Harder” prompts.
  

• ZOLL AED 3 improves on this with visual feedback—displaying exact compression depth and rate in real time.
  

• Powerheart G5 features Intellisense CPR®, using a CPR puck with a pressure sensor for similar feedback.
  

If visual coaching is critical for your location (e.g., airports, hospitals), AED 3 has the edge.

2. Pediatric Use & Simplicity

• ZOLL AED 3 has a pediatric switch—no need to swap pads.
  

• AED Plus and Powerheart G5 require separate pediatric pads, which means more preparation.
  

AED 3 offers the most seamless switch during pediatric rescues.

3. Language Support

• Only Powerheart G5 offers dual-language prompts. You can switch between languages during a rescue.
  

Essential for multilingual environments like government offices, warehouses, or international airports.

4. Ease of Maintenance

All three devices:

• Perform regular self-tests.
  

• Notify users with visual alerts if anything fails.
  

• Feature long-lasting pads and batteries (4–5 years).
  

However:

• ZOLL AED 3 connects via Wi-Fi to cloud monitoring software like PlusTrac® for remote readiness checks.
  

AED 3 is the best for large organizations with multiple units to track.

Which AED Should You Choose?

Where to Buy

• ZOLL AED Plus – Buy Now →

• ZOLL AED 3 – Buy Now →

• Powerheart G5 AED – Buy Now →

Buying from authorized distributors like VitalAED ensures:

• Manufacturer warranty
  

• Proper accessory bundles
  

• Post-purchase support
  

• Training options
  

FAQs

Q1: Which AED is best for untrained rescuers?

All three are easy to use, but ZOLL AED Plus and AED 3 offer clearer CPR prompts with voice and visual feedback.

Q2: What is the difference between semi-automatic and fully automatic AEDs?

Semi-automatic models require the user to press a button to deliver a shock. Fully automatic models deliver the shock automatically after analysis.

Q3: Can ZOLL AEDs be used outdoors?

Yes. All three devices have IP55 ratings, meaning they are resistant to dust and water.

Q4: What’s the typical lifespan of batteries and pads?

ZOLL AED Plus and AED 3 batteries last up to 5 years. Powerheart G5 batteries typically last 4 years. Pads also last 2–5 years, depending on the model.

Q5: Does the Powerheart G5 recall affect current models?

Only specific G5 models (EC501) were affected. Check the serial number and contact your distributor if in doubt.

Final Thoughts

Every AED mentioned here can save a life. Your decision should come down to your environment’s needs—pediatric use, language support, tech features, and budget. For help choosing the right model, check out our ZOLL AED Buying Guide or contact us for expert advice.