Every AED on the market claims to save lives. This guide gives you a practical framework for cutting through the marketing: approvals, CPR feedback, consumables, durability and true cost.
In New Zealand, medical devices must be listed with Medsafe, but this is primarily a notification system rather than a pre-market approval process. A device can be legally sold here without independent review of its safety or performance.
That is why approvals from major international regulators matter so much. The US FDA and Australia's TGA both require detailed review of safety, performance and manufacturing before a device can be sold in their markets. If a device holds neither approval, ask why. The 2023 CellAED recall showed the consequences; read what happened and our deeper guide to AED approval ratings.
Published cardiac arrest data indicate a shock is only required in approximately 40 to 50% of sudden cardiac arrests, while CPR is required in all of them. Most AEDs only offer a metronome beep. A device with real-time CPR feedback measures your actual compressions and coaches you to the correct depth and rate, exactly when it matters. Only a handful of devices sold in NZ do this; the ZOLL AED Plus with Real CPR Help® leads the field. See why CPR quality decides outcomes.
Pads and batteries expire even if never used. Replacement cycles range from 2 to 5 years depending on the brand, and prices vary enormously. Over ten years, a cheap AED with 2 year pads and proprietary batteries can cost more than double a quality device with 5 year consumables. Our AED comparison table sets out the 10 year ownership costs brand by brand, and this article explains the trap in detail.
Look for an IP rating of IP55 or better for dust and water resistance, particularly for outdoor or vehicle use. If the AED will live outside, plan for a proper enclosure; see our guide to outdoor AED cabinets in New Zealand.
Semi-automatic devices prompt the rescuer to press the shock button; fully automatic devices deliver the shock themselves after a countdown. Where rescuers may hesitate under pressure, fully automatic can be the better choice. We explain the trade-offs in semi-automatic vs fully automatic AEDs.
An AED only saves lives if it can reach the patient within about three minutes. Think about mounting location, signage, and access outside business hours (placement guide). And buy from a supplier who will still be there afterwards: genuine consumables, NZ based support and straight answers.
Shortcut: describe your site to us on 0800 55 99 55 and we will give you a specific recommendation and quote the same day, with no obligation.
Brand-by-brand comparison of features and 10 year costs.
What the regulatory badges actually mean.
The four questions to ask any AED supplier.
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