ZOLL has been a leading medical device innovator for over a quarter-century, responsible for some of the most cutting-edge ventilators, aspirators, and defibrillators on the market. They are perhaps best known for their automated external defibrillators (AEDs), the most popular of which are the AED Plus and AED Pro.

These two state-of-the-art defibrillators boast a similar design and many of the same key features, but if you’re trying to decide which model to buy, there are some very important distinctions to note.

ZOLL AED Plus

The ZOLL AED Plus is designed for the layperson. Commonly stored in public spaces like churches, schools, and gyms, it’s lightweight and incredibly easy to operate. The device simplifies every part of the process, from CPR to shock delivery. The included CPR-D-padz are designed with easy-to-follow diagrams for pad placement, and audible instructions coach you through the full treatment process. It will even tell you if you’re pushing hard enough when delivering chest compressions.

Perhaps best of all, the AED Plus is one of the few AEDs on the market with fully automatic capabilities. When the pads are attached to the patient’s chest, the AED Plus automatically looks for a shockable heart rhythm and delivers shock accordingly without input from the user. It’s completely intuitive.

ZOLL AED Pro

With the ZOLL AED Pro, “pro” is the operative word. This heavy-duty model is noted for its high-resolution LCD display that provides ECG signaling and visual CPR feedback. It also includes a cable that allows for ECG monitoring outside of normal rescue operations.

The model offers many of the same functions as the ZOLL AED Plus, including Real CPR Help, compatibility with CPR-D-padz, and the ability to automatically detect and respond to a shockable heart rhythm.

Because it’s designed for professional use, it’s built to be more rugged than the Plus. The rubber overmolds are designed to withstand aggressive handling, drops, and rough environments. It’s dust-resistant, pressure-resistant, and even able to endure direct water spray.

So Which Is Better?

The AED Pro and AED Plus are two of the best automated external defibrillators on the market. Choosing the best option will depend largely on your needs:

  • For ease of use, go with the AED Plus.
  • If you need expert-level analysis features, go with the AED Pro.
  • If price is your top concern, go with the AED Plus.
  • If you want full control over the functionality, go with the AED Pro.

It largely breaks down to this: If you have a large organization with multiple inexperienced users or you just need a streamlined, straightforward defibrillator, the AED Plus was made for you. If you’re an experienced emergency professional looking for a rugged and sophisticated model, you should definitely get the AED Pro.

Choosing the right AED can make all the difference in a cardiac emergency, and ZOLL makes it easy by designing models intended to address users with specific experience levels.