An automated external defibrillator (or AED) is a lightweight device that users carry with them to deliver shocks of electricity directly to the heart. This can stop sudden cardiac arrest in its tracks by turning an arrhythmia into a normal heartbeat. In the majority of cases patients who suffer from cardiac arrest need to defibrillate their hearts. That’s why these devices are so essential to today’s healthcare professionals.

Here are the top rated automated external defibrillators (AEDs) for home use:

1. Philips HeartStart Home Defibrillator
Years ago Philips made history when they first launched this product. It was the very first defibrillator that could be purchased without a prescription. It was designed to be both safe and easy to use. The built-in artificial intelligence will determine the patient’s blood pressure and heart rate so that it can automatically determine if it needs to deliver a shock or not. The machine will give you step by step instructions on how to provide CPR while it is in use as well. It makes a life-saving situation a little more reliable.

2. First Voice Physio-Control Lifepak CR-Plus
This is another perfect unit for the medical professional that wants a defibrillator with an automatic shock feature. It is also able to proudly display the strongest shock capability in the industry with our 200 joules of output. Not only will you be backed up by such an impressive piece of technology you will also have the eight year warranty that comes included with every purchase to back it up as well. It’s also one of the easiest pieces of equipment to use with a two step process.

3. Zoll AED Plus
Here is a rugged and reliable piece of medical equipment. It is very simple to use thanks to the fact that people are able to use one pad instead of two for the electrodes. The electrodes are all kept together in one piece of equipment. There are also helpful reminder images on the device that can keep you informed about where to place your hands while performing CPR.

4. Rescue Ready Pack By Cardiac Life
This is a unique product in the medical field. Not only do you get your choice of either an automatic or manual defibrillator but it includes all of the accessories you may need while using one. The biphasic technology allows it to be even more efficient and effective than previous models. It is covered with a seven year warranty from the date of purchase so you can rest assured that you will be covered in almost any type of circumstance.

5. PowerHeart G3 by Cardiac Science
This is the flagship model when it comes to external automatic defibrillators and it should be pretty easy to see why. The device itself is capable of checking for repairs with Rescue Ready. This technology allows the device to self monitor for maintenance problems that need to be addressed. The combination of their biphasic technology and Rescue Ready has made it easier than ever before to perform CPR under pressure. It will synchronize you with the heartbeat to keep the rhythm while also guiding you through the steps visually and audibly. Each and every unit comes complete with a seven year warranty. This will give you peace of mind knowing that this is a great investment in your medical supplies.