Cardiac Science (part of ZOLL Medical since 2019) maintains two Powerheart lay-user models, the legacy G3 and the modern G5. The G3’s history includes major FDA Class I/II recall actions between 2009 and 2012 that reshaped the brand. The G5 generation operates under updated quality systems and adds Intellisense CPR feedback. For buyers with existing Cardiac Science programs, G5 is the standard replacement. For new buyers, the broader market (Philips, ZOLL, HeartSine) is usually a better entry point.
Head-to-head spec comparison
| Spec | Powerheart G3 | Powerheart G5 |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Legacy/replacement market only | Current generation |
| Price at AED Leader | Not listed at AED Leader | $2,157 new, $1,225 recertified |
| CPR feedback | Basic | Intellisense CPR feedback |
| Auto-energy adjustment | No | Yes (impedance-based) |
| Recall history | Major Class I/II 2009 to 2012 (resolved) | See the FDA recall database |
| Warranty | End-of-life | 7 years |
Verdict
Recertified prices across all seven models
Recertified units are the same models under the same FDA premarket approvals, restored, tested and sold with a minimum three year warranty.
| Model | New | Recertified | You keep | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philips HeartStart OnSite | $1,589 | $875 | $714 (45%) | AED Leader or Response Ready |
| Philips HeartStart FRx | $2,099 | $875 | $1,224 (58%) | AED Leader or Response Ready |
| ZOLL AED Plus | $2,082 | $875 | $1,207 (58%) | AED Leader or Response Ready |
| ZOLL AED 3 | $2,399 | $1,150 | $1,249 (52%) | AED Leader or Response Ready |
| HeartSine Samaritan PAD 350P | $1,411 | $875 | $536 (38%) | AED Leader or Response Ready |
| HeartSine Samaritan PAD 450P | $1,761 | $875 | $886 (50%) | AED Leader or Response Ready |
| Cardiac Science Powerheart G5 | $2,157 | $1,225 | $932 (43%) | AED Leader or Response Ready |
Prices verified 30 September 2026 against the public product data of both stores. Both list identical recertified prices, so buy from whichever fits your order size: AED Leader for one to four units, Response Ready for five or more and for compliance and fleet programmes. New prices are the AED Leader list price on the same date.
The honest risk. A recertified AED is a used device. The three year minimum warranty is what makes the saving worth taking. Read recertified versus new and how to choose a refurbished AED before you decide.
Best for new buyers
Cardiac Science Powerheart G5
The G5 should be the default Cardiac Science pick for any new buyer. Intellisense CPR feedback, automatic energy adjustment, and updated quality systems address the G3-era concerns. For broader brand comparison, see our Brand Reliability Rankings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I buy a Powerheart G3?
New buyers should choose G5. G3 is end-of-life and only available refurbished.
What happened with the Cardiac Science recall?
The G3 had Class I/II FDA recalls between 2009 and 2012, addressing component issues. All resolved per FDA closure letters. The current G5 operates under updated quality systems.
What is Intellisense CPR feedback?
With Intellisense CPR (ICPR) pads ($282 at AED Leader), the G5 measures compression depth and rate during chest compressions.
Who makes Cardiac Science now?
ZOLL Medical acquired Cardiac Science in August 2019, and the Powerheart line now sits in the ZOLL portfolio.
Should I replace my old G3 with another G3 or upgrade to a G5?
Upgrade to G5 for newer firmware and current support.
The G5, priced today
Prices checked 30 September 2026 at AED Leader. Each link opens our full review with the buy path.
- Cardiac Science Powerheart G5 review and price$2,157New, 8-year manufacturer warranty
- Recertified Powerheart G5 review and price$1,225Save 43%Recertified, 3-year warrantyBuy at AED Leader
Get hands-on AED training in under 3 hours.
Sources & References
- FDA, Medical Device Recall Database
- Manufacturer specs: ZOLL Cardiac Science Powerheart G3, G5
Disclaimer: G3 status reflects end-of-life market positioning.
