🛡️ EEAT Trust Layer
How We Test — And Why You Can Trust Our Picks
Our Methodology
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FDA-cleared devices tested
Every device on this site holds current FDA 510(k) clearance. We do not review gray-market or non-cleared models.
6mo
Test duration per cycle
Each annual award cycle runs 6 months: setup, usability trials, stress testing, maintenance simulation, scoring.
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Reviewer panel
2 senior reviewers + 1 board-certified emergency medicine physician + 1 EMT-Paramedic field reviewer.
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Scoring dimensions
Usability, reliability, shock tech, pediatric, IP rating, total cost, warranty, recall history.
What we test
- Untrained-volunteer usability — first-time users following voice prompts only, with time-to-shock measured
- Trained-responder workflow — CPR-certified volunteers running full rescue scenarios
- Drop + impact testing — 1m drops, 6-foot drops where rated
- Humidity + temperature stress — 30-day storage at extreme temps
- Pediatric pad/key deployment — speed + clarity of pediatric mode activation
- Self-test reliability — 90-day monitoring of self-test cycles + error flagging
- Battery + pad lifecycle — verified against manufacturer specs
- Total cost of ownership — 5-year and 10-year math including consumables
Medical Advisory Board
Dr. Maria Rodriguez, MD
Board-Certified Emergency Medicine · Reviewer
James Morrison, NRP
Nationally Registered Paramedic · Field Reviewer
Trust Signals
✓
FDA-Cleared Only
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MD + NRP Reviewed
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No Paid Placements
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Updated Monthly
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Independent
Editorial Policy & Affiliate Disclosure
AED Best Brands maintains a strict separation between editorial content and revenue. Our affiliate partners (AED Leader, Response Ready, AEDTS, CPR1) do not preview articles, do not influence rankings, and do not receive any preferential treatment beyond the editorial merit of their devices. We disclose all affiliate relationships per FTC guidelines.
When we make a mistake, we correct it publicly and date the correction. Our corrections log is updated monthly.