Choosing the right automated external defibrillator (AED) for your business is a critical decision. You’re not just buying a piece of equipment; you’re investing in the safety and well-being of everyone who walks through your doors. With more than 356,000 out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrests occurring in the U.S. each year and nearly 90 percent of them fatal the presence of an AED on-site can be the deciding factor between life and death. For every minute that passes without defibrillation, the chance of survival drops by 7 to 10 percent.
Philips offers two of the most trusted AEDs on the market: the HeartStart FRx and the HeartStart OnSite. While both are excellent devices, they are designed for very different environments and user scenarios. This guide will help you, the procurement officer or safety manager, look beyond the basic features to understand which model provides the best protection for your specific operational needs.
At a glance Philips FRx vs OnSite
For decision makers who need a quick overview, this chart breaks down the fundamental differences between the two models.
| Feature | Philips HeartStart FRx | Philips HeartStart OnSite |
| Best For | Rugged, demanding, or unpredictable environments | Controlled indoor environments like offices or schools |
| Durability (IP Rating) | IP55 (Dust-protected, water-jet resistant) | IP21 (Protected from dripping water) |
| Pediatric Use | Reusable Infant/Child Key (sold separately) | Separate Infant/Child SMART Pads (sold separately) |
| Ease of Use | Simple, rugged design with clear voice prompts | Highly intuitive, step-by-step guided instructions |
| Pre-connected Pads | Yes; SMART Pads II can be used on adults and children | Yes; pads are pre-installed in a cartridge |
| Initial Cost | Higher | Lower |
Durability and environment
The single most important factor when choosing between these two devices is the environment where the AED will be stored and potentially used. Think of the Philips HeartStart FRx AED as an all weather hiking boot. It boasts an IP55 rating, meaning it is highly resistant to dust and can withstand direct jets of water. This makes it the ideal choice for environments where conditions are less predictable, such as:
- Construction sites and manufacturing plants
- Industrial warehouses and logistics hubs
- Outdoor sports complexes and swimming pools
- Company vehicles and field service fleets
In contrast, the Philips HeartStart OnSite AED is like a reliable office shoe. Its IP21 rating protects it from condensation and dripping water, making it perfectly suited for clean, dry, indoor settings. It is the go to model for corporate offices, schools, retail stores, hotels, and clinics where environmental hazards are minimal.
Ease of use and training
In a high stress emergency, simplicity is paramount. The OnSite was specifically designed for use by individuals with minimal or no training. When the cartridge is pulled, its calm, clear voice prompts guide the user through every single step of the rescue process, from pad placement to performing CPR. This detailed guidance helps build confidence in would be rescuers.
The FRx is also remarkably easy to use, but it assumes a slightly higher level of responder readiness. Its instructions are clear and direct but less conversational than the OnSite. Its rugged build and straightforward interface are designed for rapid deployment in chaotic situations where a first responder needs to act fast without distraction.
Pediatric capability
If your facility serves children, such as a school, daycare, or community center, the method for pediatric defibrillation becomes a crucial decision point.
The HeartStart FRx uses a reusable Infant/Child Key. When the key is inserted, the device automatically reduces the defibrillation energy to a level appropriate for patients under 55 pounds or 8 years of age. It also adjusts the CPR coaching to match pediatric protocols. The key advantage here is that you use the same adult electrode pads, which simplifies inventory management and reduces stress during an emergency.
The HeartStart OnSite requires a separate set of Infant/Child SMART Pads. When this special pad cartridge is inserted, the device recognizes it and adjusts the shock energy and instructions accordingly. While effective, this requires purchasing and tracking a separate consumable with its own expiration date.
Beyond the sticker price calculating total cost of ownership
A smart procurement strategy looks beyond the initial purchase price to understand the total cost of ownership over the life of the device. Both Philips AEDs have consumables that must be replaced on a regular schedule to ensure readiness.
- Electrode Pads:
Both models use pads with a two year shelf life. - Battery:
Both models use a battery with a four year installed life.
While the FRx has a higher upfront cost, its reusable pediatric key can offer long term savings for facilities that frequently cater to children, as you will not need to continuously replace pediatric pads. For organizations looking for cost effective solutions, our recertified AED program offers fully warrantied devices at a significant discount.
Which AED is right for your business?
Let’s apply these factors to common business scenarios.
For the corporate office, hotel, or retail store
The Philips HeartStart OnSite is the clear winner here. Its user-friendly guided instructions are perfect for a lay responder, and its design is ideal for a controlled indoor environment. Its lower initial cost makes it an accessible choice for outfitting multiple floors or locations.
For the factory, construction site, or warehouse
The Philips HeartStart FRx is built for this. Its superior durability protects it from dust, moisture, and rough handling. In a noisy, chaotic industrial setting, it’s simple and direct functionality ensures it can be deployed quickly and effectively.
For the school, gym, or community center
This decision hinges on pediatric use. The Philips HeartStart FRx with the Infant/Child Key is often the preferred choice. It eliminates the need to stock and manage two different sets of pads, ensuring the correct equipment is always ready for any victim, adult or child.
Completing your emergency response program
Purchasing an AED is the first step. A truly effective program ensures the device is visible, accessible, and always ready for use. This is where comprehensive management becomes essential. Our AED Total Solution program provides end to end support, including medical oversight, compliance tracking, and automated alerts for battery and pad expirations.
Properly managed AED value packages that include wall cabinets, signage, and response kits ensure your investment is protected and your legal obligations are met. This holistic approach transforms a standalone device into a reliable, enterprise wide safety asset.
Making a confident choice
Ultimately, the best AED is the one that fits your unique environment and potential user base. The Philips HeartStart OnSite provides unmatched ease of use for the general public in office settings, while the Philips HeartStart FRx delivers rugged, reliable performance for more demanding workplaces.
By evaluating your specific needs against the durability, usability, and pediatric capabilities of each device, you can make a confident decision that strengthens your organization’s commitment to safety. If you need help assessing your facilities or designing a multi site deployment plan, please contact a specialist for a personalized consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can we get a discount for buying multiple AEDs for our different locations?
A: Yes, AED Leader offers volume discounts for large orders and can create custom AED value packages to help you standardize equipment across all your facilities while optimizing your budget.
Q: What are the legal requirements for having an AED in our workplace?
A: AED laws vary by state and industry. They often cover requirements for device placement, maintenance, responder training, and medical oversight. Our AED Total Solution program is designed to ensure your organization remains fully compliant with all applicable regulations.
Q: Is the extra cost of the FRx worth it if we are mostly an office?
A: For a standard indoor office environment, the Philips HeartStart OnSite AED is typically the more cost effective and appropriate choice. The rugged features of the FRx are designed for challenging conditions and would be unnecessary for most corporate settings.
Q: How do we manage the maintenance of these devices across all our sites?
A: Managing an AED fleet is a significant challenge. Our web based management portal and mobile app provide centralized oversight of every device, tracking expiration dates, inspection records, and responder certifications automatically. This removes the administrative burden and ensures every AED is always ready.
Q: Are used or recertified Philips AEDs a reliable option?
A: Absolutely. Our recertified AED program provides access to lightly used devices that have been rigorously tested, updated, and certified by our technicians. They come with new batteries, new pads, and a full three year warranty, offering a dependable and budget friendly alternative to new units.
