The Mindray BeneHeart C-Series includes several automated external defibrillators (AEDs) designed to support both trained responders and members of the public during a cardiac arrest. Two of the most widely used models are the BeneHeart C1A and the BeneHeart C2.

Both devices share the same core purpose: to deliver an electric shock that can restore a normal heart rhythm in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. They also include Mindray’s proprietary technologies such as QShock™, which enables a shock to be delivered within eight seconds of power-on, and ResQNavi™, which provides step-by-step voice and visual prompts.

Despite these similarities, the C1A and C2 differ in design, feedback features, and connectivity. This article explains their shared features, highlights the key differences, and outlines which environments each model best suits.

Core Similarities Between the C1A and C2

The Mindray BeneHeart C1A and C2 belong to the same product family and share several important features that ensure reliability in an emergency.

QShock™ technology
Both models deliver a shock in under eight seconds after power-on. This makes them among the fastest AEDs currently available.
ResQNavi™ guidance
Each device provides clear voice prompts and visual cues to guide the rescuer through pad placement, CPR cycles, and shock delivery.
Energy protocol
They both use a biphasic waveform with escalating energy levels of 200-300-360 joules for adult patients. This ensures adequate energy delivery even in difficult cases.
Paediatric capability
Both AEDs include a switch to activate child mode, allowing the same set of electrode pads to be used for both adults and children.
Rugged design
Each model is IP55-rated, which means protection against dust and water jets, and has been drop-tested from 1.5 metres.
Battery and electrode lifespan
In both devices, the battery and electrode pads have a shelf life of around five years if unused, reducing the frequency of replacements.

These shared features make either model a dependable choice for a wide range of environments.

Key Differences

Although the C1A and C2 share the same core technologies, there are several distinctions that may affect which device is the better fit for a particular setting.

Display and visual guidance
- The C1A relies on voice prompts and simple LED indicators. The updated C1A V2 version adds a small 1.96-inch LCD screen showing status information such as battery life and pad connection.
- The C2 includes a large 7-inch colour screen that displays ECG information, CPR depth and rate, and animated rescue instructions.
CPR feedback
- The C1A offers basic prompts such as “push harder” or “continue CPR” but no visual performance metrics.
- The C2 provides real-time CPR feedback, including compression rate and depth, with on-screen coaching.
Connectivity
- The C1A stores rescue event data, which can be transferred via USB.
- The C2 supports Wi-Fi and 4G connectivity, enabling remote monitoring, automated self-check reports, and cloud-based data transfer.
Weight and size
- The C1A is lighter at around 2.3 kg, making it more portable.
- The C2 weighs about 2.65 kg, slightly heavier due to the larger screen and communication hardware.
Cost
- The C1A is positioned as a budget-friendly AED for community and workplace use.
- The C2 is more expensive, reflecting its advanced monitoring, feedback, and connectivity features.

These differences mean that the C1A is better suited to simple, cost-conscious environments, while the C2 is ideal for professional or high-traffic settings where advanced support and monitoring are valuable.

Detailed Feature Comparison Table

The table below summarises the main specifications and features of the Mindray BeneHeart C1A and C2.

Which Defibrillator Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Mindray BeneHeart C1A and C2 depends largely on the environment in which the defibrillator will be used and the level of support required.

C1A - simple and cost-effective
- Best for schools, offices, small businesses, and community centres.
- Lightweight and straightforward, making it easy for untrained users to operate.
- Lower purchase cost makes it more accessible for organisations with limited budgets.
C2 - advanced and feature-rich
- Designed for hospitals, transport hubs, sports venues, and large organisations.
- The large display with CPR feedback can assist trained responders and healthcare staff.
- Connectivity options allow remote monitoring and easier record-keeping.

Summary:

If affordability and ease of use are priorities → C1A is the better option.
If detailed CPR coaching and remote monitoring are valuable → C2 is the stronger choice.

Did You Know?

The Mindray BeneHeart C-Series AEDs, including both the C1A and C2, can deliver a shock in under eight seconds from power-on.

This speed is significantly faster than many other AEDs, which often take between 10 and 12 seconds to charge and deliver the first shock. A faster shock delivery improves the chance of restoring a normal heart rhythm quickly, which is critical during sudden cardiac arrest.

Real-World Observations

In many public access locations, such as gyms, offices, and schools, the C1A is often favoured because of its compact size and straightforward operation. Untrained rescuers may feel less intimidated by a device with fewer buttons and a simpler interface.

In contrast, the C2 is more noticeable because of its large screen. While this provides valuable real-time CPR feedback, it can appear complex to a first-time user. In clinical or professional settings, however, the detailed guidance is an advantage, as trained staff can use the additional information effectively.

Another practical consideration is visibility. The larger screen of the C2 is easier to see in busy or poorly lit environments, whereas the smaller display on the C1A is less prominent.

FAQs

Is the C1A suitable for children?
Yes. Both the C1A and C2 have a built-in child switch. This allows the same electrode pads to be used for both adults and children, without needing a separate paediatric pad set.

Does the C2 require Wi-Fi or 4G to function?
No. The C2 operates as a fully functional AED without connectivity. Wi-Fi or 4G are optional features for organisations that want remote monitoring or cloud-based data transfer.

What is the lifespan of the pads and battery?
For both models, the battery and electrode pads have a shelf life of up to five years if unused. Regular self-tests help ensure the AED remains operational.

Are both models water- and dust-resistant?
Yes. The C1A and C2 both carry an IP55 rating, which means protection against limited dust ingress and low-pressure water jets from any direction.

What type of maintenance is required?
Both devices perform automatic self-tests. For organisations, maintenance mainly involves checking the status indicators, ensuring pads and batteries are within their expiry dates, and replacing consumables after use.

Sources

Mindray - BeneHeart C-Series Overview
Official product information on features, technologies, and specifications.
https://www.mindray.com/en/products/aed/beneheart-c-series

Mindray – BeneHeart C2 Datasheet (PDF)
Detailed technical specifications for the C2, including display, connectivity, and CPR feedback functions.
https://www.mindray.com/content/dam/xpace/de/resources/aed/specification/BeneHeart%20C2%20Datasheet%20-%20EN.pdf

Defibstore – Mindray BeneHeart C1A (Fully Automatic)
Product details including shock energy, time to first shock, and durability.
https://www.defibstore.co.uk/mindray-beneheart-c1a-fully-automatic-defibrillator.html

Medisol International – Mindray BeneHeart C1A Semi-Automatic
Information on shared features such as QShock™, ResQNavi™, IP rating, and paediatric mode.
https://www.medisolinternational.com/mindray-beneheart-c1a-semi-automatic.html

AED Expert – Mindray BeneHeart C1A V2
Details on the updated C1A model with a small LCD display for basic status indicators.
https://www.aedexpert.ie/mindray-beneheart-c1a-semi-automatic-v2.html

First AED Hong Kong – Mindray BeneHeart C2
Overview of the C2 model, including screen size, shock time, and paediatric switch.
https://firstaed.com.hk/en/product/mindray-beneheart-c2-fully-automatic-defibrillator

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