Introduction
According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), there is a growing global burden on individuals, families, and countries. The 2021 report states that 10.5% of adults (ages 20-79) have diabetes. Known as the “invisible killer”, diabetes can be contracted without anyone realizing it. There are half of the population unaware of the disease. According to the IDF, by 2045, 1 in 8 adults (about 783 million people) will have diabetes, a 46% increase. So how do you know if you have the disease or are at risk? A home blood glucose meter becomes a reliable option. Blood glucose meters provide a convenient and accurate way to monitor blood glucose levels, allowing users to make informed decisions about their diet, medication, and overall lifestyle. We’ll look at factors like accuracy, ease of use, connectivity, and additional features to pick the 7 best glucose meters for 2023.
7 Best Glucose Meters
Accu-Chek Guide
The Accu-Chek Guide Me is a reliable blood glucose meter known for its accuracy and user-friendly design. Its color-coded target range indicator provides clear visual feedback, making it easy for users to understand their glucose levels at a glance. The device also offers Bluetooth connectivity to sync data with a smartphone app, helping users track their trends and share information with healthcare providers.
Coding Not Needed: The Accu-Chek Guide blood glucose meter offers a user-friendly experience without the necessity of using a code chip for meter coding. This design maintains the simplicity of your sugar monitoring requirements.
Result Logging: Results can be easily logged without the need for a traditional paper logbook. The meter automatically records results directly to the mySugr diabetes management app on your smartphone.
Convenient Strip Disposal: The device features a straightforward method for disposing of used strips. A push-button strip ejector allows you to discard used strips without having to come into contact with them.
Enhanced Accuracy: With a remarkable accuracy rating of 10/10, the Accu-Chek Guide blood glucose meter provides dependable results that you can have confidence in.
*Please ensure the use of Accu-Chek Guide Test strips exclusively.
MOKO Glucose Meter
MOKO’s glucose meter is a compact device that seamlessly connects to Bluetooth. It offers real-time insights and data synchronization with your smart devices. Its small size belies its power, providing a user-friendly experience for easy glucose monitoring. With smart data storage, you gain access to historical readings for informed decisions.
Wireless Connectivity: It would probably feature wireless connectivity, allowing users to receive glucose readings and alerts directly on their smartphones or other devices.
Alerts and Alarms: The system might offer customized alerts and alarms for both high and low glucose levels, helping users manage their blood sugar effectively.
Compact Design: MOKO devices tend to be small and discreet, making them more comfortable to wear for extended periods.
Extended Sensor Wear: MOKO has been working on extending sensor wear duration, reducing the frequency of sensor replacements.
Share and Follow Features: MOKO CGM systems often include features that allow users to share their glucose data with family members or caregivers and enable them to receive alerts remotely.
OneTouch Verio Flex
The OneTouch Verio Flex is praised for its sleek design and intuitive interface. It features a high-contrast color screen that displays results clearly even in different lighting conditions. This meter offers a “Pattern Alert” feature that identifies recurring high or low patterns in glucose levels, assisting users in making necessary adjustments to their diabetes management routine.
Track your progress effortlessly with the ‘OneTouch Reveal Mobile application’: The dynamic pairing of the OneTouch Verio Flex meter and the OneTouch Reveal app revolutionizes how you interpret your blood sugar levels.
Timeline: Construct a comprehensive timeline showcasing vital blood sugar occurrences, prominently flagging instances when you have consistently fallen out of the optimal range.
Logbook: Translates data into easily quick visual summaries, forging connections between your blood sugar levels, dietary intake, and physical activities.
Seamless Synchronization: Operates harmoniously with your OneTouch Verio Flex meter, ensuring that you access essential information promptly and conveniently.
Data Sharing: View and effortlessly share your progress with your family, friends, or trusted healthcare network, promoting a collaborative approach to managing your health.
*Please note that the usage of OneTouch Verio Test Strips is necessary.
FreeStyle Libre 3
The FreeStyle Libre 3 is a continuous glucose monitoring system that stands out for its convenience. Instead of traditional fingerstick testing, it utilizes a small sensor worn on the back of the upper arm, eliminating the need for routine finger pricks. Users can scan the sensor with a compatible device to obtain real-time glucose readings, trends, and alerts.
Instant Glucose Updates: Your smartphone receives real-time glucose readings every minute, allowing for swift and effortless viewing, and receive immediate alerts when your glucose levels veer too high or too low.
Accuracy: The utmost accuracy offered by the 14-day CGM system, helps reduce time spent in hypoglycemia and improve overall glucose control.
Discreet Sensor
The sensor with the smallest, thinnest, and most discreet profile.
User-Friendly
Effortless application and comfortable wear, painless to apply and wear with a simple 1-piece applicator.
CONTOUR®NEXT ONE
The Contour Next One blood glucose meter is celebrated for its accuracy and Bluetooth connectivity. It provides highly reliable readings and allows users to log insulin doses, meals, and exercise information within the accompanying app. The SmartLIGHT feature gives instant feedback based on the recorded data, helping users make informed decisions about their diabetes management.
Seamless Connection： Offers a seamless connection to the CONTOUR®DIABETES app to capture all your blood glucose readings.
Remarkably Accurate: The meter exceeded the minimum accuracy requirements of the ISO 15197:2013 standard.
Unique Feature: The smartLIGHT helps you understand your blood glucose levels easily using color to detect your highs and lows
Simple & Intuitive: Can save test strips with Second-Chance Sampling technology
Dexcom G7
The Dexcom G7 is another continuous glucose monitoring system that offers impressive accuracy and ease of use. It features a small, discreet sensor worn on the body, transmitting real-time glucose data to a dedicated receiver or compatible smart device. The G7’s customizable alerts and remote monitoring capabilities make it a valuable tool for both users and caregivers.
Meets all types of diabetes: Dexcom G7 can be used to manage type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes.
Comfortable: Its discreet sensor is 60% smaller than its predecessor, which can make it easy for users to forget that they are wearing it.
20 minutes early alerts: It will alert you up to 20 minutes before you go low (Urgent Low Soon alert), or when your glucose is too high, which can remind you to take action in time.
iHealth Smart Wireless Gluco-Monitoring System
The iHealth Glucose Monitor is a versatile blood glucose meter that pairs with a smartphone app for seamless data management. Its strip ejection feature minimizes contact with used test strips, promoting hygienic use. The device also allows users to set up reminders for testing and medication, ensuring better adherence to their diabetes management routine.
Clinically Approved Accuracy: 510(K) Approval and CE Certified
Effective Data Management: The digital logbook is divided into sections that correspond to those various factors lead to the results, enabling you to record them conveniently. With a single glance, you can assess your outcomes and their alignment with your predetermined range.
Reminders: The device will push notifications to remind you to take glucose readings, medication, or insulin.
Shareable Cloud Data: Data are stored in the cloud. Users can export the results easily and show it to their healthcare providers. Then they can give a right treatment plan.
A Brief Comparison of These 7 Best Glucose Meters
| Blood Glucose Meter | Key Features and Advantages | Connectivity | Continuous Monitoring |
| Accu-Chek Guide Me | Accuracy, color-coded target range, Bluetooth sync | Bluetooth® 、Micro USB | No |
| MOKOMEDTECH | Quick results, continuous monitoring, accuracy, real-time data | Bluetooth, IoT | Yes |
| OneTouch Verio Flex | Sleek design, high-contrast screen, Pattern Alert | None | No |
| FreeStyle Libre 3 | Continuous monitoring, sensor-based, real-time data | Bluetooth (via app) | Yes |
| Contour Next One | Accuracy, Bluetooth connectivity, smartLIGHT | Bluetooth | No |
| Dexcom G7 | Continuous monitoring, customizable alerts | Bluetooth, Receiver | Yes |
| iHealth Gluco+ | App integration, reminder features, strip ejection | Bluetooth 4.0 | No |
How to Choose Glucose Meters?
Choosing the right glucose meter is essential for effective diabetes management. Here are five points to consider when selecting a glucose meter:
Accuracy and Precision: The accuracy of a glucose meter is crucial for making informed decisions about your diabetes management. Look for a meter that meets the current accuracy standards set by regulatory agencies. Here’s a further reading about the accuracy.
Ease of Use: A user-friendly glucose meter can make monitoring your blood sugar levels less stressful. Look for meters with simple instructions, easy-to-read displays, and minimal steps for testing. Consider the size of the meter, the size of the display, and the ease of inserting the test strips.
Test Strip Availability and Cost: Test strips are an ongoing expense in blood glucose monitoring. Check the availability and cost of the test strips that are compatible with the meter. Some meters have proprietary test strips that might be more expensive or harder to find.
Data Management and Connectivity: Many modern glucose meters offer features like data storage, trend tracking, and connectivity to smartphones or computers. These features can help you and your healthcare provider analyze your blood sugar patterns over time. Consider whether the meter can sync data with an app or software for easy record-keeping.
Lifestyle Fit: Choose a glucose meter that fits into your daily routine and lifestyle. If you travel frequently, a compact meter might be more convenient. If you have visual or dexterity challenges, look for a meter with larger buttons, a backlit display, and easy strip insertion. Some meters might also offer alternative testing sites, which could be beneficial if you’re concerned about pain or discomfort.
For other factors, maybe this article will help you:
How to Choose the Best Glucose Meter for Your Need
Conclusion
As technology continues to shape the landscape of healthcare, the future holds promise for even more sophisticated blood glucose monitoring solutions. However, the current lineup of blood glucose meters stands as a testament to the industry’s dedication to supporting the well-being of individuals with diabetes. Remember, when choosing the right blood glucose meter for your needs, consulting with healthcare professionals and considering your personal preferences is essential. The journey of diabetes management is made smoother by these remarkable tools, offering a better quality of life and improved health outcomes for millions worldwide.
