Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
Accuracy and ease of use are key features to look for in the best blood glucose monitors
Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) provide real-time tracking and alerts but may differ in additional features.
Choosing the right monitor depends on your lifestyle, comfort needs, and budget.
Living with diabetes? It might not be as bad with faster and more accurate tools at your fingertips. Continuous glucose monitors these days offer so much more than just a blood sugar check—they’re making it less of a hassle to manage diabetes, and they’re way more precise.
With the use of CGMs on the rise, many have advanced features like app interfaces and real-time alerts. It can get overwhelming fast. But if you look at what matters, such as accuracy, comfort, and price, it gets a lot easier to find something that actually works for you.
What Does A Continuous Blood Glucose Monitor Do?
At the most basic level, a CGM tracks your blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. Instead of giving you a single snapshot like a fingerstick meter, it shows a complete picture of your glucose trends, which can be useful for making adjustments in diet, exercise, or medications.
There are two main types of continuous blood glucose monitors:
Real-Time CGM (rtCGM): With an rtCGM, you have a tiny sensor under your skin to keep tabs on your glucose all day and night. These CGMs give you the full picture, updating your phone or watch every few minutes. Some, like the Dexcom G7, even ping you if your levels get too high or low.
Dexcom G7 CGM System
$ 161.99
$ 205.99
The Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitoring System (CGM) is a comprehensive system that has changed the way individuals living with diabetes have monitored and maintained their blood glucose levels. Dexcom G7 is for patients two years and older with any type… read more
Intermittently Scanned CGM (isCGM): This device measures glucose levels all the time but only shows you the reading when you scan the sensor with your phone or reader. This setup can show you valuable trends, but you won’t get automatic alerts. The FreeStyle Libre 2 is a common example, although it’s being phased out for the more advanced FreeStyle Libre 2 Plus.
If you’re unsure about which CGM would work for you, ask your healthcare provider since they’ll know what fits your goals and what your insurance might cover.
Key Features To Compare In 2025
Technology has made blood glucose monitors more accurate and more comfortable. However, it’s still about what works for you. There are some key features to keep in mind when comparing.
Accuracy and Reliability
You want numbers you can trust. Blood glucose monitors like the Dexcom G7 and FreeStyle Libre 3 are very accurate, with MARD values under 9% in various tests. FDA clearance ensures the monitor is reliable for both daily use and emergencies.
FreeStyle Libre 3 Sensor
$ 121.53
$ 151.91
*Please note that the FreeStyle Libre 3 sensors are only compatible with the FreeStyle Libre 3 app. The FreeStyle Libre 3 CGM Sensor Kit does not currently include a reader with a built-in glucose blood glucose meter. Sensors are not compatible with… read more
Convenience
Big, clear displays and simple buttons can make it easier to use a blood glucose monitor every day. Some CGMs that warm up in just 30 minutes (like the Dexcom G7) can save you a ton of time, while others may take up to an hour before they’re ready to give readings. Devices like the Omnipod system can also make life easier by delivering insulin in addition to letting you track your glucose from an app.
OmniPod 5 Pods - Pack of 5
$ 329.70
$ 387.53
The Omnipod 5 Pods are for use with the automated, tubeless and waterproof insulin delivery system - Omnipod 5 System which is also compatable with the Dexcom G6 CGM. The Pod can be worn almost anywhere an injection would be… read more
Data Tracking and Connectivity
Bluetooth and apps let you see trends over time, not just single numbers. Most CGMs sync to your phone or store data in the cloud, so your healthcare provider can check your results without you having to do anything complicated. That can be helpful for adjusting your plan as you go.
Testing Method and Comfort
CGMs use a small sensor under the skin to track glucose continuously, getting rid of the need for multiple daily fingersticks. How long you can wear a sensor depends on the model. Some, like the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus, last up to 15 days, while others, like the Dexcom G7, last about 10 days.
FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus Sensor
$ 129.77
$ 162.21
FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus iCGM Sensor Kit Features: ACCURATE. The most accurate iCGM system to help reduce time spent in hypoglycemia*3 and improve overall glucose control*3,4. Extended sensor for up to 15 days. DISCREET. The world’s smallest?2, thinnestII, _ smaller than… read more
Costs and Insurance Coverage
Prices can vary. FreeStyle Libre 3 is often of the more accessible CGMs, while systems that are implanted may come with a higher price upfront. Still, insurance, copays, or deals from the manufacturer may help reduce costs, so don’t forget to check those options.
Battery Life and Portability
Some monitors recharge, while others need new batteries every so often. Compact designs and water resistance make certain models better for travel or active lifestyles. For example, if you’re always on the go, smaller, water-resistant models may be easier to deal with.
New Trends in Blood Glucose Monitoring
Blood glucose monitoring is moving toward less invasive and more personalized tools. These changes can help make managing diabetes easier while making sure you know where your blood sugar levels are at.
AI-powered insights are becoming common in CGMs. AI systems can spot patterns and send alerts before glucose levels get too high or low. They can even offer recommendations to manage blood sugar.
Being able to connect with smartphones and wearables is now standard in many devices. Some CGMs, such as the Dexcom G7 and FreeStyle Libre 3, allow people to view readings directly on their phone or smartwatch.
Another big change is the arrival of more affordable CGMs. New models, including the first over-the-counter CGM options, are improving access for people without insurance or with limited coverage.
Choosing a glucose monitor can change the way you manage diabetes. That means picking the monitor with features that are applicable to your everyday life. If you travel a lot, a tiny, portable one might be what you need. If you love tech, look for Bluetooth and app syncing. If you just want something simple, there’s nothing wrong with that either.
Always consult your healthcare provider for medical advice. They’ll know what’s covered by your insurance and what actually works. Some CGMs still need a prescription, while others can be purchased over the counter.
Bottom Line
The best blood glucose monitors can help make life with diabetes a bit less of a hassle. The latest devices? They’re more accurate, easier to set up, and actually make it possible to track your data without any headaches. Whether you choose a short-term wearable or a long-term implantable option, the right CGM can give you more control and peace of mind. You may want to take the time to compare features, wear time, and cost to find the right one.
Sources
Diabetes Technology: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2025, American Diabetes Association (2024)
Continuous Glucose Monitoring vs Fingerstick Monitoring for Hemoglobin A1c Control in Veterans, Federal Practitioner (2024)
Evaluation of Accuracy and Safety of the 365-Day Implantable Eversense Continuous Glucose Monitoring System: The ENHANCE Study, Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics (2025)
Artificial intelligence powered glucose monitoring and controlling system: Pumping module, World Journal of Experimental Medicine (2024)
FDA Clears First Over-the-Counter Continuous Glucose Monitor, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (2024)
FAQs
How do I choose a blood glucose meter?
Accuracy and ease of use are key features to look for in the best blood glucose monitors. Choosing the right monitor depends on your lifestyle, comfort needs, and budget.
What is a CGM?
At the most basic level, a CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor) tracks your blood sugar levels throughout the day and night. Instead of giving you a single snapshot like a fingerstick meter, it shows a complete picture of your glucose trends.
What kinds of CGMs are there?
There are two main types of continuous blood glucose monitors. The first is a Real-Time CGM (rtCGM). With an rtCGM, you have a tiny sensor under your skin to keep tabs on your glucose all day and night. The second is an Intermittently Scanned CGM (isCGM). This device measures glucose levels all the time but only shows you the reading when you scan the sensor with your phone or reader.
What should I consider when buying a CGM?
There are some key features to keep in mind when comparing CGMs (Continuous Glucose Monitors), including accuracy and reliability, convenience, data tracking and connectivity, testing method, battery life and portability, and cost and insurance coverage.
