Top-ranked diabetic essentials, featured on Medical News Today
In the ever-evolving world of diabetes management, staying informed about the best devices for blood glucose monitoring is crucial. Here, we take a closer look at some highly recommended continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and blood glucose meters (BGMs) available in 2025.
Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)
CGMs offer continuous, real-time glucose data, making them invaluable tools for managing diabetes. Some popular options include:
Dexcom G6
The Dexcom G6 is a widely acclaimed CGM that provides real-time glucose data, trend arrows, and customizable alerts. Its simple calibration process, rechargeable battery, and compatibility with most smartphones for on-the-go tracking make it a favourite among users [1]. The newer Dexcom G7 also offers advanced features with flexible placement options and convenient real-time monitoring through smartphone connectivity [4][5].
FreeStyle Libre 2 System
This CGM uses a small sensor to track glucose continuously throughout the day. It features a mobile app to view glucose levels in real time. Though it requires sensor calibration and has limited battery life, it offers convenient and accurate monitoring [3].
Medtronic Guardian Connect
Another well-regarded CGM providing real-time glucose data, trend arrows, customizable alerts, and the ability to send glucose information directly to a user’s smartphone, even when not in close range [1].
Blood Glucose Meters (BGMs)
Traditional BGMs remain essential for quick, accurate blood glucose readings. Some recommended meters include:
Accu-Check Aviva Plus
Noted for its small design, large display screen, and ability to store up to 500 test results. It is easy to use and accurate but lacks Bluetooth connectivity [3].
OneTouch Ultra2
Featuring a quick "test now" function, large display, stores up to 500 results, and is easy to use with reliable accuracy, but also no Bluetooth connectivity [3].
Although not detailed in our search results, the Contour Next One is generally well-known as a reliable BGM in the market [2]. Interestingly, the FreeStyle Libre 2, while primarily a CGM system, provides a hybrid experience since it also incorporates a sensor and reader for glucose monitoring, supplementing traditional BGMs for many users [3].
When choosing diabetic supplies, consider factors like cost, convenience, insurance coverage, and brand reputation. Some essential supplies that may be beneficial include a cooler for insulin transport, waterproof container, alcohol swabs or wipes, adhesive bandages, numbing cream, medication list, ketone testing products, rapid glucose response foods, medical identification bracelet, and products to test ketones in the blood.
In addition to CGMs and BGMs, other options for insulin delivery include BD Ultra Fine U-100 Insulin Syringes and the Lantus Insulin Pen. The Lantus Insulin Pen provides insulin through a small needle and offers features such as push-button injection, long-acting insulin, one-day dose, insurance coverage, and the ability to store the pen for up to 4 weeks without refrigeration. The number of insulin injections per day can vary between 2 and 4 times.
It's essential to note that the FDA has not approved the FreeStyle Libre 2 app, and the Libre 2 is a diabetes monitoring device that requires FDA approval. The Lantus Insulin Pen requires separate purchases of needles, and the Contour Next One is a Blood Glucose Monitor (BGM) requiring finger prick and test strip application.
In summary, these devices represent some of the best options in 2025 for continuous and traditional blood glucose monitoring, offering a range of features depending on user needs such as convenience, smartphone integration, and data storage [1][3][4][5]. Medicare covers essential supplies for diabetes management, including blood glucose monitors and insulin injections.
- The Dexcom G6, a popular Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM), provides real-time glucose data, trend arrows, and customizable alerts, making it a favorite among users [1].
- The FreeStyle Libre 2 System, while primarily a CGM system, also incorporates a sensor and reader for glucose monitoring, providing a hybrid experience [3].
- blood glucose readings are important in diabetes management, and the Accu-Check Aviva Plus and OneTouch Ultra2 are traditional Blood Glucose Meters (BGMs) that are easy to use and provide accurate results [3].
- In managing diabetes, continuous and traditional blood glucose monitoring devices offer a range of features, depending on user needs, such as convenience, smartphone integration, and data storage [1][3][4][5].
- Apart from CGMs and BGMs, other diabetes management options include the Lantus Insulin Pen, offering features like long-acting insulin, push-button injection, and insurance coverage [4].
