Quick Comparison
Our top picks at a glance
Contour Next
Fingerstick
Best For
Insulin users, best value
FreeStyle Libre 3
CGM
Best For
When it works properly
Dexcom G7
CGM
Best For
Advanced features (when sensors last)
StatStrip Xpress
Fingerstick
Best For
Professional/hospital use
Detailed Reviews
In-depth analysis of each top pick
Contour Next
Best Overall & Best Value
Key Benefits
- Highest accuracy of any consumer glucometer
- Lowest total cost of ownership
- Second-chance sampling reduces strip waste
- Optional Bluetooth (Next One/Gen models)
- Consistently within 3-5% of lab results (user verified)
Considerations
- Some users report Bluetooth pairing issues
- App doesn't sync carbs/notes between devices
FreeStyle Libre 3
Continuous Monitor with Reliability Concerns
Key Benefits
- Real-time glucose readings every minute
- No fingersticks required
- 60-minute sensor warm-up (fastest CGM)
- Good accuracy when sensors work properly (7.8% MARD)
Considerations
- Only 1 in 4 sensors lasts full 14 days (user reports)
- Frequent sensor failures and adhesive issues
- Dangerous false readings reported (showed 40 when actually 251)
- Poor customer service response
- Expensive replacements (£50+ per sensor)
- Insurance prior authorization often required
Dexcom G7
Advanced Features with Major Reliability Issues
Key Benefits
- Predictive alerts (20-minute warning before lows)
- Share with 10 followers (parents, caregivers)
- 30-minute warm-up (fastest)
- Apple Watch/smartphone integration
- Insulin pump compatibility
Considerations
- Sensors fail at 7-8 days (not full 10 days advertised)
- 1 in 3 sensors falls off due to adhesive failure
- Inaccurate readings and constant false low alerts
- Terrible customer service (hours on hold)
- Recent product recall with unreachable support
- 'Overnight' replacements take 3-5 days
StatStrip Xpress 2
Hospital-Grade Accuracy (Professional Use Only)
Key Benefits
- Only FDA-cleared meter for critically ill patients
- Advanced interference correction (medications, altitude)
- Hematocrit compensation (20-70% range)
- Clinical laboratory-grade performance
5-Year Cost Reality
Testing 4 times daily = 1,460 tests per year
| Meter | Device | 5-Year Strips | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contour Next✓ Best Value | $20 | $2,190 | $2,210 |
| FreeStyle Lite | $25 | $5,475 | $5,500 |
| "Free" Meter | $0 | $8,760 | $8,760 |
Understanding MARD Accuracy
MARD (Mean Absolute Relative Difference) = average % difference from lab values
| MARD Range | Rating | Clinical Impact |
|---|---|---|
| <7% | Excellent | Lab-grade; safe for aggressive insulin management |
| 7-10% | Very Good | Suitable for most insulin dosing |
| 10-12% | Acceptable | Adequate for oral medication management |
| >12% | Poor | Unreliable for insulin dosing |
Clinical Evidence (2024 Study)
Patients switching from 12% MARD to 5% MARD meters (Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics, 2024)
Common Questions
Quick answers to help you decide
Real User Experiences
Hear from actual users and healthcare professionals
“A1C dropped from 7.6% to 7.0% in three months solely from accurate readings. Matches lab tests within 3-5 mg/dL. The most accurate meter I've used.”
“Sensors don't last 14 days - usually fail around day 8. Had dangerous false readings (showed 50 when I was actually 169). Customer service unhelpful. Switched back to finger pricking.”
“Sensors constantly fail before 10 days. One out of every three just falls off. Customer service puts you on hold for hours. Had to call every month for replacements. Very frustrating.”
“Hospital-grade accuracy with interference correction for medications, altitude, and hematocrit variations. Professional use only, but excellent for clinical settings.”
Helpful Resources
Additional support and information
Diabetes Organizations
The Bottom Line
For 80% of users: Buy Contour Next ($20) with strips on Amazon ($0.30 each) for laboratory-grade accuracy (3.1-5.6% MARD) at unbeatable value—savings of $500+/year funds future CGM upgrade if desired.