How to Choose a Glucose Monitor
How to Choose a Glucose Monitor
The meter is the easy part. The real decision is the supplies you'll buy again and again. Here's how to choose a glucose monitor that fits your routine and your budget, in plain language, from our team.
Checking your blood sugar is a daily part of managing diabetes, and the right glucose monitor makes it simpler, more accurate, and less of a chore. There are more options than ever, from classic fingerstick meters to continuous sensors. This guide explains the differences, the features that matter, and the ongoing supplies to plan for, so you can choose with confidence.
In a hurry? The short version
- The meter itself is often inexpensive. The real cost and commitment is the test strips, so check their price and availability before you choose.
- Test strips are meter-specific. A meter is only as good as your ability to get its strips easily and affordably.
- Match the features to your routine: a large display and simple buttons for ease, an app if you like tracking, a continuous sensor if you test often.
Who uses a glucose monitor
Your provider will tell you whether and how often to test. Monitors are commonly used by people with:
Two ways to check: fingerstick vs. continuous
| Fingerstick meter (BGM) | Continuous monitor (CGM) | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | A drop of blood on a test strip, a reading in seconds | A small sensor worn on the skin reads glucose continuously |
| Upfront cost | Low | Higher |
| Ongoing supplies | Test strips & lancets | Sensors, replaced regularly |
| Best for | Most people, routine checks, budget-friendly | Frequent testers, insulin users, spotting trends |
| Prescription | Often not needed for basic meters | Usually required |
Most people start with a fingerstick meter. A continuous monitor is worth discussing with your provider if you test often or use insulin.
How to choose a fingerstick meter
- Strip cost & availability (most important). The meter is cheap, the strips are the ongoing expense. Choose a meter whose strips you can get easily and affordably. We stock strips for the common meters.
- Accuracy & reliability. Look for meters that meet current accuracy standards.
- Ease of use. A larger display, simple buttons, and a comfortable grip matter, especially for older users or anyone with low vision.
- Sample size & speed. Smaller blood samples and faster results mean less discomfort.
- Memory & app. On-device memory and phone apps help you and your doctor track trends.
- No coding. Meters that don't require manual coding reduce errors.
Meters we recommend
- Accu-Chek. A widely trusted brand with easy-to-use meters and broadly available strips, a dependable choice for most people.
- True Metrix. Reliable, affordable meters with low-cost strips, an excellent value option.
Browse all glucose monitors & supplies →
The supplies you'll rebuy
This is what really matters for your budget. A meter is a one-time purchase, but these get used up and repurchased, so plan for them and keep a spare on hand:
- Test strips. The core ongoing supply. Buy strips that match your exact meter, and keep a spare box so you never run out.
- Lancets. The tiny needles for the fingerstick. Use a fresh one each time for comfort and hygiene.
- Lancing device. Holds the lancet and controls how deep it goes.
- Control solution. Checks that your meter and strips are reading accurately.
- Alcohol swabs. Clean the fingertip before testing.
- Sharps container. Safe disposal of used lancets.
Your monthly resupply list
- Test strips (matched to your meter)
- Lancets
- Control solution
- Alcohol swabs
- Sharps container
Running low is stressful. Ask us about keeping your strips and lancets stocked, in-store or shipped on a schedule so you never run out.
⚠️Important to know
- Test strips are meter-specific. Strips from one brand won't work in another meter. Always match them.
- Check expiration dates. Expired strips can give inaccurate readings.
- Your target numbers are personal. Your provider sets the ranges you're aiming for. Follow their guidance, not general targets.
Getting an accurate reading
- Wash and dry your hands before testing, residue affects results.
- Use in-date strips and store them sealed, away from heat and moisture.
- Test as often as your provider directs, and log your readings.
- Bring your meter to appointments so your doctor can compare it against lab results.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a prescription for a glucose monitor?
Basic fingerstick meters and strips are usually available over the counter. Continuous monitors and some supplies may require a prescription, and a prescription can also help with insurance coverage. Check your plan.
Why do test strips matter so much to the decision?
The meter is a one-time, low cost. Strips are bought again and again, so their price and availability are the real long-term expense. Choose a meter whose strips are easy to get.
Fingerstick meter or continuous monitor, which is right for me?
Fingerstick meters suit most people and budgets. Continuous monitors help those who test often or use insulin and want to see trends over time. Your provider can advise.
How often should I test my blood sugar?
It depends on your type of diabetes, your treatment, and your provider's guidance. Follow the schedule they give you.
Are all test strips the same?
No. Strips are made for specific meters and are not interchangeable. Always buy the strips that match your meter.
Related
- Compression socks. Many people with diabetes benefit from them, check with your doctor first.
- All diabetes care. Monitors, strips, lancets, and everyday supplies.
New to checking your blood sugar? We'll help.
Our team can set you up with the right meter, walk you through your first reading, and keep your strips and lancets stocked, in English or Spanish. Visit us at our Hallandale Beach and Miami locations, or we'll ship to your door.
Shop diabetes care · Home health care
This guide is for general informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions for how and how often to test, and for your personal target ranges.
