You are on page 1of 30

10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

Advertisement

TRENDING Gas Lawn Mowers


Patio Heaters
Hot Tubs
Cell Phone Providers
Eyeglasses

Top Ten Reviews is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

Best glucose meters 2021: The top glucometers for blood sugar monitoring
By
Claire Davies
July 09, 2021

This year’s best glucose meters for blood sugar testing at home, including the top glucometers for
sharing readings with
Jump to: your doctor.

Expert
 advice
Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ

Glossary

Diabetes resources

Further health and


wellness guides
(Image credit: Ascensia)

The best glucose meters are handheld devices used to test your blood sugar levels at home. Glucometers enable you to get
fast readings to see how diet, exercise, medication (such as insulin) and other factors affect your blood glucose. Because
they’re a vital part of managing diabetes, glucose meters must be reliable, easy to use and as painless as possible.

While the cost of a glucometer won’t be covered by Medicare Part D plans, it should be covered by Medicare Part B (as Durable
BACK TO TOP ▲
Medical Equipment). Choosing the best glucose meter for your needs is largely down to you, but your doctor may recommend
which type of glucometer you’d benefit from. Standard glucose meters, for example, use a small lancing device that pricks

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 1/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

your finger to collect blood for testing. These are the cheapest type of blood sugar monitor and the easiest for beginners to
use.

 We have consulted health experts and studied glucometer and blood sugar reading guidelines from health
organizations including the CDC and WHO, as well as advice issued by the American Diabetes Association, and the
American Association of Diabetes Educators. This guide is to aid your research, but we recommend speaking to your
doctor about what type of meter is right for you.

Our promise to you

Continous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) are far more advanced. They monitor blood glucose levels day and night with little effort
from you. CGMs store a greater amount of readings, but they are expensive and come with a learning curve. All of the best
glucose meters below can store readings (numbers vary), with smart glucometers taking this up a notch. The latter will
produce graphs (like CGMs do), showing you potential trends behind spikes and crashes. You’ll also get 30 to 120-day
averages, plus a chance to add notes on diet, meds and activity.

When choosing the best glucose meter for you, do your research on the cost of compatible test strips. Hands-down, the
ongoing cost of test strips will determine how expensive or cheap your glucometer really is. We’d advise speaking to your
health insurance company to see what it will and won’t cover. Finally, if you have no or low vision, the best glucometer for you
is one designed to speak results aloud, and we have included the top option for that type of monitor below.

WHAT THE EXPERTS SAY

Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ
(Image credit: Getty) Glossary

According to adviceDiabetes resources


published by the American Diabetes Association, blood sugar testing is vital to check that your blood
glucose levels stay in a healthyand
Further health range. ‘If glucose levels get too low, we can lose the ability to think and function normally. If
wellness guides
they get too high and stay high, it can cause damage or complications to the body over the course of many years.’ 

To ensure you choose the best glucose meter for your needs, the American Association of Diabetes Educators recommends
considering whether the following features are helpful to you: 

A high contrast display if you have low vision, or a meter that speaks results
Lancet function and needle removal if you have a dexterity condition
Portability for taking readings multiple times a day
Smartphone app connectivity
A bolus calculator (ability to assist with insulin dosage calculations)

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 2/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

Approved for Alternate Site Testing

Susan Stauffer, BSN, RN, CDE, diabetes educator and nurse clinician at UCHealth Diabetes and Medical Nutrition Therapy in
Fort Collins, Colorado, also highlights how insurance and the cost of test strips should factor in your decision: “The most
important factor for people who routinely check their blood sugar is insurance coverage. Whether you use the Walmart Prime,
the Freestyle lite or the Contour Next One, it is insurance coverage that rules. Some strips cost $18 for 100 and some will cost
$150 for 100.”

BEST GLUCOSE METER FOR SMART DIABETES MANAGEMENT

Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests


(Image credit: Ascensia)
Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use


Contour Next One Glucometer 
 

Best for seniors Instantly shows if your blood glucose is in the target range
Best for basics
SPECIFICATIONS Best for reminders
Result speed: FiveGlucometer
seconds prices
| Memory capacity: 800 readings | Blood $7.95 VIEW AT AMAZON

sample size: 0.6 μL | Warranty: Five years | Cost of test strips: From $11
Top brands
for 35 strips at Amazon $9.25 View at Amazon
Types of meter

$19.97 View at Amazon


REASONS TO BUY CGM vs standard REASONS TO AVOID
Buying advice
Blood glucose target range indicator Still requires lancing
Glucometer FAQ
Large display with clear numbers
Glossary
Compatible with Apple Health
Diabetes resources

Further health and


wellness guides
The Ascensia Contour Next One Glucometer is designed to work with the Contour Diabetes smartphone app (iOS, Android),
and has a five-second results countdown. You can program the glucose meter with alarms to remind you to check your blood
sugar throughout the day, which is handy if you often forget, and there's a bright port light for increased visibility during
testing. 

One of the most useful features is the smartLIGHT target range indicator. This gives you instant visual (colored light) feedback
by immediately recognizing if you blood glucose reading is above, below or within target range. This is one of the reasons why
it's rated as one of the world's best glucose meters.

WHAT USERS SAY


https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 3/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews


The Contour Next One has over 1,300 reviews on Amazon, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. It scores 4.5 out of 5 stars on
Walgreens, and from over 400 reviews on Walmart it has earned an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars. The large majority of reviews praise the
high levels of accuracy, ease of use and the wealth of data captured, along with the easy-read display. Critical reviews are in the minority,
with some users saying that the meter they used lost accuracy after a few weeks of use.

If you pair the Contour Next One with the Contour Diabetes app, readings will be stored for you to look through and pick out
any trends. Pre- and post-meal blood sugar level reading results are saved, with Fasting, Before Meal, After Meal, and Overall
results viewable on a daily graph.

The Contour Next One Glucometer presents averages over a 90-day period, and you can add in notes regarding diet, exercise
and medication. This means you can not only see patterns, but the potential causes, enabling you to better manage your
blood glucose day to day.

Another cool feature concerns the test strips, designed to enable Second-Chance sampling. This give you 60 seconds to
reapply more blood, which could help prevent wasted strips if you didn't add enough blood for a reading the first time. The
user manual goes into detail on all of these features, and includes information such as how to use the Contour Next One, and
how to clean your glucometer.

Read our Ascensia Contour Next One review

BEST GLUCOSE METER FOR KETONE READINGS TOO

Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ
(Image credit: ForaCare Inc)
Glossary

Fora 6 Connect Blood Glucose and Ketone Testing


Diabetes resources  

Further health and
wellness guides This sleek device doubles as a glucometer and ketone meter

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 4/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

SPECIFICATIONS $69.99 VIEW AT AMAZON


Result speed: Five seconds (blood glucose), ten seconds (ketones) |
Memory capacity: 1,000 readings | Blood sample size: 0.5 μL (blood
glucose), 0.8 μL (ketone) | Warranty: Five years | Cost of test strips:
$24.99 for 50 at Fora online

REASONS TO BUY REASONS TO AVOID


Stores large number of readings  Tech could be OTT for some users
Tests blood glucose and ketones
Well designed app

The Fora 6 Connect glucose meter is popular among people who want to capture accurate blood glucose readings to see what
foods and other factors spike their blood sugar, and could therefore help you make more informed nutritional choices to
better manage your blood glucose levels. 

An attractive aspect of the Fora 6 Connect is that it doubles as a ketone meter, and is one of few devices to do both types of
monitoring effectively. It does so using two separate strips - one for glucose, one for ketones. A box of 50 Blood Glucose Test
Strips costs $24.99 at the Fora online store.

WHAT THE USERS SAY



There aren't many user reviews of the Fora 6 Connect on major retailer sites, so your main option for viewing user feedback is via the Fora
online shop. At theJump to:
bottom you'll find a list of testimonials from Fora 6 Connect users, with most honing in on how easy the device is to
use, how fast it is at producing results, and how it can check ketones and blood glucose readings. Fora Sterile Lancets and Testing Strips all
Expert advice
have high user reviews on Amazon.  
Best smart meter

Best for ketones

As a Bluetooth-enabled
Best fordevice,
small the Fora 6 Connect glucose meter saves readings to a companion phone app, iFORA HM (iOS,
samples
Android), so that you can dig into the data and pinpoint trends. Keeping readings is a vital part of diabetes management,
especially if you are taking
Best medication and want to see how effective it is. With the capacity to store 1,000 readings, the Fora 6
for speed

is a real ally here.  Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests


When used to test blood glucose, ForaCare’s six-parameter glucometer requires a small sample size (0.5 μL) to measure not
Best talking meter
just blood sugar, but also hematocrit concentration (HCT), hemoglobin (HB), β-Ketone (KB), Uric Acid (UA), and Total
Best for easy use
Cholesterol (TCH). This is valuable for advanced diabetes management, with results displayed in just five seconds.
Best for seniors
The large display also makes this one of the best glucose meters for people with sight issues, as the numbers are easy to read,
Best for basics
and the backlit display is comfortable to look at, especially in dimly-lit rooms. We’d advise reading through the Fora 6
Best for reminders
Connect’s user manual to acquaint yourself with the various symbols shown on the display during a reading. To aid ease and
Glucometer prices
accuracy of testing, the Fora 6 Connect is designed with a bright port light and an eject button.
Top brands

While the Fora 6 Connect supports Alternative Site Testing (AST), so obtaining a blood sample from your palm, forearm or
Types of meter
upper arm, AST is not
CGM vs standardfor everyone and should only be performed at certain times. We'd recommend speaking with
suitable
your doctor first to see if this is suitable for you.
Buying advice

Read our Fora 6Glucometer


ConnectFAQ
review
Glossary

Diabetes resources
BEST GLUCOSE METER FOR SMALL BLOOD SAMPLES
Further health and
wellness guides

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 5/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

(Image credit: Dario Health)

Dario LC Blood Glucose Monitoring System  


The best glucometer for spotting blood sugar trends

SPECIFICATIONS
Result speed: Six seconds | Memory capacity: Unlimited | Blood sample $25 VIEW AT AMAZON

size: 0.3 μl | Warranty: One year

REASONS TO BUY REASONS TO AVOID

Helps you analyze trends Some users say the test strips are
Jump to:
tricky to open
Built-in hypoglycemia alert 
Expert advice
Lightweight and compact
Best smart meter

Best for ketones


Analyzing data from past
Best blood sugar readings could help you spot potential trends, and Dario is one of the best glucose
for small
meters for doing just that. The no-coding Dario LC Blood Glucose Monitoring System works with a companion app (iOS 12+,
samples

Android) and automatically records results in-app, saving you the hassle of inputting data. 
Best for speed

Best for flash tests

WHAT USERS SAYBest for cheap tests


Best talking meter

The Dario LC BloodBest for easy
Glucose use
System has over 2,900 reviews on Amazon, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, while the product’s
listing on Best BuyBest
hasfor
19seniors
reviews, also scoring an average of 4.3 out of 5. The majority of reviews are positive, praising the meter’s
compact size, easeBest
of use, and large display. The minority of critical reviews focus on accuracy of results after a few weeks of use, though
for basics
Dario says that 95% of measurements are within ±15% of the medical laboratory values.
Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

The Dario LC BloodTop


Glucose
brands Monitoring System is also designed to provide analysis of your readings, and you can opt to share

data with your doctor


Typesor
of healthcare
meter professional as needed.
CGM vs standard
This glucometer is small and lightweight, which is essential if you’re carrying it with you throughout the day. You don’t have to
Buying advice
fiddle around with batteries or charging cables either, as it connects directly to your phone via its charging port. The device
Glucometer FAQ
tracks a variety of metrics including carb intake, exercise and medication. 
Glossary
Dario says that theDiabetes
meter resources
can provide accurate readings in six seconds, and that ‘95% of Dario measurements are within ±15%
of the medical laboratory values.’ There’s also an integrated hypoglycemia alert that can be used in tandem with your GPS
Further health and
location to help you stay safer.
wellness guides When you buy the starter kit, you’ll get the Dario glucose meter itself, plus 24 test strips, ten
lancets and ten disposable covers.

Read our Dario LC Blood Glucose System review

BEST GLUCOSE METER FOR FAST RESULTS (NON-CGM)

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 6/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

(Image credit: Roche Diabetes)

Roche Accu-Chek Guide Glucometer  


A simple to use glucose meter that's packed with handy features

Jump to:
SPECIFICATIONS
Result speed: FourExpert advice
seconds | Memory capacity: 720 readings | Blood $40 VIEW AT AMAZON

sample size: 0.6 μlBest


| Warranty:
smart meter Three-year limited | Cost of test strips:

$15.99 for 25; $29.99


Bestfor 50; $49.99 for 100 at Accu-Chek
for ketones

Best for small


REASONS TO BUY samples REASONS TO AVOID
Best for speed
Easy-read digital display Some users report app pairing issues
Best for flash tests
Spill-resistant test strip pack
Best for cheap tests
Port light
Best talking meter

Best for easy use


The Bluetooth-enabled Accu-Chek
Best for seniors Guide Glucometer from Roche Diabetes is designed to be very simple to use for beginners
upwards, with a clear display
Best for basics
showing reading results in four seconds. According to the company, ‘95% of measured glucose
results shall fall within ±10 mg/dL of lab reference value for blood glucose concentrations <100 mg/dL and within 10% for
Best for reminders
blood glucose concentrations ≥100 mg/dL.’
Glucometer prices

Top brands
WHAT USERS SAY
Types of meter

CGM vs standard

There are around 370 Accu-Chek Guide reviews on Amazon, averaging 4.6 out of 5 stars, with 89% of those being 4 stars and above.
Buying advice
Positive user reviews focus around how simple the glucometer is to use, and how it is ‘almost’ pain-free, thanks to the included FastClix
Glucometer FAQ
lancing device. Some critical reviews mention issues with pairing the meter, while others said early packaging was misleading, as it
suggested strips were included when they have to be purchased separately.
Glossary

Diabetes resources

Further health and


Download the freewellness
Accu-ChekguidesConnect App and sync the glucose meter, and it will automatically record your blood sugar
readings to the app for you to analyze on demand. The backlight screen is bright and backed up by a port light that
automatically comes on when you insert a test strip. This is handy if you have low vision, or if you are using the Accu-Chek
Guide Glucometer in a darkened room. 

There’s also a test strip eject button on the right-hand side of the glucose meter to aid usability and accuracy. And because the
compatible test strips are quite light and small, this simple eject function is necessary so that you don’t have to fumble
around. The anti-spill test strip storage pack is a nice touch - no more spilling strips when you take one out. 

Roche has designed the test strips with ease of use in mind too, as you can add a small drop of blood for testing anywhere
along the strip, as opposed to just in a specific spot. The suggested retail price for a 50-strip vial is around $30, or $49.99 for

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 7/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

100. There are subscription options too.

Read our Accu-Check Guide review

BEST GLUCOSE METER FOR FEWER FINGERPRICK TESTS

(Image credit: Abbott)


Jump to:

Expert adviceAbbott FreeStyle Libre Glucometer  



Best smart meter
One of the best glucose meters for freedom and comfort
Best for ketones

Best for small


SPECIFICATIONS
samples
Memory capacity: 90 days of typical use | Sensor: Water-resistant
Best for speed
amperometric electrochemical (5mm H, 35mm D) | Warranty: One year
Best for flash tests

REASONS TO BUY Best for cheap tests REASONS TO AVOID


Best talking meter
Regular monitoring No hypo alert
Best for easy use
Helps you spot patterns
Best for seniors
Cuts down on fingerprick tests
Best for basics

Best for reminders


The Abbott FreeStyle Libre provides
Glucometer prices ‘flash glucose monitoring’ and reduces your need to take multiple fingerprick tests each
day. Instead, this glucose meter works with a disposable 14-day sensor that’s applied to your upper arm, and a companion
Top brands
app (iOS, Android). As a system, the FreeStyle Libre tracks your glucose data for 90 days and provides instant readings
Types of meter
whenever the sensor is scanned by the reader. The sensor’s blood glucose reading range is 40 to 500 mg/dL.
CGM vs standard

Buying advice
WHAT USERS SAY
Glucometer FAQ

Glossary

The FreeStyle Libre site features user ‘stories’ rather than reviews, and you can filter these by age range to read testimonials from people
Diabetes resources
of a similar age. The majority of existing customers welcome the freedom and comfort of not having to do so many fingerprick tests, and
Further health and
praise how well the system works with the app. On the ProTherapySupplies store, a 5-star user review said, ‘Really love this and not
wellness guides
needing to stick fingers!’ 

The Abbott FreeStyle Libre sensor measures the level of glucose in interstitial fluid, a method of measurement often used by
continuous glucose monitors (CGMs). Still, experts recommend carrying out some standard blood glucose tests to ensure
CGM-type devices are accurate. 

As such, the reader works with FreeStyle Optium blood glucose test strips (the test strip port sits at the bottom of the reader).
The reader measures 95 x 60 x 16mm and weighs 65g, and has a battery life of seven days typical use. The microUSB data port
(for downloading readings) doubles as a charging port.

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 8/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

The amperometric electrochemical sensor, meanwhile, has an eight-hour memory, with glucose readings stored every 15
minutes. The sensor has a small, flexible tip that is inserted just beneath the skin. The reader will store up to 90 days’ worth of
blood glucose data captured by the sensor, and you can enter notes regarding physical activity, food and insulin to help you
better understand how they affect your blood glucose. Reports are generated in the companion app and can be shared with
your doctor as needed.

To get a blood glucose reading, turn on the reader and hold it within 4cm (1.5 inches) of the sensor to scan it. The sensor then
sends a wireless reading to the reader, with your current glucose level displayed on the reader’s touchscreen. You will see an
arrow indicating whether your blood glucose is going up or down, but there is no hypo(glycaemia) alert here, which is a
shame. If that's a deal-breaker for you, the One Touch Ultra 2 could be the best glucose meter for you.

Read our Abbott FreeStyle Libre review

BEST GLUCOSE METER FOR CHEAP TEST STRIPS

Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors


(Image credit: Auvon) Best for basics

Best for reminders


Auvon DS-W Blood Sugar Kit with Glucometer
Glucometer prices
 

Top brands A one-stop glucometer kit with cheap yet high-tech testing strips
Types of meter

SPECIFICATIONS CGM vs standard


Readings: 300 | Result speed: Five seconds | Blood sample size: Not $23.99 VIEW AT AMAZON
Buying advice
stated | Warranty:Glucometer
Two years FAQ
| Cost of test strips: 50 test strips costs
$8.99; $21.99 for 150 at Auvon $26.99 View at Amazon
Glossary

Diabetes resources $29.99 View at Amazon


REASONS TO BUY REASONS TO AVOID
Further health and See all prices (4 found)
Fast results wellness guides Sample size not stated
7- to 30-day averages
Cheap testing strips

If you’re new to testing your blood glucose levels, we’d recommend considering a complete kit that gives you everything you
need to begin testing and to get used to what is involved. The Auvon DS-W Blood Sugar Kit is routinely flagged up as being
simple to use, with high quality test strips designed to be more resistant to oxidation. However, as we have said throughout
this guide, the best glucose meter for you is the one covered by your insurance. 

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 9/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

WHAT USERS SAY



There are over 80 user reviews on the Auvon website, but none of them state a specific date and instead just say ‘a year ago’. Together
they generate a user review score of 4.1 out of 5 stars, with 66 awarding 4-stars and above. Some focus on affordability and ease of use,
as well as accuracy, but some critical reviews questioned the accuracy, and how the meter requires a larger blood sample than some
others. On Amazon there are over 1,470 reviews with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

The Auvon DS-W Blood Sugar Kit uses test strips made using an automatic carbon printing technique to reduce interference
and boost accuracy, and there is no coding required. If buying direct from Auvon, 50 test strips costs $8.99, or $21.99 for 150. 

Auvon isn't clear about the blood sample size needed, which isn’t helpful, but plenty of user reviews mention that the lancing
device isn’t as painful as others they have used. Auvon says this is because the lancet design should, ‘minimize vibrations and
oscillations of the lancet needle, lessening the wound during collecting the blood, thus reducing the sense of pain.’ 

Auvon also claims high accuracy with its DS-W glucose meter, and that it functions within ±10%, or ±10 mg/dl of laboratory
values 95% of the time. This handheld blood glucose monitor features a large digital display, with readings displayed in mg/dl.
It will store continuous 7-, 14- and 30-day average results to give you greater insight. The Auvon DS-W Blood Sugar Kit features
in a number of prominent glucometer roundups, and has largely positive user reviews, so could be worth discussing with your
diabetes healthcare provider.

Read our Auvon DS-W Blood Sugar Test Kit review

BEST GLUCOSE METER FOR SPOKEN RESULTS


Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ

Glossary
(Image credit: Prodigy)
Diabetes resources

Further health and


wellness guides Prodigy Voice Glucose Meter  

The best glucometer for people with no or low vision

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 10/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

SPECIFICATIONS
Memory capacity: 450 readings | Result speed: Six seconds | Blood $14.99 VIEW AT AMAZON

sample size: 0.7 | Warranty: Limited lifetime | Cost of test strips: $13 for
50 at Walmart

REASONS TO BUY REASONS TO AVOID


Designed for the blind Only for AST following doctor's advice
Large buttons with raised markings
Free diabetes software

The Prodigy Voice is designed for blood glucose testing using fresh capillary whole blood samples, and is the only glucometer
to receive an Access Award from the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) and an Access Plus Award from the National
Federation of the Blind (NFB). As it reads results aloud, it’s considered the best glucose meter for people with no or low vision.
It’s also a good choice for people with dyslexia or who encounter discomfort when reading digital screens. 

WHAT USERS SAY



There are over 700 user reviews of the Prodigy Voice Glucose Meter on Amazon, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. 88% of them
are 4-star rated and above. As with every glucose monitor in this guide, while the majority of people praise the accuracy, a minority are
critical of it. 

Jump to:
When the audio function is activated, the Prodigy Voice will welcome you and state the day and time, then it will tell you to
apply your blood sample to the test strip. After six seconds it will then read aloud your blood glucose (number) milligrams per
Expert advice
deciliter/millimolesBest
persmart
liter. 
meter

Best for ketones


There’s a button you can press to repeat the last spoken result, just in case you missed what was said, and there are imprinted
buttons with tactile markings,
Best for small including directional arrows and letters, to enable blind users to easily find and use them. On
samples
the side you’ll find volume controls and a headphone port for private listening to spoken results. 
Best for speed

The Prodigy Voice Glucose Meter


Best for flash tests stores 450 audible test results, and dishes out 7-, 14-, 21-, 30-, 60- and 90-day averages, so
there’s plenty of data on offer here. And via the USB port you can connect the glucometer to your computer to download
Best for cheap tests
readings using the included, free diabetes management software. This is ideal if you want to share readings with your doctor.
Best talking meter

In the box you’ll getBest


theforProdigy
easy use Voice Meter, control solution, a lancing device, 10 sterile lancets, 10 Prodigy Blood Glucose

Strips, and two 1.5Best


V AAA alkaline batteries, all packaged in a carry case. While you can use it for Alternative Site Testing, we’d
for seniors

recommend speaking Best to your doctor about whether this is right for you, and when you should and shouldn’t use AST.
for basics

Best for reminders


Read our Prodigy Voice review
Glucometer prices

Top brands
THE BEST GLUCOSE METER FOR EASE OF USE
Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ

Glossary

Diabetes resources

Further health and


wellness guides

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 11/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

(Image credit: Ascensia Diabetes Care)

Contour Next EZ Glucose Meter  


A basic glucometer that focuses on accuracy, not gimmicks

SPECIFICATIONS
Result speed: Five seconds | Memory capacity: 480 test results | Blood $7.99 VIEW AT AMAZON

sample size: 0.6 microliters | Warranty: Five years | Cost of test strips:
$32 for 100 $12.29 View at Amazon

$69.99 View at Amazon


REASONS TO BUY REASONS TO AVOID
See all prices (4 found)
Simple to use Very basic design
Large buttons No color display
Affordable glucometer

The Contour Next EZ Glucose Meter is primarily aimed at beginners or those who don’t want a lot of fuss of high-end features
when testing their Jump
bloodto:sugar levels at home. 

Expert advice
As such, it’s very simple in its design and what it offers, and while this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it does mean that you
Best smart
should look elsewhere meter
in our best glucose meters guide if you want smart connectivity or sensors.  
Best for ketones
The Next EZ Glucose Meter requires you a small blood sample in order to read your blood glucose levels, and returns results
Best for small
within five seconds. A lancing device and replaceable lancets are included with this blood sugar monitor kit, as well as test
samples
strips, though you Best
will for
soon need to buy new strips. 
speed

Best for flash tests

WHAT USERS SAYBest for cheap tests


Best talking meter 
There are over 140Best
userforreviews
easy useof the Contour EZ Glucose Meter on Walmart, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. 106 of those of
5-star reviews. So the
Bestmajority
for seniorsof customers are highly praising, though a few reported not having any test strips in the box.

Best for basics

Best for reminders


The cost of these ranges depending on where you shop, but Contour offers a loyalty scheme that could give you access to
Glucometer prices
bigger savings when buying direct. Speak to your insurance provider to see what they will cover.
Top brands
What we also like about the Contour Next EZ Glucose Meter is the large, easy to read display, and how it’s very self-
Types of meter
explanatory straight out of the box. This is one of the best glucometers for covering the basics of blood sugar testing at home,
CGM vs standard
and stores up to 480 readings at a time. Don’t forget that you can download this to look over, which could help you to spot
Buying advice
potential trends behind your blood glucose levels.
Glucometer FAQ
Read our Contour Next EZ Meter review
Glossary

Diabetes resources

Further health and BEST GLUCOSE METER FOR SENIORS


wellness guides

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 12/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

(Image credit: Care Touch)

Care Touch Blood Glucose Monitoring System  


An affordable blood sugar monitor with a five-second read time

SPECIFICATIONS
Memory capacity: 300 | Result speed: Five seconds | Blood sample size: $31.52 VIEW AT AMAZON

0.5 µL | Warranty: Three years | Cost of test strips: $18 for 50 at Amazon

REASONS TO BUY REASONS TO AVOID


Jump to:
Large, clear display Don't expect tons of data or features
Small blood sample size
Expert advice

Simple to use Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


The Care Touch glucometer
samples is relatively inexpensive compared to others, and that’s because it opts for a basic design with little
in the way of fancyBest
frills.
for But
speedthat means it’s also simple to use, and is ideal for seniors experiencing sight issues as the display
is large, uncluttered, and uses big numbers for at-a-glance readings. 
Best for flash tests

Best
Speaking of fast, the for cheap
Care Touchtests
Blood Glucose Monitoring System delivers a result in five seconds, which is on par with some
of the more premium
Best blood sugar monitors. 
talking meter

Best for easy use

WHAT USERS SAYBest for seniors


Best for basics

As an older model,Best
it’s for
no reminders
surprise to see that the Care Touch glucometer has over 13,000 user reviews on Amazon, generating an average
score of 4.6 out ofGlucometer
5 stars. 90% of those reviews are rated 4 stars and above, and focus on the affordability, ease of use, the large and
prices
simple display, andTophow accurate it is for a cheaper meter. Users also praise how compact the meter is. Critical reviews focus on customer
brands
service, battery life, and some accuracy concerns, which are echoed in a Walmart user review.
Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Although it’s a cheap glucometer,


Buying advice you can still annotate the readings with information such as ‘pre-meal’ or ‘post-exercise’.
Your doctor may recommend
Glucometer FAQthat you keep consistent notes when taking readings so that you have extra insight into
potential causes for spikes and crashes. 
Glossary

Diabetes resources
The Care Touch Blood Glucose Monitoring System can be purchased as a complete kit, including the meter itself, plus 100 test
Further health and
strips, a lancing device, 30 disposable lancets, and a battery. A carry bag keeps it all together, though it’s quite bulky. 
wellness guides

In addition to recommending this glucose meter for seniors, it could be helpful to beginners who don’t want to spend a great
deal on blood sugar monitoring until they are comfortable with it. 

The Care Touch Blood Glucose Monitoring System is also well-suited to people who feel swamped by too much data, and
would prefer something basic yet accurate. On that note, there is no companion app for the Care Touch glucometer, but it
does hold 300 readings that you can download to your computer to look through and spot trends.

It also produces a 14-day average, though if you want longer averages, also consider the One Touch Ultra 2 or the Auvon
Glucose Meter. Other benefits with the Touch Blood Glucose Monitoring System include no coding, and an eject button to

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 13/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

easily dispose of used test strips. 

While we are disappointed by the lack of a port light to boost visibility when inserting new test strips, it’s important to note
that this is quite an old model now compared to newer glucometers. So if you want the latest diabetes tech, look elsewhere. If
not, for the low price this is worth considering. 

Read our Care Touch Blood Glucose Monitoring System review

BEST GLUCOSE METER FOR BASIC TESTING

Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests


(Image credit: Lifescan)
Best for cheap tests

One Touch Ultra 2 Blood Glucose Meter


Best talking meter  

Best for easy use
A no-frills glucometer covered by Medicare Part B
Best for seniors

Best for basics


SPECIFICATIONS $22.60 VIEW AT AMAZON
Best for reminders
Memory capacity: 500 readings | Result speed: Five seconds | Blood
Glucometer prices
sample size: 1.0 | Warranty: Three years | Cost of test stips: $28.97 for $27.99 View at Amazon
50 at Walmart Top brands

Types of meter

REASONS TO BUY CGM vs standard REASONS TO AVOID

Test strips check Buying


samples twice
advice Large sample size
Notes can be added to readings
Glucometer FAQ Basic features
Glossary

Diabetes resources
The One Touch Ultra 2 Blood Glucose Meter is a popular blood sugar monitor, designed to store 7-, 14- and 30-day average
Further health and
results. It works with OneTouch
wellness guides Ultra test strips that use DoubleSure technology to automatically check your blood sample
twice to boost accuracy. 

As with other top glucose meters, you can use a control solution to check that your One Touch meter and test strips are
working properly.

WHAT USERS SAY



At Amazon, the One Touch Ultra 2 has over 1,200 user reviews, generating an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars. 85% of those are rated 4 stars
and above, and focus mainly on the meter’s ease of use and accuracy. Many recommend it for beginners, though some question the price

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 14/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews
of test strips. Critical reviews say meter they received became less accurate with time, and that it ran high compared to other meters. At
Walmart, 40+ user reviews generated a lower average of 3.5 out of 5 stars, with some praising its ease of use, while others said the display
was dim. 

The One Touch Ultra 2 is cleared for Alternative Site Testing, such as from your palm instead of your finger - always follow
guidelines as to when to use AST and when to avoid it. Each time you use the meter to take a blood sugar reading, you can
label them pre- or post-meal to help you see, at a glance, how food affects your blood glucose. You can also add notes about
exercise, stress and medication. 

The One Touch Ultra 2 comes with two lithium batteries (3.0 volt CR 2032), so you can use it straight out of the box. Also
included is a OneTouch Delica Plus lancing device, equipped with 13 depth settings for more precise lancing. The Delica Plus
comes with 30-gauge and 33-gauge (extra fine) heads - 10 sterile lancet heads are included, with everything packaged into a
carry case.

The large digital screen is backlit to aid readability, with the results clearly displayed. As mentioned above, the One Touch Ultra
2 stores up to 500 readings, and measures in mg/dl. You will have to code your new test strip vial before using them with the
meter, which could put some people off. 

Importantly, the glucose meter has low glucose and high glucose alerts, and what you should do in each instance. Again, we’d
recommend reading the user manual to ensure this glucometer will do what you need it to, ahead of purchasing. 

Read our One Touch Ultra 2 review

BEST GLUCOSE METER FOR BUILT-IN ALARMS


Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ

Glossary
(Image credit: Trividia Health)
Diabetes resources

Further health and


Trividia
wellness guidesHealth True Metrix Blood Glucose Meter  

An affordable glucometer with low-cost test strips

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 15/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

SPECIFICATIONS $3.75 VIEW AT AMAZON


Readings: 500 | Result speed: Six seconds | Blood sample size: 0.5 |
Warranty: Limited lifetime | Cost of test strips: $8.99 for 50 at Amazon $11.82 View at Amazon

REASONS TO BUY REASONS TO AVOID


Affordable AST only with doctor's guidance
No coding required
Small blood sample

This self monitoring blood glucose meter requires no coding, making it one of the easiest blood sugar monitors for beginners.
Like the other devices featured in our best glucometers roundup, it produces fast results with minimal fuss. 

The Trividia Health True Metrix Blood Glucose Meter stores approximately 500 readings, and these can be downloaded onto
your computer for storage. 

WHAT USERS SAY



This meter has over 190 reviews on Amazon, scoring an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars. 89% of those are rated highly, and highlight the
meter’s accuracy and reliability. Value for money is another common motif. Again, like all the other glucometers in this guide, a minority of
reviews criticize the accuracy and battery life. From 350 reviews on Walgreens, the meter scores a lower 3.6 out of 5, with 209 being 5-star
reviews, and 71 being 1-star reviews. Critical reviews state that the meter is inconsistent, while positive reviews say it has never faltered in
its accuracy. 
Jump to:

Expert advice
The meter offers 7-, 14-, 30-, 60- and 90-day averages to help you determine if your diabetes management routine or
Best smart meter
medication are working or need to be adjusted with your doctor’s guidance.
Best for ketones
You can tag blood sugar results by linking them to specific instances such as pre- or post-meal, when taking medicine, or after
Best for small
exercising. The True Metrix Blood Glucose Meter has four programmable alarms to remind you to test your blood sugar levels
samples

– handy if you often forget


Best to do so – and it has a ketone reminder. 
for speed

Best for flash tests


As for the design, the glucometer has a test strip release button to help you avoid touching the strip after testing. The 0.5
Best for cheap tests
microlitre sample means it should feel less painful to draw blood from your fingertip or the side of your fingers. 
Best talking meter
You could also try Alternative Site Testing with this glucometer, as long as your doctor is in favor and explains when it should
Best for easy use
and shouldn’t be used. 
Best for seniors

Read our True Metrix review


Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Best glucoseTopmeters:
brands The Final Word
Types of meter
Glucose meters wear out over time and should be renewed every two years to ensure accurate and reliable results. Before
CGM vs standard
buying a glucose meter, check with your insurance provider to see what they will cover. That includes test strips compatible
Buying advice
with the glucometer you’re thinking of purchasing, as strips can drive up the overall cost in the long-term. 
Glucometer FAQ
Once you know where you stand with your insurer, you can then make a shortlist of the best glucose meters within your
Glossary
budget range. Look for features that will make your life easier, such as a large display, or data storage for multiple readings.
Diabetes resources
Keep the size in mind too, as you’ll be carrying your blood sugar testing kit with you throughout the day. 
Further health and
wellness guides
Ultimately, a glucose meter is only good for you if it works for your diagnosis, your lifestyle and your budget. If you’re really
stuck and still don’t know which glucometer to choose, ask your doctor or a diabetes health expert if they can make some
recommendations – even a steer on brands will point you in the right direction.

THE LATEST PRICES ON THE BEST GLUCOSE METERS

Today's best deals on the best glucometers

REDUCED PRICE

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 16/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

$19.07
Ascensia Contour Next One VIEW
$7.95
See all prices

Fora 6 Connect $69.99 VIEW

See all prices

Dario Blood Glucose


$25 VIEW
Monitoring System

See all prices

Accu-Chek AccuGuide Blood


$40 VIEW
Glucose

See all prices

Auvon DS-W Blood Sugar Kit $23.99 VIEW

See all prices

Prodigy AutoCode Blood


$14.99 VIEW
Glucose

See all prices

Jump to:
Ascensia Contour Next EZ
$7.99 VIEW
Expert adviceMeter

Best smart meter See all prices


Best for ketones
Care Touch Diabetes Testing
Best for small $31.52 VIEW
samples Kit

Best for speed See all prices

Best for flash tests

Best for cheapOneTouch


tests Ultra 2 $22.60 VIEW

Best talking meter


See all prices
Best for easy use
REDUCED PRICE Best for seniors

Best for basics


TRUE Metrix
Self TrueMetrix Self Monitoring Amazon $5.75
Best for reminders
Monitoring... VIEW
Blood $3.75
Glucometer prices
See all prices
Top brands

Types of meter
We check over 250 million products every day for the best prices

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ
WHAT ARE THE BEST GLUCOSE METER BRANDS?

Glossary
When you begin researching glucometers, you’ll see certain brand names pop up time and again. Some brands, including One
Diabetes resources
Drop, are relatively new, while others have been established in the blood sugar monitor market for a long time. 
Further health and
wellness guides
These are some (but not all) of the brands you’re likely to come across during your research, listed in alphabetical order:

Abbot Diabetes Care


Advocate
Agamatrix
Arcadia Group
Arkray
Ascensia Diabetes Care
CVS
Dario Health

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 17/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

Dexcom
Diathrive
Foracare
Genesis Health Technologies
iHealth
One Drop
Prodigy Diabetes Care
Roche
Trividia Health
Walmart

BEST GLUCOSE METERS: THE DIFFERENT TYPES

Currently, there are three main types of glucose meter: 

Basic blood glucose meters


Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs)
CGM-Insulin Pump Combos

The most simple glucometers are handheld devices with a digital screen that displays a reading, and these are the devices
we’re mostly focusing on with our guide to the best glucose meters. These readings are gathered from disposable blood sugar
test strips treated with specific chemicals that react to glucose. A new test strip is inserted into the glucometer for each new
reading.

Standard glucometers are usually battery operated and capable of storing readings, and many can be connected to a
Jump to:
computer so that you can download and store your readings to look back on as needed.
Expert advice
Some basic blood glucose meters are designed with a spring-loaded needle (the lancing device) that pricks the side of your
Best smart meter
fingertip to draw a small drop of blood for testing. Others use an external lancing device. 
Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ

Glossary

Diabetes resources

Further health and


wellness guides

(Image credit: Getty)

Once blood is drawn, you touch it to the test strip, which will absorb your blood sample and display a reading on the
glucometer’s screen. While response times vary between blood sugar monitors, we’re usually talking seconds.

Some glucose meters are approved for Alternate Site Testing (AST). That means they give results within 20% of correct values
when used on alternative sites such as the palm, forearm or thigh. However, Diabetes Self Management advises that, ‘you
should still check alternate site readings on yourself before trusting them too much.’

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 18/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

Diabetes UK says that, ‘According to reports, routine blood glucose level testing before meals or two or more hours after
meals from alternate sites are equivalent to fingertip testing. However, glucose arrives faster in the fingertips than in the arms.
Therefore, testing when blood glucose is falling rapidly or rising rapidly is likely to be less accurate from alternate sites.'

CONTINUOUS GLUCOSE MONITORING VS STANDARD

Continuous glucose monitors use a sensor that is placed under your skin, where it measures your blood sugar levels and
sends frequent readings to a recording device worn on your person. Some CGMs can be programmed to sound an alert if it
senses your blood glucose levels are too low or high.

When we spoke to diabetes educator and nurse clinician Susan Stauffer, BSN, RN, CDE, she explained how, “A Continuous
Glucose Monitor has a sensor that must be inserted into subcutaneous tissue with a needle that then leaves the small sensor
below the skin. CGM devices are wonderful alternatives to routine blood glucose testing, however, not all people need these
devices and they are expensive to use.

DIABETES ORGANIZATIONS AND HEALTH INSTITUTES



American Diabetes Association

Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

“The accuracy of both the Dexcom G6 and the Freestyle Libre have proven to be as good if not better than blood glucose
Jump to:
meters,” continues Stauffer, “and the FDA has approved the BG number to be used for insulin dosing.”
Expert advice
There are four FDA-approved CGMs available to buy, and they are made by Abbot, Dexcom, Senseonics, and Medtronic. These
Best smart meter
devices are more expensive than basic glucose meters and vary from around $300 to several hundred. 
Best for ketones

The replaceable sensors, most of which need to be changed every one to two weeks, cost $40-$60 each. You might also need
Best for small
samples
to use a standard glucose meter to confirm the blood sugar level readings and to program the CGM – never use results from
an alternative sampling
Best forsite to calibrate a CGM.
speed

Best for flash tests


Research shows that 24/7 glucose monitoring helps lower the risk of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, and CGMs can be
Best for cheap tests
beneficial to some people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes who struggle with maintaining their target blood sugar. CGMs can
Best talking meter
also help you pinpoint lows even if you’re unsure they’re happening (hypoglycemia unawareness).
Best for easy use

Best for seniors


BEST GLUCOSE METERS BUYING ADVICE
Best for basics

Best for reminders


How to choose the
Glucometer best glucose meter for you
prices

Top brands
When picking a good glucose meter, there are specific features that can make your life easier when taking regular blood sugar
readings at home. Types of meter
According to the Mayo Clinic, accuracy should quite rightly be top of the list. ‘Some meters are known for
giving readings thatCGM
show blood glucose levels up to 15% higher or lower than they actually are. That variance is accepted by
vs standard

the Food and DrugBuying


Administration,
advice but the more accurate readings you can get from your glucometer, the better.’
Glucometer FAQ
Other features to look for when choosing the best glucose meter for you include:
Glossary

Insurance – When Diabetes


you’re testing
resourcesyour blood glucose multiple times a day, the cost of test strips ramps up, so speak to your
insurance providerFurther
to seehealth
what they’re prepared to cover, whether that’s the full cost or a portion of it. 
and
wellness guides
Ease of use – Most diabetics use a glucose meter throughout the day, so choose one that is simple to use and has a lancing
device size that feels more comfortable to you. 

Display – Large displays make it easier for you to see and read your test results quickly. Bluetooth-connected smart
glucometers take this a step further by storing your readings in an app that you can view on your phone.

Spoken results – If you have low vision, the best glucose meter for you is the one that speaks your blood sugar reading test
results aloud. 

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 19/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

Data storage – The average glucose meter can store upwards of 50 readings, but smart glucometers can store ten times that.
The more readings you have access to, the easier it will be for you and your doctor to pinpoint trends over time. Again, check
with your insurer first to see if they’ll cover such a device.

Blood sample size – Different glucose meters require different sizes of blood droplets on compatible test strips. Diabetes.org
has produced an excellent guide to blood sample sizes required by mainstream glucose meters for personal use.

Kristen Scheney, a nutritionist for CCS Medical, recommends not using price as an indication of quality. She says, "just because
one glucometer is more expensive than another does not mean that it will be more accurate. 

"Moreover, just because a device includes more features than another does not mean that it is the device for you. Sometimes
simple is the best way to go to ensure you’re getting exactly what you need out of your glucometer."

BEST GLUCOSE METERS FAQ

How do you use a glucose meter?


Always read the full instructions for a glucometer before using it, and note down any specific instructions given to you about
glucose meter use by your doctor. The basic approach when using a blood sugar monitor is to wash your hands thoroughly,
then insert a new disposable test strip into the meter. 

Next, prick your finger with a lancet to draw a drop of blood. Now carefully place that finger against the test strip (in the
correct spot, if stated), which has been treated with chemicals to enable it to react with glucose. In America, glucose meters
report test results in milligrams of glucose per deciliter of blood (mg/dl).
Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ

(Image credit: Getty) Glossary

Diabetes resources

When should I replace


Further health and my glucose meter?
wellness guides

This depends on the glucometer you buy, but Diabetes Forecast says that, "It may be time to replace or upgrade your meter to
a newer model if it’s older than five years and you can get one with a lower monthly cost, increased accuracy, and with
features such as a smartphone app."

Generally speaking, modern glucose meters have better functionality, provide faster readings, and don’t require coding when
you open a new vial of test strips. This will make your life easier, and ensure that whichever of the best glucose meters you
choose, it fits around your lifestyle. 

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 20/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

When should I test my blood sugar with a glucometer?


Always follow your doctor's recommendations about how often you should test your glucose, as you may need to test your
blood sugar levels several times a day to make necessary adjustments to your diet, activity or medication.

According to the CDC’s blood sugar management advice, ‘how often you check your blood sugar depends on the type of
diabetes you have and if you take any diabetes medicines’. Your doctor may also want to check your blood sugar more
frequently if you take insulin. Common times to test your blood sugar include:

When you wake up, before eating or drinking


Before you eat a meal
Two hours after eating a meal
When you go to bed

Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use


(Image credit: Getty)
Best for seniors

Best for basics


How accurate are the best glucose meters?
Best for reminders

You’d be forgiven for thinking


Glucometer that all glucometers have FDA clearance because they are medical devices, but that isn’t always
prices

so. The 2018 FDA draft guidance for personal use glucose meters will require: 
Top brands

Types of meter
95% within +/- 15% across the measuring range
CGM vs standard
99% within +/- 20% across the measuring range
Buying advice
Research conducted by The FAQ
Glucometer Diabetes Technology Society Blood Glucose System Surveillance Program found that accuracy
varied widely between the major home blood glucose meters. At present, they are considered clinically accurate if the reading
Glossary
is within 20% of what a lab test would indicate. The quality of the glucometer and compatible testing strips can impact the
Diabetes resources
overall accuracy of your blood sugar monitoring test. 
Further health and
wellness guides
How accurate your glucometer is depends on the quality of the device itself and the quality of compatible test strips. We’d also
recommend checking the instructions for the meter to see what substances (eg, vitamin C) might interfere with blood sugar
reading accuracy. 

Finally, store the glucose meter and test strips according to the manufacturers’ instructions, as incorrect storage may also
impact accuracy of readings. Test strip vials, for example, should be closed when stored. This is backed by research, published
by the National Library of Medicine, that showed how ‘test strip stability lasted longer for closed vials than open vials. 

For open vials in adverse storage conditions, the refrigerator environment offered the longest stability at 35 to 50 days, and
direct light and humidity offered the shortest periods of stability at 3 to 14 days.’

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 21/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

Are glucometers hygienic?


When using a glucose meter, always follow the instructions set out by the manufacturer or as advised by your doctor. As basic
blood sugar monitors require a blood sample for testing, it’s vital to practice hygiene and lancing hygiene when using the
device. 

On this note, the CDC recommends the following:

Whenever possible, blood glucose meters should be assigned to an individual person and not be shared.
If blood glucose meters have to be shared, clean and disinfect it after every use, per manufacturer’s instructions, to prevent
carry-over of blood and infectious agents. If the manufacturer offers no guidance on how the meter should be cleaned and
disinfected, do not share the device.

Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use


(Image credit: Getty)
Best for seniors

What is hypoglycemia?
Best for basics

Best for reminders


When your blood sugar is low,
Glucometer you experience hypoglycemia. Diabetics are at a high risk for hypoglycemia because of the
prices
medications they take to keep their glucose levels down. Since your body either doesn’t produce insulin or doesn’t produce
Top brands
enough insulin, you have to be careful to not let your glucose levels get too high. 
Types of meter

This means you either take


CGM vs medications or limiting the carbohydrates in your diet. Diabetes is largely a balancing act of trying
standard

to keep your glucose from


Buying going too high while also making sure it doesn’t get too low.
advice

Glucometer FAQ
Here are some of the common symptoms of hypoglycemia:
Glossary

An irregular heart rhythm


Diabetes resources
Fatigue Further health and
Pale skin wellness guides

Dry mouth and throat


Shakiness
Anxiety
Sweating
Hunger
Irritability
Tingling sensation around the mouth
Crying out during sleep

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 22/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

Severe hypoglycemia results in confusion, abnormal behavior, visual disturbances, seizures and, ultimately, unconsciousness.

GLUCOSE METERS GLOSSARY

Adult-onset diabetes – an old term for Type 2 diabetes.

Calorie – a unit of energy that comes from food.

Carbohydrate – according to WebMD, carbohydrates are one of the three main classes of foods and an energy source. Carbs
mainly consist of sugars and starches that the body breaks down into glucose.

Certified diabetes educator (CDE) – a health professional certified by the National Certification Board for Diabetes Educators
to help people with diabetes learn how to manage and live with their condition.

Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) – a sensor and wearable reader duo that takes very regular glucose level readings.

Dietitian – a registered expert able to help people understand what types of foods to eat and avoid for optimal health.

Glucagon – Medicine.Net describes a glucagon is a hormone that causes the liver to release glucose into the blood.

Glucose – a simple sugar found in blood. It’s the body’s major source of energy

Glucose tolerance test – according to a Patient.Info explainer, a glucose tolerance test identifies how well (or not) your body
handles glucose after a meal.

Hyperglycemia – high blood sugar.

Hypoglycemia – low blood glucose.

Injection site – clinically recommended places on the body to inject insulin, such as the abdomen and thighs.

Insulin – a hormone produced in the pancreas to regulate the amount of glucose in the blood.

Lancet – a fine needle for pricking the skin during blood sugar testing.

Mg/dl (milligrams per deciliter) – a measurement indicating how much glucose is in a specific amount of blood.

Self monitoring of blood glucose – measuring how much sugar is in your blood

Type 1 diabetes – the CDC says Type 1 diabetes is a condition where ‘your pancreas doesn’t make insulin or makes very little
Jump to:
insulin. Insulin helps blood sugar enter cells where it can be used for energy. Without insulin, blood sugar can’t get into cells
and builds up in theExpert advice
bloodstream.’

Type 2 diabetes – according to advice published by Diabetes.Org, Type 2 diabetes is when your body doesn't use insulin
Best smart meter

properly.’ As a result, glucose cannot get into the body’s cells for use as energy.
Best for ketones

Best for small


samples
RESOURCES FOR PEOPLE WITH DIABETES
Best for speed

Best for flash tests


Diabetes.org: The American Diabetes Association is the online authority on diabetes. If you or a loved one have diabetes,
becoming a member Bestisfor
a cheap
greattests
idea. The association is devoted to education, prevention, community and meal planning.  
Best talking meter
Diabetes Forecast: A partner of The Healthy Living Magazine, this resource includes consumer guides on diabetes products
Best for easy use
and medicines, as well as recipes and tips for taking care of the psychological impacts of living with diabetes.
Best for seniors

diaTribe: Excellent Best


resource for finding the latest academic studies on diabetes and clinical trials currently underway, including
for basics
how you might be able toreminders
Best for take part in the trials.
Glucometer prices
DiabeticGourmet: A website and magazine of diabetic-friendly recipes, diet tips and resources. You can register for free and
keep track of your Top brands
favorite recipes, connect with others on a forum, and receive tips for better management.
Types of meter
Diabetes Food Hub: A partner of the American Diabetes Association, this website is devoted to providing diabetic-friendly
CGM vs standard
recipes and meal planning.
Buying advice

Beyond Type 1: A community of over 2 million people in over 150 countries. This website features programs, stories and news
Glucometer FAQ

on Type 1 diabetes.Glossary
Diabetes resources
John Hopkins Patient Guide to Diabetes: One of the most comprehensive online resources for diabetes articles, news,
Further health and
terminology, treatments and tools.
wellness guides

Six Until Me: A popular blog-style website created by Kerri Morrone Sparling where she shares inspiring essays and stories
about her life with diabetes. She includes interviews with experts and advocates for products and diets that work for her.

Diabetes Monitor: A comprehensive collection of articles and information related to Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The site
connects you to experts and to a community called the Diabetes Collective.

Diabetes Exercise News & Organization: A resource for exercise-related articles to help with home-monitoring, recognizing
symptoms and managing complications.  

Diabetes Daily: A daily home for news, tips, articles, guides and stories about people living with diabetes.
https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 23/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

Diabetes Training Camp: A non-profit foundation devoted to week-long and weekend camps designed to inspire, motivate,
and educate people with diabetes so they can thrive.

FURTHER HEALTH AND WELLNESS GUIDES

Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Indoor cardio Best for small


machines
samples

Best treadmills Best for speed

Moving your body Best


is important for overall health, and walking is a good place to start. With a treadmill, you can do it indoors.
for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ

Glossary

Diabetes resources

Further health and


wellness guides

Mindfulness and meditation


Best meditation apps
https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 24/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

These apps are your ticket to feeling calmer and less stressed, which has proven benefits for your overall physical and mental
health.

Jump to:

Expert advice

Prescription drugs coverage


Best smart meter

Best for ketones


Best Medicare Part D plans
Best for small
Eligible for Medicare? Here's all you need to know about taking out coverage, including your eligibility.
samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter Claire Davies

CGM vs standard
Claire is Health Editor at Top Ten Reviews and covers all aspects of health, wellness and personal care. Claire is passionate
Buying advice
about the role quality sleep,
Glucometer FAQ
nutrition and exercise plays in our lives, and would love to hear from brands and PRs
regarding products and services that can help the readers of Top Ten Reviews feel healthy, happy and empowered.
Glossary

Diabetes resources

MORE ABOUT... Further health and LATEST


wellness guides

Best hot tubs 2021  Best comic creator software 2021:


Create comics and manga 

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 25/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

SEE MORE LATEST 

MOST POPULAR

Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Sunbasket review
Best for ketones

By Helen McCue 26 days


Bestago
for small
samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ

Glossary

Diabetes resources

Further health and


wellness guides

Turonic G5 Massage Gun review


By Ian Stokes about 2 months ago

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 26/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

What causes indoor air pollution?


By Katie Treharne about 2 months ago

Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best pillowsBest
for sleeping 2021: Bed pillows for all sleep positions
for basics

BestFranks
By Claire Davies, Davina for reminders
2 months ago
Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ

Glossary

Diabetes resources

Further health and


wellness guides

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 27/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

6 eye health tips to keep you healthy and safe this summer
By Claire Davies 2 months ago

Jump to:
Bowflex Max Trainer M6 review
By Paul Dimery 2 months ago
Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ

Glossary

Enjoy $599 of savings


Diabetes resources with a DreamCloud luxury cooling mattress for summer
By Paul Dimery 2 months ago
Further health and
wellness guides

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 28/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

How often should you get an eye exam?


By Becca Caddy 2 months ago

Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

P.volve launches workout


Best talking meter program tailored to each menstrual cycle phase
By Claire Davies 2 months ago
Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ

Glossary

Diabetes resources

Further health and


wellness guides

Best fitness trackers 2021: Top activity bands and fitness watches
By Claire Davies, Alex Cox 2 months ago

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 29/30
10/5/21, 10:41 PM Best Glucose Meters 2021: Top Glucometers for Blood Sugar Testing | Top Ten Reviews

Top Ten Reviews is part of Future US Inc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site.

Terms and conditions

Privacy policy

Cookies policy

Accessibility Statement

Archives

Advertise

About us

Contact us

©
Future US, Inc. 11 West 42nd Street, 15th Floor,
New York,
NY 10036.

Jump to:

Expert advice

Best smart meter

Best for ketones

Best for small


samples

Best for speed

Best for flash tests

Best for cheap tests

Best talking meter

Best for easy use

Best for seniors

Best for basics

Best for reminders

Glucometer prices

Top brands

Types of meter

CGM vs standard

Buying advice

Glucometer FAQ

Glossary

Diabetes resources

Further health and


wellness guides

https://www.toptenreviews.com/best-glucometers 30/30

You might also like