Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) have revolutionized diabetes management by providing real-time glucose readings and revealing short-term trends as they happen. These devices allow users to monitor how their glucose levels change over 1, 3, 6, 9, 12, or 24 hours, enabling timely decisions for better control. By uploading CGM data, users can generate detailed reports of averages and trends for up to 90 days, offering valuable insights for both personal management and healthcare consultations.
CGMs are becoming increasingly accessible, with many insurance plans covering people with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. The growing market offers a range of options catering to diverse needs, from sensor wear duration to advanced features like pump integration and data-sharing capabilities. Prominent manufacturers leading the innovation in CGMs include Dexcom (G6, G7, and Stelo), Medtronic (Guardian and Simplera), Abbott Labs (Freestyle Libre 2 and 3), Eversense (E3 and 365), and Roche (Accu-Chek SmartGuide).
Below is a detailed comparison of the current CGMs on the market to help you make an informed decision:
Comparison Table of Current CGMs
| Feature | G6 | G7 | Libre 2 | Libre 3 | E3 | 365 | Guardian | Simplera | Stelo | SmartGuide |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Days of Sensor Wear | 10 days | 10 days | 14 days | 14 days | 180 days | 365 days | 7 days | TBD | TBD | 14 days |
| Pump Integration | Yes | Yes | Limited | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | TBD | TBD | No |
| Cost (Approx.) | $$ | $$$ | $ | $$ | $$$ | $$$$ | $$ | TBD | TBD | $ |
| Data Sharing | Yes (up to 10) | Yes (up to 10) | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | TBD | TBD | Yes |
| Separate Receiver | Optional | Optional | No | No | No | No | Optional | TBD | TBD | No |
| Water Resistance | Yes (IP68) | Yes (IP68) | Yes (IP67) | Yes (IP68) | Yes | Yes | Yes | TBD | TBD | Yes (IPX7) |
| Calibration Required | No | No | No | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | TBD | TBD | No |
| Real-Time Alerts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | TBD | TBD | Yes |
| Warm-Up Time | 2 hours | 30 minutes | 1 hour | 1 hour | 24 hours | 24 hours | 2 hours | TBD | TBD | 1 hour |
Detailed Comparison of Current CGMs
1. Days of Sensor Wear
- Dexcom G6 & G7: Both offer a 10-day sensor wear duration, providing frequent updates but requiring regular replacements.
- Freestyle Libre 2 & 3: Both have a 14-day sensor wear period, making them cost-effective with fewer replacements.
- Eversense E3 & 365: The E3 lasts 180 days, while the 365 extends to a full year, but both require a minor surgical procedure for implantation.
- Medtronic Guardian: Offers 7-day wear, shorter than many competitors, focusing on integration with Medtronic insulin pumps.
- Medtronic Simplera: Details are limited, but this newer model is expected to improve wear duration and usability.
- Dexcom Stelo & Accu-Chek SmartGuide: Stelo’s and SmartGuide’s durations are still TBD, though similar durations to those of the Dexcom G6/G7 and Libre systems are anticipated.
2. Pump Integration
- Dexcom Devices (G6/G7): Compatible with several pumps, including Tandem and Omnipod systems, for seamless automation.
- Freestyle Libre 2 & 3: Limited pump integration, primarily providing data for manual adjustments.
- Eversense Models: Highly integrated with pumps like the YpsoPump and standalone systems.
- Medtronic Guardian/Simplera: Exclusive to Medtronic insulin pump systems for advanced control.
- Dexcom Stelo & Accu-Chek SmartGuide: Pump compatibility for these devices remains unclear.
3. Cost
- Dexcom G6/G7: Moderate to high cost, partially offset by insurance coverage.
- Freestyle Libre Models: Generally the most affordable, making them popular for cost-conscious users.
- Eversense Models: Among the most expensive due to implantation procedures, they provide long-term cost savings due to fewer replacements.
- Medtronic and Simplera: Positioned at mid-range pricing with insurance options.
- Accu-Chek SmartGuide: Budget-friendly, targeting users new to CGM technology.
4. Data Sharing
- Dexcom Devices: Support up to 10 followers, ideal for caregivers and family monitoring.
- Freestyle Libre Models: Allow data sharing with healthcare providers and families through the LibreLink app.
- Eversense Models: Extensive sharing options, supported by advanced analytics.
- Medtronic Devices: Allow data to be shared within their proprietary ecosystem.
- Accu-Chek SmartGuide: Limited but functional sharing for basic monitoring.
5. Receiver vs. Smartphone
- Dexcom and Freestyle Libre Devices: Optional receivers; most users prefer smartphones.
- Eversense: Does not require a separate receiver; smartphones handle data.
- Medtronic Guardian: Optional standalone receiver, designed to integrate with Medtronic pumps.
- Accu-Chek SmartGuide: Smartphone-based monitoring without a dedicated receiver.
6. Water Resistance
- Dexcom G6/G7 & Freestyle Libre Models: IP68 rated, meaning they can withstand submersion in water up to a certain depth.
- Eversense Models: Fully water-resistant once implanted.
- Medtronic Guardian/Simplera: Resistant to splashes and light submersion but varies by model.
- Accu-Chek SmartGuide: IPX7 rated, allowing brief immersion.
7. Calibration
- Dexcom & Freestyle Libre: No calibration required, simplifying use.
- Eversense: Requires calibration twice daily.
- Medtronic Guardian: Calibration is required for accuracy.
- Accu-Chek SmartGuide: Calibration-free.
8. Alerts
- All Devices: Provide real-time alerts for high and low glucose levels, with customizable thresholds.
9. Warm-Up Time
- Dexcom G7: Market-leading 30-minute warm-up, significantly faster than competitors.
- Freestyle Libre Models: 1-hour warm-up.
- Eversense Models: 24-hour warm-up due to implantation requirements.
- Medtronic Guardian: 2-hour warm-up.
- Accu-Chek SmartGuide: 1-hour warm-up.