{"id":1960919,"date":"2026-05-28T22:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-05-28T19:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1960919"},"modified":"2026-05-28T22:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-05-28T19:00:00","slug":"6-continuous-glucose-monitors-that-are-doctor-recommended","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1960919","title":{"rendered":"6 Continuous Glucose Monitors That Are Doctor-Recommended"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/1e865c3dd18ca45d23fc80cd842faa7b10c794b8\/hub\/2026\/05\/27\/3be0541a-9664-41ad-92b7-d072f186424f\/shutterstock-2363504053.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=675&amp;width=1200&#8243;]<\/p>\n<div id=\"article-35c09c83-bd6a-4932-adc6-b56d160802fa\" class=\"c-pageArticle_body sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12 lg:u-col-start-0 u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-pageArticle_content sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12 c-pageArticle_content-izeBestList\">\n<div class=\"u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent_leftRail sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-4 lg:u-col-start-0 u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-11\">\n<div data-cy=\"bylineCard\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard c-articleBylineCard_bestList\">\n<h2 class=\"c-articleBylineCard_header c-articleBylineCard_izeBestList\">\n    Our Experts<br \/>\n  <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorContainer\">\n<div data-cy=\"bylineCard_images\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorImages-noinfo\">\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_image g-container-round c-articleBylineCard_image-0\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/214645aa47d0e12c68aaaf1e58f79273badf6f69\/hub\/2019\/09\/25\/2bd8c3c6-0687-475d-8d6e-0e10ce1261d7\/mercey-livingston.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=96&amp;width=96\" alt=\"Headshot of Mercey Livingston\" height=\"96\" width=\"96\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_image g-container-round c-articleBylineCard_image-1\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/ad7a90cb18dea11362e0d9f0b6bf1f8d1e020cdd\/hub\/2024\/10\/23\/1a196b55-092b-49ec-b1f1-b7d70fab8e34\/img-3096-2.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=96&amp;width=96\" alt=\"Headshot of Nasha Addarich Mart\u00ednez\" height=\"96\" width=\"96\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_meta-noinfo double\">\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard__authorName-noinfo\">\n<address class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorNameContainer\"><span class=\"c-articleBylineCard_writtenBy g-text-xsmall\">Written by\u00a0<\/span><span data-cy=\"bylineCard_link\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard_link c-articleBylineCard_link-0\"><br \/>\n              Mercey Livingston<br \/>\n            <\/span><\/address>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard__authorName-noinfo\">\n<address class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorNameContainer\"><span class=\"c-articleBylineCard_writtenBy g-text-xsmall\">Written by\u00a0<\/span><span data-cy=\"bylineCard_link\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard_link c-articleBylineCard_link-1\"><br \/>\n              Nasha Addarich Mart\u00ednez<br \/>\n            <\/span><\/address>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_date-updated g-outer-spacing-top-small\">\n<div class=\"c-globalUpdatedDate\">\n  Article updated on\u00a0<time datetime=\"2026-05-28T15:00:00-0800\">May 28, 2026 at 3:00 PM PDT<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"author-card-0\" class=\"col-5 c-globalAuthorCard\">\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_head\">\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_picture\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/d70941010546e9ccc4c6ef849bf4104eabccb6a6\/hub\/2019\/09\/25\/2bd8c3c6-0687-475d-8d6e-0e10ce1261d7\/mercey-livingston.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=84&amp;width=84\" alt=\"Headshot of Mercey Livingston\" height=\"84\" width=\"84\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_info\"><span class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_name\">Mercey Livingston<\/span><span>CNET Contributor<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_bio\">Mercey Livingston is a health and wellness writer and certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. She&#8217;s written about fitness and wellness for Well+Good, Women&#8217;s Health, Business Insider, and Prevention.com among others. When not writing, she enjoys reading and trying out workout classes all over New York City.<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_linkWrapper\">See full bio<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"author-card-1\" class=\"col-5 c-globalAuthorCard\">\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_head\">\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_picture\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/c0ad4b644cf3f6036a7bc665db2abc1982f7a1be\/hub\/2024\/10\/23\/1a196b55-092b-49ec-b1f1-b7d70fab8e34\/img-3096-2.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=84&amp;width=84\" alt=\"Headshot of Nasha Addarich Mart\u00ednez\" height=\"84\" width=\"84\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_info\"><span class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_name\">Nasha Addarich Mart\u00ednez<\/span><span>Managing Editor<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_bio\">Nasha is a Managing Editor for CNET, overseeing our sleep and wellness verticals. She is a nutrition, mental health, fitness and sleep science enthusiast. Her passion for mindful and holistic practices transcends her personal life and profoundly influences her editorial approach, as she weaves evidence-based insights with practical advice to inspire readers to lead healthier, more balanced lives. Throughout her career, she&#8217;s covered various topics including financial services, technology, travel and wellness.<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_details\"><span>Expertise<\/span><span class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_description\">Sleep | Mental health | Personal Care | Fitness | Nutrition | Medical | Wellness | Vitamins and Supplements | Vision Health | Longevity<\/span><span>Credentials<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_description\">\n<li>Sleep Science Coach Certification from The Spencer Institute.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_linkWrapper\">See full bio<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_metaContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_header sm:u-hidden\"><span class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_title g-text-small\"><br \/>\n        Why You Can Trust CNET<br \/>\n      <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_metrics\">\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_category\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_category\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_value g-inner-spacing-right-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_valueContainer\"><span>30+<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_topic\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_topic\">Years of Experience<\/span><\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_category\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_category\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_value g-inner-spacing-right-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_valueContainer\"><span>35<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_topic\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_topic\">Product Reviewers<\/span><\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_category\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_category\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_value g-inner-spacing-right-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_valueContainer\"><span>15k<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_topic\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_topic\">Sq. Feet of Lab Space<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_disclosureContainer\">\n<p data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_message\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_message g-text-xxsmall\">CNET staff &#8212; not advertisers, partners or business interests &#8212; determine how we review products and services. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_disclosureLinks u-flexbox-row\">\n        Reviews ethics statement<\/p>\n<p>        How we test\n        <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq g-container-rounded-small c-shortcodeFaq-leftRail u-hidden\">\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_header\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_header\">\n<p id=\"1f36fca6-f892-4008-9ed0-d13ee087ea40\" data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_title\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_title\">\n      What to consider\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_sections\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_sections\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Connectivity\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Consider whether you want to connect your continuous glucose monitor to your phone, to a receiver (a small device that reads and displays your data), or both.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Scan frequency\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Look at how often the continuous glucose monitor scans and transmits your glucose levels to your phone or receiver.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Test type\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Consider where on your body the CGM\u2019s sensor will be placed, how it\u2019s inserted, and how often the sensor will have to be replaced. This can vary from a week or two to a few months.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Insurance coverage\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>You may want to limit your search to continuous glucose monitors that your insurance, Medicare or Medicaid will cover.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_toolbar u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_productsList\">\n<p class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_versus\">vs<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_compareCta\"><span>Compare<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_table u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_tableHead\"><span>Back to selection<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<article class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-8 lg:u-col-start-5\">\n<p data-keep class=\"u-speakableText-p1\">Glucose monitoring has come a long way since pricking your finger every day. Now there are continuous glucose monitors, which are worn on your arm. These monitors connect to an app on your <span><span>smartphone<\/span><\/span> or\u00a0<span><span>Apple Watch<\/span><\/span>, and let you check your blood sugar throughout the day.<\/p>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"listiclePrecap\" data-location=\"PRECAP\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-hide c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-compact g-outer-spacing-bottom-large\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-hed\">\n<section>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_header\"> Our Picks <\/h2>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"1\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/00d0270c7e7aa840219c59c7d43f751bd68c2f61\/hub\/2021\/05\/03\/a024f07b-5599-4200-ae42-c640f8f95b16\/dexcom.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"A Dexcom G6 wireless continuous glucose monitor with a smartphone showing a reading in its app\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign isFirst\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best continuous glucose monitor for pairing with phones or Apple Watch<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Dexcom G6<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">See at Dexcom<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>Editor&#8217;s note, June 25, 2024:<\/strong> Since this article was first published, Dexcom has launched the G7. This sensor is smaller than the G6 and has an improved alert system, along with a few other differences.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Real-time tracking, shareable with up to 10 people<\/li>\n<li>Customizable alerts<\/li>\n<li>Discrete sensor<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Short sensor life<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"2\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/2d965b3f74c1b91412bc2ec33b1e0c9ceaca860e\/hub\/2024\/09\/23\/ca929ef3-6c4c-4ef6-b009-bc1ceb6c4ed7\/img-7867.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"A Stelo sensor in a box next to an applicator\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best over-the-counter continuos glucose monitor<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Stelo by Dexcom<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$100 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p>Stelo was the first over-the-counter CGM available in the US when it received FDA approval in 2024. The small sensor sits on the back of your arm and tracks your glucose levels 24\/7. You can view your glucose levels within the app, and if you have an Oura ring, it pairs seamlessly. Levels are also viewable within the Oura app. Each sensor lasts up to 15 days, it&#8217;s pretty low maintenance, and it&#8217;s an easy way to see how your stress, meals and daily habits influence your glucose levels. One pack of two will cost you $99 (lasts about a month), but if you subscribe, that price will drop to $89 a month. The pack comes with everything you need: the sensors, applicator and overpatch to secure the sensor in place. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>No prescription required<\/li>\n<li>Real-time glucose tracking<\/li>\n<li>Painless application<\/li>\n<li>HSA\/FSA eligible<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels<\/li>\n<li>Not intended for insulin-dependent users<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"3\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/8d2a0594d7bef11d8f970fc0dee4e48d67aa0e85\/hub\/2026\/02\/02\/b851e3af-c681-4cff-b5e1-4c7e9b6c219e\/screenshot-2026-02-02-at-3-59-59pm.png?auto=webp&amp;format=pjpg&amp;height=500\" alt=\"Freestyle Libre 3 Plus\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best stand-alone continuous glucose monitor<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Abbott Freestyle Libre 3 Plus<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">See website at GoodRx<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>Editor&#8217;s note, Feb. 4, 2026: <\/strong>Certain FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors have been recalled due to incorrect glucose readings. To find out whether your sensor is included in the recall and what to do, read the FDA&#8217;s recall alert.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Affordable and easy to find<\/li>\n<li>Optional blood sugar alarms<\/li>\n<li>Small sensor<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>The self-injector can be finicky and cause missplacements<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"4\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/5f626a74a21c67ce6637a9f428a744d19426afba\/hub\/2025\/01\/09\/02fafce8-a0da-4dea-8ee7-60a4252a583d\/eversense-product-365.png?auto=webp&amp;format=pjpg&amp;height=500\" alt=\"The Eversense 365 continuous glucose monitor, app on smartphone, app on smartwatch, and sensor over a white background.\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best long-term continuous glucose monitor<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Eversense 365<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">See website at Ascensia<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p>If you want a device that you can set up and don&#8217;t have to worry about reinserting for an entire year, Eversense 365 is a great option for diabetes management. A health care provider will insert the sensor and then you place the transmitter above that.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Very long sensor life<\/li>\n<li>Easy-to-use app<\/li>\n<li>Customizable alerts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Requires insertion by a health professional<\/li>\n<li>Requires frequent calibrations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"5\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/09a930d7e69462346c1ded9f0ca8333e362fbf69\/hub\/2024\/11\/15\/c7623387-37a6-4405-9c8e-d311245ae586\/img-8106.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"A Lingo box with an applicator and a sensor\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Lingo by Abbott<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$44 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p>Lingo is one of the two over-the-counter continous glucose monitors we tested on this list. Like the Stelo, Lingo is worn on the back of the upper arm and you can view your glucose data within the Lingo app, where it&#8217;s translated into an easy-to-read chart. The app also includes habit-building challenges and progress tracking, making glucose monitoring feel more like a game than a chore. The Lingo app is available for iPhone and Android users.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Affordable entry price (two weeks)<\/li>\n<li>Gamified, user-friendly app<\/li>\n<li>Water-resistant design<\/li>\n<li>Great for habit tracking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>About 20% of sensors may not last the full 14 days<\/li>\n<li>No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_more u-hidden\">\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"6\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/4cbc0ac8cdd716ccb815ceaccf4b529cd95b7dbf\/hub\/2021\/04\/29\/f6cdd997-3f92-4c91-8752-b6f188b1fd22\/cnet-image-size-listicle-42.png?auto=webp&amp;format=pjpg&amp;height=500\" alt=\"Guardian Connect blood glucose monitoring system\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best continuous glucose monitor for data tracking<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">The Guardian Connect System<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$25 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p>The Guardian Connect System is a CGM that can tell you your current glucose readings quickly via a connected app and also lets you easily access trends and data about your blood sugar over time. One feature that stands out with the Guardian is the &#8220;predictive&#8221; alerts you can get about your sugar. Unlike other CGM systems that alert you when your sugar is already high or low, the Guardian uses technology that predicts when your blood sugar might get high or low before it happens. Another feature that comes with the monitor is the Sugar.IQ diabetes assistant app for diabetes management, which uses your data to help you figure out what diet, exercise and insulin works best for you.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Predictive alerts<\/li>\n<li>Stand-alone system<\/li>\n<li>Past data up to 24 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Requires calibration every 12 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<nav class=\"c-globalToc\">\n<div class=\"c-globalToc_header\">\n<div class=\"c-globalToc_title\"><span class=\"c-globalToc_titleText\">Table of Contents<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul class=\"c-globalToc_dropdown g-dropShadow-hover\">\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        6 Continuous Glucose Monitors That Are Doctor-Recommended\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best continuous glucose monitors of 2026\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best continuous glucose monitor for pairing with phones or Apple Watch\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best over-the-counter continuos glucose monitor\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best stand-alone continuous glucose monitor\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best long-term continuous glucose monitor\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Lingo by Abbott\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best continuous glucose monitor for data tracking\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        How we choose continuous glucose monitors\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Why buy a continuous glucose monitor?\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Factors to consider when buying a continuous glucose monitor\n      <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<p data-keep class=\"u-speakableText-p2\">You&#8217;ll get real-time readings to help you understand how certain foods, activity and medication affect your glucose levels. There are FDA-approved glucose monitors, such as\u00a0the <span><span>Dexcom Stelo Glucose Biosensor System<\/span><\/span>. But not all are created equal. To help you find the right CGM, we spoke to doctors and researched the most popular models. If you have serious health concerns about your glucose levels, it&#8217;s important to seek guidance from your medical provider first before wearing a glucose monitor. <\/p>\n<h2 id=\"481a8ca8-cca0-4747-96c3-83e90c186f5b\" data-ng-block=\"{\" data-keep data-id=\"481a8ca8-cca0-4747-96c3-83e90c186f5b\">Best continuous glucose monitors of 2026<\/h2>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"97ced037-4994-4088-a6dc-7ab50640c523\" data-id=\"listicle-97ced037-4994-4088-a6dc-7ab50640c523\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A Dexcom G6 wireless continuous glucose monitor with a smartphone showing a reading in its app\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Dexcom<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/a135edd05bc1402d33dadaa926eb2accc4f234ff\/hub\/2021\/05\/03\/a024f07b-5599-4200-ae42-c640f8f95b16\/dexcom.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Dexcom<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"97ced037-4994-4088-a6dc-7ab50640c523\" data-id=\"97ced037-4994-4088-a6dc-7ab50640c523\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best continuous glucose monitor for pairing with phones or Apple Watch<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Dexcom G6<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Real-time tracking, shareable with up to 10 people\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Customizable alerts\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Discrete sensor\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Short sensor life\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>Editor&#8217;s note, June 25, 2024:<\/strong> Since this article was first published, Dexcom has launched the G7. This sensor is smaller than the G6 and has an improved alert system, along with a few other differences.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I find continuous glucose monitoring to be a valuable tool in the management of both type 1 and 2 diabetes,&#8221; said Dr. Josh Emdur, medical director of SteadyMD. &#8220;CGM data provides actionable insight to help patients track their glycemic response to dietary choices and activity levels.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>The Dexcom G6 doesn&#8217;t require you to manually scan to get a glucose reading; instead, you get a wireless reading on a dedicated receiver device or on your phone or Apple Watch. The Dexcom G6 CGMs measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid just under the skin every five minutes, keeping track of your blood sugar level as long as you&#8217;re wearing it night and day. You can set a custom range for where you&#8217;d like your blood sugar to be, and if it falls into the low or high ranges you set, you will be notified.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;For patients on an insulin pump, the Dexcom G6 may connect with your pump and offer a closed-loop system to turn off your insulin if you are going low. The Dexcom monitor is also approved in pregnancy and offers continuous monitoring that you can see on your phone at all times,&#8221; said Dr. Rebecca Fenichel, an endocrinologist at\u00a0Westmed Medical Group. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>See at Dexcom\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"f4fdde64-e322-4705-809a-05e2235efa60\" data-id=\"listicle-f4fdde64-e322-4705-809a-05e2235efa60\" data-techprodid=\"7785b5c0-e5f7-4dc4-82ab-5617137d253b\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A Stelo sensor in a box next to an applicator\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Jessica Rendall\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/606e9606e391628608f857436514d862b7f2b45e\/hub\/2024\/09\/23\/ca929ef3-6c4c-4ef6-b009-bc1ceb6c4ed7\/img-7867.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Jessica Rendall\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"f4fdde64-e322-4705-809a-05e2235efa60\" data-id=\"f4fdde64-e322-4705-809a-05e2235efa60\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best over-the-counter continuos glucose monitor<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Stelo by Dexcom<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No prescription required\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Real-time glucose tracking\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Painless application\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  HSA\/FSA eligible\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Not intended for insulin-dependent users\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p>Stelo was the first over-the-counter CGM available in the US when it received FDA approval in 2024. The small sensor sits on the back of your arm and tracks your glucose levels 24\/7. You can view your glucose levels within the app, and if you have an Oura ring, it pairs seamlessly. Levels are also viewable within the Oura app. Each sensor lasts up to 15 days, it&#8217;s pretty low maintenance, and it&#8217;s an easy way to see how your stress, meals and daily habits influence your glucose levels. One pack of two will cost you $99 (lasts about a month), but if you subscribe, that price will drop to $89 a month. The pack comes with everything you need: the sensors, applicator and overpatch to secure the sensor in place. <\/p>\n<p>Over the two weeks I tested the Stelo, I noticed which habits (like taking a walk after dinner) affected my blood sugar the most. I find this tool helpful for those curious about their overall health, and probably not for those with a diabetes diagnosis, as it doesn&#8217;t send safety alarms when your glucose levels are too high or too low. If you have a diagnosis and would like to try Stelo, I recommend speaking with your doctor to ensure it will provide the insights and alerts you need. Of the two OTC CGMs on this list (the other one is Lingo), our staff preferred the Stelo CGM.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$100 at Amazon<br \/>\n      $99 at Dexcom\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"b84292d0-dac2-4f1b-9450-0b98d72a2e28\" data-id=\"listicle-b84292d0-dac2-4f1b-9450-0b98d72a2e28\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Freestyle Libre 3 Plus\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Abbott<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/e592d9e788c9efc164f0bb37dd81287e66ce5b7c\/hub\/2026\/02\/02\/b851e3af-c681-4cff-b5e1-4c7e9b6c219e\/screenshot-2026-02-02-at-3-59-59pm.png?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Abbott<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"b84292d0-dac2-4f1b-9450-0b98d72a2e28\" data-id=\"b84292d0-dac2-4f1b-9450-0b98d72a2e28\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best stand-alone continuous glucose monitor<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Abbott Freestyle Libre 3 Plus<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Affordable and easy to find\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Optional blood sugar alarms\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Small sensor\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  The self-injector can be finicky and cause missplacements\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>Editor&#8217;s note, Feb. 4, 2026: <\/strong>Certain FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors have been recalled due to incorrect glucose readings. To find out whether your sensor is included in the recall and what to do, read the FDA&#8217;s recall alert.<\/p>\n<p>The Freestyle Libre 2 was previously on this list and\u00a0recommended by Dr. Nate Favini. &#8220;For people who are interested in deeper insights into their glucose levels, I&#8217;ll often recommend the Freestyle Libre for continuous glucose monitoring,&#8221; Favini said.<\/p>\n<p>Since then, the device has been updated to the Freestyle Libre 3 Plus (previous models will be\u00a0discontinued). It essentially works the same way as its predecessor: you place the sensor on your arm and can track your glucose levels throughout the day. The biggest differences between the Freestyle Libre 2 and 3 are that the newest model lasts 15 days (versus 14 days on the 2) and the size of the sensor (the 3 is smaller and thinner). Another new feature of the Libre 3 Plus is that this sensor is compatible with automated insulin delivery systems (also known as pumps), and Abbott has\u00a0partnerships\u00a0with most major pump partners.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>See website at GoodRx\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"1512a6c0-0f03-4ff4-92f8-40e6eec20c06\" data-id=\"listicle-1512a6c0-0f03-4ff4-92f8-40e6eec20c06\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The Eversense 365 continuous glucose monitor, app on smartphone, app on smartwatch, and sensor over a white background.\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Eversense<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/10fd9bbc6e93d4d8f2c5aa6604599075f99c27b2\/hub\/2025\/01\/09\/02fafce8-a0da-4dea-8ee7-60a4252a583d\/eversense-product-365.png?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Eversense<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"1512a6c0-0f03-4ff4-92f8-40e6eec20c06\" data-id=\"1512a6c0-0f03-4ff4-92f8-40e6eec20c06\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best long-term continuous glucose monitor<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Eversense 365<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Very long sensor life\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Easy-to-use app\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Customizable alerts\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Requires insertion by a health professional\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Requires frequent calibrations\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p>If you want a device that you can set up and don&#8217;t have to worry about reinserting for an entire year, Eversense 365 is a great option for diabetes management. A health care provider will insert the sensor and then you place the transmitter above that.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Once the sensor is in place, you don&#8217;t have to change it out for about 12 months, a long sensor life. The transmitter itself can alert you if your blood sugar is too high or low, and you can also have wireless readings sent to your phone via an app. You can share your blood glucose data from your app with your doctor or anyone else who wants to check your blood sugar readings.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>See website at Ascensia\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"de3ff1cb-64fc-48a8-8f28-f3320c0e3972\" data-id=\"listicle-de3ff1cb-64fc-48a8-8f28-f3320c0e3972\" data-techprodid=\"69945b14-1dc9-4c2f-8bda-866e8e9a6bcc\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A Lingo box with an applicator and a sensor\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Jessica Rendall\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/a964294f247d598dcd5ce67c90e56d7e00b1aa23\/hub\/2024\/11\/15\/c7623387-37a6-4405-9c8e-d311245ae586\/img-8106.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Jessica Rendall\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Lingo by Abbott<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Affordable entry price (two weeks)\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Gamified, user-friendly app\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Water-resistant design\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Great for habit tracking\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  About 20% of sensors may not last the full 14 days\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p>Lingo is one of the two over-the-counter continous glucose monitors we tested on this list. Like the Stelo, Lingo is worn on the back of the upper arm and you can view your glucose data within the Lingo app, where it&#8217;s translated into an easy-to-read chart. The app also includes habit-building challenges and progress tracking, making glucose monitoring feel more like a game than a chore. The Lingo app is available for iPhone and Android users.<\/p>\n<p>What I appreciated most was how lightweight and low-maintenance the sensor is. It&#8217;s pretty sleek, and you don&#8217;t have to worry about carrying a reader. I do recommend buying an overpatch as this sensor doesn&#8217;t come with one and the first time I tested I accidentally yanked it off while dressing myself. An overpatch will ensure the device stays securely on your arm. <\/p>\n<p>A single sensor costs $49 (lasts up to 14 days), a two-sensor pack costs $89 (about a month&#8217;s supply), and buying in bulk (six sensors for 12 weeks) will save you the most money at $249. Lingo is also the only OTC CGM available in brick-and-mortar stores in the United States.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$44 at Amazon<br \/>\n      $54 at Lingo\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"676300ef-f395-4560-bdaa-2ebed593f55d\" data-id=\"listicle-676300ef-f395-4560-bdaa-2ebed593f55d\" data-techprodid=\"b55789c3-54e8-42f4-b103-fa78ef6ecac2\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Guardian Connect blood glucose monitoring system\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Medtronic Diabetes<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/e1721e456ee3525dfe67c098b9467a235bc3f2cb\/hub\/2021\/04\/29\/f6cdd997-3f92-4c91-8752-b6f188b1fd22\/cnet-image-size-listicle-42.png?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Medtronic Diabetes<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"676300ef-f395-4560-bdaa-2ebed593f55d\" data-id=\"676300ef-f395-4560-bdaa-2ebed593f55d\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best continuous glucose monitor for data tracking<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    The Guardian Connect System<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Predictive alerts\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Stand-alone system\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Past data up to 24 hours\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Requires calibration every 12 hours\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p>The Guardian Connect System is a CGM that can tell you your current glucose readings quickly via a connected app and also lets you easily access trends and data about your blood sugar over time. One feature that stands out with the Guardian is the &#8220;predictive&#8221; alerts you can get about your sugar. Unlike other CGM systems that alert you when your sugar is already high or low, the Guardian uses technology that predicts when your blood sugar might get high or low before it happens. Another feature that comes with the monitor is the Sugar.IQ diabetes assistant app for diabetes management, which uses your data to help you figure out what diet, exercise and insulin works best for you.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>\n<div data-v-0ea4bff7>\n        $25 at Amazon\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"a9097fad-6320-4bd7-a855-53db7fafae07\" data-id=\"a9097fad-6320-4bd7-a855-53db7fafae07\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">How we choose continuous glucose monitors<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<p>When choosing continuous glucose monitors for this list, we look at which models were previously recommended by doctors. We also aim to include a CGM with a longer-lasting sensor life and models that are popular choices for people with diabetes. The only two sensors tested on this list are Stelo and Lingo, which are also the only two over-the-counter CGMs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"899f93f4-3633-43c3-9048-e769789e3e99\" data-id=\"899f93f4-3633-43c3-9048-e769789e3e99\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Why buy a continuous glucose monitor?<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<p>&#8220;Continuous glucose monitors offer more intensive monitoring of a diabetic patient&#8217;s sugar levels,&#8221; Fenichel said. &#8220;They are particularly well suited to patients who have to check multiple times a day or to patients who want to get more frequent feedback during the day.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>While anyone can buy a regular blood glucose meter, you&#8217;ll need a prescription from your doctor for a CGM system. Doctors may recommend a continuous blood glucose monitoring device for reasons tied to your unique health circumstances and lifestyle, to track your glucose trends and keep on top of your insulin levels, but a CGM device may not work for everyone&#8217;s unique diabetes care plan.<\/p>\n<p>CGM devices can also give you and your doctor more information about blood sugar levels than a standard meter &#8212; like if your blood sugar begins to drop too low, the device can warn you about your dropping blood glucose levels, &#8220;which can be a very helpful feature in helping patients avoid hypoglycemia,&#8221; Fenichel said. &#8220;They can tell you not only what your current sugar level is but also whether it is on the way up or on the way down.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"62ec9ba2-2836-449d-9a20-0fb5e3337519\" data-id=\"62ec9ba2-2836-449d-9a20-0fb5e3337519\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Factors to consider when buying a continuous glucose monitor<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<p>Here are some things to take into account when shopping for continuous glucose monitors:<\/p>\n<ul data-ng-block=\"{\">\n<li><strong>Scan frequency<\/strong>: Real-time CGMs continuously scan your glucose levels and automatically transmit the data to your phone or receiver, sending regular alerts about your blood sugar. By contrast, with intermittent-scan CGMs, you have to scan them with your phone or receiver to see the data. Some CGMs also measure your glucose more frequently than others.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Connectivity:<\/strong> Consider whether you want to connect the CGM to your smartphone or to a receiver. If you&#8217;re using a phone, look closely at the app and whether it&#8217;s easy to use or offers special features.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Test type:<\/strong> Consider where on your body the CGM&#8217;s sensor will be placed, how it&#8217;s inserted, and how often it will have to be replaced.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li><strong>Insurance coverage: <\/strong>Check whether the CGMs you&#8217;re interested in are covered by your insurance, and how much the parts will cost to maintain and replace over time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq g-container-rounded-small\">\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_header\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_header\">\n<h2 id=\"16f7445a-9e12-40c8-9253-6807041f1095\" data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_title\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_title\">\n      Continuous glucose monitor FAQs<br \/>\n    <\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_sections\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_sections\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question g-border-thin-light-top\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<h3 data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question-header\">\n      Can I get a continuous glucose monitor without a doctor?<br \/>\n    <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Yes, there are two continuous glucose monitors that are available without a prescription. You can also get a regular glucose monitor without a doctor. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question g-border-thin-light-top\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<h3 data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question-header\">\n      Is continuous glucose monitoring covered by insurance?<br \/>\n    <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Many insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, will cover a continuous glucose monitor, although they may require prior authorization.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question g-border-thin-light-top\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<h3 data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question-header\">\n      Which CGM is the cheapest?<br \/>\n    <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>The Abbott Freestyle Libre 2 sells for just $103. The cheapest way to get a continuous glucose monitor is to go through your insurance, Medicaid or Medicare; you could potentially get one for free.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question g-border-thin-light-top\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<h3 data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question-header\">\n      Where should I wear my continuous glucose monitor?<br \/>\n    <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>It\u2019s recommended to wear your CGM on the back of your upper arm. Some models allow placement on other areas, like the thigh, but always check the manufacturer\u2019s instructions. Avoid placing it on scars or other skin irregularities.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-8 lg:u-col-start-5\">\n<div class=\"c-articleDisclosureFooter u-text-italic g-outer-spacing-bottom-large\">\n  The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter g-outer-spacing-top-large g-outer-spacing-bottom-xxlarge c-pageArticle_articleAuthorBioFooter\">\n<h2 class=\"g-outer-spacing-bottom-large\">About the Author<\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_body u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_primaryAuthor\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_imgContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_image\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/b31e8520afcbd5b585f4e115d48c98f4a711976f\/hub\/2019\/09\/25\/2bd8c3c6-0687-475d-8d6e-0e10ce1261d7\/mercey-livingston.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=64&amp;width=64\" alt=\"Headshot of Mercey Livingston\" height=\"64\" width=\"64\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"md:u-hidden lg:u-hidden\">\n<h3 class=\"u-text-capitalize\">Mercey Livingston<\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_credentials g-color-text-meta g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall\">CNET Contributor<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_bioContainer u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"sm:u-hidden\">\n<h3 class=\"u-text-capitalize\">Mercey Livingston<\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_credentials g-color-text-meta\">CNET Contributor<\/span><\/div>\n<p class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_bio\"> Mercey Livingston is a health and wellness writer and certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. She&#8217;s written about fitness and wellness for Well+Good, Women&#8217;s Health, Business Insider, and Prevention.com among others. When not writing, she enjoys reading and trying out workout classes all over New York City. <\/p>\n<p>          Read full bio\n        <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_moreAuthors\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_coauthorContainer u-flexbox-column\"><span class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_writtenBy g-color-text-meta\">Also written by\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_nameBlock\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_image sm:u-hidden\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/13cbed83cebb9ef5a22a8e242a3c38e2d73d4645\/hub\/2024\/10\/23\/1a196b55-092b-49ec-b1f1-b7d70fab8e34\/img-3096-2.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=64&amp;width=64\" alt=\"Headshot of Nasha Addarich Mart\u00ednez\" height=\"64\" width=\"64\"><\/div>\n<div>\n<h3 class=\"u-text-capitalize\">Nasha Addarich Mart\u00ednez<\/h3>\n<p><span class=\"c-bestListAuthorBioFooter_credentials g-color-text-meta g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall\">Managing Editor<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-pageArticle_content sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-12 c-pageArticle_content-izeBestList\">\n<div class=\"u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent_leftRail sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-4 lg:u-col-start-0 u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-11\">\n<div data-cy=\"bylineCard\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard c-articleBylineCard_bestList\">\n<h2 class=\"c-articleBylineCard_header c-articleBylineCard_izeBestList\">\n    Our Experts<br \/>\n  <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorContainer\">\n<div data-cy=\"bylineCard_images\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorImages-noinfo\">\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_image g-container-round c-articleBylineCard_image-0\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/214645aa47d0e12c68aaaf1e58f79273badf6f69\/hub\/2019\/09\/25\/2bd8c3c6-0687-475d-8d6e-0e10ce1261d7\/mercey-livingston.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=96&amp;width=96\" alt=\"Headshot of Mercey Livingston\" height=\"96\" width=\"96\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_image g-container-round c-articleBylineCard_image-1\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/ad7a90cb18dea11362e0d9f0b6bf1f8d1e020cdd\/hub\/2024\/10\/23\/1a196b55-092b-49ec-b1f1-b7d70fab8e34\/img-3096-2.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=96&amp;width=96\" alt=\"Headshot of Nasha Addarich Mart\u00ednez\" height=\"96\" width=\"96\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_meta-noinfo double\">\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard__authorName-noinfo\">\n<address class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorNameContainer\"><span class=\"c-articleBylineCard_writtenBy g-text-xsmall\">Written by\u00a0<\/span><span data-cy=\"bylineCard_link\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard_link c-articleBylineCard_link-0\"><br \/>\n              Mercey Livingston<br \/>\n            <\/span><\/address>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard__authorName-noinfo\">\n<address class=\"c-articleBylineCard_authorNameContainer\"><span class=\"c-articleBylineCard_writtenBy g-text-xsmall\">Written by\u00a0<\/span><span data-cy=\"bylineCard_link\" class=\"c-articleBylineCard_link c-articleBylineCard_link-1\"><br \/>\n              Nasha Addarich Mart\u00ednez<br \/>\n            <\/span><\/address>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-articleBylineCard_date-updated g-outer-spacing-top-small\">\n<div class=\"c-globalUpdatedDate\">\n  Article updated on\u00a0<time datetime=\"2026-05-28T15:00:00-0800\">May 28, 2026 at 3:00 PM PDT<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"author-card-0\" class=\"col-5 c-globalAuthorCard\">\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_head\">\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_picture\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/d70941010546e9ccc4c6ef849bf4104eabccb6a6\/hub\/2019\/09\/25\/2bd8c3c6-0687-475d-8d6e-0e10ce1261d7\/mercey-livingston.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=84&amp;width=84\" alt=\"Headshot of Mercey Livingston\" height=\"84\" width=\"84\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_info\"><span class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_name\">Mercey Livingston<\/span><span>CNET Contributor<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_bio\">Mercey Livingston is a health and wellness writer and certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. She&#8217;s written about fitness and wellness for Well+Good, Women&#8217;s Health, Business Insider, and Prevention.com among others. When not writing, she enjoys reading and trying out workout classes all over New York City.<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_linkWrapper\">See full bio<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"author-card-1\" class=\"col-5 c-globalAuthorCard\">\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_head\">\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_picture\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/c0ad4b644cf3f6036a7bc665db2abc1982f7a1be\/hub\/2024\/10\/23\/1a196b55-092b-49ec-b1f1-b7d70fab8e34\/img-3096-2.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=84&amp;width=84\" alt=\"Headshot of Nasha Addarich Mart\u00ednez\" height=\"84\" width=\"84\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_info\"><span class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_name\">Nasha Addarich Mart\u00ednez<\/span><span>Managing Editor<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_bio\">Nasha is a Managing Editor for CNET, overseeing our sleep and wellness verticals. She is a nutrition, mental health, fitness and sleep science enthusiast. Her passion for mindful and holistic practices transcends her personal life and profoundly influences her editorial approach, as she weaves evidence-based insights with practical advice to inspire readers to lead healthier, more balanced lives. Throughout her career, she&#8217;s covered various topics including financial services, technology, travel and wellness.<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_details\"><span>Expertise<\/span><span class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_description\">Sleep | Mental health | Personal Care | Fitness | Nutrition | Medical | Wellness | Vitamins and Supplements | Vision Health | Longevity<\/span><span>Credentials<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_description\">\n<li>Sleep Science Coach Certification from The Spencer Institute.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalAuthorCard_linkWrapper\">See full bio<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_metaContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_header sm:u-hidden\"><span class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_title g-text-small\"><br \/>\n        Why You Can Trust CNET<br \/>\n      <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_metrics\">\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_category\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_category\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_value g-inner-spacing-right-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_valueContainer\"><span>30+<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_topic\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_topic\">Years of Experience<\/span><\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_category\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_category\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_value g-inner-spacing-right-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_valueContainer\"><span>35<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_topic\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_topic\">Product Reviewers<\/span><\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_category\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_category\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_value g-inner-spacing-right-small\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_valueContainer\"><span>15k<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><span data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_topic\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_topic\">Sq. Feet of Lab Space<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_disclosureContainer\">\n<p data-cy=\"bestListDisclosure_message\" class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_message g-text-xxsmall\">CNET staff &#8212; not advertisers, partners or business interests &#8212; determine how we review products and services. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListDisclosure_disclosureLinks u-flexbox-row\">\n        Reviews ethics statement<\/p>\n<p>        How we test\n        <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq g-container-rounded-small c-shortcodeFaq-leftRail u-hidden\">\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_header\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_header\">\n<p id=\"1f36fca6-f892-4008-9ed0-d13ee087ea40\" data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_title\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_title\">\n      What to consider\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_sections\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_sections\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Connectivity\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Consider whether you want to connect your continuous glucose monitor to your phone, to a receiver (a small device that reads and displays your data), or both.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Scan frequency\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Look at how often the continuous glucose monitor scans and transmits your glucose levels to your phone or receiver.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Test type\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Consider where on your body the CGM\u2019s sensor will be placed, how it\u2019s inserted, and how often the sensor will have to be replaced. This can vary from a week or two to a few months.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question c-shortcodeFaqQuestion-leftRail\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<p data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold\">\n      Insurance coverage\n    <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>You may want to limit your search to continuous glucose monitors that your insurance, Medicare or Medicaid will cover.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_toolbar u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_productsList\">\n<p class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_versus\">vs<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_compareCta\"><span>Compare<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_table u-hidden\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListProductCompare_tableHead\"><span>Back to selection<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<article class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-8 lg:u-col-start-5\">\n<p data-keep class=\"u-speakableText-p1\">Glucose monitoring has come a long way since pricking your finger every day. Now there are continuous glucose monitors, which are worn on your arm. These monitors connect to an app on your <span><span>smartphone<\/span><\/span> or\u00a0<span><span>Apple Watch<\/span><\/span>, and let you check your blood sugar throughout the day.<\/p>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"listiclePrecap\" data-location=\"PRECAP\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-hide c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-compact g-outer-spacing-bottom-large\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-hed\">\n<section>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_header\"> Our Picks <\/h2>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"1\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/00d0270c7e7aa840219c59c7d43f751bd68c2f61\/hub\/2021\/05\/03\/a024f07b-5599-4200-ae42-c640f8f95b16\/dexcom.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"A Dexcom G6 wireless continuous glucose monitor with a smartphone showing a reading in its app\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign isFirst\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best continuous glucose monitor for pairing with phones or Apple Watch<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Dexcom G6<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">See at Dexcom<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>Editor&#8217;s note, June 25, 2024:<\/strong> Since this article was first published, Dexcom has launched the G7. This sensor is smaller than the G6 and has an improved alert system, along with a few other differences.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Real-time tracking, shareable with up to 10 people<\/li>\n<li>Customizable alerts<\/li>\n<li>Discrete sensor<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Short sensor life<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"2\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/2d965b3f74c1b91412bc2ec33b1e0c9ceaca860e\/hub\/2024\/09\/23\/ca929ef3-6c4c-4ef6-b009-bc1ceb6c4ed7\/img-7867.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"A Stelo sensor in a box next to an applicator\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best over-the-counter continuos glucose monitor<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Stelo by Dexcom<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$100 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p>Stelo was the first over-the-counter CGM available in the US when it received FDA approval in 2024. The small sensor sits on the back of your arm and tracks your glucose levels 24\/7. You can view your glucose levels within the app, and if you have an Oura ring, it pairs seamlessly. Levels are also viewable within the Oura app. Each sensor lasts up to 15 days, it&#8217;s pretty low maintenance, and it&#8217;s an easy way to see how your stress, meals and daily habits influence your glucose levels. One pack of two will cost you $99 (lasts about a month), but if you subscribe, that price will drop to $89 a month. The pack comes with everything you need: the sensors, applicator and overpatch to secure the sensor in place. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>No prescription required<\/li>\n<li>Real-time glucose tracking<\/li>\n<li>Painless application<\/li>\n<li>HSA\/FSA eligible<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels<\/li>\n<li>Not intended for insulin-dependent users<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"3\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/8d2a0594d7bef11d8f970fc0dee4e48d67aa0e85\/hub\/2026\/02\/02\/b851e3af-c681-4cff-b5e1-4c7e9b6c219e\/screenshot-2026-02-02-at-3-59-59pm.png?auto=webp&amp;format=pjpg&amp;height=500\" alt=\"Freestyle Libre 3 Plus\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best stand-alone continuous glucose monitor<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Abbott Freestyle Libre 3 Plus<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">See website at GoodRx<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>Editor&#8217;s note, Feb. 4, 2026: <\/strong>Certain FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors have been recalled due to incorrect glucose readings. To find out whether your sensor is included in the recall and what to do, read the FDA&#8217;s recall alert.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Affordable and easy to find<\/li>\n<li>Optional blood sugar alarms<\/li>\n<li>Small sensor<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>The self-injector can be finicky and cause missplacements<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"4\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/5f626a74a21c67ce6637a9f428a744d19426afba\/hub\/2025\/01\/09\/02fafce8-a0da-4dea-8ee7-60a4252a583d\/eversense-product-365.png?auto=webp&amp;format=pjpg&amp;height=500\" alt=\"The Eversense 365 continuous glucose monitor, app on smartphone, app on smartwatch, and sensor over a white background.\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best long-term continuous glucose monitor<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Eversense 365<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">See website at Ascensia<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p>If you want a device that you can set up and don&#8217;t have to worry about reinserting for an entire year, Eversense 365 is a great option for diabetes management. A health care provider will insert the sensor and then you place the transmitter above that.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Very long sensor life<\/li>\n<li>Easy-to-use app<\/li>\n<li>Customizable alerts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Requires insertion by a health professional<\/li>\n<li>Requires frequent calibrations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"5\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/09a930d7e69462346c1ded9f0ca8333e362fbf69\/hub\/2024\/11\/15\/c7623387-37a6-4405-9c8e-d311245ae586\/img-8106.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"A Lingo box with an applicator and a sensor\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Lingo by Abbott<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$44 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p>Lingo is one of the two over-the-counter continous glucose monitors we tested on this list. Like the Stelo, Lingo is worn on the back of the upper arm and you can view your glucose data within the Lingo app, where it&#8217;s translated into an easy-to-read chart. The app also includes habit-building challenges and progress tracking, making glucose monitoring feel more like a game than a chore. The Lingo app is available for iPhone and Android users.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Affordable entry price (two weeks)<\/li>\n<li>Gamified, user-friendly app<\/li>\n<li>Water-resistant design<\/li>\n<li>Great for habit tracking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>About 20% of sensors may not last the full 14 days<\/li>\n<li>No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_more u-hidden\">\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"6\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/4cbc0ac8cdd716ccb815ceaccf4b529cd95b7dbf\/hub\/2021\/04\/29\/f6cdd997-3f92-4c91-8752-b6f188b1fd22\/cnet-image-size-listicle-42.png?auto=webp&amp;format=pjpg&amp;height=500\" alt=\"Guardian Connect blood glucose monitoring system\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best continuous glucose monitor for data tracking<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">The Guardian Connect System<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$25 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p>The Guardian Connect System is a CGM that can tell you your current glucose readings quickly via a connected app and also lets you easily access trends and data about your blood sugar over time. One feature that stands out with the Guardian is the &#8220;predictive&#8221; alerts you can get about your sugar. Unlike other CGM systems that alert you when your sugar is already high or low, the Guardian uses technology that predicts when your blood sugar might get high or low before it happens. Another feature that comes with the monitor is the Sugar.IQ diabetes assistant app for diabetes management, which uses your data to help you figure out what diet, exercise and insulin works best for you.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Predictive alerts<\/li>\n<li>Stand-alone system<\/li>\n<li>Past data up to 24 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Requires calibration every 12 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<nav class=\"c-globalToc\">\n<div class=\"c-globalToc_header\">\n<div class=\"c-globalToc_title\"><span class=\"c-globalToc_titleText\">Table of Contents<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul class=\"c-globalToc_dropdown g-dropShadow-hover\">\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        6 Continuous Glucose Monitors That Are Doctor-Recommended\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best continuous glucose monitors of 2026\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best continuous glucose monitor for pairing with phones or Apple Watch\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best over-the-counter continuos glucose monitor\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best stand-alone continuous glucose monitor\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best long-term continuous glucose monitor\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Lingo by Abbott\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best continuous glucose monitor for data tracking\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        How we choose continuous glucose monitors\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Why buy a continuous glucose monitor?\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Factors to consider when buying a continuous glucose monitor\n      <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<p data-keep class=\"u-speakableText-p2\">You&#8217;ll get real-time readings to help you understand how certain foods, activity and medication affect your glucose levels. There are FDA-approved glucose monitors, such as\u00a0the <span><span>Dexcom Stelo Glucose Biosensor System<\/span><\/span>. But not all are created equal. To help you find the right CGM, we spoke to doctors and researched the most popular models. If you have serious health concerns about your glucose levels, it&#8217;s important to seek guidance from your medical provider first before wearing a glucose monitor. <\/p>\n<h2 id=\"481a8ca8-cca0-4747-96c3-83e90c186f5b\" data-ng-block=\"{\" data-keep data-id=\"481a8ca8-cca0-4747-96c3-83e90c186f5b\">Best continuous glucose monitors of 2026<\/h2>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"97ced037-4994-4088-a6dc-7ab50640c523\" data-id=\"listicle-97ced037-4994-4088-a6dc-7ab50640c523\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A Dexcom G6 wireless continuous glucose monitor with a smartphone showing a reading in its app\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Dexcom<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/a135edd05bc1402d33dadaa926eb2accc4f234ff\/hub\/2021\/05\/03\/a024f07b-5599-4200-ae42-c640f8f95b16\/dexcom.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Dexcom<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"97ced037-4994-4088-a6dc-7ab50640c523\" data-id=\"97ced037-4994-4088-a6dc-7ab50640c523\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best continuous glucose monitor for pairing with phones or Apple Watch<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Dexcom G6<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Real-time tracking, shareable with up to 10 people\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Customizable alerts\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Discrete sensor\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Short sensor life\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>Editor&#8217;s note, June 25, 2024:<\/strong> Since this article was first published, Dexcom has launched the G7. This sensor is smaller than the G6 and has an improved alert system, along with a few other differences.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I find continuous glucose monitoring to be a valuable tool in the management of both type 1 and 2 diabetes,&#8221; said Dr. Josh Emdur, medical director of SteadyMD. &#8220;CGM data provides actionable insight to help patients track their glycemic response to dietary choices and activity levels.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>The Dexcom G6 doesn&#8217;t require you to manually scan to get a glucose reading; instead, you get a wireless reading on a dedicated receiver device or on your phone or Apple Watch. The Dexcom G6 CGMs measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid just under the skin every five minutes, keeping track of your blood sugar level as long as you&#8217;re wearing it night and day. You can set a custom range for where you&#8217;d like your blood sugar to be, and if it falls into the low or high ranges you set, you will be notified.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;For patients on an insulin pump, the Dexcom G6 may connect with your pump and offer a closed-loop system to turn off your insulin if you are going low. The Dexcom monitor is also approved in pregnancy and offers continuous monitoring that you can see on your phone at all times,&#8221; said Dr. Rebecca Fenichel, an endocrinologist at\u00a0Westmed Medical Group. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>See at Dexcom\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"f4fdde64-e322-4705-809a-05e2235efa60\" data-id=\"listicle-f4fdde64-e322-4705-809a-05e2235efa60\" data-techprodid=\"7785b5c0-e5f7-4dc4-82ab-5617137d253b\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A Stelo sensor in a box next to an applicator\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Jessica Rendall\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/606e9606e391628608f857436514d862b7f2b45e\/hub\/2024\/09\/23\/ca929ef3-6c4c-4ef6-b009-bc1ceb6c4ed7\/img-7867.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Jessica Rendall\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"f4fdde64-e322-4705-809a-05e2235efa60\" data-id=\"f4fdde64-e322-4705-809a-05e2235efa60\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best over-the-counter continuos glucose monitor<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Stelo by Dexcom<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No prescription required\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Real-time glucose tracking\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Painless application\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  HSA\/FSA eligible\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Not intended for insulin-dependent users\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p>Stelo was the first over-the-counter CGM available in the US when it received FDA approval in 2024. The small sensor sits on the back of your arm and tracks your glucose levels 24\/7. You can view your glucose levels within the app, and if you have an Oura ring, it pairs seamlessly. Levels are also viewable within the Oura app. Each sensor lasts up to 15 days, it&#8217;s pretty low maintenance, and it&#8217;s an easy way to see how your stress, meals and daily habits influence your glucose levels. One pack of two will cost you $99 (lasts about a month), but if you subscribe, that price will drop to $89 a month. The pack comes with everything you need: the sensors, applicator and overpatch to secure the sensor in place. <\/p>\n<p>Over the two weeks I tested the Stelo, I noticed which habits (like taking a walk after dinner) affected my blood sugar the most. I find this tool helpful for those curious about their overall health, and probably not for those with a diabetes diagnosis, as it doesn&#8217;t send safety alarms when your glucose levels are too high or too low. If you have a diagnosis and would like to try Stelo, I recommend speaking with your doctor to ensure it will provide the insights and alerts you need. Of the two OTC CGMs on this list (the other one is Lingo), our staff preferred the Stelo CGM.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$100 at Amazon<br \/>\n      $99 at Dexcom\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"b84292d0-dac2-4f1b-9450-0b98d72a2e28\" data-id=\"listicle-b84292d0-dac2-4f1b-9450-0b98d72a2e28\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Freestyle Libre 3 Plus\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Abbott<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/e592d9e788c9efc164f0bb37dd81287e66ce5b7c\/hub\/2026\/02\/02\/b851e3af-c681-4cff-b5e1-4c7e9b6c219e\/screenshot-2026-02-02-at-3-59-59pm.png?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Abbott<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"b84292d0-dac2-4f1b-9450-0b98d72a2e28\" data-id=\"b84292d0-dac2-4f1b-9450-0b98d72a2e28\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best stand-alone continuous glucose monitor<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Abbott Freestyle Libre 3 Plus<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Affordable and easy to find\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Optional blood sugar alarms\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Small sensor\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  The self-injector can be finicky and cause missplacements\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>Editor&#8217;s note, Feb. 4, 2026: <\/strong>Certain FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors have been recalled due to incorrect glucose readings. To find out whether your sensor is included in the recall and what to do, read the FDA&#8217;s recall alert.<\/p>\n<p>The Freestyle Libre 2 was previously on this list and\u00a0recommended by Dr. Nate Favini. &#8220;For people who are interested in deeper insights into their glucose levels, I&#8217;ll often recommend the Freestyle Libre for continuous glucose monitoring,&#8221; Favini said.<\/p>\n<p>Since then, the device has been updated to the Freestyle Libre 3 Plus (previous models will be\u00a0discontinued). It essentially works the same way as its predecessor: you place the sensor on your arm and can track your glucose levels throughout the day. The biggest differences between the Freestyle Libre 2 and 3 are that the newest model lasts 15 days (versus 14 days on the 2) and the size of the sensor (the 3 is smaller and thinner). Another new feature of the Libre 3 Plus is that this sensor is compatible with automated insulin delivery systems (also known as pumps), and Abbott has\u00a0partnerships\u00a0with most major pump partners.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>See website at GoodRx\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"1512a6c0-0f03-4ff4-92f8-40e6eec20c06\" data-id=\"listicle-1512a6c0-0f03-4ff4-92f8-40e6eec20c06\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The Eversense 365 continuous glucose monitor, app on smartphone, app on smartwatch, and sensor over a white background.\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Eversense<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/10fd9bbc6e93d4d8f2c5aa6604599075f99c27b2\/hub\/2025\/01\/09\/02fafce8-a0da-4dea-8ee7-60a4252a583d\/eversense-product-365.png?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Eversense<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"1512a6c0-0f03-4ff4-92f8-40e6eec20c06\" data-id=\"1512a6c0-0f03-4ff4-92f8-40e6eec20c06\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best long-term continuous glucose monitor<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Eversense 365<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Very long sensor life\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Easy-to-use app\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Customizable alerts\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Requires insertion by a health professional\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Requires frequent calibrations\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p>If you want a device that you can set up and don&#8217;t have to worry about reinserting for an entire year, Eversense 365 is a great option for diabetes management. A health care provider will insert the sensor and then you place the transmitter above that.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Once the sensor is in place, you don&#8217;t have to change it out for about 12 months, a long sensor life. The transmitter itself can alert you if your blood sugar is too high or low, and you can also have wireless readings sent to your phone via an app. You can share your blood glucose data from your app with your doctor or anyone else who wants to check your blood sugar readings.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>See website at Ascensia\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"de3ff1cb-64fc-48a8-8f28-f3320c0e3972\" data-id=\"listicle-de3ff1cb-64fc-48a8-8f28-f3320c0e3972\" data-techprodid=\"69945b14-1dc9-4c2f-8bda-866e8e9a6bcc\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A Lingo box with an applicator and a sensor\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Jessica Rendall\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/a964294f247d598dcd5ce67c90e56d7e00b1aa23\/hub\/2024\/11\/15\/c7623387-37a6-4405-9c8e-d311245ae586\/img-8106.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Jessica Rendall\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Lingo by Abbott<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Affordable entry price (two weeks)\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Gamified, user-friendly app\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Water-resistant design\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Great for habit tracking\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  About 20% of sensors may not last the full 14 days\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p>Lingo is one of the two over-the-counter continous glucose monitors we tested on this list. Like the Stelo, Lingo is worn on the back of the upper arm and you can view your glucose data within the Lingo app, where it&#8217;s translated into an easy-to-read chart. The app also includes habit-building challenges and progress tracking, making glucose monitoring feel more like a game than a chore. The Lingo app is available for iPhone and Android users.<\/p>\n<p>What I appreciated most was how lightweight and low-maintenance the sensor is. It&#8217;s pretty sleek, and you don&#8217;t have to worry about carrying a reader. I do recommend buying an overpatch as this sensor doesn&#8217;t come with one and the first time I tested I accidentally yanked it off while dressing myself. An overpatch will ensure the device stays securely on your arm. <\/p>\n<p>A single sensor costs $49 (lasts up to 14 days), a two-sensor pack costs $89 (about a month&#8217;s supply), and buying in bulk (six sensors for 12 weeks) will save you the most money at $249. Lingo is also the only OTC CGM available in brick-and-mortar stores in the United States.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$44 at Amazon<br \/>\n      $54 at Lingo\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"676300ef-f395-4560-bdaa-2ebed593f55d\" data-id=\"listicle-676300ef-f395-4560-bdaa-2ebed593f55d\" data-techprodid=\"b55789c3-54e8-42f4-b103-fa78ef6ecac2\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Guardian Connect blood glucose monitoring system\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Medtronic Diabetes<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/e1721e456ee3525dfe67c098b9467a235bc3f2cb\/hub\/2021\/04\/29\/f6cdd997-3f92-4c91-8752-b6f188b1fd22\/cnet-image-size-listicle-42.png?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Medtronic Diabetes<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"676300ef-f395-4560-bdaa-2ebed593f55d\" data-id=\"676300ef-f395-4560-bdaa-2ebed593f55d\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best continuous glucose monitor for data tracking<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    The Guardian Connect System<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Predictive alerts\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Stand-alone system\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Past data up to 24 hours\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Requires calibration every 12 hours\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p>The Guardian Connect System is a CGM that can tell you your current glucose readings quickly via a connected app and also lets you easily access trends and data about your blood sugar over time. One feature that stands out with the Guardian is the &#8220;predictive&#8221; alerts you can get about your sugar. Unlike other CGM systems that alert you when your sugar is already high or low, the Guardian uses technology that predicts when your blood sugar might get high or low before it happens. Another feature that comes with the monitor is the Sugar.IQ diabetes assistant app for diabetes management, which uses your data to help you figure out what diet, exercise and insulin works best for you.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>\n<div data-v-0ea4bff7>\n        $25 at Amazon\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"a9097fad-6320-4bd7-a855-53db7fafae07\" data-id=\"a9097fad-6320-4bd7-a855-53db7fafae07\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">How we choose continuous glucose monitors<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<p>When choosing continuous glucose monitors for this list, we look at which models were previously recommended by doctors. We also aim to include a CGM with a longer-lasting sensor life and models that are popular choices for people with diabetes. The only two sensors tested on this list are Stelo and Lingo, which are also the only two over-the-counter CGMs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"899f93f4-3633-43c3-9048-e769789e3e99\" data-id=\"899f93f4-3633-43c3-9048-e769789e3e99\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Why buy a continuous glucose monitor?<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<p>&#8220;Continuous glucose monitors offer more intensive monitoring of a diabetic patient&#8217;s sugar levels,&#8221; Fenichel said. &#8220;They are particularly well suited to patients who have to check multiple times a day or to patients who want to get more frequent feedback during the day.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>While anyone can buy a regular blood glucose meter, you&#8217;ll need a prescription from your doctor for a CGM system. Doctors may recommend a continuous blood glucose monitoring device for reasons tied to your unique health circumstances and lifestyle, to track your glucose trends and keep on top of your insulin levels, but a CGM device may not work for everyone&#8217;s unique diabetes care plan.<\/p>\n<p>CGM devices can also give you and your doctor more information about blood sugar levels than a standard meter &#8212; like if your blood sugar begins to drop too low, the device can warn you about your dropping blood glucose levels, &#8220;which can be a very helpful feature in helping patients avoid hypoglycemia,&#8221; Fenichel said. &#8220;They can tell you not only what your current sugar level is but also whether it is on the way up or on the way down.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"62ec9ba2-2836-449d-9a20-0fb5e3337519\" data-id=\"62ec9ba2-2836-449d-9a20-0fb5e3337519\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Factors to consider when buying a continuous glucose monitor<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<p>Here are some things to take into account when shopping for continuous glucose monitors:<\/p>\n<ul data-ng-block=\"{\">\n<li><strong>Scan frequency<\/strong>: Real-time CGMs continuously scan your glucose levels and automatically transmit the data to your phone or receiver, sending regular alerts about your blood sugar. By contrast, with intermittent-scan CGMs, you have to scan them with your phone or receiver to see the data. Some CGMs also measure your glucose more frequently than others.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Connectivity:<\/strong> Consider whether you want to connect the CGM to your smartphone or to a receiver. If you&#8217;re using a phone, look closely at the app and whether it&#8217;s easy to use or offers special features.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Test type:<\/strong> Consider where on your body the CGM&#8217;s sensor will be placed, how it&#8217;s inserted, and how often it will have to be replaced.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li><strong>Insurance coverage: <\/strong>Check whether the CGMs you&#8217;re interested in are covered by your insurance, and how much the parts will cost to maintain and replace over time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq g-container-rounded-small\">\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_header\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_header\">\n<h2 id=\"16f7445a-9e12-40c8-9253-6807041f1095\" data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_title\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_title\">\n      Continuous glucose monitor FAQs<br \/>\n    <\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_sections\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_sections\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question g-border-thin-light-top\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<h3 data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question-header\">\n      Can I get a continuous glucose monitor without a doctor?<br \/>\n    <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Yes, there are two continuous glucose monitors that are available without a prescription. You can also get a regular glucose monitor without a doctor. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question g-border-thin-light-top\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<h3 data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question-header\">\n      Is continuous glucose monitoring covered by insurance?<br \/>\n    <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Many insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, will cover a continuous glucose monitor, although they may require prior authorization.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question g-border-thin-light-top\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<h3 data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question-header\">\n      Which CGM is the cheapest?<br \/>\n    <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>The Abbott Freestyle Libre 2 sells for just $103. The cheapest way to get a continuous glucose monitor is to go through your insurance, Medicaid or Medicare; you could potentially get one for free.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question g-border-thin-light-top\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<h3 data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question-header\">\n      Where should I wear my continuous glucose monitor?<br \/>\n    <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>It\u2019s recommended to wear your CGM on the back of your upper arm. Some models allow placement on other areas, like the thigh, but always check the manufacturer\u2019s instructions. Avoid placing it on scars or other skin irregularities.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<article class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default sm:u-col-2 md:u-col-6 lg:u-col-8 lg:u-col-start-5\">\n<p data-keep class=\"u-speakableText-p1\">Glucose monitoring has come a long way since pricking your finger every day. Now there are continuous glucose monitors, which are worn on your arm. These monitors connect to an app on your <span><span>smartphone<\/span><\/span> or\u00a0<span><span>Apple Watch<\/span><\/span>, and let you check your blood sugar throughout the day.<\/p>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"listiclePrecap\" data-location=\"PRECAP\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-hide c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-compact g-outer-spacing-bottom-large\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap-hed\">\n<section>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_header\"> Our Picks <\/h2>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"1\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/00d0270c7e7aa840219c59c7d43f751bd68c2f61\/hub\/2021\/05\/03\/a024f07b-5599-4200-ae42-c640f8f95b16\/dexcom.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"A Dexcom G6 wireless continuous glucose monitor with a smartphone showing a reading in its app\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign isFirst\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best continuous glucose monitor for pairing with phones or Apple Watch<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Dexcom G6<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">See at Dexcom<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>Editor&#8217;s note, June 25, 2024:<\/strong> Since this article was first published, Dexcom has launched the G7. This sensor is smaller than the G6 and has an improved alert system, along with a few other differences.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Real-time tracking, shareable with up to 10 people<\/li>\n<li>Customizable alerts<\/li>\n<li>Discrete sensor<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Short sensor life<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"2\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/2d965b3f74c1b91412bc2ec33b1e0c9ceaca860e\/hub\/2024\/09\/23\/ca929ef3-6c4c-4ef6-b009-bc1ceb6c4ed7\/img-7867.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"A Stelo sensor in a box next to an applicator\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best over-the-counter continuos glucose monitor<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Stelo by Dexcom<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$100 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p>Stelo was the first over-the-counter CGM available in the US when it received FDA approval in 2024. The small sensor sits on the back of your arm and tracks your glucose levels 24\/7. You can view your glucose levels within the app, and if you have an Oura ring, it pairs seamlessly. Levels are also viewable within the Oura app. Each sensor lasts up to 15 days, it&#8217;s pretty low maintenance, and it&#8217;s an easy way to see how your stress, meals and daily habits influence your glucose levels. One pack of two will cost you $99 (lasts about a month), but if you subscribe, that price will drop to $89 a month. The pack comes with everything you need: the sensors, applicator and overpatch to secure the sensor in place. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>No prescription required<\/li>\n<li>Real-time glucose tracking<\/li>\n<li>Painless application<\/li>\n<li>HSA\/FSA eligible<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels<\/li>\n<li>Not intended for insulin-dependent users<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"3\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/8d2a0594d7bef11d8f970fc0dee4e48d67aa0e85\/hub\/2026\/02\/02\/b851e3af-c681-4cff-b5e1-4c7e9b6c219e\/screenshot-2026-02-02-at-3-59-59pm.png?auto=webp&amp;format=pjpg&amp;height=500\" alt=\"Freestyle Libre 3 Plus\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best stand-alone continuous glucose monitor<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Abbott Freestyle Libre 3 Plus<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">See website at GoodRx<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p><strong>Editor&#8217;s note, Feb. 4, 2026: <\/strong>Certain FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors have been recalled due to incorrect glucose readings. To find out whether your sensor is included in the recall and what to do, read the FDA&#8217;s recall alert.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Affordable and easy to find<\/li>\n<li>Optional blood sugar alarms<\/li>\n<li>Small sensor<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>The self-injector can be finicky and cause missplacements<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"4\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/5f626a74a21c67ce6637a9f428a744d19426afba\/hub\/2025\/01\/09\/02fafce8-a0da-4dea-8ee7-60a4252a583d\/eversense-product-365.png?auto=webp&amp;format=pjpg&amp;height=500\" alt=\"The Eversense 365 continuous glucose monitor, app on smartphone, app on smartwatch, and sensor over a white background.\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best long-term continuous glucose monitor<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Eversense 365<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">See website at Ascensia<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p>If you want a device that you can set up and don&#8217;t have to worry about reinserting for an entire year, Eversense 365 is a great option for diabetes management. A health care provider will insert the sensor and then you place the transmitter above that.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Very long sensor life<\/li>\n<li>Easy-to-use app<\/li>\n<li>Customizable alerts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Requires insertion by a health professional<\/li>\n<li>Requires frequent calibrations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"5\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/09a930d7e69462346c1ded9f0ca8333e362fbf69\/hub\/2024\/11\/15\/c7623387-37a6-4405-9c8e-d311245ae586\/img-8106.jpg?auto=webp&amp;height=500\" alt=\"A Lingo box with an applicator and a sensor\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">Lingo by Abbott<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$44 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p>Lingo is one of the two over-the-counter continous glucose monitors we tested on this list. Like the Stelo, Lingo is worn on the back of the upper arm and you can view your glucose data within the Lingo app, where it&#8217;s translated into an easy-to-read chart. The app also includes habit-building challenges and progress tracking, making glucose monitoring feel more like a game than a chore. The Lingo app is available for iPhone and Android users.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Affordable entry price (two weeks)<\/li>\n<li>Gamified, user-friendly app<\/li>\n<li>Water-resistant design<\/li>\n<li>Great for habit tracking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>About 20% of sensors may not last the full 14 days<\/li>\n<li>No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_more u-hidden\">\n<section class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecap_item\">\n<div data-location=\"PRECAP\" data-cy=\"listiclePrecapItem\" data-position=\"6\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compact c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-compactImages c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem-hasProsConsSection\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_container u-grid-columns\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_headerLinkWrapper-redesign\">\n<div class=\" c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_imageWrap-redesign md:u-col-1\">\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/4cbc0ac8cdd716ccb815ceaccf4b529cd95b7dbf\/hub\/2021\/04\/29\/f6cdd997-3f92-4c91-8752-b6f188b1fd22\/cnet-image-size-listicle-42.png?auto=webp&amp;format=pjpg&amp;height=500\" alt=\"Guardian Connect blood glucose monitoring system\" class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_image-redesign\"><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_details-redesign\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_subhead g-text-bold\">Best continuous glucose monitor for data tracking<\/h2>\n<h3 class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_title g-text-xsmall\">The Guardian Connect System<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap md:u-col-2 lg:u-col-4 c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_buttonWrap-redesign\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeListiclePrecapItem_button o-cnetButton o-cnetButton-small o-cnetButton-primary\">$25 at Amazon<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-content--collapsed\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-box\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-scoreSection\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-description pro-con-desc\">\n<p>The Guardian Connect System is a CGM that can tell you your current glucose readings quickly via a connected app and also lets you easily access trends and data about your blood sugar over time. One feature that stands out with the Guardian is the &#8220;predictive&#8221; alerts you can get about your sugar. Unlike other CGM systems that alert you when your sugar is already high or low, the Guardian uses technology that predicts when your blood sugar might get high or low before it happens. Another feature that comes with the monitor is the Sugar.IQ diabetes assistant app for diabetes management, which uses your data to help you figure out what diet, exercise and insulin works best for you.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-links\"><span class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-jumplink\"><br \/>\n              Jump to details<br \/>\n              <\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-lists\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_pros\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Pros<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Predictive alerts<\/li>\n<li>Stand-alone system<\/li>\n<li>Past data up to 24 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListPrecap_cons\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListPrecap_prosCons-title\">\n              Cons<br \/>\n            <\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li>Requires calibration every 12 hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<nav class=\"c-globalToc\">\n<div class=\"c-globalToc_header\">\n<div class=\"c-globalToc_title\"><span class=\"c-globalToc_titleText\">Table of Contents<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ul class=\"c-globalToc_dropdown g-dropShadow-hover\">\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        6 Continuous Glucose Monitors That Are Doctor-Recommended\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best continuous glucose monitors of 2026\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best continuous glucose monitor for pairing with phones or Apple Watch\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best over-the-counter continuos glucose monitor\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best stand-alone continuous glucose monitor\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best long-term continuous glucose monitor\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Lingo by Abbott\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Best continuous glucose monitor for data tracking\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        How we choose continuous glucose monitors\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Why buy a continuous glucose monitor?\n      <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-globalToc_dropdownItem\">\n        Factors to consider when buying a continuous glucose monitor\n      <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<p data-keep class=\"u-speakableText-p2\">You&#8217;ll get real-time readings to help you understand how certain foods, activity and medication affect your glucose levels. There are FDA-approved glucose monitors, such as\u00a0the <span><span>Dexcom Stelo Glucose Biosensor System<\/span><\/span>. But not all are created equal. To help you find the right CGM, we spoke to doctors and researched the most popular models. If you have serious health concerns about your glucose levels, it&#8217;s important to seek guidance from your medical provider first before wearing a glucose monitor. <\/p>\n<h2 id=\"481a8ca8-cca0-4747-96c3-83e90c186f5b\" data-ng-block=\"{\" data-keep data-id=\"481a8ca8-cca0-4747-96c3-83e90c186f5b\">Best continuous glucose monitors of 2026<\/h2>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"97ced037-4994-4088-a6dc-7ab50640c523\" data-id=\"listicle-97ced037-4994-4088-a6dc-7ab50640c523\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A Dexcom G6 wireless continuous glucose monitor with a smartphone showing a reading in its app\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Dexcom<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/a135edd05bc1402d33dadaa926eb2accc4f234ff\/hub\/2021\/05\/03\/a024f07b-5599-4200-ae42-c640f8f95b16\/dexcom.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Dexcom<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"97ced037-4994-4088-a6dc-7ab50640c523\" data-id=\"97ced037-4994-4088-a6dc-7ab50640c523\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best continuous glucose monitor for pairing with phones or Apple Watch<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Dexcom G6<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Real-time tracking, shareable with up to 10 people\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Customizable alerts\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Discrete sensor\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Short sensor life\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>Editor&#8217;s note, June 25, 2024:<\/strong> Since this article was first published, Dexcom has launched the G7. This sensor is smaller than the G6 and has an improved alert system, along with a few other differences.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;I find continuous glucose monitoring to be a valuable tool in the management of both type 1 and 2 diabetes,&#8221; said Dr. Josh Emdur, medical director of SteadyMD. &#8220;CGM data provides actionable insight to help patients track their glycemic response to dietary choices and activity levels.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>The Dexcom G6 doesn&#8217;t require you to manually scan to get a glucose reading; instead, you get a wireless reading on a dedicated receiver device or on your phone or Apple Watch. The Dexcom G6 CGMs measure glucose levels in the interstitial fluid just under the skin every five minutes, keeping track of your blood sugar level as long as you&#8217;re wearing it night and day. You can set a custom range for where you&#8217;d like your blood sugar to be, and if it falls into the low or high ranges you set, you will be notified.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;For patients on an insulin pump, the Dexcom G6 may connect with your pump and offer a closed-loop system to turn off your insulin if you are going low. The Dexcom monitor is also approved in pregnancy and offers continuous monitoring that you can see on your phone at all times,&#8221; said Dr. Rebecca Fenichel, an endocrinologist at\u00a0Westmed Medical Group. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>See at Dexcom\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"f4fdde64-e322-4705-809a-05e2235efa60\" data-id=\"listicle-f4fdde64-e322-4705-809a-05e2235efa60\" data-techprodid=\"7785b5c0-e5f7-4dc4-82ab-5617137d253b\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A Stelo sensor in a box next to an applicator\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Jessica Rendall\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/606e9606e391628608f857436514d862b7f2b45e\/hub\/2024\/09\/23\/ca929ef3-6c4c-4ef6-b009-bc1ceb6c4ed7\/img-7867.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Jessica Rendall\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"f4fdde64-e322-4705-809a-05e2235efa60\" data-id=\"f4fdde64-e322-4705-809a-05e2235efa60\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best over-the-counter continuos glucose monitor<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Stelo by Dexcom<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No prescription required\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Real-time glucose tracking\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Painless application\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  HSA\/FSA eligible\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Not intended for insulin-dependent users\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p>Stelo was the first over-the-counter CGM available in the US when it received FDA approval in 2024. The small sensor sits on the back of your arm and tracks your glucose levels 24\/7. You can view your glucose levels within the app, and if you have an Oura ring, it pairs seamlessly. Levels are also viewable within the Oura app. Each sensor lasts up to 15 days, it&#8217;s pretty low maintenance, and it&#8217;s an easy way to see how your stress, meals and daily habits influence your glucose levels. One pack of two will cost you $99 (lasts about a month), but if you subscribe, that price will drop to $89 a month. The pack comes with everything you need: the sensors, applicator and overpatch to secure the sensor in place. <\/p>\n<p>Over the two weeks I tested the Stelo, I noticed which habits (like taking a walk after dinner) affected my blood sugar the most. I find this tool helpful for those curious about their overall health, and probably not for those with a diabetes diagnosis, as it doesn&#8217;t send safety alarms when your glucose levels are too high or too low. If you have a diagnosis and would like to try Stelo, I recommend speaking with your doctor to ensure it will provide the insights and alerts you need. Of the two OTC CGMs on this list (the other one is Lingo), our staff preferred the Stelo CGM.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$100 at Amazon<br \/>\n      $99 at Dexcom\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"b84292d0-dac2-4f1b-9450-0b98d72a2e28\" data-id=\"listicle-b84292d0-dac2-4f1b-9450-0b98d72a2e28\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Freestyle Libre 3 Plus\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Abbott<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/e592d9e788c9efc164f0bb37dd81287e66ce5b7c\/hub\/2026\/02\/02\/b851e3af-c681-4cff-b5e1-4c7e9b6c219e\/screenshot-2026-02-02-at-3-59-59pm.png?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Abbott<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"b84292d0-dac2-4f1b-9450-0b98d72a2e28\" data-id=\"b84292d0-dac2-4f1b-9450-0b98d72a2e28\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best stand-alone continuous glucose monitor<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Abbott Freestyle Libre 3 Plus<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Affordable and easy to find\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Optional blood sugar alarms\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Small sensor\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  The self-injector can be finicky and cause missplacements\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p><strong>Editor&#8217;s note, Feb. 4, 2026: <\/strong>Certain FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors have been recalled due to incorrect glucose readings. To find out whether your sensor is included in the recall and what to do, read the FDA&#8217;s recall alert.<\/p>\n<p>The Freestyle Libre 2 was previously on this list and\u00a0recommended by Dr. Nate Favini. &#8220;For people who are interested in deeper insights into their glucose levels, I&#8217;ll often recommend the Freestyle Libre for continuous glucose monitoring,&#8221; Favini said.<\/p>\n<p>Since then, the device has been updated to the Freestyle Libre 3 Plus (previous models will be\u00a0discontinued). It essentially works the same way as its predecessor: you place the sensor on your arm and can track your glucose levels throughout the day. The biggest differences between the Freestyle Libre 2 and 3 are that the newest model lasts 15 days (versus 14 days on the 2) and the size of the sensor (the 3 is smaller and thinner). Another new feature of the Libre 3 Plus is that this sensor is compatible with automated insulin delivery systems (also known as pumps), and Abbott has\u00a0partnerships\u00a0with most major pump partners.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>See website at GoodRx\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"1512a6c0-0f03-4ff4-92f8-40e6eec20c06\" data-id=\"listicle-1512a6c0-0f03-4ff4-92f8-40e6eec20c06\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"The Eversense 365 continuous glucose monitor, app on smartphone, app on smartwatch, and sensor over a white background.\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Eversense<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/10fd9bbc6e93d4d8f2c5aa6604599075f99c27b2\/hub\/2025\/01\/09\/02fafce8-a0da-4dea-8ee7-60a4252a583d\/eversense-product-365.png?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Eversense<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"1512a6c0-0f03-4ff4-92f8-40e6eec20c06\" data-id=\"1512a6c0-0f03-4ff4-92f8-40e6eec20c06\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best long-term continuous glucose monitor<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Eversense 365<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Very long sensor life\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Easy-to-use app\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Customizable alerts\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Requires insertion by a health professional\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Requires frequent calibrations\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p>If you want a device that you can set up and don&#8217;t have to worry about reinserting for an entire year, Eversense 365 is a great option for diabetes management. A health care provider will insert the sensor and then you place the transmitter above that.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Once the sensor is in place, you don&#8217;t have to change it out for about 12 months, a long sensor life. The transmitter itself can alert you if your blood sugar is too high or low, and you can also have wireless readings sent to your phone via an app. You can share your blood glucose data from your app with your doctor or anyone else who wants to check your blood sugar readings.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>See website at Ascensia\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"de3ff1cb-64fc-48a8-8f28-f3320c0e3972\" data-id=\"listicle-de3ff1cb-64fc-48a8-8f28-f3320c0e3972\" data-techprodid=\"69945b14-1dc9-4c2f-8bda-866e8e9a6bcc\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"A Lingo box with an applicator and a sensor\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Jessica Rendall\/CNET<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/a964294f247d598dcd5ce67c90e56d7e00b1aa23\/hub\/2024\/11\/15\/c7623387-37a6-4405-9c8e-d311245ae586\/img-8106.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Jessica Rendall\/CNET<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    Lingo by Abbott<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Affordable entry price (two weeks)\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Gamified, user-friendly app\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Water-resistant design\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Great for habit tracking\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  About 20% of sensors may not last the full 14 days\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p>Lingo is one of the two over-the-counter continous glucose monitors we tested on this list. Like the Stelo, Lingo is worn on the back of the upper arm and you can view your glucose data within the Lingo app, where it&#8217;s translated into an easy-to-read chart. The app also includes habit-building challenges and progress tracking, making glucose monitoring feel more like a game than a chore. The Lingo app is available for iPhone and Android users.<\/p>\n<p>What I appreciated most was how lightweight and low-maintenance the sensor is. It&#8217;s pretty sleek, and you don&#8217;t have to worry about carrying a reader. I do recommend buying an overpatch as this sensor doesn&#8217;t come with one and the first time I tested I accidentally yanked it off while dressing myself. An overpatch will ensure the device stays securely on your arm. <\/p>\n<p>A single sensor costs $49 (lasts up to 14 days), a two-sensor pack costs $89 (about a month&#8217;s supply), and buying in bulk (six sensors for 12 weeks) will save you the most money at $249. Lingo is also the only OTC CGM available in brick-and-mortar stores in the United States.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>$44 at Amazon<br \/>\n      $54 at Lingo\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"c-bestListListicle\">\n<div id=\"676300ef-f395-4560-bdaa-2ebed593f55d\" data-id=\"listicle-676300ef-f395-4560-bdaa-2ebed593f55d\" data-techprodid=\"b55789c3-54e8-42f4-b103-fa78ef6ecac2\" data-cy=\"bestListListicle\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_container\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-column\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_editorial\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_masthead u-flexbox\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery c-bestListListicle_gallery c-bestListGallery-bestListListicle-test\">\n<figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_carousel\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-bestListGallery_image\"><img src alt=\"Guardian Connect blood glucose monitoring system\" height=\"306\" width=\"327\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<div class=\"c-bestListGallery_info u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-top-xsmall g-outer-spacing-bottom-xsmall\"><figcaption><span class=\"c-bestListGallery_credits\">Medtronic Diabetes<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<div class=\"c-globalModal\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_contentWrapper\">\n<div class=\"c-globalModal_content c-globalImageCarousel c-globalModal_listicleRedesign\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\"><span class=\"g-color-white\">Photo Gallery<\/span><span class=\"g-color-white\">1\/1<\/span><\/div>\n<figure class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_figure\">\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_carousel g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<div class=\"c-cmsImage c-globalImageCarousel_image\"><source media=\"(max-width: 767px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/e1721e456ee3525dfe67c098b9467a235bc3f2cb\/hub\/2021\/04\/29\/f6cdd997-3f92-4c91-8752-b6f188b1fd22\/cnet-image-size-listicle-42.png?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=236&amp;width=420\" alt=\"\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption>\n<div class=\"c-globalImageCarousel_credits g-color-black g-text-xxsmall\">Medtronic Diabetes<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_headerContainer u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-column\">\n<h2 id=\"676300ef-f395-4560-bdaa-2ebed593f55d\" data-id=\"676300ef-f395-4560-bdaa-2ebed593f55d\" class=\"c-bestListListicle_subhed\">\n                  Best continuous glucose monitor for data tracking<br \/>\n                <\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_header\">\n<h3 class=\"c-bestListListicle_hed\">\n                    The Guardian Connect System<br \/>\n                  <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_details\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_prosCons u-grid\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_pros\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Pros<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Predictive alerts\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Stand-alone system\n                <\/li>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Past data up to 24 hours\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListicle_cons\">\n<div class=\"u-flexbox-row u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-small\">\n<h4 class=\"c-bestListListicle_attribute g-text-bold\">Cons<\/h4>\n<\/div>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"c-bestListListicle_value\">\n                  Requires calibration every 12 hours\n                <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_descriptionContainer\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_description c-bestListListicle_description-clamp\">\n<p>The Guardian Connect System is a CGM that can tell you your current glucose readings quickly via a connected app and also lets you easily access trends and data about your blood sugar over time. One feature that stands out with the Guardian is the &#8220;predictive&#8221; alerts you can get about your sugar. Unlike other CGM systems that alert you when your sugar is already high or low, the Guardian uses technology that predicts when your blood sugar might get high or low before it happens. Another feature that comes with the monitor is the Sugar.IQ diabetes assistant app for diabetes management, which uses your data to help you figure out what diet, exercise and insulin works best for you.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore\">\n<div><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-ellipsis\">\u00a0&#8230;<\/span><span class=\"c-bestListListicle_readMore-link\">Show more<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"bestListListicle_cta\" class=\"c-bestListButtons c-bestListListicle_buttonWrap\">\n<div class=\"c-bestListButtons_ctaText o-cta\">Get it now<\/div>\n<div data-location=\"BODY\" class=\"c-shortcodeListicle_buttonContainer u-flexbox c-bestListButtons_link u-flexbox-wrap\" data-v-0ea4bff7>\n<div data-v-0ea4bff7>\n        $25 at Amazon\n      <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"a9097fad-6320-4bd7-a855-53db7fafae07\" data-id=\"a9097fad-6320-4bd7-a855-53db7fafae07\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">How we choose continuous glucose monitors<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<p>When choosing continuous glucose monitors for this list, we look at which models were previously recommended by doctors. We also aim to include a CGM with a longer-lasting sensor life and models that are popular choices for people with diabetes. The only two sensors tested on this list are Stelo and Lingo, which are also the only two over-the-counter CGMs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"899f93f4-3633-43c3-9048-e769789e3e99\" data-id=\"899f93f4-3633-43c3-9048-e769789e3e99\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Why buy a continuous glucose monitor?<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<p>&#8220;Continuous glucose monitors offer more intensive monitoring of a diabetic patient&#8217;s sugar levels,&#8221; Fenichel said. &#8220;They are particularly well suited to patients who have to check multiple times a day or to patients who want to get more frequent feedback during the day.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>While anyone can buy a regular blood glucose meter, you&#8217;ll need a prescription from your doctor for a CGM system. Doctors may recommend a continuous blood glucose monitoring device for reasons tied to your unique health circumstances and lifestyle, to track your glucose trends and keep on top of your insulin levels, but a CGM device may not work for everyone&#8217;s unique diabetes care plan.<\/p>\n<p>CGM devices can also give you and your doctor more information about blood sugar levels than a standard meter &#8212; like if your blood sugar begins to drop too low, the device can warn you about your dropping blood glucose levels, &#8220;which can be a very helpful feature in helping patients avoid hypoglycemia,&#8221; Fenichel said. &#8220;They can tell you not only what your current sugar level is but also whether it is on the way up or on the way down.&#8221;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCard\" class=\"c-infoCard g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard-izeBestList\">\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardHeader\" class=\"c-infoCard_header u-flexbox u-flexbox-justifyBetween u-flexbox-alignCenter g-outer-spacing-bottom-large c-infoCard_header-noToggle\">\n<h2 id=\"62ec9ba2-2836-449d-9a20-0fb5e3337519\" data-id=\"62ec9ba2-2836-449d-9a20-0fb5e3337519\" class=\"c-infoCard_hed g-color-primary\">Factors to consider when buying a continuous glucose monitor<\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"infoCardDek\" class=\"c-infoCard_dek\">\n<div class=\"c-ShortcodeContent c-ShortcodeContent-theme:default\">\n<p>Here are some things to take into account when shopping for continuous glucose monitors:<\/p>\n<ul data-ng-block=\"{\">\n<li><strong>Scan frequency<\/strong>: Real-time CGMs continuously scan your glucose levels and automatically transmit the data to your phone or receiver, sending regular alerts about your blood sugar. By contrast, with intermittent-scan CGMs, you have to scan them with your phone or receiver to see the data. Some CGMs also measure your glucose more frequently than others.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Connectivity:<\/strong> Consider whether you want to connect the CGM to your smartphone or to a receiver. If you&#8217;re using a phone, look closely at the app and whether it&#8217;s easy to use or offers special features.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Test type:<\/strong> Consider where on your body the CGM&#8217;s sensor will be placed, how it&#8217;s inserted, and how often it will have to be replaced.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li><strong>Insurance coverage: <\/strong>Check whether the CGMs you&#8217;re interested in are covered by your insurance, and how much the parts will cost to maintain and replace over time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq g-container-rounded-small\">\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_header\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_header\">\n<h2 id=\"16f7445a-9e12-40c8-9253-6807041f1095\" data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_title\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_title\">\n      Continuous glucose monitor FAQs<br \/>\n    <\/h2>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_sections\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaq_sections\">\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question g-border-thin-light-top\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<h3 data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question-header\">\n      Can I get a continuous glucose monitor without a doctor?<br \/>\n    <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Yes, there are two continuous glucose monitors that are available without a prescription. You can also get a regular glucose monitor without a doctor. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question g-border-thin-light-top\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<h3 data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question-header\">\n      Is continuous glucose monitoring covered by insurance?<br \/>\n    <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>Many insurance plans, including Medicaid and Medicare, will cover a continuous glucose monitor, although they may require prior authorization.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question g-border-thin-light-top\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<h3 data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question-header\">\n      Which CGM is the cheapest?<br \/>\n    <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>The Abbott Freestyle Libre 2 sells for just $103. The cheapest way to get a continuous glucose monitor is to go through your insurance, Medicaid or Medicare; you could potentially get one for free.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion c-shortcodeFaq_question g-border-thin-light-top\">\n<div role=\"button\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_header\">\n<h3 data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_questionCollapse\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question g-text-bold c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_question-header\">\n      Where should I wear my continuous glucose monitor?<br \/>\n    <\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div data-cy=\"shortcodeFaq_answer\" class=\"c-shortcodeFaqQuestion_answer\">\n<p>It\u2019s recommended to wear your CGM on the back of your upper arm. Some models allow placement on other areas, like the thigh, but always check the manufacturer\u2019s instructions. Avoid placing it on scars or other skin irregularities.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;http:\/\/cnet.com\/health\/medical\/best-continuous-glucose-monitors-doctor-approved\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cnet.com\/a\/img\/resize\/1e865c3dd18ca45d23fc80cd842faa7b10c794b8\/hub\/2026\/05\/27\/3be0541a-9664-41ad-92b7-d072f186424f\/shutterstock-2363504053.jpg?auto=webp&amp;fit=crop&amp;height=675&amp;width=1200&#8243;] Our Experts Written by\u00a0 Mercey Livingston Written by\u00a0 Nasha Addarich Mart\u00ednez Article updated on\u00a0May 28, 2026 at 3:00 PM PDT Mercey LivingstonCNET Contributor Mercey Livingston is a health and wellness writer and certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. She&#8217;s written about fitness and wellness for Well+Good, Women&#8217;s Health, Business Insider, and Prevention.com among [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[67,226],"class_list":["post-1960919","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-cnet-com","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1960919","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1960919"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1960919\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1960919"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1960919"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1960919"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}