Best Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs)—Top Devices Compared

In the past few years, there have been many new developments in continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), both in terms of technology and ease of use. As of 2024, there are four major players we think are worth your consideration.

How did we review the top CGMs

There are a few things we considered when classifying the best glucose monitors in this list. These factors include:

• Accuracy
• Ease of use
• Accessibility
• We did not add the latest glucose biosensors and OTC options to this list: they’re deserving of their own!

The first, of course, is accuracy. Luckily, each of these CGM devices is comparably accurate. When it comes to ease of use, the software used by a CGM is important. We believe that the most important aspect of a CGM app is the ability to generate information that is easy to understand—and easy to access. Data that is easy to access and interpret is more accessible, allowing anyone to gain deeper insight into their health and use this information to make healthier lifestyle choices.

Since there are only a handful of available CGM systems, we haven’t had to use any “tie-breaker” criteria, but as time passes and technology progresses, we'll share any new updates.

Comparing your CGM options

You’ve spent the last hour with multiple tabs open, trying to sort out the differences between CGM devices. One lasts 10 days, another 14. One requires scanning, while the other sends data automatically. You just want a clear path to understanding your body’s responses, not a confusing tech decision. 

You need to know which option best fits your life and provides the insights to finally move forward. And, you need a good app to pair your device with! As one of our users shares: “They recommended using Nutrisense mostly because the app is so great and it gives you such good data, feedback, and information on what you're seeing from that continuous glucose monitor.”

Which CGMs made our list

So, with several CGM devices on the market, which continuous glucose monitor should you choose? 

1) Best for overall function: Dexcom G6 and G7

Dexcom had its first-generation product approved by the FDA in 2006 and has continued to iterate and innovate since then. Their latest products, the G6 (and more recently, the G7), measure glucose in interstitial fluid and have a high level of accuracy. You can wear the sensor on your belly or arm and replace it every 10 days.

 24/7 data and alerts

What makes this our top pick is the fact that you don’t need to “wand” over the monitor to update your phone. What this means is that you will get a steady stream of glucose data from the CGM without having to do anything yourself. This allows for 24/7 alerts, such as a dangerously low glucose value.

Phone compatibility

Yes, and it offers great compatibility with other glucose monitoring apps and regulating devices in general. Plus, if you join a program like Nutrisense, you can dive deeper into your data with their bring your own sensor plans, depending on device compatibility.

App compatibility

Yes, and the FDA has approved them to alter the level of insulin administered by a wirelessly connected insulin pump.

2) Best for overall value: Abbott FreeStyle Libre Sensors

The FreeStyle Libre CGMs are easy systems to use on our list, but you may have to scan some of the CGMs with your smartphone to activate them (and depending on the model, some older versions may require regular scanning). The device itself is about the diameter of a quarter, so it doesn’t take up much space on your arm.

Scan behavior

Once you have the CGM on your arm and activated, the device lasts for two weeks. If you don’t mind the extra step of physically scanning the device to activate, and are looking for a small, convenient device, this is a good CGM to pick.

Mobile support

Yes, but only with compatible iPhone and Android models. It can also be paired with the FreeStyle LibreLink app, which was designed by Abbott. Plus, if you join a program like Nutrisense, you can dive deeper into your data with their bring your own sensor plans (depending on device compatibility) in the Nutrisense App.

App compatibility

Yes, there are third-party glucose monitoring apps, such as the Nutrisense app, that can compile and chart the data from your CGM readings using a connected mobile device.

Libre 3 Plus availability

The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus is Abbott’s latest sensor, which now lasts for up to 15 days. The Libre 3 Plus is said to be the world's smallest CGM and most discreet sensor on the market. Abbott is transitioning users from Libre 3 to Libre 3 Plus through 2025.

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3) Best for adaptive technology—Medtronic Smart MDI

The Smart MDI brings together Medtronic’s Simplera CGM, the InPen smart insulin pen, and the optional i-Port Advance injection port. The system tracks glucose and insulin to deliver personalized dosing guidance based on 24/7 data. 

Simplera provides readings every five minutes with a simple two-step insertion. The sensor measures glucose in interstitial fluid and is indicated for up to 6 days of wear with a 24-hour grace period for flexible changes.

Adaptive dosing without a pump 

Rather than connecting to a pump, Smart MDI focuses on adaptive dosing for people on injections. The InPen app combines your insulin and CGM data to surface trends, send alerts for highs and lows, and provide personalized recommendations. You get some pump-like advantages while keeping the freedom of MDI.

Mobile support 

Yes. You’ll use the InPen app and the Simplera app. Both are available for iOS and Android. Device and OS compatibility vary by model. 

App compatibility 

Yes, Smart MDI relies on the InPen app, which integrates directly with Simplera CGM, so 24/7 glucose readings appear in InPen. The InPen app can also display Dexcom G6 or G7 data on iOS and Android with an approximate 3-hour delay. You can sync reports to CareLink to share with your care team. Beyond these options, third-party app support is limited.

4) Best for low-maintenance monitoring: Senseonics Eversense 

Unlike the other CGMs on this list, the Senseonics Eversense is a subcutaneous device, which means it sits underneath the skin, similar to a skin implant. As a result, you can’t activate or replace it on your own and need the assistance of a physician.

Once active, however, it monitors interstitial fluid, just like the other devices. The device only needs to be replaced every 180 days as opposed to every seven to 14 days.

Long wear interval

A significant advantage of this CGM is that it does not need to be replaced as frequently as the other devices on the market do. If you consider that the shortest “cycle” for CGM replacement on this list is seven days, this would be the equivalent of 26 of those devices in terms of how often they would need to be changed.

Since the device has acceptable accuracy and features, we can easily recommend it for people who need a basic CGM and can tolerate a subcutaneous device.

Mobile support

Yes, the Eversense mobile app is available on Google Play and the App Store.

App compatibility

Yes, in addition to the Eversense CGM app, data can sync to Apple Health and to the Glooko diabetes platform; followers can also view your glucose via the Eversense NOW app.

Latest CGM models and OTC options 

Beyond the devices already covered here, you will also see newer models, such as the Medtronic Guardian 4, MiniMed™ 780G, and Eversense 365. There is also a growing over-the-counter category for wellness use that includes the Stelo Glucose Biosensor by Dexcom and Abbott's Lingo.

All CGMs and glucose biosensors use a small sensor to track glucose measured in interstitial fluid. Depending on the device, data may stream to your phone 24/7 or require a quick scan to sync readings. The latest options often require no scanning at all!