Picking up a glucometer can be really confusing. With the myriad of brands and series to choose from, you might be asking yourself: “What’s the difference between the meters?”

After all, they’re just devices to read your levels of blood sugar, so any glucometer should do the trick, right?

Not quite. While the accuracy of most glucometers is not an issue, the special features that each of them has to offer may leave you loving one more than the other.

#1. Size Matters.  

If you suffer from vision problems, select a glucometer with a big-fat screen and print and/or audio instructions. People who are on-the-go will probably prefer a smaller and lighter size glucometer for practicality. However, those who tend to be forgetful and who have large hands might opt for a larger size glucometer to avoid misplacing it and for easy handling.

#2. More Internal Storage!

Keep in mind that each glucometer offers different memory storage. If you’re tech-savvy, you might also be interested in purchasing a glucometer with Wi-Fi and offers the possibility to transfer your readings to your computer.

#3. Less Blood, Please.

The amount of blood required for reading differs from one glucometer to another. If you struggle to pump blood out of your fingertips, select a glucometer that demands less blood.

#4. Stands Up Against Extreme Temperatures

The temperature at which glucometers can withstand varies. If you’re an outdoor person, you should purchase a glucometer that can hold up at high or low temperatures for accurate readings.

#5. Fast Reading Time

Impatient? In a rush?

Opt for a glucometer that can read give your result fast.

#6. Insurance Coverage: Be Informed   

If you’re covered by an insurance company, gather information of their coverage policies. Unfortunately, the high-tech, full-option meters may not be covered.

#7. Regular Accuracy Verification

Meter can suffer from damages or become worn-out. To ensure accurate readings, it is recommended to verify your meter on an annual basis. To do so, compare your glucometer reading with another one. The other option is to compare your result with the one you get from laboratory analysis. If the difference is less than 20%, your meter is still running strong.