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These devices do not connect but they each have their merits. The Freestyle Libre is small and the Tandem is modern. The Tandem pump also allows you to bolus directly from a compatible iOS or Android smartphone.

The Freestyle Libre 14 day does not have high and low alerts. You get data only when you want it.

Next Steps

Freestyle Libre 14 Day

Freestyle Libre 14 Day

Call Freestyle Libre and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.

Contact

1-855-632 8658

Mon-Fri 8:00am - 8:00pm EST

Freestyle Libre Website

Tandem t:slim X2

Tandem t:slim X2

Call Tandem and ask them about your coverage. Talk to your Doctor to get a prescription.

Contact

1-877-801-6901

Mon-Fri, 9:00am - 5:00 PST

Tandem Website

Priorities

Comfort

  • Lowest profile sensor
  • Smallest tubed pump
  • Tubed pumps have the most infusion sets to pick from

    • Active Lifestyle

  • Flat sensor transmitter fits easily under active wear and sports gear
  • Optional settings for exercise to adjust treatment ranges for activity with the press of a button
  • Pump is watertight

    • Avoiding Highs and Lows

  • Faster and easier to check your glucose with this sensor versus with a meter
  • Pumps allow different amounts of basal insulin at different times of day and very precise dosing
  • No sensor alerts

    • Easy to Use

  • Sensor and transmitter are one piece
  • Few steps to change sensor
  • Rechargeable pump battery
  • Pump has touchscreen

    • Easy Insulin Dosing

  • Can use sensor trends for dose adjustment
  • More precise dosing than pens or syringes

    • Fewer Fingersticks

  • Factory-calibrated sensor: fingersticks needed for backup only

    • Privacy

  • Needs scan from phone or controller to get blood sugar
  • Sensor is the smallest
  • Touchscreen of pump looks like normal tech device
  • Ability to bolus directly on compatible smartphone

    • Wisdom

    Hear what others who use this device combo have to say

    I have never cared what anyone thought about my diabetes gear. I do not have any trouble navigating the world wearing a pump, CGM, or carrying insulin and supplies around in a bag. People do not usually notice, even when I am injecting insulin or doing fingersticks. I am always discreet.

    I had to get used to wearing the Libre on my arm. I barely notice it now.

    The Freestyle Libre is the simplest of CGMs. It only gives me data when I ask for it.

    Disclaimer: All prices are in USD and are estimates only.

    Cost

    Freestyle Libre 14 Day

    Freestyle Libre 14 Day

    Sensors

    Reader (1 time purchase)

    Glucose Testing Cost Estimate

    Widely covered. Provided by pharmacies. Price range; $0-$100/month. Often the cheapest and easier to access sensor.

    Tandem t:slim X2

    Tandem t:slim X2

    Pump

    Charger

    Insulin Cartridges

    Infusion Sites

    Insulin Dosing Cost Estimate

    Startup $5 to $6,995

    Monthly $20 to $200

    Questions for your Doctor

    Can I try this before I commit to it?

    A lot of provider offices have sample devices you can touch and feel to get a sense of how they work. Some offices even have a trial device you can use for week to see how it works for you.