freestyle libre 2 device image
medtronic receiver v2

Summary

The FreeStyle Libre 2 is the thinnest, all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter and requires scanning using a handheld reader or compatible smartphone with an app. This sensor lasts for 14 days and only needs fingersticks as backup. Optional low and high blood sugar notifications are available for this system. 

FDA approved for insertion on the back of the upper arm (ages 4 years and older).

 

MARD of 9.3%

The Medtronic Guardian Connect is a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system that provides real-time glucose data on a compatible smartphone. The system offers optional low and high blood sugar notifications and can be inserted on the abdomen or back of the upper arm.

 

MARD of 9.6%

Components

Freestyle Libre 2 : Sensor

Freestyle Libre 2 : Sensor

Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every minute. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.

Freestyle Libre 2 : Receiver

Freestyle Libre 2 : Receiver

Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or both. Available for both iOS and Android devices.

Guardian Connect : Sensor

Guardian Connect : Sensor

Sensor is inserted underneath the skin, either on the abdomen or arm. Push buttons applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.

Guardian Connect : Transmitter

Guardian Connect : Transmitter

Seashell-shaped with built-in Bluetooth capability that allows it to send glucose data directly to a smartphone every 5 minutes.

Guardian Connect : Receiver

Guardian Connect : Receiver

Trends and alerts are viewed directly on a mobile device. Available for both iOS and Android devices.

Device Details

Overview

All-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter with low and high blood glucose alarms can be worn on the upper arm.

One of the larger sensors, may be cumbersome to wear on some parts of the body under clothes.

Affordability and Access

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

$$$$
Sometimes covered. The costs vary depending on individual insurance coverage and how insurance classifies CGMs. Price range $0-$600/month.

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
After each sensor scan with the mobile app or reader, data is automatically sent to the user’s LibreView account which enables sharing with HCPs and caregivers via the LibreLinkUp app. Data upload is possible with Glooko and Tidepool data-management systems.

Yes
CGM data can be linked to a CareLink account and shared with the user's health care team. 

Data View Options

Yes
Freestyle Libre 2 app provides glucose readings and alarms, multiple data views, the ability to share glucose data and real-time alarms with LibreLinkUp, and the ability to connect to a clinician's practice through LibreView. 

Yes
The Guardian Connect mobile app allows users to view glucose levels, trends, create customizable alerts, and share blood glucose data with family and friends. 

Duration and Storage

14 Days
Sensors last 14 days and work between 50ºF - 113ºF. They are shipped in orders of 1-3 months at a time - which is 2-6 boxes at a time.

7 Days
Sensors last 7 days, and transmitter battery needs weekly charging and replacement once a year. Both can be stored between 36°F - 86°F.

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
3 sound sources
A LOT of dexterity needed

YES text to speech
YES 
vibration alerts
A LOT
of dexterity needed

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Water-resistant for up to 3 feet deep for 30 minutes and light on the body, does not get in the way of activity. The reader must be within 1.5 inches of the sensor to scan it. 

Waterproof transmitter when submerged in up to 2.5 meters of water for 30 minutes and must be within 20 feet of a connected mobile device.  

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Optional glucose alerts for low and high glucose levels. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change. 

Measures sensor glucose 24/7 and sends alerts when a high or low is detected. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change. 

Comfort

Low profile sensor and small adhesive.

More tape is needed for Medtronic sensors.

Easy Insulin Dosing

Scanned sensor trends can be used for dose adjustment.

Sensor trends can be used for dose adjustment.

Easy to Use

Requires scanning. Self-application and manual scanning are required. Easy self-application.

Rechargeable sensor transmitter but has the most steps to change sensor.

Fewer Fingersticks

Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger-sticks needed for backup only. 

2 daily finger-sticks are needed to calibrate the sensor.

Privacy

Hypoglycemia safety alarm. Discreet size but built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on. 

Somewhat discreet. Ability to see sugar on watch or phone. Sensor requires regular meter use.