There are dozens of models of glucose meters on the market. They differ in several ways including size of the blood sample needed for each test, speed, size, cost and ability to store test results over time.

To choose the right meter, patients should consider:

• Sample site (the places from which blood can be drawn for testing). Many meters meters use alternative site testing. Samples from the upper arm, forearm, hand, calf, abdomen and thigh require smaller blood samples and are less painful because these sites have fewer nerve endings than fingertips. However, blood in the fingertip is quicker to show changes in glucose (blood sugar) levels than blood in other parts of the body. Patients should be consistent in the sample site used to test glucose. Alternate sites should not be used if the glucose level is low, the patient is unaware of hypoglycemia or the test results differ from how the patient is feeling.
  
  
• Sample size (the amount of blood needed for testing). Meters that require a smaller blood sample may be easier for patients with poor circulation or those testing in a cold environment.
  
  
• Size of the meter. Meters come in smaller sizes for easier portability. However, smaller meters are easier to misplace and require more dexterity to use.
  
  
• Test timing (the amount of time until results are available). If test speed is an issue, some meters take as little as five seconds to report results, and others can take up to a minute.
  
  
• The patient’s dexterity. For those who have trouble with hand movements due to conditions such as diabetic neuropathy, some monitors require less handling, use larger testing strips or use strips that come in a vial rather than individually wrapped in foil.

• The patient’s vision. There are several monitors on the market for the visually impaired. Many people with diabetes have visual problems due to diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma or cataracts. There are meters available with large digital displays, and others guide the patient with spoken instructions.
  
  
• Support system. Some models come with an instructional video, and most companies offer a 24-hour toll-free number for customers who are having problems with their meter. Product support Web sites may also be available.
  
  
• Maintenance. Some monitors require more cleaning and upkeep than others.
  
  
• Meter memory (the amount of data that can be stored in the meter). For patients who have trouble keeping a written record of test results, many meters store results in memory. Some offer built-in data management systems that store hundreds of test results and other information including time, date, and the type and dose of insulin. However, the memory of a glucose meter cannot replace the glucose patterns over time information that is provided by a written record.
  
  
• Use of insulin. A possible option for patients who take insulin is a combined insulin pump and glucose meter that monitors glucose continuously. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved this device in 2006.

• Computer compatibility. Some meters connect to computers where patients can download their results. Some wireless models, designed primarily for children or people at risk of glucose control problems, can be monitored by parents, other loved ones or caregivers through e-mail or through text messaging to a cell phone or pager. Results from computerized glucose monitors can be easily printed for physician review and be transformed into simple graphs and charts.
  
  
• Language. Some meters can display in multiple languages.
  
  
• Battery replacement. Most models come with standard electronic equipment batteries that are easily replaceable. Others have batteries that are difficult or expensive to replace.
  
  
• Insurance coverage. Certain meters, control solutions and test strips may be covered by insurance. This will reduce personal costs.
  
  
• Expense. Consider sale prices, rebate offers and what insurance will cover. Some meters calibrate with generic test strips that are less expensive. Test strips are often more expensive in the long term than the meter itself. Patients should consider all costs when determining the preferred glucose meter.
  
  
• Calibration. The amount of chemical on test strips can vary from batch to batch. In order to ensure accuracy, most meters must be calibrated, or standardized with every new batch of strips. Some models calibrate automatically. Disposable meters that come with pre-loaded test strips do not need to be calibrated.
  
  
• Need or desire for other test results. Some meters test for lipids, ketones, cholesterol, glycated hemoglobin (A1C) and plasma glucose as well as whole blood glucose.
  
  
• Ease of use. Some meters require fewer steps to test than others.
  
  
• Blood contamination. People with diabetes and a blood-borne illness such as hepatitis or HIV can buy models with no-wipe strips that absorb the whole blood sample.
  
  
• Lighting. For people who often test in the middle of the night, some models come with spotlights, lighted displays and luminous covers.

Patients should consider the advantages and disadvantages of different models and ask a physician for advice on what meter is right for them. People may also want to consider obtaining two meters for convenience. Having one meter for home use and another one for work or school can eliminate the problem of carrying the meter around or forgetting it. Meters are often available at little or even no cost because the manufacturer makes a profit instead on the test strips. To achieve the most consistent results, the meters should be the same make and model and use the same test strips.