FREESTYLE LIBRE VS LIBRE 2

Freestyle libre vs libre 2 cgm

Difference Between Freestyle Libre and Libre 2:

Since the release of the updated Libre 2, many of those who enjoy freedom with Freestyle Libre CGM are intrigued by the new features of the redesigned CGM system.

(32) $129.00 or subscribe and save 10%
(21) $139.00
(2) $129.00 or subscribe and save 10%

With the addition of the Freestyle Libre 2 to the diabetes care offerings, continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has been refined into a new sensor, reader, and mobile application platform. Still, the original Freestyle Libre system continues to be supported and provides many with reliable diabetic monitoring. What exactly are the differences between the two systems? Continue reading to compare the Freestyle Libre vs Libre 2 and determine which CGM is best for you!

Freestyle Libre 2 New Features

Alarms:

One of the biggest differences between the original Libre vs Libre 2 is the ability to set continuous glucose monitoring alarms. When the Libre 2 Sensor is synced with the Libre 2 Reader, or a compatible smartphone with the Libre 2 app, programmable alarms alert the user of low glucose, high glucose, or signal loss. The original Freestyle Libre does not support glucose alarms.

Libre 2 App:

The Freestyle Libre 2 works with its own model-specific mobile application. For prior users of the original Freestyle Libre, the app is similar in function to LibreLink, but allows for the new push-notification alarm feature among several other updates.

Which Smartphones Does the Freestyle Libre 2 App Support?

Upon the initial release of the Freestyle Libre 2 CGM the Libre 2 app is only available for iPhones running iOS 14.0 or later.

At this time, an iPhone 7 or later is required.

Which CGM System is Best for Me?

The Diabetic Outlet Feline Team, Taz and Penny, describe which Freestyle Libre system works best for them:

TAZ LIKE TEST STRIPS

Taz’s Choice: Freestyle Libre

Taz has been a longtime user of the original Freestyle Libre and continues to rely upon his CGM system for regular readings. Taz has a good habit of checking his glucose levels with a simple swipe of the sensor and does great in managing his diabetic care, even without glucose alarms. Taz is an android user and enjoys obtaining real-time and trending glucose readings with the LibreLink app. He also has the Libre reader as a backup and feels safe knowing that even if his phone dies he can use the reader immediately with the same sensor.

Penny sells cheap test strips

Penny’s Pick: Freestyle Libre 2

Penny loves new technology and the features that the Freestyle Libre 2 provides. Penny has a busy day-to-day life and really appreciates the available glucose alarms that she set within the mobile app. When Penny’s glucose levels inevitably fluctuate, she can be alerted early on and prioritize getting those levels back to normal.

Penny purchased the Libre 2 reader as a backup to her iPhone and also uses its function as a traditional blood glucose meter when needed. She was a bit concerned that once starting a 14-day Libre 2 sensor, she would have to choose to use either only her iPhone or the Libre 2 reader for the next 14 days. She’s already in the habit of keeping her phone charged and on her, and has found that the added safety net of the alarms is worth the trade off. Penny initially used an iPhone 7 with the Libre 2 app before upgrading to the newest iPhone (she loves her tech!)

**Libre and Libre 2 are people products, staff writers Taz and Penny are only here for illustration purposes** 

 

Libre VS Libre 2 Comparison

Both the original Freestyle Libre and updated Libre 2 work in the same manner: A wearable continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensor is attached to the back of the arm and communicates with the swipe of a reader or smartphone app to display real time glucose levels and long-term trends. A detailed breakdown below continues to compare the similarities and differences of the Freestyle Libre vs Libre 2:

Sensor Specifications

  • Size
    • Libre: 5mm height and 30mm diameter, 5 grams
    • Libre 2: Same size as Libre
  • Usable Sensor Life
    • Libre: 14 Days
    • Libre 2: 14 Days
  • Sensor Memory
    • Libre: 8 Hours (glucose readings stored every 15 minutes)
    • Libre 2: Same sensor memory as Libre
  • Water Resistance 
    • Libre: IP27 – Can withstand immersion into one 3 ft of water for up to 30 minutes
    • Libre 2: Same water resistance rating as Libre

Reader Specifications

  • Size
    • Libre: 3.75″ (95 mm) x 2.36″ (60 mm) x .63″ (16 mm)
    • Libre 2: Same size as Libre
  • Battery
    • Libre: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery (included)
    • Libre 2: Same battery configuration as Libre
  • Battery Life
    • Libre: 7 Days (typical use)
    • Libre 2: 4 Days (bluetooth alarm connectivity may use up the battery quicker than Libre)
  • Reader Memory 
    • Libre: 90 Days (typical use)
    • Libre 2: Same memory capacity as Libre

Application

  • Compatibility
    • Libre: LibreLink App (supports iPhone running iOS 13.2 or later, Android 7.1 and later)
    • Libre 2: Libre 2 App (supports only iPhone running iOS 14.0 or later)
  • Application/Reader Combination
    • Libre: May use either the LibreLink app or reader with the same sensor (simultaneously)
    • Libre 2: Must setup a new sensor (14-day) with either the Libre 2 app or reader (only one method will work per sensor)

Know which system is best for you? Ready to order?

Where to find Libre and Libre 2 CGM systems

Diabetic Outlet is proud to offer bundle deals on both Freestyle Libre and Freestyle Libre 2 Continuous Glucose Monitoring!

Each individual component may viewed directly through the following links as well:

Freestyle Libre:

(2) $129.00 or subscribe and save 10%

Freestyle Libre 2:

(32) $129.00 or subscribe and save 10%
(21) $139.00

 

 

Disclaimer. The content, information, and links on this page are intended for informational and educational purposes only, and does NOT constitute any medical professional advice.

3 thoughts on “FREESTYLE LIBRE VS LIBRE 2

  1. hBa1C says:

    After using #2 quite a while…
    Libre2: My alarms are all off and barely ‘lives’ 6 days!
    The original Libre almost lasted a whole month. 28 days +/- !
    The instructions say it’s the “same battery”. Well… eeh… apparently it’s NOT!
    Libre 3 is even worse. Draining the phone’s battery.
    I’m not gonna use my phone to register anything diabetic therefore.
    And yes, I even turn my phone off once a a day when I sleep because I rule my world – not some ****** phone.
    I have to say I’m very disappointed how bad the Libre stuff works in the year 2023…

  2. Draugnar says:

    The variance *can* be bit, in my own experience, usually is within 5 to 10 points of accurate. That is a very acceptable margin of error..

  3. libre2junk says:

    Don’t waste your money or risk your health. Readings between device and manual readings can be as far off as 45 points.

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