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With all the continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) on the market, it’s only natural to wonder what benefits each product offers. For those wondering about the differences between the Libre. 2 and Dexcom G6 CGMs, keep reading!
Similarities & Differences
Compoents
Dexcom G6 has 3 components including a sensor, a transmitter and a receiver, whereas the Freestyle Libre has 2 only 2 components, a sensor and a reader. In both systems the readings can also be sent directly to a compatible smartphone.
Apps
The FreeStyle Libre 2 has its own model-specific app with push notifications, the ability to share data with up to 20 people, and glucose level trends. However, only iPhones using iOS 14.0 or later support this app.
The Dexcom G6 also has an app, available for both Apple and Android products, that allows for customizable alerts. The app also allows users to share their glucose data with up to 10 individuals, and these people can view the glucose readings in real-time.
Within the app, users can see glucose trends for the past 1, 3, 6, and 12 hours, although the Dexcom CLARITY platform allows users to see even more comprehensive data.
Sensor Length
The Dexcom G6 is approved for 10 days of use. In comparison, the FreeStyle Libre 2 is approved for use up to 14 days.
Alarms
The FreeStyle Libre 2 allows you to set CGM alarms for existing high and low alerts. In comparison, the Dexcom G6 allows for customizable and predictive alarms.
Reading Frequency
The Dexcom G6 gives a reading every 5 minutes, while the Libre 2 requires the user to wave the handheld reader over the sensor. However, the Libre 2 scan only takes one second and can be done through clothing.
No Calibration Needed
The Dexcom G6 and FreeStyle Libre 2 have both eliminated the need to calibrate the blood glucose meter, which eliminates the need for fingersticks.
Which CGM Is Best for You?
These two CGMs are both great options, but their difference in features may make one preferable for your needs.
How Many People to Share Data With
How many people you want to share your information with may be a deciding factor in the system you choose. With the Dexcom G6, you can only share with 10 people, whereas you can share data with 20 people with the Libre 2.
Longer Sensors
If you do not want to change your sensor as often, the extra four days afforded by the FreeStyle Libre 2 CGM is likely more appealing. In addition, the startup time for the FreeStyle Libre 2 is only one hour instead of the 2 hours needed for the Dexcom G6, meaning you can change your sensor less often, and don’t have to wait as long for it to get up and running again.
Continuous Monitoring
While both are marketed as CGMs, the FreeStyle Libre 2 requires the user to swipe the handheld reader over the sensor to get glucose readings. This action takes only a second and can be done even through clothing, so it is simple, but in comparison, the Dexcom G6 is always sending real-time data.
Detailed Data
While both systems allow the user to observe their glucose trends over the past few hours, users of Dexcom G6 can use the CLARITY platform to see even more detailed information regarding a full data analysis.
Affordability
The pay-out-of-pocket cost of Freestyle Libre 2 sensor 28 days is less than half of the Dexcom G6 sensor 30 day supply.
Choosing a Continuous Glucose Monitor
Choosing a CGM is a big decision, but this comparison between the FreeStyle Libre 2 and the Dexcom G6 can serve as a guide on your journey to selecting the best monitor for you that fits all your needs.
Jessica is a medical writer with an unquenched thirst to discover something new. She believes that medical content should be accessible to everyone and strives to write content that every single person can understand. When Jessica isn’t writing, she can usually be found reading a book with a dog cuddled in her lap.
