Glucose tracking has advanced far beyond daily finger pricks. Continuous glucose monitors now attach to the arm and link to apps on smartphones or Apple Watches for ongoing blood sugar checks throughout each day.

Editor's note, June 25, 2024: Since this article was first published, Dexcom has launched the G7. This sensor is smaller than the G6 and has an improved alert system, along with a few other differences.

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Pros

Real-time tracking, shareable with up to 10 people
Customizable alerts
Discrete sensor

Cons

Short sensor life

Stelo became the first over-the-counter CGM cleared in the US after FDA approval in 2024. The compact sensor attaches to the back of the arm and monitors glucose levels around the clock. Readings appear in the dedicated app, and it connects smoothly with an Oura ring for viewing inside that platform too. Each sensor operates for as long as 15 days with minimal upkeep, offering clear views of how stress, meals, and routines shape glucose patterns. A two-pack costs $99 for roughly a month of use, though a subscription lowers the price to $89 monthly. The kit includes sensors, an applicator, and an overpatch for secure placement.

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Pros

No prescription required
Real-time glucose tracking
Painless application
HSA/FSA eligible

Cons

No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels
Not intended for insulin-dependent users

Editor's note, Feb. 4, 2026: Certain FreeStyle Libre 3 and FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensors have been recalled due to incorrect glucose readings. To find out whether your sensor is included in the recall and what to do, read the FDA's recall alert.

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Pros

Affordable and easy to find
Optional blood sugar alarms
Small sensor

Cons

The self-injector can be finicky and cause missplacements

For users seeking a set-it-and-forget-it option that lasts a full year, Eversense 365 provides a solid choice for diabetes care. A health care provider places the sensor, after which the transmitter sits on top.

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Pros

Very long sensor life
Easy-to-use app
Customizable alerts

Cons

Requires insertion by a health professional
Requires frequent calibrations

Lingo ranks as the second over-the-counter continuous glucose monitor reviewed here. Similar to Stelo, it attaches to the back of the upper arm and displays glucose information in the Lingo app as clear charts. The platform adds habit-building challenges and progress tracking to turn monitoring into an engaging activity. The Lingo app works on both iPhone and Android devices.

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Pros

Affordable entry price (two weeks)
Gamified, user-friendly app
Water-resistant design
Great for habit tracking

Cons

About 20% of sensors may not last the full 14 days
No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels

Real-time readings reveal how foods, movement, and medication influence glucose. FDA-cleared options include the Dexcom Stelo Glucose Biosensor System. Not every model performs the same. Doctors were consulted and popular devices were examined to identify suitable CGMs. Anyone with serious glucose health worries should consult a medical provider before using a monitor.

Pros

Real-time tracking, shareable with up to 10 people
Customizable alerts
Discrete sensor

Cons

Short sensor life

"I find continuous glucose monitoring to be a valuable tool in the management of both type 1 and 2 diabetes," said Dr. Josh Emdur, medical director of SteadyMD. "CGM data provides actionable insight to help patients track their glycemic response to dietary choices and activity levels."

The Dexcom G6 delivers wireless readings to a receiver, phone, or Apple Watch without manual scans. It checks interstitial fluid every five minutes for constant day-and-night tracking. Users set custom ranges and receive alerts for out-of-range levels.

"For patients on an insulin pump, the Dexcom G6 may connect with your pump and offer a closed-loop system to turn off your insulin if you are going low. The Dexcom monitor is also approved in pregnancy and offers continuous monitoring that you can see on your phone at all times," said Dr. Rebecca Fenichel, an endocrinologist at Westmed Medical Group.

Pros

No prescription required
Real-time glucose tracking
Painless application
HSA/FSA eligible

Cons

No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels
Not intended for insulin-dependent users

Stelo was the first over-the-counter CGM available in the US when it received FDA approval in 2024. The small sensor sits on the back of your arm and tracks your glucose levels 24/7. You can view your glucose levels within the app, and if you have an Oura ring, it pairs seamlessly. Levels are also viewable within the Oura app. Each sensor lasts up to 15 days, it's pretty low maintenance, and it's an easy way to see how your stress, meals and daily habits influence your glucose levels. One pack of two will cost you $99 (lasts about a month), but if you subscribe, that price will drop to $89 a month. The pack comes with everything you need: the sensors, applicator and overpatch to secure the sensor in place.

Over the two weeks I tested the Stelo, I noticed which habits (like taking a walk after dinner) affected my blood sugar the most. I find this tool helpful for those curious about their overall health, and probably not for those with a diabetes diagnosis, as it doesn't send safety alarms when your glucose levels are too high or too low. If you have a diagnosis and would like to try Stelo, I recommend speaking with your doctor to ensure it will provide the insights and alerts you need. Of the two OTC CGMs on this list (the other one is Lingo), our staff preferred the Stelo CGM.

Pros

Affordable and easy to find
Optional blood sugar alarms
Small sensor

Cons

The self-injector can be finicky and cause missplacements

The Freestyle Libre 2 was previously on this list and recommended by Dr. Nate Favini. "For people who are interested in deeper insights into their glucose levels, I'll often recommend the Freestyle Libre for continuous glucose monitoring," Favini said.

Since then, the device has been updated to the Freestyle Libre 3 Plus (previous models will be discontinued). It essentially works the same way as its predecessor: you place the sensor on your arm and can track your glucose levels throughout the day. The biggest differences between the Freestyle Libre 2 and 3 are that the newest model lasts 15 days (versus 14 days on the 2) and the size of the sensor (the 3 is smaller and thinner). Another new feature of the Libre 3 Plus is that this sensor is compatible with automated insulin delivery systems (also known as pumps), and Abbott has partnerships with most major pump partners.

Pros

Very long sensor life
Easy-to-use app
Customizable alerts

Cons

Requires insertion by a health professional
Requires frequent calibrations

If you want a device that you can set up and don't have to worry about reinserting for an entire year, Eversense 365 is a great option for diabetes management. A health care provider will insert the sensor and then you place the transmitter above that.

Once the sensor is in place, you don't have to change it out for about 12 months, a long sensor life. The transmitter itself can alert you if your blood sugar is too high or low, and you can also have wireless readings sent to your phone via an app. You can share your blood glucose data from your app with your doctor or anyone else who wants to check your blood sugar readings.

Pros

Affordable entry price (two weeks)
Gamified, user-friendly app
Water-resistant design
Great for habit tracking

Cons

About 20% of sensors may not last the full 14 days
No safety alerts for high or low blood sugar levels

Lingo is one of the two over-the-counter continous glucose monitors we tested on this list. Like the Stelo, Lingo is worn on the back of the upper arm and you can view your glucose data within the Lingo app, where it's translated into an easy-to-read chart. The app also includes habit-building challenges and progress tracking, making glucose monitoring feel more like a game than a chore. The Lingo app is available for iPhone and Android users.

What I appreciated most was how lightweight and low-maintenance the sensor is. It's pretty sleek, and you don't have to worry about carrying a reader. I do recommend buying an overpatch as this sensor doesn't come with one and the first time I tested I accidentally yanked it off while dressing myself. An overpatch will ensure the device stays securely on your arm.

A single sensor costs $49 (lasts up to 14 days), a two-sensor pack costs $89 (about a month's supply), and buying in bulk (six sensors for 12 weeks) will save you the most money at $249. Lingo is also the only OTC CGM available in brick-and-mortar stores in the United States.

Pros

Predictive alerts
Stand-alone system
Past data up to 24 hours

Cons

Requires calibration every 12 hours

The Guardian Connect System is a CGM that can tell you your current glucose readings quickly via a connected app and also lets you easily access trends and data about your blood sugar over time. One feature that stands out with the Guardian is the "predictive" alerts you can get about your sugar. Unlike other CGM systems that alert you when your sugar is already high or low, the Guardian uses technology that predicts when your blood sugar might get high or low before it happens. Another feature that comes with the monitor is the Sugar.IQ diabetes assistant app for diabetes management, which uses your data to help you figure out what diet, exercise and insulin works best for you.