Compare the specific models below by intended use, maximum wear, study-specific evidence and treatment compatibility. Stelo and Lingo are the two OTC devices covered here; other FDA clearances do not establish current availability. There is no single best CGM for every user.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider before making health decisions.
Compare original Libre 3, Libre 3 Plus, G7, G7 15 Day, Stelo, Lingo and implantable models with your healthcare professional. Device indication, pump compatibility and plan terms matter more than a cross-study MARD ranking.
| Device | MARD | Sensor life | Monthly cost | Rx required | Cleared for / notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abbott Lingo | 8.1–10.7% (by glucose range) | 14 days | Check price | No | Adults 18+ not on insulin; over the counter |
| FreeStyle Libre 3 | 7.8% | 14 days | Check price | Yes | People with diabetes: ages 4+ (Libre 3), ages 2+ (Libre 3 Plus) |
| FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus | 8.2% adults / ages 6–17 (manufacturer, YSI); 9.7% ages 2–5 (BGM) | 15 days | Check price | Yes | Separate Libre 3 Plus model |
| Dexcom G7 15 Day | 8.0% adult study | Up to 15 days + 12-hour grace | Check price | Yes | Adults 18+; confirm treatment compatibility |
| Dexcom G7 (10 Day) | 8.2% adult arm | Up to 10 days + 12-hour grace | Check price | Yes | Ages 2+; confirm pump/software |
| Dexcom Stelo | 7.3–9.1% (historical adults, by wear period) | 15 days | Check price | No | People not on insulin; FDA-cleared from age 2 (June 2026) |
| Medtronic Guardian 4 | 10.6% adult arm / 11.6% ages 7–17 arm | 7 days | Varies | Yes | Used with compatible Medtronic systems |
| Eversense 365 | 8.8% | 365 days | Varies | Yes + procedure | Implanted sensor; procedure required |
| Eversense E3 | 8.7% (US IFU, SW605) | Up to 180 days | Varies | Yes + procedure | Implant and external transmitter; check availability |
With and without insurance — for any monitoring period.
FreeStyle Libre 3 reports a 7.8% MARD in Abbott's own pivotal trial (a figure from a different study than other devices' figures, so not directly comparable), reads every minute, lasts 14 days, and is sold through pharmacies, with the price depending on your plan or retailer. It is a common option for people not on AID systems; your prescriber can advise which CGM fits your treatment. Often covered by insurance for qualifying patients. Full Libre 3 review →
Published MARD figures come from separate manufacturer studies and do not establish which device is more accurate. Choose a device based on its intended use and the features you need with advice from your healthcare professional, and check manufacturers for current prices.
If you use or plan to use an automated insulin delivery system (Tandem Control-IQ, Omnipod 5, etc.), check which CGMs your pump supports: the Dexcom G7 works with several (for example Tandem Control-IQ and Omnipod 5), and Abbott's US compatibility page lists the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor (not the original Libre 3) for Omnipod 5, the t:slim X2 with Control-IQ+, the iLet and the twiist. Check current Direct to Watch model, app and watch compatibility. Full G7 review →
Published MARD figures come from separate manufacturer studies and do not establish which device is more accurate. Choose a device based on the features you need with advice from your healthcare professional, and check manufacturers for current prices.
Stelo supports up to 15-day wear. Eversense 365 supports up to 365 days with a clinical insertion procedure, external transmitter, daily adhesive and calibrations. E3 has a separate 180-day label; current commercial availability is not established here. Maximum labeled life is not a guarantee for each sensor.
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Ultrahuman's app, scores and coaching on top of third-party Abbott Lingo biosensors, delivered monthly. Ships to US addresses only; an NFC-enabled phone is needed to activate each sensor.
Enter your own prices to compare calculated cost for your period.
Full specifications, accuracy, and pricing for every CGM in 2026.
Compare all CGM devices →Medical source review, 25 October 2026. Sources apply to their named models, populations and endpoints: Stelo FDA K260935; Original Libre 3, Alva 2023; Libre 3 Plus manufacturer kit, page 5; Guardian 4 FDA, table 17; Eversense E3 US IFU; Eversense 365 ENHANCE; Eversense 365 US guide; Eversense 365 and twiist.