This comparison covers named Dexcom and Abbott prescription devices (G7 and Libre 3) and OTC devices (Stelo and Lingo). Compare exact model labeling and features rather than inferring suitability from manufacturer market position.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider before making health decisions.
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.
| Attribute | Dexcom G7 | FreeStyle Libre 3 |
|---|---|---|
| MARD accuracy | 8.2% adult arm | 7.8% ages ≥6, YSI |
| Sensor life | 10 days | 14 days |
| Reading interval | Sensor 5 min; app display 15 min | Every 1 min |
| Retail price/month | Check price | Check price |
| AID compatible | Yes — multiple systems | Limited |
| Apple Watch direct | Yes; compatible equipment | Not established for original Libre 3 here |
| Warm-up time | 30 min | 60 min |
| Wear location | Back of upper arm (US); upper buttocks also ages 2–6 | Back of upper arm only |
| Attribute | Dexcom Stelo | Abbott Lingo |
|---|---|---|
| MARD accuracy | 7.3–9.1% (historical adults, by wear period) | 8.1–10.7% (by glucose range) |
| Sensor life | 15 days | 14 days |
| Reading interval | Sensor 5 min; app display 15 min | Every 1 min |
| Retail price/month | Check price | Check price |
| Prescription required | No | No |
| App platform | Dexcom Clarity | Lingo graph and Count |
| Cleared for | People not on insulin; FDA-cleared from age 2 (June 2026) | Adults 18+ not on insulin; over the counter |
Compare Dexcom and Abbott devices for any monitoring period.
Dexcom and Abbott offer distinct prescription and OTC models. Compare the named sensor’s intended use and current pump/software compatibility; a manufacturer’s market position does not establish clinical superiority.
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.
Check Dexcom's current documentation for Clarity features, compatibility and sharing options. These features do not establish that a sensor or platform is clinically superior to another.
Dexcom 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.
Abbott Lingo review →Enter your own prices to compare calculated cost for your period.
Every Dexcom and Abbott device — accuracy, cost, and what each is cleared for.
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; Lingo FDA K233655; Abbott Lingo Count.