Dexcom G6 vs Freestyle Libre vs BUZUD CGM 2.0: Which is the Better CGM for You?
Takeaways
Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) has revolutionized diabetes care by providing users with (nearly) real-time information on their blood glucose levels.
Dexcom G6, BUZUD, and Abbott FreeStyle Libre are FDA-approved fingerstick-less CGM systems now available in the market.
Although comparable, these systems differ in several key ways, which users must consider when choosing between them.
The ability of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) to track users' blood glucose levels in (almost) real-time has revolutionized diabetes care. It allows people with diabetes—i.e., users—and their respective healthcare teams to:
Identify blood glucose trends (e.g., fluctuations in response to particular foods) and make appropriate lifestyle or medical interventions
Lower the number of hypoglycemic episodes
Determine users’ ideal glucose range (note: studies show that “normal” sugar levels may not be optimal for everyone)
If you have diabetes, the benefits mentioned above make a compelling case for the use of a CGM. The only problem? With the sheer number of devices available in the market, picking one that's most suited to your needs can be tricky.
For instance, chances are you've heard about the massively popular Dexcom G6—but is it any good? Also, how does it compare against the Abbott FreeStyle Libre, another fiercely in-demand glucose monitor, or the new BUZUD 2.0? You're in luck.
In this article, we cover what you can expect from the Dexcom G6, then compare it with the Abbott FreeStyle Libre and BUZUD2.0 so that you can select the right system for you.
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CGM overview (Dexcom G6, Abbott FreeStyle Libre [FSL], BUZUD CGM 2.0)
The Dexcom G6 is an FDA-approved CGM system for individuals aged 2 or over. You can wear the sensor either on your upper arm, abdomen or upper buttocks.
The following components make up the G6:
Sensor and auto-applicator: Each sensor comes with a plastic orange and white auto-inserter. A single-push button inserts the sensor’s tiny cannula into the skin.
Adhesive: A medical patch holds the Dexcom G6 sensor in place. This allows you to go about your daily routine without worrying about the sensor falling out.
Transmitter: Every 5 minutes, the sensor sends glucose readings to the mobile app (CLARITY) via Bluetooth through a transmitter. Users should dispose of the transmitter when its battery—which typically lasts 3 months—runs out.
On the other hand, the Abbott FreeStyle Libre is FDA-approved for personal use on the back of the upper arm. The system uses wired sensing technology to measure glucose levels. Its main components include:
A small and discreet disposable sensor: Users scan this with the NFC sensors of their phones with the FreeStyle Libre app open—refer to this article for more information.
Easy-to-use applicator
Meanwhile, the BUZUD CGM 2.0 CGM also offers a discreet innovative solution for real-time glucose monitoring, weighing less than a 10-cent coin and smaller than a 50-cent coin. You can wear the sensor on the forearm or the abdomen, and data is transmitted via Bluetooth to the BUZUD mobile app.
The BUZUD CGM 2.0 sensor boasts a 15-day wear time and is water-resistant. The BUZUD 2.0 CGM is approved by the Singapore Health Sciences Authority (HSA).
Its main components include:
Sensor: Smaller than a 50-cent coin and lighter than a 10-cent coin, designed for discreet
Easy-to-use applicator
Transmitter
Dexcom G6 vs Abbott FreeStyle Libre (FSL) vs BUZUD CGM 2.0 Review
| Feature | Dexcom G6 | FreeStyle Libre | BUZUD 2.0 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost (without insurance) | SGD271.41, including GST, for 30 days | SGD220.91 including GST, for 30 days | SGD174 including GST, for 30 days |
| Frequency of readings | Automatic readings every 5 minutes | User must scan the sensor with their phones with the FreeStyle Libre app open to get a glucose reading | Automatic readings every minute |
| Approved areas of use | Upper arm, abdomen and buttocks | Back of upper arm | Back of upper arm, abdomen |
| Who can use it | All individuals aged 2 and over | All individuals aged 4 and over | Not specified |
| Rated sensor wear time | 10 days | 14 days | 15 days |
| Warm-up time | 2 hours | 1 hour | 1 hour |
| Alerts and alarms | Customizable alerts and alarms, including the mandatory "urgent low" and "urgent low soon" alerts | None | Customizable alerts and alarms, including the mandatory "urgent low" and "urgent low soon" alerts |
| Accuracy (lower MARD scores indicate better accuracy) | 9% | 9.20% | 8.66% |
| Interoperability with insulin pumps | Yes | No | No |
| Availability in Singapore | Only available through healthcare providers | Can be bought over-the-counter | Can be bought over-the-counter |
Shared features
No fingerstick calibrations: Studies show fingersticks are a major point of inconvenience among users seeking to track their glucose levels. Luckily, Dexcom G6, FSL, and BUZUD CGM 2.0 are factory-calibrated, negating the need for any fingersticks.
Improvements in glycemic control: The G6 system users report improvements in all measurable glycemic indexes. Similarly, studies show improved treatment satisfaction and lower episodes of hypo- and hyperglycemia among FSL and BUZUD 2.0 users.
Water-resistant: Two major components of these CGM systems are water-resistant: the sensor pod and transmitter. This means they can withstand water up to a depth of 1 meter for 30 minutes or less. In other words, users can shower and swim with the device attached.
Pregnancy-safe: These are safe to use in pregnancy in the US and many other countries. In Singapore, use of CGM in pregnancy is currently off label.
Resistant to interference from acetaminophen: Acetaminophen is a routinely used pain-killer that can falsely elevate CGM readings. Luckily, both the Dexcom G6 system and FSL are resistant to interference from acetaminophen.
Past glucose level information: CLARITY is Dexcom’s exclusive app that syncs with the G6 sensor, the LibreLink app syncs with the FSL sensor, while the BUZUD mobile application links with BUZUD CGM 2.0. These apps can help users easily track and understand their glucose levels over several months with interactive charts and tables. Users can also share their data with their family or healthcare providers, and set alarms when their blood sugar exceeds a certain range.
Is the FSL right for you?
A significant advantage of the FSL over the Dexcom G6 is its 14-day sensor life. Thus, it is the preferred option for you if you want to avoid having to replace your sensors more frequently. Additionally, the lower monthly cost means it may be better for some people without insurance. The FSL also has a slimmer profile and may be the preferred option for individuals concerned about the size of the wearable.
Is the Dexcom G6 right for you?
The Dexcom G6 is a comprehensive CGM system that’s arguably easier-to-use than the FSL, requiring little user input to record and track readings. Its automatic alert and alarm features provide a valuable safety net against hypoglycemia, thus, making it the obvious choice for children and those with type 1 diabetes or who are on insulin.
Is the BUZUD CGM 2.0 right for you?
As a newer brand on the market, BUZUD brings new features like the ability to easily share glucose data with family members for added support and monitoring. The device is also lighter than many competitors, which can make daily wear more comfortable. And with a rated sensor wear time of 15 days, it offers a decent duration between sensor changes, making it convenient for regular CGM users.
This publication does not constitute an advertisement, and is intended solely for educational purposes. Please seek professional medical advice as to whether a health product would be appropriate for you.