Diabetic Live

For diabetics, keeping an eye on their blood glucose level is essential. A glucose meter is the best way to do so. One glucose meter that has received good reviews is the Ascensia Contour Glucose Meter manufactured by Bayer HealthCare. If searching for a new glucose meter to monitor your blood sugar levels, this one may be a good item to check out.

Product Characteristics
The Ascensia Contour provides up to the minute product attributes such as no coding capabilities and test reminder alarms. The testing period itself takes approximately five seconds to register results and requires 0.6 uL per blood sample. In addition, this glucose meter allows multiple testing sites for added convenience of the tester. The strip fills automatically as a result of Sip-In Sampling technology. For those wish to have added privacy while testing, the glucose meter can perform the test while still in the case. An added bonus included with this type of meter is meal markers which the tester can utilize every day. Lastly, the meter has a 480-memory capacity which is an extremely generous memory capacity for glucose meters of this type.

Pros of the Ascensia Contour Glucose Meter
There are quite a few pros associated with the Ascensia Contour glucose meter. One benefit concomitant with this meter is the multiple testing site options. Since many enjoy the freedom of using their glucose meters in different areas, the multiple testing site capabilities make this possible. Another pro of the Ascensia Contour is the no coding technology. This technology allows users to simply turn on the glucose meter and take their blood sugar levels without having to pre-program the glucose meter.

Some will also find the test time of five seconds to be more than adequate when trying to register glucose level results. This is relatively fast for monitoring and is quite handy especially when testing on the go. An additional benefit to using the Ascensia Contour glucose meter is the memory size. A 480-memory capacity is quite good when compared to the memory levels of other glucose meters.

This particular glucose meter model also includes a data port for downloading information onto your PC. This provides a great way to keep your information in an electronic capacity and monitor your daily results in another record keeping area when the 480-memory capacity on the meter gets full.

Cons of the Ascensia Contour Glucose Meter
There are very little cons associated with this particular glucose meter. In fact, it pretty much has everything an individual could want when having to measure their blood glucose level. If anything has to be cited with regard to pitfalls of the Ascensia Contour perhaps the 0.6 uL blood sample size and testing time may be a bit less in other glucose meters. With that said, if a few seconds difference in testing time and small differential in blood sample size are not much of a concern to you, then these cons will not seem to outweigh the pros associated with the Ascensia Contour glucose meter.

The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that the Ascensia Contour glucose meter is an all-inclusive item. Equipped with a generous memory capacity, data port, reminder alarms, small sample size and no coding technology, this seems to be a great buy. For those who are interested in purchasing the Ascensia Contour made by Bayer HealthCare, it sells for the approximate retail price of $77. This item can be purchased at your local drugstore, through the manufacturer or online at a number of pharmacy type websites. You may also be able to find a good deal on refill testing strips for this particular type of blood glucose monitoring system.

Ascensia Breeze2 Glucose Meter is a new glucose meter produced by Bayer HealthCare. This glucose meter provides an easier way to test each and every time. Various characteristics such as no coding and lack of individual strip handling make the Ascensia Breeze2 easy as can be to use.

Product Characteristics
One of the main characteristics of the Ascensia Breeze2 glucose meter is the no coding capabilities. Unlike some of the other glucose meters, this particular one does not require the user to enter any information prior to testing. The absence of this extra step is an extremely attractive trait for those who have to monitor their blood glucose level on a frequent basis. Another product characteristic of the Ascensia Breeze2 is the absence of individual test strips as this one uses a test disc instead, which is much easier. Also included with this type of blood glucose level meter is the five-second result testing, small blood sample size of 1 uL, easy to read display, easy to maneuver single-function buttons, 420-test memory and automatic error detection and messaging system.

Pros Of The Ascensia Breeze2 Glucose Meter
A big pro associated with the Ascensia Breeze2 is the no coding feature. This feature will save users time in the long run by them not having to manually enter information prior to testing. A new feature rarely seen in other glucose meters is the testing disc as opposed to individual test strips. This feature is quite beneficial in that it too cuts back the time spent on the overall testing by not having to insert individual testing strips each and every time you use the meter. The data port included with this type of glucose meter is also a good thing to have as it allows the user to download testing results onto their PC to keep for future reference. Lastly, the large display screen and easy to read features prove beneficial as well.

Cons Of The Ascensia Breeze2 Glucose Meter
This new blood glucose level meter has a lot of beneficial features and very little cons surrounding it. However, with almost any product there will often be something which is not liked by certain users. For example, those who use the Ascensia Breeze2 may find that they prefer the individual test strips. Since the disc technology is relatively new, some users may be hesitant to utilize this new method due to trepidation regarding accuracy.

Some may also find that the 420-memory capacity of the glucose meter is not enough for them as there are other glucose meters available today which provide a larger memory capacity. In addition, some may feel as if they prefer a more basic type of glucose meter and do not want all of the inclusions present with the Ascensia Breeze2.

The Bottom Line
Having described the product characteristics and highlighted various pros and cons which may be associated with the Ascensia Breeze2, it now comes time for the conclusion. The bottom line is that the Ascensia Breeze2 contains so many wonderful inclusions that it will be hard to pass up for many glucose meter purchasers. Although the disc technology is relatively new and some may be hesitant to switch to this type of meter, the overall response should be favorable to this type of testing method. For those who choose to buy this type of glucose monitoring system, the Ascensia Breeze2 retails for approximately $65. This is an extremely reasonable price for something which has the latest technological components and will be used day in and day out. Therefore, when all is said and done, the Ascensia Breeze2 is a wise purchase for those needing a blood glucose monitoring system.

Every blood glucose meter has certain characteristics which the manufacturer likes to make known to the public, such as an extremely low blood sample level or no coding feature. With the OneTouch UltraSmart glucose meter, the manufacturer LifeScan wants to make sure that everyone knows about its extremely desirable feature which is the ability to help you reduce A1C. This component relates to the reading which relays your average blood glucose level reached over the past three months. This is just one of the many favorable attributes of the OneTouch UltraSmart glucose meter.

Product Characteristics
In addition to the A1C monitoring, the OneTouch UltraSmart has many other wonderful characteristics. This glucose monitoring system has automatic collection and organization of glucose levels by time of day, five second testing results, small blood sample requirements, test results entered into graphs and charts for proper analysis, SmartButtons and easy download capabilities. Also, this glucose meter can register results taken from your forearm instead of your finger which provides an alternative testing site for the user. Along with meter, those who buy the OneTouch UltraSmart will receive a case and SimpleStart Diabetes and Insulin booklet, to name just two extra niceties.

Pros of the OneTouch UltraSmart Glucose Meter
One of the main pros of the OneTouch UltraSmart glucose meter is the ability to keep an eye on your A1C. This is extremely important as it is a way to predict a potential risk of diabetes complications. It is made even that much more valuable in that OneTouch UltraSmart is one of the only glucose meters to contain this feature. If monitoring blood sugar levels from the past three months is of importance to you then buying this meter might be a wise choice.

Another beneficial feature of the OneTouch UltraSmart glucose meter is the SmartButtons feature. With this button feature, the user is able to choose items such as the exercise button, health button, medication button, food button and fast facts button. Within each button feature one will find a wealth of answers to commonly inquired about questions by diabetics who utilize the testing equipment.

Cons of the OneTouch UltraSmart Glucose Meter
As for the cons associated with the OneTouch UltraSmart glucose meter, some may find various features unnecessary to their individual testing needs. For example, the A1C component may not be an important inclusion to some users and they might find a more basic blood glucose monitoring system available to them at a less expensive price. Another less than favorable feature for some may be the price tag attached to the OneTouch UltraSmart glucose meter as this particular monitoring system retails for approximately $89. Although this is not unreasonable in price when considering all of the additional features which are included with this system, it may be more than one wishes to spend on a glucose meter as there are plenty of other brands available for less money, albeit perhaps without all of the same bells and whistles.

The Bottom Line
The OneTouch UltraSmart glucose monitoring system by LifeScan is a good glucose meter overall. The A1C feature makes this an attractive glucose monitor for those who will find themselves using a component such as this. The SmartButtons feature is also a wonderful addition to the normal glucose meter and many who buy this particular model do so for an inventive feature like the SmartButtons. Therefore, if you are interested in a glucose meter which has the A1C feature and the SmartButtons capacity, choosing the OneTouch UltraSmart glucose meter is a wise choice.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a basic model glucose meter which simply takes down the test information without going much further than that, there are other models available on the market today which cost less than this one and may do the job just as well. With that said, consider what you want to get out of your glucose meter and if it consists of added extras such as those included with this one, buy the OneTouch UltraSmart as it has quite a bit of interesting features within it.

Glucose meters come in many different styles ranging anywhere from larger, multifaceted monitoring systems to small yet basic models. No matter what type of glucose level monitoring system one is looking for, they are sure to find the perfect one for their diabetic monitoring needs amongst the ones available on the consumer market today. One of the newer, more innovative models is the OneTouch UltraMini glucose meter by LifeScan. This particular meter has quite a bit of inclusions in addition to a nice compact size.

Product Characteristics
The OneTouch UltraMini is first and foremost a compact blood glucose testing alternative to some of its larger counterparts. The small size of this particular meter is one of the most attractive benefits surrounding it. Other product characteristics of the OneTouch UltraMini include five-second test results, simple three-step method, vibrant color options, 50-test memory, large screen and easy navigation capabilities. This is the perfect glucose meter for those who like a compact size and easy to use components.

Pros of the OneTouch UltraMini Glucose Meter
One of the major pros to this particular glucose meter is the small size dimensions. The OneTouch UltraMini is so compact that it can easily fit into one’s pocket. Since many individuals rarely sit around the house day in and day out, having a small testing meter which they can take everywhere with them is a wonderful attribute. Another beneficial aspect of the OneTouch UltraMini is the wide array of colors which you can choose from when buying this brand of blood glucose monitoring system. From light blue to vibrant purple, there is a range of colors from which to choose your favorite one.

The OneTouch UltraMini glucose meter is also a complete system in and of itself. When you purchase this testing kit you receive everything you need to get your blood glucose level results on a daily basis. This is a nice component as other glucose meters may require you to purchase extra accessories in order to make the meter work to its best ability. In addition, this glucose meter is quite inexpensive, costing approximately $20 retail, which is a definite pro for some. Lastly, this product boasts ease of use as there are not too many components to it which are difficult to understand or navigate through when completing your daily testing.

Cons of the OneTouch UltraMini Glucose Meter
Although this type of glucose meter is favored by many, there are some potentially negative aspects surrounding it. One of the less favorable aspects of the OneTouch Ultra Mini is the fact that it only has a 50-test memory. This can be a negative aspect for those who like to keep track of their daily test results yet don’t have a chance to transfer them from the glucose meter to a hard copy on a frequent basis. The less memory space a glucose meter has the more often one will have to transfer the results in order to make room for new test results. This can be a negative factor for some.

An additional less than satisfactory aspect for some individuals who use glucose meters is the simplicity of this meter. Some individuals like their glucose monitoring systems to contain all of the bells and whistles. Therefore, this particular model may be lacking in the complexity field as it is somewhat of a basic type of glucose meter.

The Bottom Line
If you are searching for a glucose meter which is small in size, inexpensive, performs basic functions, is colorful in nature and has reasonably quick testing time, then the OneTouch UltraMini might just be the perfect choice. Should you require something a bit more in depth with regard to testing functions and memory size, then perhaps a different model of glucose meter may be better for you and your blood glucose testing needs.

LifeScan is a company which specializes in glucose meters. Among their various glucose meter products is the OneTouch Ultra2 glucose meter. The OneTouch Ultra2 Glucose Meter has many favorable traits which make it a favorite amongst diabetic individuals.

Product Characteristics
One of the main product characteristics which LifeScan promotes with regard to the OneTouch Ultra2 is the top notch tracking capabilities with regard to how food affects one’s blood sugar level. This particular glucose meter has many different features which allow individuals to flag results based upon their food intake and see how the food they eat as well as the portion size impacts their blood sugar level. Other product characteristics of the OneTouch Ultra2 include small blood sample size, simple and easy to use features, 5-second results, download capabilities, 500-result memory and small size.

Pros of the OneTouch Ultra2 Glucose Meter
One of the beneficial aspects and unique features of the OneTouch Ultra2 glucose meter is the food and blood sugar level comparison mode. This particular glucose level monitoring system allows individuals to see how the food they eat determines their blood sugar level. Functions such as pre-meal testing, post-meal testing and effect of food portion size all provide useful results to the tester. The results can help the individual to alter their food intake and choose a healthier diet which will keep their glucose level within target range.

Another pro to purchasing the OneTouch Ultra2 glucose meter is that one who does so will get an extremely generous memory size. This glucose meter can store up to 500 results which is one of the largest memory sizes amongst all glucose meters on the market today. The large memory size allows individuals to store their results on the glucose meter for a longer period of time and then download the information onto their PC when they have the chance to do so.

The simple nature of the OneTouch Ultra2 is another pro in the eyes of some individuals. For those who test with these glucose meters and may not be extremely technologically savvy, having a glucose meter which performs simple operations to produce glucose level results and nothing more is highly desirable and a definite pro.

Cons of the OneTouch Ultra2 Glucose Meter
As for cons which can be cited alongside of this particular testing meter, the simplicity which was mentioned as a favorable aspect in the pros section can also be a con for some. Certain individuals may prefer their glucose meter to contain multifaceted features which are inclusive in nature. It is this group of individuals which may feel as if the OneTouch Ultra2 is too simple for their tastes.

In addition, the OneTouch Ultra2 may contain features which are deemed unnecessary by some. The food function features which are one of the main components of this glucose meter may not be a desirable function to individuals who simply want the meter to measure blood glucose levels without showing them how their food intake makes their blood sugar react.

The Bottom Line
The OneTouch Ultra2 glucose meter contains a unique feature revolving around the food intake and how it affects blood sugar. This is quite original as not too many other glucose meters on the market go into this facet of glucose monitoring as the OneTouch Ultra2 does. In this case, if you are searching for a facet such as this, then the OneTouch Ultra2 might be perfect for you. In addition, the 500-result memory is extremely favorable and this will come in handy for many users. On the other hand, if you find that the food options are unnecessary or the overall components too simple for your tastes, it might be in your best interest to check out other glucose meter products more tailored towards your needs.

With the wide array of glucose meters on the consumer market these days, it may be difficult to determine which one is the best one to buy. LifeScan manufactures the OneTouch brand of glucose meter which has various models within it. One of the primary OneTouch glucose meters is the OneTouch Ultra. This product contains many of the characteristics which one could want in a glucose monitoring system.

Product Characteristics
The OneTouch Ultra glucose meter contains many wonderful product features. This particular glucose test provides 5-second test results, small specimen requirements, forearm testing option, 150-result memory and easy to read display screen. Although one of the more basic models offered by LifeScan, the OneTouch Ultra glucose monitoring system contains all of the necessary features for registering blood glucose level results.

Pros of the OneTouch Ultra Glucose Meter
One of the pros associated with the OneTouch Ultra is the 5-second test results feature. Since many individuals test on the go, speedy results are a necessity. The 5-second results attribute is an extremely favorable one as the results are displayed in a timely fashion. Another positive aspect of the OneTouch Ultra glucose meter is the forearm testing option. This provides a favorable change for those who are tired of testing on their finger and feel sore from doing so. By having the option of testing on the forearm, users can give their finger a rest and then switch back to doing so when they feel like it.

Another pro to this type of glucose meter is the easy to read display screen. On this screen one will be able to review their test results, symbols, messages and more. Having a screen which is easy to read and navigate through will make a world of a difference in the end as it helps to make reading and understanding the information easy as can be.

Cons of the OneTouch Ultra Glucose Meter
There are some negative aspects which some would cite in conjunction with the OneTouch Ultra glucose meter. One con related to this glucose meter is the lack of a no coding function. Many of the newer glucose meters available today have a no coding feature where you don’t have to manually enter information prior to collecting blood glucose level information. With the OneTouch Ultra, the user will have to use a coding function before they can take the test which makes it a bit timelier than one which has a no coding feature.

Another less than favorable aspect regarding the OneTouch Ultra glucose meter is the small memory size. This particular model of glucose monitoring system only stores 150 of the past test results whereas many other glucose meters available for sale provide 300+ results in the memory capacity. The low memory level may turn some individuals off and prevent them from buying this particular type of glucose meter.
The Bottom Line

The OneTouch Ultra glucose meter is made by a well-known company in the diabetes care arena. Because this is a LifeScan product, people will often purchase the OneTouch products as it is a good product overall and made by a reputable company. This particular glucose meter is perfect for individuals who want a simple testing method with quick results and the ability to use their glucose meter on their forearm. If a no coding feature and larger memory is more in keeping with one’s needs when it comes to a glucose meter product, then looking further for a more inclusive meter might be a good choice. On the other hand, the OneTouch Ultra glucose meter is a more than adequate glucose monitoring system and reasonably priced for approximately $79 retail.

The Accu-Chek Aviva glucose meter by Roche Diagnostics is a blood sugar level monitoring system which has many beneficial components to it. In addition to being manufactured by a well-known name in the diabetes care industry, the Accu-Chek Aviva has many features which diabetics would look for in a blood glucose meter.

Product Characteristics
One of the main touted characteristics of the Accu-Chek Aviva glucose meter is the ability to accept wide testing strips for a more accurate result every time. The company cites that approximately 97% of testers will fill the strip completely on the first try thereby eliminating the need for multiple testing tries and reducing the pain associated with glucose level testing. Other product characteristics of the Accu-Chek Aviva include small blood sample (.06 microliters), least painful lancet device available, multiple testing site capabilities, 5-second test results, 500-test memory capacity and downloadable qualities.

Pros of the Accu-Chek Aviva Glucose Meter
The Accu-Chek Aviva glucose meter has quite a few pros associated with the product. One of the main pros is that this particular test enables testers to get accurate results pretty much every time they use it due to the wide mouth strips which are used with the Accu-Chek Aviva glucose meter. It is the strip which attracts the blood droplet quickly and fully thereby eliminating the need to do the test over again.

Another positive aspect to the Accu-Chek Aviva glucose meter is the 500-test memory. This is an extremely generous amount of memory capacity and one can keep gaining test results and not have to remove the results on a daily basis. The convenience of a large memory capacity will be appreciated by many testers who like to remove the data but not on too frequent a basis.

The existence of a least painful lancet device with this particular glucose meter will also be appreciated by those who use it. The Accu-Chek Aviva uses the Multiclix lancet device which has been shown to be the least painful amongst other devices of this type. In addition those who use this glucose monitoring system have the option of testing from various sites on the body which allows them to give different parts of the body a rest from constant testing.

Cons of the Accu-Chek Aviva Glucose Meter
One of the less desirable features of the Accu-Chek Aviva glucose meter is the absence of a no coding feature. Newer types of glucose meters are adding a no coding feature which allows individuals to start testing right away without having to enter information into the system. Since many individuals are in a hurry to get the test done and over with, having this no coding feature, which is absent with the Accu-Chek Aviva, may be a necessity for some who perform glucose level tests.

The size may be another issue for some glucose meter purchasers. The dimensions of the Accu-Chek Aviva are approximately 3.7″H x 2.0″W x 0.9″D which is not too large, however there are other glucose meters on the consumer market today which are smaller in size. Therefore, those who buy these systems and have to carry them around everywhere will often desire a smaller type of glucose meter.

The Bottom Line
When all is said and done, the Accu-Chek Aviva by Roche Diagnostics is a good purchase. Retailing for approximately $64, this is a great deal considering all that you get for it. Items such accepting accurate wide mouth testing strips, 500-test memory, 5-second testing time and the option of using the test on multiple areas on the body are just a few of the reasons why glucose testers should choose this model. Although there is a lack of a no coding feature with the Accu-Chek Aviva, if this does not bother you then the Aviva might just be a good choice for you.

The Accu-Chek brand by Roche Diagnostics is a popular one amongst diabetics who need to monitor their blood glucose level on a daily basis. There are a number of Accu-Chek models available and one such popular one is the Accu-Chek Active. The Accu-Chek Active glucose meter has many wonderful features and the following will discuss some of these features as well as pros and cons associated with this type of glucose meter.

Product Characteristics
The Accu-Chek Active glucose meter provides the tester with the option of flexible dosing with regard to doing so in or out of the meter, multiple testing site options, quick results in 5 seconds and 200-test memory capacity. In addition, one can create 7 and 14-day averages with their stored results as well as download the information onto their PC. This lightweight glucose meter also has a lancet device which promotes the least painful testing scenario as it prevents movement from side to side which can hurt the skin at the contact site. Also, the lancet device has a Comfort Dial which offers various depth settings where the user can choose a depth setting desirable for their testing needs.

Pros of the Accu-Chek Active Glucose Meter
One of the beneficial aspects is the ability to test with the strip either in the meter or outside of it. As testing with the strip in the meter can sometimes be cumbersome, having the option to apply the blood droplet to the strip while it is unattached to the glucose meter is a good thing to have. This attribute of the Accu-Chek Active glucose meter is highly appreciated by many testers.

Another positive aspect of the Accu-Chek Active glucose monitoring system is the accompanying lancet device. Since this lancet device provides practically pain-free testing and has a Comfort Dial to choose the best injection depth, it is a good choice for some glucose level testers. Having a top-notch lancet device will make the overall glucose meter that much better.

The multiple testing site capabilities of the Accu-Chek Active also make it a good choice. Since many individuals like to have other testing site options to prevent soreness encountered by some who test in the same area all the time, the Active model which has this feature is highly recommended, especially for those who opt for multiple testing sites.

Cons of the Accu-Chek Active Glucose Meter
As for the cons associated with the Accu-Chek Active glucose meter, the small memory size of the meter itself may be a bad feature for some. This glucose meter stores only 200 results which is large for some but small for others, especially those who like to leave their results on their test for a while and not have to download the information on a constant basis.

Another aspect which is not beneficial is the lack of a no coding feature. No coding features allow the user to simply pick up their test and use it without having to enter in any coding information. Some of the newer glucose meters offer this function these days and it is quite an attractive one to have.

The Bottom Line
When determining if this is the right type of glucose meter for you, it is important to determine what features you are looking for in a glucose monitoring system. If you are interested in a meter which has an average memory size, good lancet device and multiple test site options, then the Accu-Chek Active is for you and a great buy at approximately $20 retail. On the other hand, if you require no coding features and a larger memory size, then perhaps looking at other Accu-Chek meters or other brands of meters is the best plan.

The Accu-Chek Compact Plus glucose meter manufactured by Roche Diagnostics contains a variety of favorable features which are sure to please most individuals who use this type of glucose meter. A relatively new glucose monitoring system, the Accu-Chek Compact Plus has technologically advanced features which are supposed to make glucose testing a snap.

Product Characteristics
The Accu-Chek Compact Plus has many wonderful features. Some of the more highly talked about ones include the existence of a preloaded drum for no strip handling, a no coding feature, detachable lancet device, 5-second results and alternate test site options. This particular glucose meter has a 300-value memory which stores time and date information as well as various averages in order for you to compare your past testing results with one another. You can also download the information onto your PC by using the Accu-Chek Compass software.

Pros of the Accu-Chek Compact Plus Glucose Meter
There are quite a few pros associated with the Accu-Chek Compact Plus blood glucose meter. One beneficial aspect is the no strip handling feature. Due to the fact that this glucose meter has a preloaded drum, you do not have to be concerned with loading individual strips each and every time you have to obtain glucose level results. The drum consists of 17 strips which gives you quite a few tests before having to refill.

Another positive attribute of the Accu-Chek Compact Plus is the no coding feature. With glucose meters that have this favorable feature, the user does not have to pre-enter information into the meter prior to testing. Although the coding can be done quickly, especially by those who are experts in the area of glucose testing, eliminating the need for this feature will save time overall and get the test over and done with in a speedy fashion.

The detachable lancet device is also a good thing to have in your glucose meter. The Accu-Chek Compact Plus has a detachable device such as this one which allows one to test with it attached or unattached to the meter. The Softclix Plus lancet device by Accu-Chek makes testing easier by providing one with the option of collecting the blood sample without it being attached to the meter.

Cons of the Accu-Chek Compact Plus Glucose Meter
With the pros of this glucose meter being duly noted, it is also important to discuss the cons associated with the Accu-Chek Compact Plus as well. Some may find the lower memory level to be unsatisfactory to them. This particular meter has a 300-test result memory which is large enough in general however some may require a greater memory in order to have their results stored longer. Those who do not wish to remove the data as often may find that a 300-memory capacity is not large enough for their taste.

The lack of individual testing strips may be a con for some who are searching for a glucose meter. Although the new test drum is innovative and technologically advanced it may turn some people off, especially those who are wary of something new and different from their usual testing method. Some people prefer to still use the individual testing strips and for that group of individuals the testing drum may in fact be a less than favorable feature.

The Bottom Line
For those who are searching for a newer type of glucose meter that has a no coding feature and preloaded drum, the Accu-Chek Compact Plus might just be the perfect choice. The price is right as well, costing only about $32 retail. Some individuals may prefer a more inclusive glucose meter which has a larger memory capacity and additional features. For this group of individuals, shopping around a bit more for a glucose meter in keeping with their needs might be in their best interest.

The FreeStyle Freedom glucose meter manufactured by Abbott Diabetes Care promotes ease of reading and ease of handling components. This glucose meter is made by a well-known name in the diabetes care field and has many wonderful components which are designed to make procuring blood glucose level results easy as can be. The following will describe some of the product characteristics along with some pros and cons which may go along with the use of the FreeStyle Freedom glucose meter.

Product Characteristics
The FreeStyle Freedom glucose meter is a glucose monitoring system which has many favorable attributes. This particular meter has an easy to read display screen, ergonomic design for easy handling, 5-second test results, ability to reapply the blood sample within one minute of previous testing and programmable alarms. In addition, this glucose meter allows for alternate testing sites which enable the individual to use sites other than their finger for constant testing. The FreeStyle Freedom stores up to 250 prior test results and has an automatic shut off component which will aid in saving battery life should one forget to shut down their glucose meter after testing. It also requires an extremely small sample size of 0.3 microliters which makes for less painful and less prolonged testing.

Pros of the FreeStyle Freedom Glucose Meter
One of the pros of the FreeStyle Freedom glucose meter is the quick test results which users can achieve by using this type of glucose monitoring system. The 5-second test results allow for individuals to simply test and go. Since many are on a time schedule these days having a quick glucose meter is extremely beneficial.

The price is another favorable attribute of the FreeStyle Freedom glucose meter. Selling for approximately $25 retail this particular glucose meter offers quite a bit for a great price. This all-inclusive meter is well worth the price.

In addition, the FreeStyle Freedom glucose meter has a good memory capacity to it. Storing up to 250 test results allows the users to keep their information on their glucose meter and transfer it over to hard copy when they get the next available chance to do so. A good memory capacity is a nice attribute of a glucose meter.

Cons of the FreeStyle Freedom Glucose Meter
There seem to be very little negative aspects to the FreeStyle Freedom glucose meter. If any have to be mentioned perhaps the simple feature aspect can be mentioned. Although this meter has all of the necessary functions it may not have all of the components which some other glucose monitoring systems contain. Therefore, those individuals who may desire an all-inclusive glucose meter may find the FreeStyle Freedom meter lacking in some regards.

An additional less than favorable aspect for some may be the memory capacity. Although listed previously as a beneficial attribute, some may find that they need a larger memory capacity for their glucose meter. As some glucose meters are available with 350-test result memory capacity, the 250-result memory of the FreeStyle Freedom may not be enough for certain users.

The Bottom Line
When all is said and done, the FreeStyle Freedom is a great buy. If you are looking for an above average glucose meter with more than enough functions, quick testing time, good memory capacity and easy handling components, then the FreeStyle Freedom is the way to go. The inexpensive price tag is another reason to buy this model as you really get a lot for your money. For those who may need a bit more functions and greater memory capacity, there are other models available on the consumer market which might be more suitable. With that said, the FreeStyle Freedom is certainly not lacking in many areas.