When a person considers using a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM), they often ponder their choices. Do they want a Dexcom, a Guardian, a Libre, or another option? In this article, we will compare the Dexcom G6® and Medtronic Guardian™ Connect.
Dexcom G6®
The Dexcom G6® features include:
- approved for use in children 2 years old and older.
- constantly monitors fluctuations in blood sugar based on the interstitial fluid.
- uses Bluetooth technology.
- sensors last 10 days.
- sensors are water-resistant so it is safe to shower with.
- does not require calibration. Users can still choose to enter a calibration if they would like to or feel that the sensor seems inaccurate.
- has a 2-hour warm-up period.
- customizable alerts for high and low blood sugar levels.
- can connect to an app on your phone and send readings directly to the app.
Medtronic Guardian™ Connect
The Medtronic Guardian™ Connect
- approved for use in those 14-years of age and over for the stand-alone Guardian™ Connect and ages 2-years and up when used with an approved Medtronic insulin pump.
- constantly monitors fluctuations in blood sugar based on the interstitial fluid.
- sensors last 7 days.
- calibration must take place within 2 hours after you connect the transmitter to your sensor and start the warm-up period, again within 6 hours (first day of inserting sensor only) and then every 12 hours although calibrating 3-4 times per day is considered optimal by the manufacturer.
- the transmitters (Guardian™ Link and Guardian™ Link 3) are safe for submersion in up to 2.4m for 30 mins.
- customizable alerts for high and low blood sugar levels.
- can connect to an app on your phone and send readings directly to the app.
Which is more accurate, the Dexcom G6® or the Medtronic Guardian™ Connect?
According to Connected in Motion, the Dexcom G6®’s MARD falls between 8.7%-9.4% depending on day of wear (with Day 2 being the most accurate), whereas the Guardian™ Sensor 3 ranges from 8.7% to 10.6% depending on the site you wear your sensor and the number of calibrations (with 4 calibrations per day leading to the greatest/lowest MARD.)
In other words, both systems have similar accuracy levels with the Dexcom G6® being slightly more accurate.
What are their similarities?
Both the Dexcom G6® and the Medtronic Guardian™ Connect…
- have the option to use your phone to monitor readings.
- have some form of alert system that can be set.
- may have adhesive issues that require you to use other sticking overlays.
- have both stand-alone and insulin pump integrated technologies.
- have excellent customer service and replacement policies.
- both are approved for use on abdomen and back of arm.
What the difference between the Medtronic Guardian™ Connect and Dexcom G6®?
Differences between the Medtronic Guardian™ Connect and Dexcom G6® include
- the Dexcom G6® does not require calibration unless there are significant differences between results and symptoms.
- you can make dosing decisions from readings on the Dexcom G6® but not the Medtronic Guardian™ Connect
- The Medtronic transmitter can be continuously reused but must be charged when the battery runs low. The Dexcom transmitter will last 3 months before it should be disposed and a new one used.
Which is better the Dexcom G6® or the Medtronic Guardian™ Connect?
If you are using a Medtronic insulin pump, the Guardian™ systems allow the pumps to fun on “auto-mode”. For people who prefer a Tandem insulin pump or are looking at the DASH, you may prefer to use a Dexcom.
When you look at cost, if you are using a subscription the cost is still quiet par. You will require more Guardian™ sensors than Dexcoms because of the difference in sensor life.
Some users on a recent Reddit thread felt that the need for calibration on the Guardian™ made the Dexcom G6® much more attractive, BUT your diabetes may vary! What is right for you may not be right for your neighbour.
Weigh the pros and cons of all systems before you decide. Educate yourself. Know the features that you require in your device and discuss your options with your diabetes team first before you commit to purchase any system.
Compare CGM Features
Download the free PDF to compare Continuous Glucose Monitors
I have used both, and frankly, there is almost no difference. I really like my Medtronic system. But I also see the benefits of Dexcom. Thank you for the review.