Managing diabetes today looks very different from how it did a decade ago. Technology has made monitoring easier, faster, and far more flexible. Two of the most widely used tools are Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGMs) and traditional blood sugar test kits. Both help track glucose levels, but the way you use them—and the type of insight they provide—can feel completely different.

This guide breaks down how each option works, how to use them correctly, and when one might be more suitable than the other.

What a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) Actually Does

A CGM is a small, wearable device that tracks glucose levels throughout the day and night. Instead of checking a fingerstick reading occasionally, the CGM reads glucose in the body’s interstitial fluid at regular intervals—often every 1–5 minutes.

How to Use a CGM

Using a CGM is more about setup and syncing rather than frequent manual testing:

1. Apply the Sensor
   The tiny sensor is inserted under the skin, typically on the abdomen or upper arm. This process is quick and almost painless with modern applicators.
   
   
2. Attach or Activate the Transmitter
   The transmitter sits on top of the sensor and sends glucose data to your phone or reader.
   
   
3. Pair With a Mobile App or Receiver
   Once connected, your glucose trends appear in real time. Many apps allow alerts for high and low blood sugar events.
   
   
4. Calibrate (If Required)
   Some CGMs are fully factory-calibrated. Others may require an occasional fingerstick using a blood sugar level monitor to ensure accuracy.
   
   
5. Replace the Sensor as Scheduled
   Depending on the brand, sensors last from 7 to 14 days before replacement.
   
   

Why Many People Prefer CGMs

• They provide trend graphs, not just single readings.
  
  
• Alerts help prevent overnight lows or sudden spikes.
  
  
• Reduces the need for frequent finger pricks.
  
  
• Great for active lifestyles, children, and people adjusting medication doses.
  
  

How a Traditional Blood Sugar Test Kit Works

Traditional testing—using a blood sugar test kit with strips, lancets, and a glucose meter—is still the most common method for many people. It remains reliable, affordable, and widely recommended for daily monitoring.

How to Use a Blood Sugar Level Monitor

1. Wash Hands Thoroughly
   Any sugar residue can affect results.
   
   
2. Prepare the Lancing Device
   Insert a fresh lancet and set your preferred depth.
   
   
3. Insert a Test Strip Into the Meter
   The meter powers on automatically for most models.
   
   
4. Prick the Side of Your Fingertip
   Sides hurt less and produce an adequate blood drop.
   
   
5. Apply the Blood to the Strip
   The meter will read your glucose within a few seconds.
   
   
6. Record or Sync the Reading
   Some meters connect to apps, while others store readings internally.
   
   

Why People Still Choose Traditional Meters

• Lower cost compared to CGMs
  
  
• No need for wearable devices
  
  
• Ideal for occasional monitoring
  
  
• Helpful for confirming CGM readings
  
  
• Highly accurate when used correctly
  
  

CGM vs. Traditional Meter: Which One Should You Use?

Both tools have their place in diabetes care, and many individuals use both together.

Choose a CGM if you want:

• Round-the-clock glucose tracking
  
  
• Automatic alerts for highs and lows
  
  
• Better insights into how food, activity, or stress affects you
  
  
• Fewer fingersticks
  
  

Choose a Blood Sugar Test Kit if you need:

• A cost-effective solution
  
  
• A backup for CGM calibration
  
  
• Simple testing without subscription costs
  
  
• A way to check levels quickly without wearing a device
  
  

Can You Use Both? Absolutely.

Many healthcare providers recommend using a blood sugar level monitor alongside a CGM, especially for:

• Double-checking unexpected readings
  
  
• Calibrating certain CGM models
  
  
• Testing when sensors are removed or being replaced
  
  

Using both tools gives you the best accuracy and flexibility.

Final Thoughts

Whether you rely on a CGM or a traditional blood sugar test kit, what matters most is consistency. Understanding how each device works helps you pick the routine that fits your lifestyle, budget, and comfort level. CGMs offer convenience and detailed insights, while traditional meters provide accuracy and affordability.

If you need dependable diabetic supplies delivered to your door, Medical Supply Corner offers meters, strips, lancets, and support tools to help make daily testing easier.