Glucose meters can be divided into electrode type (electrochemical testing) and photoelectric type (reflectance technology testing) according to the detection principle, and they can also be classified as smear-blood or suction-blood types according to the blood sampling method. Additionally, there are new types of painless glucose monitors.
When facing a wide variety of glucose meters in the market that may dazzle the eyes, how should one choose a convenient and practical one?
1. Check the accuracy First, it should be clear that the accuracy of current home-use glucose meters does not meet diagnostic standards. However, the glucose values measured by these devices should be close to those obtained from biochemical analyzer tests on venous blood, with no significant discrepancy. Some glucose meters available in the market today have built-in calibration functions, allowing their finger-prick blood measurements to yield results similar to those from biochemical analyzer tests on venous blood. Some manufacturers provide quality control liquids or test cards specifically for checking the accuracy of the glucose meter and ensuring its normal operation. It is important to inquire about these features when purchasing.