Diabetic Live

Abbott Diabetes Care is a well-known name in the diabetes product industry. This company carries a multitude of products which are used by diabetics worldwide. For those who are searching for a glucose meter to monitor their blood sugar level, this company provides quite a few from which to choose the best one for their individual testing needs. One such glucose meter offered by this company is the FreeStyle Flash.

Product Characteristics
The main characteristics of the FreeStyle Flash glucose meter focus on pain-free testing which is discrete in nature. The Flash model requires only a 0.3 microliter of blood in order to obtain glucose level results. In addition, the glucose meter can be used at various testing sites which presents many different options for test areas on the body. Programmable alarms remind the user when it is time to test which makes it easy to stay on track with glucose monitoring. This model also includes lights, such as the test light and backlit display, which make for easy reading.

Pros of the FreeStyle Flash Glucose Meter
As many of the other products designed by Abbott Diabetes Care, the FreeStyle Flash glucose meter is all in all a good product. It has reminder alarms which are extremely beneficial in and of themselves but especially so for those who may be busy or a bit forgetful at times. Another positive aspect of the FreeStyle Flash is that it has an easy to read screen with more than adequate lighting in which to read the results, no matter where the test is taken. In addition, the virtually pain free characteristics of the test itself makes it less likely that the tester will experience too much discomfort when having to test on a frequent basis. Lastly, this model of glucose meter provides multiple testing sites for the individual to choose the best one for their needs.

Cons of the FreeStyle Flash Glucose Meter
There are a few disadvantages which can be cited with the FreeStyle Flash model. First, the product is described as having multiple testing sites however there are certain sites which should be used for particular testing situations. For example, hypoglycemic individuals who are testing for low blood sugar or hypoglycemic awareness should use the finger site as opposed to any other site as this is most accurate in this scenario.

Also, this model of glucose meter does not offer PC compatibility where you can download the information from the meter onto your computer. The PC feature is a great thing to have these days as it allows users of glucose meters to put all of their pertinent glucose recordings directly on their computer. Therefore, even though this is a good model when all is said and done, there are other glucose meters on the market today which may offer more components for the tester to take advantage thereof.

The Bottom Line
If you are looking for a basic glucose meter which has various testing sites, lit displays, alarms and offers virtually pain-free testing, then the FreeStyle Flash is a good option to consider as it is reasonably priced for anywhere from $20 to $30. On the other hand, if you want your glucose meter to do just a little bit more, such as provide more details and be PC ready, then choosing another model such as the FreeStyle Lite might be in your best interest. Therefore, if you wish to purchase a glucose meter manufactured by Abbott Diabetes Care and you need something with a little bit more there is always the option of taking a look at the other models produced by this company to see if anything catches your eye.

FreeStyle Lite is the newest glucose meter being offered by the manufacturer, Abbott Diabetes Care. This company offers a few other FreeStyle models, such as the Flash, Xtra and Freedom, but there are factors about the FreeStyle Lite which make it stand out among the rest. The following review will focus on the various components of the FreeStyle Lite glucose meter and highlight different pros and cons associated with this particular testing method.

Product Characteristics
The FreeStyle Lite glucose meter is, as the name would suggest, light in weight. One can carry this monitor around without having the extra burden of a heavy glucose meter in their pocket or purse. This glucose meter has a no coding component as well as touting the world’s smallest blood sample size. In order to view your glucose level results easier, the FreeStyle Lite also comes with a backlight as well as a test strip port light. This model will only use FreeStyle Lite test strips which can be purchased quite readily. The FreeStyle Lite glucose meter is also PC compatible which makes downloading data easy to do.

Pros of the FreeStyle Lite Glucose Meter
There are many visible pros to using the FreeStyle Lite glucose meter. First, the no coding capability is a wonderful asset when it comes to ease of use. With the no coding capability users are able to simply perform the test without having to manually enter information prior to doing so. Another beneficial aspect of this glucose meter is that it takes an extremely small blood sample which makes for a less painful testing situation. In addition, the meter itself is small in size, measuring only 2.0 x 1.5 inches.

Another favorable aspect of the FreeStyle Lite glucose meter is that it has easy to read features due to the various lights such as the backlight and test strip port light and is simple to use. In addition the meter has a no-slip grip on the sides which makes for easy handling during testing. The many pros are quite evident with this new glucose meter by Abbott Diabetes Care.

Cons of the FreeStyle Lite Glucose Meter
As with any type of product, there will often be some unfavorable characteristics as well as the beneficial ones. The FreeStyle Lite glucose meter is one such product which does not have many cons associated with it. However, there are a couple potential issues which should be mentioned. The first pertains to the testing strips. The FreeStyle Lite is only able to be used with FreeStyle Lite testing strips and no other ones can be used with this glucose meter. This can cause some issues if for example it becomes difficult to obtain FreeStyle Lite strips for one reason or another. Also, these types of strips may be more expensive than others due to the no coding capabilities associates with these specialty strips.

Another con which can be cited with the FreeStyle Lite glucose meter is that even though the meter is cited as having easy to use components it may be too simple for some. There are other glucose meters on the general consumer market which may have more features available within them than the FreeStyle Lite. Therefore, some diabetic individuals who use this type of glucose meter may find that they crave more testing options than what is currently offered with the FreeStyle Lite.

The Bottom Line
When all is said and done, the FreeStyle Lite is a good glucose meter to choose for your blood sugar testing needs. The no coding feature is a wonderful thing to have and a small blood sample size is an even more beneficial component. This type of glucose meter will meet all of your testing needs and then some. Depending on where you purchase this item, it can be found for around $55 which is quite reasonable on one’s wallet.

The Precision Xtra Glucose Meter and Ketone Monitoring System is an all-inclusive meter offered by Abbott Diabetes Care. Since glucose meters are essential to diabetics monitoring their blood sugar level, it is important to choose a glucose meter suitable for one’s specific monitoring needs. For many, the Precision Xtra Glucose and Ketone Monitoring System is the perfect choice.

Product Characteristics
The Precision Xtra consists of a basic monitoring menu with easy to read components and quick results. In addition, this glucose meter plays double duty as it measures not only one’s glucose level but their ketone levels as well. The dual function can be performed with the same meter and the same testing strips which make for an extremely convenient and multi-tasking system. The blood glucose sample size for this model is 0.6 microliters and the test time is approximately 5 seconds. This glucose meter contains an automatic shut off function which helps to preserve the life of the battery.

Pros of the Precision Xtra Glucose Meter
One of the main pros associated with the Precision Xtra Blood Glucose and Ketone Monitoring System is its ability to perform two functions, glucose level and ketone level detections. This 2-in-1 feature makes for a great all-inclusive meter. The data which this monitor produces is an extremely positive attribute.

Also, the glucose test strip is constructed in a way to reduce interference from certain medications which the individual is taking at the moment. Medicines such as aspirin, vitamin C and acetaminophen will usually not interfere with the results produced due to the accuracy of the Precision testing strip.

The Precision Xtra also has a good memory on it. This particular meter can hold data from approximately 450 prior events. This is a beneficial aspect as it makes it less pertinent for the individual to transfer the information immediately after it is registered on the meter as there is enough storage space to hold the measurements for quite a while.

Cons of the Precision Xtra Glucose Meter
Although “con” is a pretty strong word to use to describe aspects of this meter, there are some less favorable aspects about the Precision Xtra which may make potential purchasers look at other possible glucose meters. The blood sample size is one aspect which may make the Precision Xtra be not as favorable to prospective purchasers as other glucose meters. The blood sample size of this meter is 0.6 microliters which is small however there are other meters on the market today which only require 0.3 microliters to register an accurate result. Although the difference is not very large between the two sample sizes, it may be enough to make glucose meter shoppers consider other meters.

Another con of the Precision Xtra glucose meter is that it doesn’t include the necessary cables to pull the information from the meter. These data cables have to be purchased separately in order to engage in data management of your test results.

The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that if you are looking for a dual-purpose meter, i.e. one which does both glucose and ketone level monitoring, the Precision Xtra is a good buy. This meter can be purchased for approximately $79 retail which is a bit more expensive than some of the other glucose meters on the consumer market but reasonable in that it performs two specific duties. If the difference in blood sample size between what the Precision Xtra Blood Glucose and Ketone Monitoring System and some other glucose meters require is not an issue for you, then buying this type of meter might just be a wise choice. This particular meter is available through various retailers such as pharmacies and online sellers as well as through Abbott Diabetes Care.

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.