Over-the-counter glucose monitors: Lingo vs Stelo
You can now buy a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) without a prescription. It's a small sensor worn on the back of your arm that shows how food, sleep, stress and exercise move your blood sugar. Both of these are for adults who are not on insulin.
| Abbott Lingo | Dexcom Stelo | |
|---|---|---|
| Wear time | Up to 14 days | Up to 15 days |
| 1 sensor | $49 (14 days) | $55 (15 days) |
| 2 sensors | $89 (28 days) | $99 (30 days) |
| Subscription | $84 / 2 sensors per 28 days; $249 / 6 sensors per 12 weeks | $89 / 2 sensors per month; $252 / 6 sensors every 3 months |
| Reading frequency | Every 1 minute | Every 15 minutes |
| Display range | 55–200 mg/dL | 70–250 mg/dL |
| Share data with your doctor | No (via app) | Yes (Dexcom Clarity) |
| HSA/FSA eligible | Yes | Yes |
Prices and specs come from the MCT2D (Michigan Center for Type 2 Diabetes) comparison, updated 2026-06-11 and checked by us on 2026-10-16. The makers' own sites did not show prices when we checked, so confirm at checkout.
Which one?
Lingo is a little cheaper and reads every minute, but it can't share data with your doctor through its app. Stelo lasts a day longer per sensor and can share with your care team through Dexcom Clarity. Neither one has low or high glucose alarms.
Dr. Sorrell's optimal fasting glucose is 70–84 mg/dL (more on glucose).