CGM Comparison 2026
Compare continuous glucose monitors for weight loss and metabolic health. Pricing, sensors, apps, and coaching for non-diabetics.
Pricing & Plans Comparison
Complete cost breakdown including upfront fees, ongoing costs, and effective monthly rates. All services are HSA/FSA eligible. Updated Jan 2026
| Provider | Initial Cost | Monthly Cost | Effective $/mo* | Sensors | Commitment | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $0 | $129/mo | $129/mo | Yes (2/month) | 3 months | Weight loss seekers wanting GLP-1 support and dietitian access | |
Nutrisense
| $0 | $126/mo | $126/mo | Yes (2/month) | 1 month | Beginners wanting 1-on-1 dietitian support and guided interpretation |
| $0 | $24/mo | $24/mo | No (buy separately) | Annual membership | Data-driven biohackers who want sensor flexibility and detailed metabolic scoring | |
| $99 | $89/mo | $97/mo | Yes (2/month) | None | People wanting simple OTC CGM with AI insights and no coaching commitment | |
| $49 | $91/mo | $91/mo | Yes (2/4-weeks) | None | Budget-conscious users wanting affordable OTC CGM with app-based coaching | |
| $294 | $10/mo | $35/mo | No (gut test only) | 4 months (Start) or 12 months (Core) | Those prioritizing gut microbiome health and AI-powered nutrition over real-time glucose | |
| $0 | $299/mo | $200/mo | Yes (M1 CGM) | None | Performance-focused athletes wanting metabolic optimization with live coaching |
*Effective monthly cost=(Initial cost + 12 months of ongoing costs) ÷ 12. Includes sensor costs where applicable.
Sensor Technology Comparison
CGM accuracy, reading frequency, and sensor specifications. MARD (Mean Absolute Relative Difference) measures accuracy—lower is better.
| Provider | Sensor Type | Accuracy (MARD) | Reading Freq. | Warm-up | Wear Time | Water Resist. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dexcom Stelo | 9.0% | Every 5 min | 30 min | 15 days | 8ft/24hr | |
| Nutrisense
| Dexcom Stelo | 8.3% | Every 5 min | 30 min | 15 days | 8ft/24hr |
| Dexcom Stelo or G7 or Libre 3 | 7.9-9.0% | Varies by sensor | Varies | 10-15 days | Varies | |
| Dexcom Stelo | 8.3% | Every 5 min | 30 min | 15 days | 8ft/24hr | |
| Lingo biosensor | 9.3% | Every 1 min | 60 min | 14 days | 3ft/30min | |
| N/A - no CGM | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | |
| Abbott FreeStyle Libre | N/A | Every 1 min | N/A | 14 days | N/A |
Dexcom sensors offer faster warm-up (30 min vs 60 min) and better water resistance. Libre sensors provide more frequent readings (every 1 min vs 5 min).
App Features & Coaching Support
Compare coaching options, food logging capabilities, scoring systems, and app integrations.
| Provider | Coaching Type | Food Logging | Scoring System | App Integrations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✓ 1:1 Dietitian | Photo + manual logging | Weight loss score + meal scores | Apple Health, Google Health Connect, Garmin Connect, Oura, Whoop, Fitbit, Samsung Health, Google Fit, MyFitnessPal, Peloton | |
| Nutrisense
| ✓ 1:1 Dietitian | Photo + manual + MyFitnessPal sync | Glucose score + stability score | Apple Health, Fitbit, Oura, Google Fit, Garmin |
| App-based insights | Manual logging | Zone score (1-10) + metabolic health reports | Apple Health, Health Connect, Oura, Garmin, Strava, WHOOP, 8 Sleep | |
| AI-powered insights | Manual + AI photo logging | Time in range only | Apple Health, Apple Watch, Oura Ring, Nutrisense, Heads Up Health | |
| App coaching | Manual logging | Lingo score + Lingo Count | Apple Health, Health Connect | |
| AI nutrition coach (AskZiggie) | Photo + manual + barcode scanning | ZOE score (0-100) per food | Apple Health | |
| Performance Coaches | Manual logging | M1 Metabolic Score | Apple Health, Oura, Garmin, Whoop |
Nutrisense is the only service with included 1:1 registered dietitian video calls. Lingo notably lacks Apple Health export.
Provider Details
In-depth look at each CGM service including features, pricing tiers, and who it's best for.
Key Features
Real-time glucose tracking, AI meal insights, exercise recommendations, weight loss tools, GLP-1 integration support, in-app dietitian chat, Apple Watch integration
Details
FDA-cleared for weight management (Aug 2025). Uses Dexcom Stelo sensors. Tiers:3-month ($139/mo), 6-month ($129/mo). Maintenance Plan:$75/mo for existing members. Dietitian sessions via Nourish partnership (94% pay $0).
Nutrisense
Key Features
Real-time tracking, meal logging, personalized insights, sleep correlation, stress tracking, learning programs
Details
Tiered pricing with 30% discount:6-month ($126/mo), 3-month ($147/mo), 1-month ($175/mo). Includes 1:1 dietitian support. Insurance-covered video calls (95% pay $0). HSA/FSA eligible. Financing via Affirm/Afterpay/Klarna.
Key Features
Metabolic scoring, zone system (1-10), meal ratings, daily reports, pattern analysis, AI adaptive programs
Details
Three tiers:Classic ($24/mo or $288/yr CGM only), Core ($41/mo or $492/yr + 2 lab panels), Complete ($125/mo or $1,500/yr + coaching). Sensors purchased separately. HSA/FSA via Truemed with LMN. TIME Best Inventions.
Dexcom Stelo
Key Features
24/7 tracking, trend alerts, glucose patterns, GenAI insights (Dec 2024), AI photo meal logging (July 2025), Clarity Clinic provider sharing
Details
$99 one-time or $89/mo subscription. 3-month option with 15% savings. First OTC CGM (March 2024). GenAI features added Dec 2024. Available direct and Amazon.
Abbott Lingo
Key Features
Real-time glucose tracking, Lingo Count daily metric, weekly progress reports, personalized recommendations, food/exercise logging, challenges
Details
OTC. $49 starter (2-week trial with 1 sensor). $84 per 4-week subscription (2 sensors). No prescription needed. Ages 18+ only.
Key Features
Gut microbiome analysis, AI food tracking with photo logging, Processed Food Risk Scale, plant diversity counter, personalized food scoring
Details
US:$294 test kit + $9.99-24.99/mo. Core plan:$414/yr total. Jan 2026 update:simplified next-gen test no longer includes CGM or blood tests - uses gut microbiome only with predictive algorithms. UK-based. Not available in NY.
Ultrahuman
Key Features
Metabolic score, sleep correlation, workout optimization, fasting insights, glucose zones, 1000+ hrs masterclasses
Details
M1 CGM:$299/mo (2 sensors), $699/3mo (6 sensors), $2,399/yr (26 sensors). Ring Air ($349) adds HRV/sleep/temperature. Live certified coaches included.
Annual Cost Comparison
Total yearly costs for continuous CGM monitoring, including sensors and subscriptions.
| Provider | Monthly | 6 Months | 12 Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Signos | $139 | $774 | $1,548 | 6-mo plan:$129/mo ($774) |
| Nutrisense | $225 | $894 | $1,788 | 6-mo plan:$149/mo ($894) |
| Levels | ~$150* | ~$1,000* | ~$2,000* | $199/yr + sensors separate |
| Dexcom Stelo | $89 | $534 | $1,068 | OTC, no coaching |
| Abbott Lingo | $49 | $294 | $588 | Most affordable OTC |
| January AI | $28* | $428 | $624 | $288 first mo, then $28/mo |
| Zoe | $34* | ~$500 | ~$700 | $294-474 kit + subscription |
| Ultrahuman | $0* | ~$600* | ~$1,200* | Free app, BYO Libre sensors |
*Estimated costs. Levels and Ultrahuman require purchasing sensors separately (~$100-150/mo for continuous monitoring).
Who Should Use a CGM?
Continuous glucose monitors were developed for diabetes management but are now widely used by non-diabetics for metabolic optimization, weight management, and athletic performance.
Weight Loss & GLP-1 Alternative
CGMs help identify which foods spike your blood sugar, enabling dietary changes that support weight loss without medication. Many use CGM alongside or after GLP-1 medications like Ozempic.
Metabolic Health Optimization
Track glucose patterns to identify prediabetes risk, optimize meal timing, and improve metabolic flexibility. Ideal for longevity-focused health optimizers.
Athletic Performance
Optimize pre-workout fueling, monitor glucose during training, and improve recovery nutrition. See real-time impact of exercise on blood sugar.
Who Should NOT Use These Services
- Insulin-dependent diabetics: Use medical-grade CGMs (Dexcom G7, Libre 3) with hypoglycemia alerts instead
- Type 1 diabetics: Require prescription CGMs with insulin dosing integration
- Those with eating disorders: Constant glucose monitoring may trigger unhealthy behaviors—consult a healthcare provider first
- Active cancer treatment: Chemotherapy affects interstitial fluid and may impact accuracy
How Continuous Glucose Monitoring Works
Understanding CGM technology and what the data means for your health.
The Technology
A CGM consists of a small sensor worn on the back of your upper arm. A tiny filament sits just under the skin and measures interstitial glucose levels (the fluid between cells) every 1-5 minutes.
The sensor transmits readings wirelessly via Bluetooth to your smartphone app, giving you real-time visibility into how your body processes food.
Sensor Types
Dexcom sensors (used by Signos, Stelo, Levels) offer faster 30-minute warm-up and better water resistance (8ft/24hr), with readings every 5 minutes.
Freestyle Libre sensors (used by Nutrisense, Lingo, Zoe, Ultrahuman) provide readings every minute with 60-minute warm-up and 14-day wear time.
Key Metrics to Track
- Fasting glucose: Morning reading before eating (optimal:70-90 mg/dL)
- Post-meal spikes: How high glucose rises after eating (optimal:under 140 mg/dL)
- Time in range: Percentage of time in optimal zone (70-140 mg/dL)
- Glucose variability: How much levels fluctuate throughout the day
What You'll Learn
CGM reveals how your body uniquely responds to different foods, exercise, stress, and sleep. Many people discover that foods they thought were healthy actually spike their blood sugar.
This personalized data helps you make evidence-based dietary choices that work for your specific metabolism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a prescription for a CGM?
Not for most options. Dexcom Stelo and Abbott Lingo are available over-the-counter without a prescription. Services like Signos, Nutrisense, and Levels include telehealth consultations that provide any needed prescriptions as part of the membership.
Can non-diabetics use a CGM?
Yes! CGMs are increasingly popular among non-diabetics for metabolic health optimization, weight management, and athletic performance. The FDA cleared Signos specifically for weight management in August 2025, establishing CGM as a legitimate tool for non-diabetic use.
Which CGM sensor is most accurate?
Both Dexcom and Freestyle Libre sensors are highly accurate with MARD (Mean Absolute Relative Difference) values around 8-9%. Clinical studies show slight variations, but for wellness purposes both provide reliable data. The key difference is reading frequency and warm-up time.
Is CGM covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans only cover CGM for diabetics. However, all CGM services are HSA/FSA eligible, allowing you to use pre-tax dollars. Some services like Nutrisense report that insurance may cover the sensors for certain conditions.
How long does a CGM sensor last?
Dexcom sensors (Signos, Stelo) last 10-15 days. Freestyle Libre sensors (Nutrisense, Lingo, Ultrahuman) last 14 days. You'll typically need 2 sensors per month for continuous monitoring.
Can I shower and swim with a CGM?
Yes. Dexcom sensors are waterproof to 8 feet for 24 hours. Libre sensors are water-resistant to 3 feet for 30 minutes. Both are fine for showers;Dexcom is better for swimming.
What's the difference between CGM and A1c testing?
A1c measures your average blood sugar over 2-3 months but doesn't show daily patterns or spikes. CGM provides real-time, continuous data showing exactly how your glucose responds to meals, exercise, and sleep. Many health optimizers use both:CGM for daily insights and periodic A1c testing to confirm long-term improvements.
Can I use CGM with GLP-1 medications like Ozempic?
Yes. Many people use CGM alongside GLP-1 medications to track their metabolic response and optimize food choices. CGM is also valuable after discontinuing GLP-1s to maintain healthy glucose patterns through diet and lifestyle changes.
Which CGM is best for weight loss?
Signos is the only CGM FDA-cleared specifically for weight management. It uses AI to provide personalized recommendations based on your glucose patterns. Nutrisense is also excellent for weight loss due to its included 1:1 dietitian support.
What's the cheapest way to try CGM?
Abbott Lingo at $49/sensor is the most affordable entry point—no prescription, no subscription required. For ongoing use, Ultrahuman's free app with your own Libre sensors (~$100-150/mo for sensors) or January AI ($28/mo after initial calibration) are the most cost-effective options.
Complement CGM with Blood Testing
Get a complete picture of your metabolic health by combining CGM data with comprehensive blood biomarker testing.
Compare Blood Test ServicesImportant Disclaimer
This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. CGM is not a diagnostic tool and should not replace medical testing for diabetes. Prices are based on January 2026 data and may vary. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making decisions about health monitoring.