Dexcom Stelo vs Abbott Lingo
CGM Head-to-Head Comparison
Compare pricing, sensor technology, app features, and coaching support to find the best CGM for your goals
Quick Comparison Summary
Pricing & Plans Comparison
Dexcom Stelo
Abbott Lingo
Sensor Technology
| Specification | Dexcom Stelo | Abbott Lingo |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Type | Dexcom Stelo | Lingo biosensor |
| Accuracy (MARD) | 8.3% | 9.3% |
| Reading Frequency | Every 5 min | Every 1 min |
| Warm-up Time | 30 min | 60 min |
| Wear Time | 15 days | 14 days |
| Water Resistance | 8ft/24hr | 3ft/30min |
App Features & Coaching
| Feature | Dexcom Stelo | Abbott Lingo |
|---|---|---|
| Coaching Type | AI-powered insights | App coaching |
| Food Logging | Manual + AI photo logging | Manual logging |
| Scoring System | Time in range only | Lingo score + Lingo Count |
| App Integrations | Apple Health, Apple Watch, Oura Ring, Nutrisense, Heads Up Health | Apple Health, Health Connect |
| Prescription Required | Not required | Not required |
| HSA/FSA Eligible | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
Key Features
Dexcom Stelo
Best for: People wanting simple OTC CGM with AI insights and no coaching commitment
Key features: 24/7 tracking, trend alerts, glucose patterns, GenAI insights (Dec 2024), AI photo meal logging (July 2025), Clarity Clinic provider sharing
Not recommended for: Type 1 diabetes, insulin users
Abbott Lingo
Best for: Budget-conscious users wanting affordable OTC CGM with app-based coaching
Key features: Real-time glucose tracking, Lingo Count daily metric, weekly progress reports, personalized recommendations, food/exercise logging, challenges
Not recommended for: Diabetics (not FDA-cleared for diabetes), insulin users
Dexcom Stelo Details
Explore $55 (1 sensor, 2-week trial). Discover $99 (2 sensors, 1-month). Experiment $89/mo subscription. Refine $252/3mo (15% savings). First OTC CGM (March 2024). GenAI features added Dec 2024. Available direct and Amazon.
Abbott Lingo Details
OTC. $49 starter (2-week trial, 1 sensor). $89 one-time 4-week (2 sensors) or $84/4-weeks on subscription. 14-day wear time (77% last full 14 days per study). No prescription. Ages 18+ only. HSA/FSA eligible.
Ready to Choose?
Based on this comparison, select the CGM service that best fits your health goals