Dexcom G7 vs Freestyle Libre 3: The Biggest Differences

*Disclaimer: All content and information in this blog is for informational and educational purposes only. This blog post was medically reviewed by Amanda Ciprich, MS, RD. Last updated on March 7th, 2024.

It is an exciting time in diabetes technology! The newest generations of CGMs are here, Dexcom G7 and Freestyle Libre 3. Both Dexcom and Freestyle Libre, the largest manufacturers of CGM systems, have announced the roll out of their newest devices. Continue reading to learn more about the biggest differences between the Dexcom G7 and Freestyle Libre 3.

Accuracy

MARD is the tool to see how accurate CGM systems are compared to a finger stick. The lower the MARD the more accurate the sensor is. This is arguably one of the most important aspects of a CGM system as users are often relying on readings for their treatment decisions.

Freestyle Libre 3 has a reported overall MARD of 8.9% for adults and 9.4% for pediatrics compared to Dexcom G7 that has a reported overall MARD of 8.2% for both adults and pediatrics . While the Dexcom G7 scores a higher overall MARD, both CGMs are more accurate than their previous generations. The accuracy of CGM sensors can vary based on age, sensor placement and changes in glucose levels.

Sensor Life

Dexcom G7 is a 10 day sensor with a 12-hour grace period. There are reported plans to convert the G7 into a 14-15 day sensor, however, there is no direct timeline for when that roll out will be. The Freestyle Libre 3 has a 14 day sensor life which is consistent with the previous generation.

Warm Up Period

Freestyle Libre 3 has a 60 minute warm up period while Dexcom G7 has a 30 minute warm up period. The warm up period for the Dexcom G7 is quite significant as the previous generation had a 2 hour period. The timeframe was significantly reduced for this system in addition to the sensor automatically activating the warm up period upon insertion (no more forgetting to activate your sensor after insertions!).

Integrations

Aside from smart phone integrations, Freestyle Libre 3 is not currently compatible with any automated insulin pump devices in the U.S.

Dexcom G7 is currently compatible with Tandem t:slim with Control IQ and the Beta Bionics iLet Bionic Pancreas. The Tandem Mobi and Omnipod 5 are expected to become integrated with the Dexcom G7 in the near future.

Reader

Freestyle Libre 3 no longer requires users to scan their device for their readings, they can only use their compatible smart phone device for readings. Dexcom G7 will continue to have options for users to utilize either the reader or their compatible smart phone for readings.

Cost

A pack of three Dexcom G7 sensors, providing a 30-day supply, typically costs around $200 without insurance, whereas a pack of two Freestyle Libre 3 sensors, also offering a 30-day supply, usually retails for about $150 without insurance. Out-of-pocket expenses for either continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system will vary based on individual health insurance coverage policies.

Let us know below whether you are #TeamDexcom or #TeamFreestyleLibre down below!