Dexcom G6 vs. G7 Comparison

If you’ve been living with diabetes for any length of time, you’ve probably heard about continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems. This innovative technology provides real-time blood glucose readings for people with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes.

More importantly, they have been proven to help people gain better blood sugar control, significantly lower their A1C scores, and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications, such as cardiovascular disease and kidney disease.

The use of continuous glucose monitoring continues to grow in popularity as endocrinologists, care teams, and diabetes patients alike continue to see how these systems improve diabetes management. Today, nearly 2.5 million people with diabetes use continuous glucose monitoring to test and control blood sugar.

The Rise of Dexcom: From G6 to G7

One of the most popular CGM brands on the market today is Dexcom, and for good reason. In 2018, Dexcom changed the blood sugar management game by introducing the now-legendary Dexcom G6. This was the first continuous glucose monitoring system that didn’t require finger pricks and used sensors that didn’t need to be scanned by a dedicated receiver. Instead, for the first time, users could use their smartphones to check their blood glucose levels.

In 2023, Dexcom introduced the next generation of this advanced technology – the Dexcom G7, which naturally includes some nifty upgrades.

Both systems remain widely popular and have been shown to improve blood sugar control and diabetes management. So, what are the key differences? Here’s our breakdown of the Dexcom G6 vs the Dexcom G7.

Dexcom G6 vs G7: Key Differences in Sensors

Sensor Size and Placement

The new Dexcom G7 sensor is about 60% smaller than the original Dexcom G6 sensor, about the size of three stacked quarters. The G7 sensor can be worn on the upper arm, while the G6 must be worn on the abdomen.

Transmitter Integration: Why the G7 Has a Design Advantage

A significant advantage for many users of the Dexcom G7 is that it features an all-in-one sensor/transmitter design. This means you do not need to save your transmitter once the sensor’s lifespan is up, whereas, with the G6, you will need to detach and save the transmitter.

Sensor Lifespan and Warm-up Period

Both Dexcom G6 and G7 sensors can be worn effectively for ten days. However, unlike the G6, the G7 gives you a 12-hour grace period after the ten days are up – a little extra breathing room for switching out sensors that many users appreciate.

This is another area where the G7 has a nice advantage. Dexcom G7 sensors are ready to go just 30 minutes after being applied. That’s the fastest warm-up period of any CGM on the market. Dexcom G6 sensors, on the other hand, require two hours to warm up.

Water Resistance

The Dexcom G7 sensor is fully waterproof at depths of 2.4 meters for up to 24 hours. The Dexcom G6 sensor is water-resistant to these specifications but not fully waterproof.

Customizable Alerts and Advanced Features

Urgent Low and High Blood Sugar Alerts

Both Dexcom G6 and Dexcom G systems allow you to create customized blood sugar alerts where you control both sound and volume. The G6 and G7 automatically alert you to urgent blood sugar lows and highs.

Delay 1st Alert Feature

The G7 offers a key alert customization that is unavailable on the G6. It’s called the Delay 1st Alert, allowing you to delay the first blood sugar high alert for a specified period, from 15 minutes to four hours.

Why is this a big deal? Anyone living with diabetes knows that it’s common to experience glucose spikes after a meal (postprandial spikes) or after administering insulin. Most CGMs automatically alert you to this spike, and it can become a nuisance to hear an alarm after every meal or insulin dose when you fully expect blood glucose to elevate.

The delay feature gives your body ample time to adjust blood sugar levels, so when you do get an alert, you know it’s for a good reason – not because you just ate.

Connectivity and Integrations

Smartphone Compatibility

Both Dexcom G6 and G7 systems work with both Apple and Android smartphones. They both also work with compatible Dexcom receivers for those who prefer a separate device to a smartphone.

Both smartphone apps allow up to 10 individuals to serve as a circle of support and connect with doctors and healthcare teams to share data.

Insulin Pump Integration

Both systems integrate with Tandem Diabetes Care insulin pumps, including the popular t:slim X2 and the Tandem Mobi system.

Accuracy and Reliability

MARD Scores: G6 vs G7

The accuracy of any CGM is measured by mean absolute relative difference (MARD). This is the average difference as a percentage between blood sugar levels measured by the CGM against measurements achieved using a standard Glucose Meter and Test Strips. The lower the MARD, the more accurate the CGM. The Dexcom G7 has a MARD of 8.2%, while the G6 has a MARD of 9.0%. We should point out that while the G7 wins this battle, both numbers are incredibly accurate.

Cost and Insurance Coverage

The list price for Dexcom G6 and G7 sensors is about the same, though both can be purchased online at significant savings at Diabetic Warehouse. However, with the G7, you will not have to purchase additional transmitters.

At A Glance: Dexcom G6 vs Dexcom G7

Customer Testimonials

John D., Type 1 Diabetic: "Switching to the Dexcom G7 has been a game-changer for me. The smaller sensor size and quicker warm-up time make it so much easier to manage my diabetes throughout the day. Plus, the Delay 1st Alert feature has reduced unnecessary alarms after meals!"

Sarah L., Type 2 Diabetic: "I’ve been using the Dexcom G6 for over a year, and it has helped me achieve better control of my blood sugar levels. I'm considering upgrading to the G7 for the added features, especially since I swim regularly and appreciate the waterproof capability."

How to Choose Between Dexcom G6 and G7

When deciding between the Dexcom G6 and G7, consider the following factors:

• Your lifestyle: If you lead an active lifestyle, the G7’s waterproof feature and smaller size may be more suitable.
• Your sensitivity to alerts: If frequent alarms are an issue, the Delay 1st Alert feature on the G7 can enhance your experience.
• Cost considerations: While both systems are similarly priced, the G7’s all-in-one design eliminates the need for separate transmitters, potentially saving you money in the long run.

Conclusion

Both the Dexcom G6 and G7 have their unique advantages, making them great options for continuous glucose monitoring. The improvements in the G7, particularly in size, convenience, and customizable features, are significant. If you’re currently using the G6 and are satisfied, you may choose to stick with it. However, if you’re new to CGM technology or looking for an upgrade, the G7 offers compelling advancements that could enhance your diabetes management.

Shop for Dexcom Sensors at Diabetic Warehouse

Ready to make the switch or restock your supplies? Visit Diabetic Warehouse today for competitive pricing on both Dexcom G6 and G7 sensors, as well as a full range of diabetes management products. Our goal is to provide you with high-quality supplies at affordable prices, ensuring you have the tools you need to manage your diabetes effectively.

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