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

Dexcom Stelo
$89/mo
Dexcom Stelo
Abbott Lingo
$49/mo
Abbott Lingo
✓ Independent Analysis✓ November 2025 Pricing✓ Feature-by-Feature Comparison

Quick Comparison Summary

Best Value
Abbott Lingo
Lower monthly cost
Best Accuracy
Dexcom Stelo
Lower MARD%
Best Support
Dexcom Stelo
Better coaching
Longest Wear Time
Dexcom Stelo
Longer sensor life

Pricing & Plans Comparison

Dexcom Stelo

Monthly Cost$89
Annual Cost$1068
Sensors IncludedYes (2/month)
Min. CommitmentNone

Abbott Lingo

Monthly Cost$49
Annual Cost$588
Sensors IncludedYes (2/month)
Min. CommitmentNone

Sensor Technology

SpecificationDexcom SteloAbbott Lingo
Sensor TypeDexcom SteloFreestyle Libre
Accuracy (MARD)8.3%9.3%
Reading FrequencyEvery 5 minEvery 1 min
Warm-up Time30 min60 min
Wear Time15 days14 days
Water Resistance8ft/24hr3ft/30min

App Features & Coaching

FeatureDexcom SteloAbbott Lingo
Coaching TypeApp insights onlyApp coaching
Food LoggingManual loggingManual logging
Scoring SystemTime in range onlyLingo score
App IntegrationsApple HealthNone (no Apple Health export)
Prescription RequiredNot requiredNot required
HSA/FSA Eligible✓ Yes✓ Yes

Key Features

Dexcom Stelo

Best for: OTC simplicity

Key features: 24/7 tracking, trend alerts, glucose patterns, simple interface

Not recommended for: Type 1 diabetes, insulin users

Abbott Lingo

Best for: Budget-conscious

Key features: Real-time insights, food logging, personalized recommendations, metabolic health tips

Not recommended for: Diabetics (not FDA-cleared for diabetes)

Dexcom Stelo Details

$99 starter kit + $89/mo subscription. First OTC CGM (March 2024). Available direct and Amazon.

Abbott Lingo Details

OTC. $49/sensor or $89 for 2-pack. No prescription needed. Most affordable entry point.

Ready to Choose?

Based on this comparison, select the CGM service that best fits your health goals

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better:Dexcom Stelo or Abbott Lingo?
Dexcom Stelo is best for otc simplicity, while Abbott Lingo is ideal for budget-conscious. Abbott Lingo is more affordable at $49/month compared to Dexcom Stelo's $89/month. The best choice depends on your specific health goals and budget.
How much do Dexcom Stelo and Abbott Lingo cost?
Dexcom Stelo costs $89/month ($1068/year), while Abbott Lingo costs $49/month ($588/year). Both services are HSA/FSA eligible.
Which CGM sensor is more accurate?
Dexcom Stelo uses Dexcom Stelo with 8.3% MARD, while Abbott Lingo uses Freestyle Libre with 9.3% MARD. Lower MARD indicates better accuracy. Both are considered highly accurate for wellness purposes.
Do I need a prescription for Dexcom Stelo or Abbott Lingo?
Neither Dexcom Stelo nor Abbott Lingo requires a prescription. Both are available over-the-counter or include telehealth consultations.
Which has better coaching support?
Dexcom Stelo offers App insights only, while Abbott Lingo provides App coaching.
Can I use Dexcom Stelo or Abbott Lingo for weight loss?
Both services can be used for weight loss by helping you understand how different foods affect your blood sugar. Stable glucose levels can support weight management goals. CGMs help identify which foods spike your blood sugar, enabling dietary changes that support weight loss without medication.

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