Dexcom Stelo vs FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus
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
FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus
Sensor Technology
| Specification | Dexcom Stelo | FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Type | Dexcom Stelo | Abbott FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus |
| Accuracy (MARD) | 8.3% | Not published by Abbott |
| Reading Frequency | Every 5 min | Every minute |
| Warm-up Time | 30 min | 60 min |
| Wear Time | 15 days | 15 days |
| Water Resistance | 8ft/24hr | Yes (1m, max 30 min) |
App Features & Coaching
| Feature | Dexcom Stelo | FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Coaching Type | ✓ 1:1 Dietitian | None (device only) |
| Food Logging | Manual + AI photo logging | Notes only |
| Scoring System | Time in range only | Time in range |
| App Integrations | Apple Health, Apple Watch, Oura Ring, Nutrisense, Heads Up Health | Apple Health, LibreLinkUp |
| Prescription Required | Not required | Yes |
| 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
FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus
Best for: Lower-cost medical-grade CGM with longest wear
Key features: Real-time glucose, optional alarms, LibreView reports
Not recommended for: Those wanting integrated coaching
Dexcom Stelo Details
2-week supply $55 (1 biosensor, no commitment). 1-month supply $99 one-time (2 biosensors). 1-month subscription $89 for 2 biosensors, but shipped every 27 days - about 13.5 cycles a year, so roughly $1,201/yr rather than 12 x $89. The cheapest true annual path is the 3-month subscription at $252 (list $297) for 6 biosensors every 87 days, about $1,057/yr, which Dexcom markets as 'starting at just $84/month'. All options now include 1:1 video calls with a dietitian. 15-day wear, OTC, no prescription.
FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus Details
Now sold as the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus: Abbott's US product page describes only the Plus, and the original 14-day Libre 3 is gone, so accuracy figures published for that earlier sensor do not carry over. Abbott publishes no cash price, so none is listed here. Abbott's only published figures are that most covered patients pay $0-$20, and that commercially insured or uninsured patients asked to pay over $75 for two sensors should use the copay card - an effective ceiling near $900/year for eligible patients. The copay card excludes Medicare, Medicaid and other federal or state programme beneficiaries. Supply is two 15-day sensors per 30-day pharmacy fill. Water resistant to 1 metre for up to 30 minutes, notably weaker than several competitors.
Ready to Choose?
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