How accurate are home glucose testers

[Teabags]

As a recently diagnosed pre-diabetic I want to check my glucose levels to find out which foods cause a spike in my glucose. I have bought an SD Codefree device, however, I am finding there are some inconsistencies in the results. After a long walk I have just checked my level which showed 4.4, as this seemed a bit lower than previous readings I tested again, (using the same thumb), and this time it showed 4.9. Is this difference to be expected with these home testing monitors or do I have a faulty one? Any advice would be really welcome.

 

[bulkbiker]

Quite expected for 2 reasons
1. blood glucose goes up and down all the time so you only ever get a snapshot reading
2. home meters are fairly cheap so won't ever be 100% accurate

Its better to monitor trends and look for big spikes in BG readings.
Your 4.5 and 4.9 are both great by the way.

 

[Rachox]

Here’s some info on meter accuracy requirements and some tips on getting the most accurate results from your tests, hope this helps:
https://www.diabetes.co.uk/blood-glucose-meters/blood-glucose-meter-accuracy.html

Edit for typo

 

[jjraak]

I'd fully agree with @bulkbiker
while none are or can be 100% accurate, it is the trends you need to be looking out for.

also agree great scores.

 

[Daibell]

Hi. Meters have to meet an ISO standard which says the readings can be up to +/- 15% of actual value.

 

[Deleted member 308541]

I am very happy with my Abbott Freedom Lite meter.