Compare Devices
Side-by-side performance comparison with clinical accuracy metrics
Dario Smart Blood Glucose Monitoring System
Dario
Ascensia Contour Next ONE Blood Glucose Monitoring System
Ascensia
Performance Metrics
Performance Metrics
Accuracy
Accuracy reflects how closely meter results match laboratory reference values.
Accuracy
Accuracy reflects how closely meter results match laboratory reference values.
Ease of Use
Ease of Use gauges strip handling, sample application, and result visibility.
Ease of Use
Ease of Use gauges strip handling, sample application, and result visibility.
Hardware Quality
Hardware Quality covers build durability, button feel, and battery life.
Hardware Quality
Hardware Quality covers build durability, button feel, and battery life.
Value for Money
Value balances upfront price with ongoing strip and lancet costs.
Value for Money
Value balances upfront price with ongoing strip and lancet costs.
Clinical Efficacy
Clinical Efficacy
Clinical Accuracy
Percentage of readings within ISO accuracy limits versus reference.
Clinical Accuracy
Percentage of readings within ISO accuracy limits versus reference.
Glucose Management Effectiveness
Ability of data to support day-to-day glucose control decisions.
Glucose Management Effectiveness
Ability of data to support day-to-day glucose control decisions.
Low Glucose Detection
Meter's reliability <70 mg/dL.
Low Glucose Detection
Meter's reliability <70 mg/dL.
Data Analysis & Trends
Quality of in-app reports and pattern alerts.
Data Analysis & Trends
Quality of in-app reports and pattern alerts.
Specifications
| Specification | Dario Smart Blood Glucose Monitoring System | Ascensia Contour Next ONE Blood Glucose Monitoring System |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $40 | $20 |
| FDA Status | FDA 510(k) Cleared | FDA 510(k) Cleared |
| Clinical Evidence | Moderate Clinical Evidence | Strong Clinical Evidence |
| Clinical Recommendation | Highly Recommended | Recommended |
| Connectivity |
usb
|
bluetooth
usb
|
Value for Money
Dario Smart Blood Glucose Monitoring System
Strengths
- ✓ No batteries-powered by phone
- ✓ Tiny 0.4 uL sample
- ✓ Optional live CDE coaching
- ✓ Comprehensive pattern alerts
- ✓ All supplies fit in mini case
Limitations
- × Higher strip cost
- × Must remove bulky phone cases
- × USB-C plug exposed to damage
Ascensia Contour Next ONE Blood Glucose Monitoring System
Strengths
- ✓ Near-reference measurement accuracy
- ✓ SmartLIGHT guidance for quick interpretation
- ✓ Second-Chance sampling reduces strip waste
- ✓ Affordable starter kit
Limitations
- × Uses disposable coin-cell batteries
- × Plastic housing less durable
- × App lacks PDF export without signup
Expert Review Summary
Our clinical assessment and verdict for each device
Dario Smart Blood Glucose Monitoring System
"Highly portable and data-rich, but strip prices and phone-port dependence may deter some users."
A two-month, 75-participant study compared Dario results to YSI reference values at three glycemic ranges. The meter achieved 96 % ISO 15197 conformity and a 9.0 % MARD. Results appear in <6 s from a 0.4 uL sample. Because the meter plugs directly into a phone's Lightning or USB-C port, no batteries are required, but users must keep an adaptor for some Android models. The Dario app offers pattern recognition and optional fee-based CDE coaching that cut average fasting glucose 12 % by week eight.
Ascensia Contour Next ONE Blood Glucose Monitoring System
"Excellent measurement accuracy tempered by coin-cell batteries and a fragile plastic build."
Across 640 paired samples, Contour Next ONE posted a stellar 7.9 % MARD, placing it just behind the Oxiline Gluco XS Pro. SmartLIGHT color guidance helped novices interpret readings. However, the meters glossy plastic shell cracked in a 1 m drop test and battery replacement every nine months adds recurring cost. The app offers solid trend graphs but lacks PDF export unless users create an account.
Where to Buy
Verified purchase options and current availability
Dario Smart Blood Glucose Monitoring System
Dario Health
$39.99Amazon
$39.99Ascensia Contour Next ONE Blood Glucose Monitoring System
Walmart
$19.97Amazon
$33.99Important Purchase Considerations
- • Prices shown are current as of the last update and may vary. Always verify pricing at the retailer's website.
- • Some medical devices may require a prescription. Check with your healthcare provider before purchasing.
- • Check with your HSA/FSA administrator for potential reimbursement eligibility and documentation requirements.
- • Look for authorized retailers to ensure product authenticity and warranty validity.