Blood Glucose Meters & Test Strips
Blood glucose meters (glucometers) are medical devices used to measure blood sugar levels. Test strips are not interchangeable between meters - you must use the exact strip designed for your specific meter model.
OneTouch Ultra Strips vs. Modern Strips
OneTouch Ultra is a reliable legacy brand with different characteristics compared to newer technology:
Blood Sample Size:
- OneTouch Ultra: 1.0 µL (larger sample, deeper prick)
- OneTouch Verio: 0.4 µL (smaller, less painful)
- FreeStyle Lite: 0.3 µL (smallest)
Coding Requirements:
- OneTouch Ultra: Manual coding required (match vial code to meter)
- Modern strips (Verio, Contour Next): No-code technology
Second-Chance Sampling:
- Contour Next: Can apply more blood within 60 seconds if initial sample insufficient
- OneTouch Ultra: Shows error if blood volume insufficient, cannot reapply
Enzyme Technology:
- Modern strips use FAD-GDH enzymes that block interference from vitamin C or acetaminophen
- Higher accuracy meeting current FDA/ISO standards
OneTouch UltraEasy Meter
Compatible Strips: OneTouch Ultra test strips only (not compatible with Verio, Select Plus, or other brands)
Calibration/Coding:
- Insert test strip into meter
- Screen displays code (e.g., C 25)
- Verify code matches vial label (e.g., Code 25)
- Flashing blood drop icon appears when ready
- Apply blood sample to strip edge
OneTouch Verio vs. OneTouch Select Plus
Both are modern, accurate, no-code systems by LifeScan with different user experiences:
| Feature | OneTouch Verio | OneTouch Select Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Blood Sample Size | 0.4 µL (smallest, least pain) | 1.0 µL (standard) |
| Coding Required | No | No |
| Test Time | 5 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Meter Features | Bluetooth, smart apps, detailed logs (Verio Reflect) | Color-coded indicators, audio alerts, simple interface |
| Technology | Scans sample 500x for interferences | Auto-adjusts for hematocrit variations |
Choose Verio for:
- Advanced connectivity and app integration
- Smallest blood sample requirement (gentler testing)
- Detailed data logging and trend analysis
Choose Select Plus for:
- Simple, visual interface without complex menus
- Audio alerts and color-coded results
- Straightforward testing without smartphone integration
Links
- OneTouch Ultra Meter User Guide
- Comparison of Blood Glucose Meters
- FDA Guidance on Glucose Meter Accuracy