Freestyle Libre 3 Plus
VS.
Dexcom Stelo

Quick Verdict

Specs + reference evidence point to Freestyle Libre 3 Plus as the stronger insulin-safety workflow fit. Dexcom Stelo can still be a better match when simpler onboarding matters more than alert depth. Current user-report tone: Freestyle Libre 3 Plus is more risk-heavy user reports, Dexcom Stelo is mixed user reports.

Key Differences

DimensionFreestyle Libre 3 PlusDexcom Stelo
Use typePrescriptionOTC
Insulin-use fitHighLow
Wear duration (days)15See official labeling
Warmup (minutes)60Varies / not emphasized
Calibrationnonenone
Alert depthstandardlimited
DiscretionHighMedium
Community signal focusnight alerts, accuracyaccuracy, night alerts
Community signal tonemore risk-heavy user reportsmixed user reports

References

  1. 1.Abbott FreeStyle Libre 3 / 3 Plus provider infoofficial
  2. 2.Libre 3 safety informationofficial
  3. 3.Dexcom provider FAQ with Stelo indicationsofficial
  4. 4.Reddit: Libre nighttime false lowscommunity
  5. 5.Reddit: Libre 3 false low discussioncommunity
  6. 6.Reddit: Stelo user accuracy variancecommunity
  7. 7.Reddit: New sensor first-night false lowscommunity
  8. 8.Reddit: CGM falling off patterns and fixes (r/diabetes_t2)community
  9. 9.Reddit: CGM falling off recent discussion (r/type2diabetes)community

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making decisions about your diabetes management or CGM device selection.