Which is better for glucose monitoring, AccuChek (glucose meter) or One Touch (glucose meter)?

Glucose Meter Selection: AccuChek vs OneTouch

Both AccuChek and OneTouch meters meet FDA accuracy standards and perform comparably in clinical settings, so the choice should be based on which specific model meets current FDA standards (95% of readings within 15% for home use) rather than brand loyalty. 1

Critical Accuracy Standards for Selection

The most important factor is whether the specific meter model meets FDA accuracy requirements, not the brand name:

• FDA home use standard: 95% of readings must fall within 15% for all blood glucose in the usable range, and 99% within 20% 1
• Only 14 of 18 top-selling glucose meters met minimum accuracy requirements in recent Diabetes Technology Society surveillance testing 1
• Substantial variation exists in accuracy even among widely used systems that are FDA-cleared 1

Head-to-Head Comparison Data

Direct comparison studies show both brands perform well when meeting standards:

• AccuChek Aviva: 95.3% met ISO criteria, 98.7% of readings in clinically acceptable zones A+B, MARD 7.0% 2
• OneTouch Ultra systems: 98.2-99.7% of readings in zone A (clinically accurate), met ISO acceptability requirements, CV <5% for precision 3, 4
• FreeStyle (Abbott) slightly outperformed both in one comparative study with 100% in zones A+B and 96% ISO compliance 2

Practical Selection Algorithm

Step 1: Verify the specific model meets current FDA accuracy standards through the Diabetes Technology Society Blood Glucose Monitoring System Surveillance Program 1

Step 2: Match meter characteristics to patient needs:

• For visually impaired patients: Select meters with integrated speech that read glucose levels aloud 1
• For patients with dexterity issues: Choose meters with less painful lancing devices and ability to reapply blood to strips with insufficient initial samples 1
• For patients with abnormal oxygen saturation: Use glucose dehydrogenase-based meters rather than glucose oxidase-based systems 5

Step 3: Ensure proper use factors:

• Only use unopened, unexpired test strips from licensed distributors 1, 5
• Verify strips are properly stored 5
• Provide extensive training in device use 1

Critical Caveats

Avoid these common pitfalls:

• Do not assume FDA clearance equals accuracy - many cleared meters fail to meet accuracy standards in independent testing 1
• Meters perform poorly in ICU settings - neither brand reliably meets CLSI/ISO criteria with arterial blood from critically ill patients 1
• Interfering substances affect accuracy - glucose oxidase systems are susceptible to multiple pharmacologic interferences 1
• Used or counterfeit strips give incorrect results - only purchase from pharmacies or licensed distributors 1, 5

Special Population Considerations

For patients with advanced chronic kidney disease on hemodialysis:

• AccuChek showed 97.9% of readings in zones A+B during hemodialysis days 1
• Both brands require careful interpretation as accuracy may be affected by anemia, erythropoietin use, and altered red blood cell lifespan 1

The bottom line: Select the specific meter model (regardless of brand) that meets current FDA standards and matches patient-specific needs for features like voice output, ease of use, and strip handling. 1, 5