I have only been “diagnosed diabetic” (Type 2, early stages) for a mere four weeks. However, I have grown really close to my daily self testing of my blood glucose. I use the One Touch Ultra Mini model. This meter has a totally different shape than most other meters on the market. The Mini is slim shaped, more like a stubby cigar as opposed to the more common square shaped meters. I find it very easy to hold.

I like the display, which provides a very easy read for these tired old eyes, even first thing in the morning. One great feature of this product is the very clear, concise instructions that are included. No questions needed for correct operation. I will note that you do have to enter a have “code number” each time you get a different supply of the test strips. I have read where some people complain about this, but as I only know this way, it has not been difficult. Again, the directions are very clear on this code entering procedure.
Don’t worry, its easy to do.

Let’s discuss the operation of the meter. The test strips are ok, but the meter does have one engineering flaw, in my opinion. You insert the test strip into a small slot in the end of the meter to turn it on. However, if you push too hard without making sure the strip goes in perfectly straight, you can easily bend the strip, which will ruin it. At about a dollar a strip, you want to avoid bending it. Hold it firmly on both sides, and insert carefully! You need to “produce” a blood drop a little bigger than the diameter of a pencil lead. You can see the blood wick into the strip. If you don’t get enough blood, the meter will display an ER 5. This is one of the error codes that let you tell what is wrong. The book explains each error code in detail.

This is a great little tool for testing your blood glucose. Other than the potential problem with the test strips, I would recommend this meter. By the way, it comes in different colors. I picked green.

Rating: 9