December 14, 2022

Dexcom G6 vs. Dexcom G7: What You Need to Know

Learn about the latest news on Dexcom G7, how it compares to the Dexcom G6, and how to get through US MED.


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Dexcom G6 Sensor and Dexcom G7 Sensor

Home / Living with Diabetes / Dexcom G6 vs. Dexcom G7: What You Need to Know

It’s been a long wait for the Dexcom G7 Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) System, but the next generation of Dexcom CGM technology has finally arrived. On December 8, 2022, Dexcom announced that the FDA has approved this sleek new CGM! Expect US MED to carry the G7 in early 2023.  

 Now that the Dexcom G7 is finally on the verge of widespread availability, you may be wondering what sets this CGM apart from its predecessor. Read on for US MED’s complete comparison of the Dexcom G6 and G7 CGM Systems and more information on these products. 

What Are the Dexcom G6 and G7 Systems? 

Broadly speaking, the Dexcom G6 and Dexcom G7 are quite similar. People using both products use applicators to apply sensors to their bodies. When the Dexcom G6 or G7 sensor is in place, it can measure a user’s glucose levels without fingerstick tests.* 

 However, these devices also have some noteworthy differences. These are mostly related to new features introduced in the Dexcom G7, which we’ll break down in greater detail below. 

Comparing the Dexcom G6 and G7 

If you’re wondering about the Dexcom G6 and G7 CGM systems’ differences, you’re in the right place. Here, you’ll find a point-by-point comparison of these continuous glucose monitoring options. 

Sensors 

Some of the most noteworthy improvements made to the Dexcom G7 involve this system’s redesigned sensors. These sensors are rounder and smaller than those seen in the previous generation of Dexcom CGMs – they’re about as big as three stacked quarters, or 60 percent smaller than the Dexcom G6’s sensors. 

That reduced sensor size comes with some practical benefits, including the ability to wear them at different testing sites. Users can wear the Dexcom G7 system’s sensors on the upper arm or (for youths using this system) the upper buttocks. Furthermore, the Dexcom G7’s sensors are more comfortable than Dexcom’s older sensors.†,†† 

Dexcom’s improvements to its sensor technology for the G7 go beyond the changes mentioned above, too. These sensors have a 30-minute warm-up time, the shortest of any CGM system on the market. For comparison’s sake, the Dexcom G6’s sensors take two hours to get ready for use. And the Dexcom G7’s sensors come with pre-attached transmitters, meaning you won’t need to save your transmitter when it’s time to replace your sensor. 

Accuracy 

Along with making physical changes to its sensors, Dexcom took its accuracy to the next level when designing the Dexcom G7. Based on its MARD (mean absolute relative difference), the G7 is more accurate than any other CGM sold in the United States. A CGM’s MARD is shown as a percentage – the lower, the better. The Dexcom G7’s MARD is 8.2 percent (in adults wearing sensors on their upper arms), compared to 9 percent for the G6. 

App Compatibility 

Both the Dexcom G6 and the Dexcom G7 are fully compatible with mobile apps. However, the G7 system’s app has been completely redesigned with a more intuitive interface. The app for the new CGM also features Dexcom Clarity integration,§,|| making it much easier to use the Dexcom G7 with compatible smart devices.# 

When Will the Dexcom G7 Release? 

It’s been a long road to the official arrival of the Dexcom G7, but the time has finally come – in some places. While you may still need to wait a bit longer to start using this system, you should be able to get started in the relatively near future. 

 The Dexcom G7 had a limited UK rollout earlier in 2022 after it received clearance for sale in the European Union, but its first widespread release took place in early October. Then, the new CGM system was officially released in: 

  • The United Kingdom 
  • Ireland 
  • Germany 
  • Austria 
  • Hong Kong 

Of course, as a visitor to US MED, there’s a good chance you’re wondering when this system will become available in the United States. There’s good news on that front: the Dexcom G7 just received FDA clearance for distribution in United States!  Check back with US MED in January for more updates on when this device is available for distribution. 

Dexcom G6 and G7 sensors

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is Dexcom Coming Out With A G7? 

The Dexcom G7 CGM system has officially launched in select parts of the world so far, with more launches set to take place early 2023. 

What Is Different About Dexcom G7? 

The most notable differences between the Dexcom G6 and G7 systems involve the new system’s sensors. Those sensors are 60 percent smaller and warm up considerably faster than the previous-generation sensors. 

How Long Can You Wear Dexcom G7? 

Users can wear the Dexcom G7 sensor for up to 10 days (not including a 12-hour “grace period” at the end of this timespan). 

Will Dexcom G7 Be More Accurate? 

The Dexcom G7 system has a MARD of 8.2 percent, marking a considerable improvement over the G6 system’s MARD of 9 percent. 

When Is Dexcom G7 Coming Out UK? 

The Dexcom G7 CGM System has already been launched in the United Kingdom, as well as Ireland, Germany, Austria, and Hong Kong. 

Get CGMs from US MED Today 

The Dexcom G7 may not be ready for purchase in the United States just yet – but when it does become available on these shores, you’ll be able to get this CGM right here at US MED! If you’d prefer to start using a CGM system immediately, feel free to look at the systems we have in stock today. Whether you wait until the Dexcom G7 is available or choose another option, you’ll benefit from our free priority shipping, automatic reorder reminders, and much more. 

*If glucose alerts and readings from Dexcom G7 do not match symptoms or expectations, use a blood glucose meter to make diabetes treatment decisions. 

Patients reported that 95% of Dexcom G7 sensors worn were comfortable to wear (mild, no discomfort). 

††Dexcom, data on file, 2021. 

Dexcom G7 can complete warmup within 30 minutes, whereas other CGM brands require up to an hour or longer. 

  • Healthcare providers can register for Dexcom Clarity at clarity.dexcom.com/professional/registration. 

||An internet connection is required for patients to send their glucose data to Dexcom Clarity via a compatible smart device: dexcom.com/compatibility. Healthcare providers will only be able to view a patient’s glucose data if the patient elects to share it with them through Dexcom Clarity. 

#Compatible smart devices sold separately. To view a list of compatible smart devices, visit dexcom.com/compatibility. 

Shirley DeLeon Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist

Medical Review by Shirley DeLeon, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist

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