libre 3 device image
mm780g instinct

Summary

The FreeStyle Libre 3 is the smallest, thinnest, all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter CGM and lasts 14 days. This sensor sends minute-by-minute glucose readings to a compatible smartphone app and only needs fingersticks as backup. Optional low and high blood sugar notifications are available for this system. 

FDA approved for insertion on the back of the upper arm (ages 4 years and older).

 

MARD of 7.9%.

This is a CGM sensor made by Abbott, exclusively designed for MiniMed 780G system. It will work with MiniMed 780G and related systems. Wear time is up to 15 days, and warm-up is ~1 hour. Fingersticks are not required in closed-loop mode.

FDA approved for ages 7+ for use on the upper arm (back of upper arm)

MARD of ~8.5%

Components

Freestyle Libre 3 : Sensor

Freestyle Libre 3 : Sensor

Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament inserted just under the skin to measure glucose levels every minute. Push-button applicator allows sensor to be placed on the body in one step.

Freestyle Libre 3 : Receiver

Freestyle Libre 3 : Receiver

Conveniently access glucose readings using a reader, smartphone, or both. Available for both iOS and Android devices.

Abbott/Medtronic Instinct Sensor : Sensor

Abbott/Medtronic Instinct Sensor : Sensor

Sensor uses a thin, flexible filament beneath the skin to continuously measure glucose every 5 minutes. Simple, one-step applicator makes insertion fast and easy.

Device Details

Overview

Smallest, thinnest, all-in-one glucose sensor/transmitter with low and high blood glucose alarms can be worn on the upper arm.

Compact all-in-one sensor sensor, made by Abbott, exclusively designed for MiniMed 780G system.

Affordability and Access

$$$$
Widely covered. Provided by pharmacies. Price range; $0-$100/month. Often the cheapest and easier to access sensor. 

$$$$
Coverage will depend on insurance policies and Medtronic’s rollout plan

Data Monitoring Options

Yes
Sensor automatically sends data to the user’s LibreView account which enables sharing with HCPs and caregivers.

Yes
Data streams directly to the pump; users and clinicians can view trends and logs via Medtronic’s platforms.

Data View Options

Yes
Freestyle Libre 3 app or Libre by Abbott provides glucose readings and alarms, multiple data views, the ability to share glucose data and real-time alarms with LibreLinkUp, and the ability to connect to a clinician's practice through LibreView. 

Yes
Data view directly on your connected pump or smart device. 

Duration and Storage

14 Days
Sensors last 14 days and work between 50ºF - 113ºF. They are shipped in orders of 1-3 months at a time - which is 2-6 boxes at a time.

15 Days
Sensors last up to 15 days and need about 1 hour to warm up. They work between 50ºF – 113ºF and should be stored between 36ºF – 82ºF. They are usually shipped in 1–3 month supplies, which is about 2–6 sensors at a time.

Vision / Auditory / Dexterity

NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed

YES text to speech
YES vibration alerts
Multiple sound sources
SOME dexterity needed

Patient Considerations

Active Lifestyle

Water-resistant for up to 3 feet deep for 30 minutes and light on the body, does not get in the way of activity. 

Long wear & water resistant. Longer wear reduces change burden; sensor design aims for robustness with movement. Water-resistant up to 3 feet (1 m) for 30 minutes (same standard as FreeStyle Libre family).

Avoiding Highs and Lows

Optional glucose alerts for low and high glucose levels. Trend arrows show the direction glucose is heading, with the rate of change. 

Continuous closed-loop insulin adjustment helps maintain tighter control.

Comfort

Lowest profile sensor and smallest adhesive (about the size of two stacked U.S pennies). 

Small & Discreet. Very small, discreet form factor, and minimal bulk.

Easy Insulin Dosing

Sensor trends can be used for dose adjustment.

MiniMed 780G closed-loop algorithm: adjusts basal and delivers automatic correction boluses using sensor data. Longer wear (15 days) means fewer interruptions in automated dosing. In manual mode, it still requires fingerstick confirmation before dosing from sensor values.

Easy to Use

No scanning required. Minute-by-minute readings are sent directly to the mobile app. 

Longer sensor life and shorter warm-up (~1 hour) help with convenience.

Fewer Fingersticks

Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger-sticks needed for backup only. 

Factory-calibrated sensor. Finger sticks needed for backup only.

Privacy

Hypoglycemia safety alarm. Discreet size but built-in hypoglycemia safety alarm alerts users when glucose is below 55 mg/dl and is always on. 

Small & Customizable. Extremely small (about the size of two stacked pennies), designed to be less noticeable under clothing. Upper arm site only; discreet but still visible with sleeveless clothing. Alerts can be customized on the connected pump for quieter use.