The OneTouch UltraLink diabetes glucose meter is not for everyone. This OneTouch glucose meter is actually developed as part of a partnership between Lifescan and Medtronic MiniMed.

The UltraLink is a specialty meter that automatically communicates your blood glucose meter test results wirelessly to the Minimed Paradigm insulin pump. If you do not use an insulin pump, then there is, obviously, no reason to get this meter.

The meter is actually free when you buy the MiniMed Paradigm insulin pump. Assuming you do purchase this insulin pump system, let's take a look at whether the UltraLink is right for you.

OneTouch UltraLink Key Advantages

1. Accurate. One key selling feature of the meter is that it is more accurate for administering insulin dosages, because it reduces user errors. Clearly, if the glucose meter test result is communicated electronically, then there are no user errors that can occur during manual entry of results.
2. Simple. Again, both Lifescan and Medtronic MiniMed stress the simplicity and ease of use with the meter. By eliminating the manual input of insulin data, the user has effectively simplified their lives and their diabetes management.
3. Results Tracking. Users have two different options for tracking their blood sugar test results. They can use LifeScan's Onetouch Diabetes Management Software or Medtronic MiniMed's CareLink.

OneTouch UltraLink Disadvantages

The most common complaint from users is that this OneTouch Ultra blood glucose meter is too big. Other complaints include some difficulty in calibrating the glucose meter and no back light.

The UltraLink is the only available meter for use with the Minimed Paradigm in the United States. Medtronic chose to partner with other manufacturers for use with their system in other countries such as Canada.

Test Strips

The meter uses the OneTouch Ultra Test Strips. To Compare the BEST prices on strips, check out our Diabetic Test Strip Price Comparison page.

Bottom Line - OneTouch UltraLink

The UltraLink serves a very specific market. If you are using an insulin pump, the advantages of a wireless system certainly outweigh some of the disadvantages voiced by some users.

The meter does a good job at eliminating at least some steps in an otherwise bothersome process.

Also, if you compare this meter to other glucose meters, it is certainly larger than some of the smaller meters on the market.

However, overall, it is not disproportional in size to other full service meters.

Other Considerations

Like all of the other OneTouch Glucose Meters, the UltrLink is fully supported by LifeScan's 24/7 customer service. Users also have access to the OneTouch Gold program, LifeScan's customer care services. These services include exercise and diet programs, diabetes articles and tasty recipes.

The meter does offer a unique feature over other OneTouch blood glucose meters, because users can use Medtronics' CareLink management software.

This is a web based blood sugar tracking program that offers some good features, especially for insulin pump users. Of course, the LifeScan's OneTouch management software is also available.

 

Model	UltraLink
Auto. Shut Off	2 minutes
Battery Type	Two AAA
Battery Life	240 Tests
Alternative Site Testing	Yes
Memory Capacity	500 Tests
Storage Temp.	NA
Operating Temp.	43 to 111 F
Result Range	20 to 600 mg/dL
Sample Size	1.0 microliter
Test Time	5 seconds
Weight (battery)	3.0 oz. (yes)
Size (Inches)	3.5 x 2.4 x 1.0
Backlit Display	No
Warranty	3 Years
Coding Required	Yes
Software Available	Yes