The Bayer glucose meter family has a long and storied history. Bayer Healthcare introduced the first portable glucose meter in 1969. Since then, the company has been a tireless innovator of diabetes products. This focus has made Bayer one of the largest self-test diagnostic companies in existence. While they may be one of the largest companies, Bayer’s focus is on simplicity for the consumer.
Bayer only has three different models of glucose meters. All of their meters have what they call “No Coding” technology. Bayer claims to be the first company to offer a line of glucose monitors that do not require coding.
This innovation allows users to avoid programming the glucose meter, with the aim of increasing testing accuracy and simplify the user’s diabetes management headaches.
Bayer Meters
Bayer touts the speed of its meters, only 5 seconds to obtain test results. And, the company has increased the memory of the meters to help user’s better monitor their glucose levels over time. The current Bayer glucose meter product line-up consists of the following.
Contour. This devise is Bayer’s flagship glucose monitor. The Contour has basic and advanced functions, no coding technology, a large display, and comes in multiple colors.
Breeze 2. As simple, as simple gets. The breeze 2 has no individual test strips. Instead, there is a 10 test disc. Simply insert the disc and you are all set for your next 10 glucose test. This meter and disc received the Arthritis Foundation “Ease of Use Commendation.”
Contour USB.This meter comes in a small package, but packs a series pnch! Many advanced features for such a little device.
Contour Next EZ.This meter was introduced in 2012. Admittedly, it does not seem to take the place of, or advance the technology, of any of the other meters offered by Bayer. But, check it out to see if it fits your needs.
Bayer Didget. This meter is just for the kids. The Didget is awesome and integrates with popular game consoles. Technical specifications for this meter are included in its review.
A1CNOW Self Check Test
| Contour | Contour USB | Breeze 2 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto. Shut Off | 3 minutes | 3 minutes | 3 minutes |
| Battery Type | Two CR2032 | Rechargeable | One CR2032 |
| Battery Life | 1,000 Tests | Varies | 1,000 Tests |
| Alt. Site Testing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Memory Capacity | 480 Tests | 2,000 Tests | 420 Tests |
| Storage Temp. | NA | NA | NA |
| Operating Temp. | 41° to 113° F | 41° to 113° F | 50° to 113° F |
| Result Range | 10 to 600 mg/dL | 20 to 600 mg/dL | 20 to 600 mg/dL |
| Sample Size | 0.6 microliter | 0.6 microliter | 1.0 microliter |
| Test Time | 5 seconds | 5 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Weight (battery) | 1.7 oz. (yes) | 1.2 oz. (yes) | 3.62 oz (yes) |
| Size (Inches) | 2.35 x 2.8 x 0.77 | 3.82 x 1.18 x 0.63 | 4.1 x 2.3 x 1.1 |
| Backlit Display | No | Color | No |
| Coding Req. | No | No | No |
| Software Avail. | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Model | Contour Next EZ |
|---|---|
| Auto. Shut Off | 3 minutes |
| Battery Type | 2 CR2032 |
| Battery Life | 1,000 Tests |
| Alternative Site Testing | No |
| Memory Capacity | 480 Tests |
| Storage Temp. | NA |
| Operating Temp. | 41 to 113 F |
| Result Range | 20 to 600 mg/dL |
| Sample Size | 0.6 microliter |
| Test Time | 5 seconds |
| Weight (battery) | 1.7 oz. (yes) |
| Size (Inches) | 3.03 x 2.24 x 0.74 |
| Backlit Display | No |
| Warranty | 5 years |
| Coding Required | No |
| Software Available | Yes |
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Like most other major glucose meter manufacturers, Bayer has its own proprietary software that allows its clients to track how well they are doing, or not doing, with managing their blood sugar levels. They call it GlucoFacts Deluxe.
Like other companies, Bayer does not charge for the software, but you do need to purchase a data cable needed to download your test results to your computer.
This software has been improved in recent years (This page was updated in February 2012), however, the software is just good, but nothing great. BUT, what is great is that the software is marketed as being MAC compatible, one of the few.
Bayer also has an extensive diabetes community sight and has even partnered with Dr. Steven Covey to produce “Seven Habits of Highly Effective People with Diabetes.”
Bayer Healthcare is a subsidiary of Bayer AG, a mammoth health and medical products. Bayer supports diabetes care in over 100 countries. Starting in 1941, the company introduced its first diabetic related product, the Clinitest reagent tablets.
Today, Bayer has some of the most widely used glucose meters in the world.
Bayer’s diabetes products subsidiary is located in Tarrytown, New York. Bayer’s diabetes related website is this link. You can also find all of its product manuals on the site.
RECENTLY DISCONTINUED
Ascensia Contour TS. The TS was a stripped down version of the Contour aimed at people who need very simple operation and large display. This meter is still available at selected retailers, but I believe Bayer will be discontinuing this meter.