There are over 15 Fora Care Glucose Meters. Seriously, to be exact, the company produces 16 blood glucose monitors. WOW! This is the most of any company in the industry. Why so many?
The company does have some innovative testing options, but the differences between many of the meters in the same series are miniscule at best.
Let’s take a look at the major types of Fora Glucose Meters and the differences between any given model.
There are three major categories of meters. The G Series is the basic blood glucose monitors. The V Series is the talking glucose monitors. Lastly, the D Series are combination glucose meter and Blood pressure monitor. Let’s take a look at each series in more depth.
G Series – Entry Level Options
There are five (5) G Series meters. I will cover the highlights in this section, but you can compare all the major technical features at the end of the article.
G20: The G20 is the entry level option. This model is not widely available.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| Longer Test Time (7 Seconds) |
| Bigger Blood Sample (0.7 microliter) |
| No Pre-Post Meal Sampling |
G30a: This is the next step up. There are not really a lot of distinguishing features of the meter. Essentially, it is a basic, inexpensive testing option.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| Shorter Test Time (5 Seconds) |
| Smaller Blood Sample (0.5 microliter) |
| Allows Pre-Post Meal Sampling |
G31: This is a nice meter and has some very nice features. It has the backlit screen, more memory and allows you to transfer the test results wirelessly to your computer.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| Backlit Screen |
| More Memory - 1,000 Tests |
| Wireless Data Transfer |
G71a: The G71a, as you can tell from the picture, is the ultra small portable meter from Fora Care. It has some nice features, like small blood sampling (0.5 microliter) and quick test time (5 seconds). But, the memory is only 20 tests, which is a little low considering other portable options. This meter is not widely available.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| Small Sample Size 0.5 microliters |
| Fast Testing Time 5 Seconds |
| Portable |
| Not Much Memory - 20 Tests |
G90: The G90 is a unique offering. It has a GUI (Graphical User Interface), which is supposed to make using the meter intuitive, negating the need for a manual. I am not aware of any meter on the market marketing itself in this manner. I would note that most meters are icon driven, but this particular meter does make it easier to operate. The G90 also is the only meter in this series that has a rechargeable battery.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| GUI Interface |
| Rechargeable Battery |
Remember, see the bottom of the page for a detailed comparison of all meter in this Series.
V Series – Talking Glucose Meter Options
The V Series also has five (5) different glucose meters. The key attribute for this series is that all of the meters are talking meters. The V20 and V22 are the more comprehensive and advanced talking meters. This means that more features of the meter can be verbalized. By comparison, the V10, V12 and V30 are still talking glucose meters, but not as many features can be verbalized.
Premium V10: The Premium V10 meter is the newest monitor from Fora. There is not yet full information on the model (as of March 2012). What I do know is that the meter can speak in Spanish and English. It has a smaller blood sample than the old V10. I will update the article when I get further information. As of this review, this model is not yet available to purchase.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| Pending |
| Pending |
V12: The V12 was remarkably similar to the old V10, wich may be why the V10 was discontinued. I have noted the key differentiating features of this meter below. However, I am not sure what good they will do you. I have not been able to locate a place where this meter can be purchased. It may be better to pick a different Fora meter. Overall, these meters aren’t expensive, so maybe go with the V20 or V22.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| Basic Talk Function |
| No Pre/Post Meal Recording |
V30a: This meter is also has a basic talking function in both English and Spanish. It is faster, allows pre/post meal tracking and utilizes a small blood sample than the other two basic taking meters. This meter is not widely available.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| Basic Talking Function |
| Small Blood Sample 0.5 microliter |
| Faster Test Time 5 Seconds |
| Allows Pre/Post Meal Tracking |
V20: This glucose meter is one of the advanced talking meters on the market today, not just for Fora Care. It has a more comprehensive talk function, and even has a “Repeat” button. This means that if you missed the last message, you can press the repeat button and repeat it. This meter is essentially the same as the V22, except it does not have a rechargeable battery.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| Key Differentiating Features Advanced Talking Function - See more at: https://www.diabeteswellbeing.com/fora-care-glucose-meters.html#sthash.awgwp3SF.dpuf |
| Repeat Button |
| Strip Ejector Button |
V22: This meter is essentially the same as the V20 except it has a rechargeable battery.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| Advanced Talking Function |
| Repeat Button |
| Strip Ejector Button |
Remember, see the bottom of the page for a detailed comparison of all meter in this Series.
D Series – 2-in-1 Blood Pressure and Glucose Meter Option
The D Series is another unique group of Fora Care Glucose Meters. The series is a 2-in-1 glucose meter and blood pressure device. The company reasoned that it was a good product idea given that some studies show that over 70% of diabetics also have high blood pressure.
D10: The D10 is the smallest combo device and is meant as a portable option. It is the only model that checks your blood pressure it the wrist. The model also has a basic talking feature in either English or Spanish.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| Basic Talking Function |
| Portable Unit |
| Wrist Blood Pressure Cuff |
D15g/b/z: There are three different D15 models. The only difference is how you want to download your test results to data management software. (z=zigbee, b=wireless, g=cable). Also, please note that the D15 devices are NOT talking models. Every other D Series model is a talking device. This model is not widely available.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| Multiple Data Download Options |
| No Talking Feature |
D20: This meter has a normal talking function. This means that many of the meter’s standard functions can be spoken, but not all of them. This device also is downloaded with a cable, compared to the D30 which is wireless.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| Basic Talk Feature |
| Cable Download |
D30: This is the premier offering in the D Series. It has advanced talking features and offers wireless download capabilities.
| Key Differentiating Features |
|---|
| Advanced Talk Feature |
| Wireless Download |
Remember, see the bottom of the page for a detailed comparison of all meter in this Series.
Test Strips
To Compare the BEST prices on strips, check out our Diabetic Test Strip Price Comparison page.
Data Management Software
Fora Care has some good management software options. They have an online version and one that you can download to your own computer. Both offer nice graphs and a pleasing interface look and feel. They do not support Apple operating systems, however.
Website and Product Literature
The website and product literature is good. I was able to find everything I needed about the meters. I would recommend that they add some videos showing how to use their products.
Company Overview
Fora Care focuses on diabetes care devices, although it also has a high end line of electronic thermometers. The company is located in California.
Bottom Line
I think that Fora Care could trim the product line a bit and offer fewer choices. Some of the differences between the meters are very small.
I spent hours studying the differences between the glucose meter offerings. I am not sure most consumers would have the time or the inclination to do so. Thus, it would be nice to have more clarity in the product offerings.
That being said, I like the innovative nature of the company. Their taking meters, particularly the V20 and V22 are exceptional. Moreover, the 2-in-1 glucose meter and blood pressure device is a very good idea. Overall, good job.
Technical Information
G Series
| Model | G20 | G30a | G31 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto. Shut Off | NA | 2 min. | 2 min. |
| Battery Type | 1 CR2032 | 1 CR2032 | 2 AAA |
| Battery Life | NA | NA | NA |
| Alternative Site Testing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Memory Capacity | 450 Tests | 450 Tests | 1,000 Tests |
| Storage Temp. | -4° - 140° F | -4° - 140° F | -4° - 140° F |
| Operating Temp. | 50° - 104° F | 50° - 104° F | 50° - 104° F |
| Result Range | 20 to 600 mg/dL | 20 to 600 mg/dL | 20 to 600 mg/dL |
| Sample Size | 0.7 microliter | 0.5 microliter | 0.5 microliter |
| Test Time | 7 seconds | 5 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Weight (battery) | 0.11(lbs.) (no) | 0.11(lbs.) (no) | 0.22 (lbs.) (no) |
| Size (Inches) | 3.42" x 2 x 0.55 | 3.34" x 2.04 x 0.59 | 3.74" x 2.236 x 0.86 |
| Backlit Display | No | No | No |
| Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Coding Required | No | No | No |
| Software Available | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Model | G71a | G90 |
|---|---|---|
| Auto. Shut Off | 2 min. | 3 min. |
| Battery Type | 1 CR2032 | Rechargeable |
| Battery Life | NA | NA |
| Alternative Site Testing | Yes | Yes |
| Memory Capacity | 20 Tests | 400 Tests |
| Storage Temp. | -4° - 140° F | -4° - 140° F |
| Operating Temp. | 50° - 104° F | 50° - 104° F |
| Result Range | 20 to 600 mg/dL | 20 to 600 mg/dL |
| Sample Size | 0.5 microliter | 0.7 microliter |
| Test Time | 5 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Weight (battery) | 0.04 (lbs.) (no) | 0.1 (lbs.)(no) |
| Size (Inches) | 0.34" x 1.07 x 0.46 | 3.3" x 2.3 x 0.67 |
| Backlit Display | No | Yes |
| Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Coding Required | No | No |
| Software Available | No | Yes |
V Series
| Model | Prem. V10* | V12 | V30a |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto. Shut Off | ? | 3 min. | 3 min. |
| Battery Type | ? | 3 AAA | 2 AAA |
| Battery Life | ? | NA | NA |
| Alternative Site Testing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Memory Capacity | 450 Tests | 450 Tests | 450 Tests |
| Storage Temp. | ? | -4° - 140° F | -4° - 140° F |
| Operating Temp. | ? | 50° - 104° F | 50° - 104° F |
| Result Range | ? | 20 to 600 mg/dL | 20 to 600 mg/dL |
| Sample Size | ? microliter | 0.7 microliter | 0.7 microliter |
| Test Time | 5 seconds | 7 seconds | 5 seconds |
| Weight (battery) | ? | 0.11 (lbs.) oz. (no) | 0.11 (lbs.) oz. (no) |
| Size (Inches) | 3 | 3.75" x 2 x 0.44 | 3.75" x 1.96 x 0.39 |
| Backlit Display | ? | No | No |
| Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Coding Required | No | No | No |
| Software Available | ? | Yes | Yes |
*The Premium V10 is a new release and technical specifications have not yet been released.
| Model | V20 | V22 |
|---|---|---|
| Auto. Shut Off | NA | 2 min. |
| Battery Type | 1 CR2032 | Rechargable |
| Battery Life | NA | NA |
| Alternative Site Testing | Yes | Yes |
| Memory Capacity | Yes | Yes |
| Storage Temp. | -4° - 140° F | -4° - 140° F |
| Operating Temp. | 50° - 104° F | 50° - 104° F |
| Result Range | 20 to 600 mg/dL | 20 to 600 mg/dL |
| Sample Size | 0.7 microliter | 0.7 microliter |
| Test Time | 7 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Weight (battery) | 0.13 lbs. (no) | 0.11 (lbs.) (no) |
| Size (Inches) | 3.69" x 2.25 x 0.78 | 3.75" x 2 x 0.44 |
| Backlit Display | No | No |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime |
| Coding Required | No | No |
| Software Available | Yes | Yes |
D Series
| Model | D10 | D15 | D15 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto. Shut Off | NA | 3 min. | 3 min. |
| Battery Type | 2 AAA | 4 AA | 4 AA |
| Battery Life | NA | NA | NA |
| Alternative Site Testing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Memory Capacity | 450 Tests | 352 Tests | 480 Tests |
| Storage Temp. | -4° - 140° F | -4° - 140° F | -4° - 140° F |
| Operating Temp. | 50° - 104° F | 50° - 104° F | 50° - 104° F |
| Result Range | 20 to 600 mg/dL | 20 to 600 mg/dL | 20 to 600 mg/dL |
| Sample Size | 0.7 microliter | 0.7 microliter | 0.7 microliter |
| Test Time | 7 seconds | 7 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Weight (battery) | 0.35 (lbs.)(no) | 0.82 (lbs.) (no) | 0.77(lbs.) (no) |
| Size (Inches) | 2.48" x 2.95 x 1.57 | 5.74" x 3.62 x 2.2 | 6.14" x 4.37 x 2.79 |
| Backlit Display | No | No | No |
| Warranty | 5 Years | 5 Years | 5 Years |
| Coding Required | Yes | Yes | No |
| Software Available | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Model | D30 |
|---|---|
| Auto. Shut Off | 3 min. |
| Battery Type | 4 AA |
| Battery Life | NA |
| Alternative Site Testing | Yes |
| Memory Capacity | 400 Tests |
| Storage Temp. | -4° - 140° F |
| Operating Temp. | 50° - 104° F |
| Result Range | 20 to 600 mg/dL |
| Sample Size | 0.7 microliter |
| Test Time | 7 seconds |
| Weight (battery) | 0.61 (lbs.)(no) |
| Size (Inches) | 3.54" x 1.38 x 0.69 |
| Backlit Display | No |
| Warranty | 5 Years |
| Coding Required | No |
| Software Available | Yes |