TrueTrack glucose meters are affordable diabetic testing devices manufactured by Home Diagnostics.
I'm always looking for less expensive ways to test my blood sugar and this is a meter that has lowered my costs around 30 percent.
I've been using it for around a month for my home tests and I find roughly the same accuracy of testing as my other, more expensive test meters.
Flash Video Tour (opens in a new window)
TrueTrack User Manual (*requires Adobe Acrobat)
Features:
Pros:
1. Lower Cost of Test Strips
The main thing that attracted me to this meter most is the lower cost of testing supplies. 30 percent is a good savings and I wish this would become a trend with meter manufacturers as a whole. Locally I pay around $60 for 100 strips as compared to $87 per 100 for my Compact Plus. In this respect, Home Diagnostics is ahead of the curve.
...2. Small blood sample needed
Testing strips use only 1 micro-litre of blood. The capillary action of the strip is clearly visible and I like how easily it soaks up the sample. In this way, it's superior to the other meters I own.
3. Fast results
The meter needs 10 seconds for test results to appear and also detects if insufficient blood has been applied . This is only half as fast as the Accu-Chek Aviva but is still pretty speedy.
4. Small and lightweight
The compact form factor fits easily into your palm and hardly weighs anything. It comfortably fits into your pocket and also comes with a handy carrying pouch that houses the meter, lancet device test log and other supplies.
Cons:
1. Individual Test Strips and Lancet Device
I don't like fumbling with individual test strips which can get lost and give bad results if not handled properly. A separate lancing device is okay but it's just something else that can get lost if it's not attached to the meter like it is on the Accu-Chek Compact Plus. While the meter is small and portable, the discreet components just make it a little clumsy without a belt mounted carrying case.
2. Dim LCD Display and Recessed Buttons
The display is fairly large and easy to read in a well lit room but doesn't lend itself well to visually impaired diabetics. The low-profile buttons on the top side of the meter could be a little more pronounced in my opinion, so that they can be used by feeling them. If vision is a problem for you, you probably need a meter like the Accu-Chek Compact Plus.
3. Skimpy Data Storage
The 365-test memory stores only around 2 months readings (based on 5 tests per day) along with date and time. A minimum amount of readings should be 500 or around 3 months worth which is usually the same time period as an HbA1c test.
4. Data Connectivity Costs Extra
Data management is accomplished via computer cable compatible with TrueTrack software. The cable is a separate purchase.
Considering the importance of charts and graphs for a proper diabetic care program, this should be provided either free or at very low cost in my opinion.
Why do meter makers make computer connection a separate option? It should come standard in this day and age of computers and the Internet.
5. Button Cell Batteries
I'm not a fan of button cell. I prefer either standard "AAA" or "AA" batteries. They're cheaper and easier to replace.
6. Code Chips
Code chips allow for variances that can occur when manufacturing test strips. It means that if you somehow lose your code chip, you won't be able to use your test strips from that batch. It shouldn't normally be a problem but the possibility just makes it likely that eventually it will be a problem for someone.
Bottom Line:
Rating: 7.5/10
The TrueTrack glucose meter is great for home blood sugar testing.
Test strips are less expensive than most meters and this makes it a good choice to have around even if you already own a better meter.
I use the TrueTrack at home and then use my Accu-Check Compact Plus meter when I'm on the road or away from home because of the convenience of the integrated lancet device and 17 strip test drums. This way I have both cheap test supplies and convenience.
The meter itself is fairly average and don't expect any extra niceties. It's just a simple, low cost test meter which is great if you need to save money and get the job done.
