Living with Dexcom G7 Long-Term: What’s Actually Better… and What’s Not
When Dexcom launched the G7, it promised a more compact design, faster startup, and features like a 12-hour grace period, and on paper, a clear step up from the G6. And in many ways, it is. But after nearly two years of using the G7 day in and day out, I’ve had enough experience to know it’s not without its quirks.
This post covers what I genuinely love about the G7, what still frustrates me, and what you should keep in mind if you’re still using the G6 or are just curious about making the switch.
As always, this review is 100% my own opinion. I’m not sponsored by Dexcom, and everything here is based on my real-life experience managing Type 1 Diabetes. That being said, here is my honest Dexcom G7 review.
What I Love About the Dexcom G7
It’s Smaller
This is the first thing you notice, and it’s a big win. The G7 is significantly smaller and flatter than the G6, making it easier to wear under clothes without it catching or pulling. It’s more comfortable and much less visible.
Only 30-Minute Warm-Up Time
The shorter start-up window is a game changer. The G6’s 2-hour warm-up always felt like a long wait, especially when I was in the middle of managing a low or about to go to bed. G7 gets going in just 30 minutes, making it much easier to transition between sensors.
12-Hour Grace Period
Another smart improvement. If you’re not able to switch your sensor exactly at the 10-day mark, you now have a 12-hour buffer to extend wear. It’s saved me more than once when I was traveling, sleeping, or just not at home to put a new sensor in.
What’s Still Frustrating
The Numbers Can Be Wild at First
The first 6–12 hours of a new G7 sensor are often unreliable for me. It can read significantly off from my finger sticks, which means I can’t fully trust my dosing decisions during that window. This wasn’t something I experienced as frequently with G6. I use control iq with my Tandem Mobi and have found that I can’t connect my sensor to my pump until my sensor is accurate. Otherwise I have a mess of a situation with my pump shutting off insulin for false lows.
Sensor Connection Issues with Certain Lots
I’ve had a few sensors recently that just wouldn’t connect, no matter how many times I followed the steps. In these cases, I’ve had to toss the sensor and start a new one. It’s frustrating and wastes a lot of time, especially having to contact Dexcom about getting a replacement.
Final Verdict: A Good Step Forward, But Not Perfect
Dexcom G7 is definitely a step in the right direction. The smaller size, faster start-up, and grace period are big improvements that make it easier to live with day-to-day.
But it’s not perfect. The erratic early readings and connection issues need to be ironed out. Occasionally, I still rely on finger sticks in the first few hours of a new sensor just to be safe.
If you’re already using G6 and considering the upgrade, it’s probably worth it for the comfort and convenience alone. Just know that it might take a little patience with the transition, and maybe a backup plan for the occasional failed sensor. If you have any questions about this Dexcom G7 Review, please feel free to reach out to us at Lizzieslinebackers@gmail.com
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