Bayer Contour

The Bayer Contour surpasses other blood glucose meters in just about every way, reviews say. Testers find it among the most accurate and consistent glucose monitors on the market, as well as one of the easiest to use -- in fact, an organization dedicated to children with diabetes recommends it as one of the simplest meters for kids. At about 2 inches by 3 inches and less than an inch thick, the Bayer blood glucose monitor is compact enough to slip easily into a pocket. It automatically reads the codes on your test strips, so you won't have to enter them by hand. The Bayer Contour boasts plenty of memory (480 tests), and Bayer offers computer software that lets you track your blood sugar trends over time. The Bayer Contour glucose meter allows alternate-site testing (palm, forearm, thigh or abdomen) as well as fingertip testing.

The Bayer Contour is moderately priced, with test strips costing about $25 for a box of 50. If you're looking for a cheaper blood glucose meter, reviews recommend the ReliOn Micro (*Est. $9), sold at Walmart. Test strips are also a bit less expensive for the ReliOn meter (about $20 for 50 strips) compared to the Bayer glucose meter. If you're sight-impaired and need a talking glucose monitor, experts prefer the Prodigy Voice (*Est. $65).

ConsumerReports.org has volunteers test several blood glucose meters (including the Bayer Contour) for ease of use. A Men's Health article refers to another Consumer Reports test that also judged consistency and accuracy. ChildrenWithDiabetes.com picks the easiest glucose monitors for kids to use. Users report their experiences with the Bayer Contour at Amazon.com, Walmart.com and Buzzillions.com.