Finding the right control solution is essential for verifying that your glucose meter and test strips are delivering accurate results. This guide highlights five dependable options, each suited to different user needs such as routine testing, first-time setup, or ongoing validation. Best for most users is a familiar brand with clear usage steps and compatibility notes. The top picks below help you keep diabetes management precise and consistent.
Summary Table of Selected Products
| Product | Best For | Why It Stands Out | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ascensia CONTOUR NEXT Control Solution Level 1 | Contour NEXT users | Designed for CONTOUR NEXT meters and strips; easy drop application | Only compatible with Contour NEXT system |
| Easy Touch Control Solution Glucose Monitor Kit | Dual high/low checks | Color-coded bottles for quick heat checks; two vials included | General-use only; not brand-locked compatibility |
| Accu-Chek Guide Diabetes Control Solution | New strip lots | Level 1 & 2 for Guide and Guide Me meters; widely compatible | Need to verify kit compatibility with your meter |
| OneTouch Ultra Control Solution | OneTouch Ultra family users | Known glucose amount; straightforward testing | Limited to OneTouch Ultra line |
| TRUE METRIX Control Solution Level 1 | TRUE METRIX users | Low-range testing option; supports performance checks | Single-brand dependency |
Ascensia CONTOUR NEXT Control Solution Level 1
Best for users of the CONTOUR NEXT system who want a trusted test for meter accuracy. This Level 1 control solution is designed to be used with CONTOUR NEXT meters and test strips to confirm the device is delivering correct results. Use it when opening a new box of strips, when starting a new testing routine, or if readings seem unusual. This product helps verify system performance before making important diabetes management decisions.
Who it’s best for: Individuals using CONTOUR NEXT meters seeking straightforward accuracy verification.
Why selected: Direct compatibility with CONTOUR NEXT products reduces ambiguity in results and supports reliable testing routines.
Caution / Limitation: Only compatible with CONTOUR NEXT hardware; using with other meters may yield inaccurate expectations.
Easy Touch Control Solution Glucose Monitor Kit
Best for users who want a simple, clearly labeled dual-solution kit. This kit includes two vials (Hi and Low) with color-coded caps to distinguish high and low control results. Use the provided test to ensure your meter and strips are reading accurately and to validate technique. Ideal for routine checks and when starting a new box of strips.
Who it’s best for: Home testers who benefit from quick, color-coded controls and two separate tests per kit.
Why selected: Visual color cues speed up accuracy checks and reduce user error during testing.
Caution / Limitation: Color coding helps, but the kit is not universally compatible with every meter; confirm strip compatibility before use.
Accu-Chek Guide Diabetes Control Solution
Best for those who want a widely compatible control solution across Level 1 and Level 2 tests. This solution uses a known glucose amount to verify meter and strip performance. It’s suited for new box openings, suspected strip issues, or any time measurements seem inconsistent.
Who it’s best for: Users who want an established, cross-brand compatible control solution approach within the Accu-Chek ecosystem.
Why selected: Clear testing steps and reliable verification when starting with new strips or after potential meter disturbances.
Caution / Limitation: Ensure your specific model is compatible with Accu-Chek guides prior to testing.
OneTouch Ultra Control Solution
Best for users within the OneTouch Ultra meter family who need a known glucose reference for testing accuracy. This solution provides a defined glucose concentration to verify meter and strip performance, useful when opening new strips or after potential testing irregularities.
Who it’s best for: People using OneTouch Ultra meters seeking straightforward control testing.
Why selected: Brand-aligned control solution reduces mismatch risk and supports routine validation procedures.
Caution / Limitation: Primarily suitable for OneTouch Ultra devices; compatibility with other brands is limited.
TRUE METRIX Control Solution Level 1
Best for TRUE METRIX users needing Level 1 control testing to confirm basic operation. Use this solution before the first test, when opening new strips, or if results seem unusual. It supports low-range checks to validate meter accuracy across typical daily use.
Who it’s best for: TRUE METRIX customers who want level-appropriate control testing.
Why selected: Aligns with TRUE METRIX test strips, helping maintain consistent performance verification.
Caution / Limitation: Selection should match your meter brand to avoid compatibility issues.
Buying Guide
What to consider when choosing a glucose control solution
- Meter compatibility: Ensure the control solution is labeled for use with your specific meter brand and model.
- Control level: Level 1 controls are standard for routine checks; Level 2 may be used for higher-range verifications where available.
- Usage occasions: Use at setup, when opening new strips, after dropped meters, or if readings seem off.
- Quantity and packaging: Some kits include multiple vials or dual controls, which can be cost-effective for regular testers.
- Calibration process: Follow the included instructions for applying a drop to the test strip and running the test just like a blood sample.
How to perform a control test correctly
- Wash and dry hands; prepare the meter and test strips as you normally would.
- Apply a drop of control solution to a new test strip or the appropriate well, depending on your device’s instructions.
- Compare the meter reading to the known control value on the bottle label or instruction sheet.
- If results deviate beyond acceptable range, repeat with a fresh strip or bottle; if still out of range, replace strips or check meter calibration.
When to use control solutions
- First use of a glucose meter
- Opening a new box of test strips
- After meter is dropped or exposed to extreme conditions
- If results are unusual or inconsistent with symptoms
Practical tips for consistent results
- Store control solution at recommended temperature and away from direct sunlight.
- Keep vials closed tightly to prevent evaporation or contamination.
- Record test dates and lot numbers if you use a log book or app for tracking results.
FAQ
- Do control solutions replace finger-prick tests? No. They verify meter performance; they do not measure blood glucose in a person.
- Can I use any control solution with any meter? Not always. Use a product labeled for your meter brand and model for accurate results.
- How often should I run a control test? When you set up a new meter, open a new box of strips, or notice abnormal readings.
- What should I do if a control test fails? Re-test with a fresh strip and new bottle; if it still fails, check the meter’s calibration and consult the user manual.
- Is Level 2 testing necessary? Level 2 is useful for higher-range verification where available, especially for users requiring broader range checks.