Microlet vs OneTouch Lancets: Comparison
Choosing the Right Lancet for Daily Testing
For individuals managing diabetes, blood glucose testing is a frequent necessity. The comfort of these tests often hinges on the quality and size of the lancet used. Two of the most prominent names in the industry are Microlet and OneTouch. While both brands offer high quality supplies, they cater to different user preferences regarding needle thickness, known as gauge, and device compatibility. Selecting the right brand can mean the difference between a painful poke and a nearly seamless experience. In this guide, we will break down the differences between Microlet Multicolor Lancets and the OneTouch lancet lineup to help you make an informed decision for your daily routine.
Microlet: Simple and Reliable
Microlet lancets are produced by Ascensia, the makers of Contour products. They are widely recognized for their multicolor design, which helps users remember to change their lancets frequently by assigning different colors to different times of the day or days of the week. The Microlet Multicolor Lancets, 28G are a standard choice for many. At 28 gauge, the needle is slightly thicker than premium comfort options, which can be beneficial for individuals with thicker skin or callouses who have difficulty getting an adequate blood sample with thinner needles. Microlet lancets are generally designed to work with Microlet lancing devices but feature a universal base that fits many other standard lancing tools on the market.
OneTouch: Precision and Comfort
OneTouch has focused heavily on reducing the pain associated with fingersticks. Their flagship lancing system, the OneTouch Delica Plus Lancing Device, is engineered with Advanced Glide Control to reduce vibration and ensure a straight, smooth entry. To complement this device, OneTouch offers lancets in much finer gauges than the standard 28G. For those with sensitive fingers, the OneTouch Delica Plus Lancets, 33G provide an exceptionally thin needle. They also offer a 30G version for those who need a balance between comfort and sample volume. It is important to note that Delica Plus lancets are specifically designed for use with Delica lancing devices and are not compatible with standard universal lancing tools.
Comparison: Microlet vs OneTouch
When comparing these two brands, the primary factors to consider are needle gauge, device compatibility, and cost. Below is a breakdown of how they stack up.
| Feature | Microlet Multicolor | OneTouch Delica Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Gauge | 28G | 30G or 33G |
| Compatibility | Universal/Standard | Brand Specific (Delica) |
| Needle Coating | Silicone Coated | Silicone Coated |
| Best For | Thicker skin/Value | Sensitive skin/Comfort |
Gauge and Comfort Levels
- 28 Gauge (Microlet): Standard thickness, reliable for obtaining samples on the first try, but may be more felt by those with sensitive skin.
- 30 Gauge (OneTouch): Fine needle, significantly reduces the sensation of the fingerstick compared to 28G.
- 33 Gauge (OneTouch): Extra fine needle, designed for maximum comfort and minimal tissue disruption.
The gauge of a lancet refers to the diameter of the needle. A higher gauge number indicates a thinner needle. Here is how the comfort levels typically translate for these products:
Who Each Brand Is Best For
Choosing between these brands depends on your specific physical needs and your existing equipment.
Best for Sensitive Skin: The 33G needle is one of the thinnest available, making it ideal for those who find standard testing painful.
Best for Value and Compatibility: These lancets are more affordable per unit and fit a wider variety of standard lancing devices.
Essential Testing Accessories
Regardless of the lancet brand you choose, proper skin preparation and safe disposal are critical. Always use alcohol prep pads to clean the testing site before lancing to prevent infection. After testing, lancets should be disposed of in a puncture resistant container. The Covidien SharpSafety Sharps Container is an excellent choice for home use. Additionally, keeping a OneTouch Blood Glucose Logbook can help you track your results and identify patterns in your glucose levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Microlet lancets in a OneTouch Delica Plus device?
No. The OneTouch Delica Plus lancing device requires specific Delica Plus lancets. Microlet lancets have a different base shape and will not fit.
Is a 33G lancet better than a 28G lancet?
A 33G lancet is thinner and generally less painful, but it may not produce enough blood for some users. A 28G lancet is sturdier and better for those with calloused skin.
How often should I change my lancet?
Lancets are intended for single use. Reusing a lancet can lead to increased pain as the tip becomes dull and increases the risk of infection.
Are Microlet lancets universal?
Microlet lancets fit the Microlet family of devices and many other standard lancing devices, but they do not fit brand specific proprietary devices like the OneTouch Delica or Accu-Chek FastClix.
