I\u2019ve been using an insulin pump since the year 2000 and in those 14 years, have used 10 different pump models from five different pump companies. I consider myself a discerning and skeptical customer. When I approach a pump, I want its rep to be able to explain features beyond the company\u2019s marketing talking points. Yes, it\u2019s tubeless, but how\u2019s the user interface? Okay, so site changes are quick, but what advanced pumping features does it include? Integrated CGM, but what\u2019s it like to press the buttons and program a bolus? I want to know how fast it scrolls, how large a pack mule I\u2019ll need for the supplies, and where they\u2019ve buried the IOB.<\/p>\n
Each of the six companies listed below is working hard to provide people with diabetes with innovative devices for pumping insulin. Which you prefer depends on which features matter to you; one man\u2019s pro is another man\u2019s con. We are incredibly fortunate to have choices when shopping for a device we\u2019ll depend on for the next four to five years. I encourage you to explore the offerings below.<\/p>\n
Insulin Pump Comparison:<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n <\/p>\n
Animas Vibe<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n![\"Animas](\"data:image\/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==\")
<\/a><\/p>\nFeatures:<\/h2>\n\n- Reservoir size: 200u<\/li>\n
- IPX rating: Fully watertight IPX8, company calls it \u201cwaterproof\u201d up to 12 feet for 24 hours<\/li>\n
- Integrated with Dexcom G4 Platinum CGM (on screen)<\/li>\n
- Bright body color choices<\/li>\n
- High-contrast color screen<\/li>\n
- Infusion Sets: Accepts any luer lock infusion set<\/li>\n
- Accepts all fast-acting U-100 insulins<\/li>\n
- Meter: use with any meter<\/li>\n
- Software: Uploads to Diasend<\/li>\n
- Power: 1 AA battery<\/li>\n
- Audio: Personalized audio alerts (vibrate, create your own tune, etc). Non-adjustable safety alert set at 55 mg\/dL<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Additional Specs:<\/h2>\n\n- Weight: 3.70oz<\/li>\n
- Basal increments: .025u<\/li>\n
- Max Basal Limit: 10u\/hr<\/li>\n
- Max Bolus: 35u<\/li>\n
- Minimum bolus increment: .05u<\/li>\n
- Max Hourly Delivery Limit: 50u over 2-Hour Period<\/li>\n
- Duration of Insulin Action Increment: 30min<\/li>\n
- Max Number of Basal Profiles\/Segments: 4 Profiles\/12 Segments each<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/h2>\nChanges from Previous Model:<\/strong><\/h2>\nvs Animas Ping<\/p>\n
\n- Integrated with Dexcom G4<\/li>\n
- No longer have to dial up to the dose from the bolus calculator<\/li>\n
- No remote<\/li>\n
- No linked meter (meter agnostic)<\/li>\n
- Navigational changes to Menu structure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Considerations:<\/h2>\n\n- Not compatible with Dexcom G4 505 software upgrade<\/li>\n
- Not compatible with future Dexcom pipeline (G5, etc)<\/li>\n
- Pump does not act on data from CGM reading, does not have Low Glucose Suspend<\/li>\n
- 200u only<\/li>\n
- Not yet approved for pediatric use in the US<\/li>\n
- Meter agnostic, but not CGM agnostic – must be used with Dexcom G4 sensors<\/li>\n
- A number of users report that the speed of bolus delivery is too fast and therefore uncomfortable<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Pros:<\/strong><\/span> Integrated Dexcom CGM, Waterproof, Proven company.<\/p>\nCons:<\/strong> <\/span>Loss of remote from previous model. Incompatibility with latest and future Dexcom updates.<\/p>\nTakeaway:<\/strong> Exciting and long-awaited new offering from reliable pump company. Wish US would have had access in 2011 when the technology was new and more relevant.<\/p>\n
\nMedtronic 530g w\/ Enlite<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n<\/a><\/p>\n\u00a0Features:<\/h2>\n\n- Reservoir size: 300u or 180u reservoir models, accepts all fast-acting U-100 insulins<\/li>\n
- IPX7 Rating \u2013 accidental dunk proof<\/li>\n
- Integrated sensor technology with Medtronic\u2019s Enlite sensor<\/li>\n
- Low Glucose Suspend feature suspends basal in response to low blood sugar<\/li>\n
- Meter: Pairs with Bayer CONTOUR NEXT LINK rechargeable meter<\/li>\n
- Software: Easy upload to web-based Carelink program<\/li>\n
- Audio: Silent option for discreet bolusing<\/li>\n
- Power: 1 AAA alkaline Energizer battery<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
\u00a0Additional Specs:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Weight of 300u model: 3.66oz. Weight of 180u model: 3.35u<\/li>\n
- Basal increments: \u00a00.025u for basal amounts in the range of 0.025 to 0.975u, 0.05u for basal amounts in the range of 1 to 9.95u, 0.1u for basal amounts of 10.0u or larger<\/li>\n
- Max Basal Limit: 35u<\/li>\n
- Minimum bolus increment: \u00a00.025u for bolus amounts in the range of 0.025 to 0.975u, 0.05u for bolus amounts larger than 0.975u<\/li>\n
- Max Bolus: 25u<\/li>\n
- Duration of Insulin Action Increment: 1 hour<\/li>\n
- Max Number of Basal Profiles\/Segments: 3 Profiles\/ 48 Segments each<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Changes from Previous Model:<\/strong><\/h2>\nvs Medtronic Revel<\/p>\n
\n- Features Low Glucose Suspend<\/li>\n
- Enlite sensor technology<\/li>\n
- Green colored accent for Activate button<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Considerations:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Proprietary infusion sets<\/li>\n
- Duration of Insulin Action in hour increments rather than half hour<\/li>\n
- Low resolution screen<\/li>\n
- Must be purchased as a system. Very difficult to purchase 530G pump without Enlite.<\/li>\n
- A number of users report less than desirable accuracy of Enlite CGMS and awkward insertion device<\/li>\n
- A number of users report alarms as difficult to hear overnight<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Pros:\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>Integrated Enlite CGM with Low Glucose Suspend puts it on the pathway toward Artificial Pancreas. Proven company. Proven pump.<\/p>\nCons:<\/strong><\/span> CGM accuracy.<\/p>\nTakeaway:<\/strong> If you have loved the Medtronic pump for the last two decades, you\u2019ll love and recognize this pump. LGS is a great feature when it works and if you trust their CGM.<\/p>\n
\nTandem t:slim<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n <\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\n <\/p>\n
Features:<\/h2>\n\n- Reservoir size: 300u cartridge before tubing fill<\/li>\n
- IPX7 rating: accidental dunk proof<\/li>\n
- Bright, colorful, touchscreen interface on shatter-resistant glass<\/li>\n
- Easily see matrix of all settings by time segment<\/li>\n
- Carb calculator for multiple carb serving input<\/li>\n
- IOB on home screen with time remaining<\/li>\n
- Site reminder for infusion set changes<\/li>\n
- Infusion Sets: Accepts any luer lock infusion set<\/li>\n
- Meter: Can be used with any meter, but ships with One Touch Verio IQ meter (does not pair)<\/li>\n
- Software: Uploads to Diasend and Web-based t:connect software<\/li>\n
- Audio: Silent options for discreet bolusing<\/li>\n
- Power: Powered by rechargeable lithium polymer battery via included microUSB cable – can be charged from outlet, car charger, or computer and full charge lasts up to 1 week<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
\u00a0Additional Specs:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Weight (full): 3.95oz (heaviest pump)<\/li>\n
- Basal increments: 0.001u at programed rates equal to or greater than 0.10u<\/li>\n
- Max Basal Limit: 15u<\/li>\n
- Minimum bolus increment: 0.01u at volumes greater than 0.05u<\/li>\n
- Max Bolus: 25u<\/li>\n
- Duration of Insulin Action Increment: 1min<\/li>\n
- Max Number of Basal Profiles\/Segments: 6 Profiles\/16 Segments each<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Changes from Previous Model:<\/strong><\/h2>\nN\/A<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Considerations:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Aluminum casing means metal detector sensitivity<\/li>\n
- Many confirmation screens<\/li>\n
- Time-consuming fill process<\/li>\n
- Not compatible with Apidra<\/li>\n
- Opacity means limited visibility within cartrdige<\/li>\n
- No reverse correction<\/li>\n
- A number of users report problems with air bubbles in the luer lock<\/li>\n
- A number of users report alarms as difficult to hear overnight<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Pros:<\/strong><\/span> Modern touchscreen interface. Features easy to view and access.<\/p>\nCons:<\/strong><\/span> Touchscreen means more room for user input error despite many confirmation screens. Heavy. Air bubbles a frequent issue. First gen product and new company. Site changes take a lot of time.<\/p>\nTakeaway:<\/strong> A slick, beautiful pump with nice accessories. Will appeal to smartphone users.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
\n <\/p>\n
<\/h2>\nAccu-Chek Combo<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n<\/a><\/p>\nFeatures:<\/h2>\n\n- Reservoir size: 315u<\/li>\n
- Same IPX8 rating as Animas and Insulet, but they choose to refer to it as \u201cWatertight\u201d<\/li>\n
- Meter: Bluetooth linked Accu-Chek Aviva Combo meter\/pump remote with full pump programming<\/li>\n
- Bright color meter screen<\/li>\n
- Infusion sets: Accepts any luer lock infusion set<\/li>\n
- Site change reminder<\/li>\n
- Software: Uploads to Diasend<\/li>\n
- Power: 1 AA battery, accepts non-lithium as well as lithium batteries<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Additional Specs:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Extremely lightweight (empty): 2.8oz<\/li>\n
- Basal increments: 0.01u for basal amounts in the range of 0.05 to 1.00u, 0.05u for basal amounts in the range of 1 to 10u, 0.1u for basal amounts in the range of 10.0 to 25.0u<\/li>\n
- Max Basal Limit: 25u<\/li>\n
- Max Bolus: 25u<\/li>\n
- Minimum Bolus Increment: .1u<\/li>\n
- Duration of Insulin Action Increment: 15min<\/li>\n
- Max Number of Basal Profiles\/Segments: 5 Profiles\/24 Segments each<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Changes from Previous Model:<\/strong><\/h2>\nvs Accu-Chek Spirit<\/p>\n
\n- Bluetooth linked meter serves as fully featured pump remote<\/li>\n
- Color now a more discreet black<\/li>\n
- Full color on-screen graphs on meter<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Considerations:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Low-resolution screen<\/li>\n
- Smallest screen on pump market<\/li>\n
- Must use linked meter to program boluses using the bolus calculator algorithm<\/li>\n
- May only link 1 meter per pump<\/li>\n
- Have to program all 24 basal segments<\/li>\n
- Cartridge changes require stopping pump and awkward button press<\/li>\n
- No native clip, must use case<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Pros:<\/strong><\/span> Easy bolusing from meter, Proven company.<\/p>\nCons:<\/strong><\/span> Human factor issues (tiny screen, reliance on meter to use advanced features, difficult cartridge changes).<\/p>\nTakeaway:<\/strong> Solid, reliable pump. Awkward implementation.<\/p>\n
\nAsante MySnap<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n <\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
<\/a><\/p>\nFeatures:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n- Reservoir size: 300u+ pre-filled Humalog cartridges mean 14 fewer steps to set changes and up to a week\u2019s worth of wear<\/li>\n
- IPX5 rating: splashproof, should not be submerged<\/li>\n
- Company philosophy includes 30-day free trial and $99 upgrades<\/li>\n
- Low upfront cost<\/li>\n
- Pump bodies and tubing changed out with each new cartridge for up to 7 days of wear (with cannula changes every 2-3 days)<\/li>\n
- Auto-priming of tubing<\/li>\n
- Super fast set changes with few steps<\/li>\n
- Low incidence of air bubbles due to pre-filled cartridges<\/li>\n
- Fast access to bolus calculator w\/ 1 button press<\/li>\n
- Carb calculator for multiple carb serving input<\/li>\n
- Option to return disposables for recycling<\/li>\n
- Infusion Sets: specially designed cartridge caps include occlusion detection<\/li>\n
- User-defined setting of whether to calculate IOB as correction only vs meal + correction<\/li>\n
- Fast new setup with settings stored in pump bodies (insert old body and all settings applied to new controller)<\/li>\n
- Alerts to disruptions from a dropped or wet pump body or leaking cartridge<\/li>\n
- Temp Basal History<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Additional Specs:<\/h2>\n\n- Extremely lightweight: 2.9oz<\/li>\n
- Basal increments: .05u<\/li>\n
- Max Basal Limit: 4u<\/li>\n
- Minimum bolus increment: .05u<\/li>\n
- Max Bolus: 25u<\/li>\n
- Duration of Insulin Action Increment: 15min<\/li>\n
- Max Number of Basal Profiles\/Segments: 4 Profiles\/10 Segments each<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Changes from Previous Model:<\/strong><\/h2>\nvs original Snap (1.0)<\/p>\n
\n- New high resolution color screen replaces original Snap\u2019s low-res screen<\/li>\n
- Customizable colors and accents for faceplate, frame, and buttons<\/li>\n
- IOB visible on home screen<\/li>\n
- Faster scrolling<\/li>\n
- Longer flashlight timeout<\/li>\n
- On-screen color customization for highlighting menu choices<\/li>\n
- Option for Quick 1-button access to Temp Basal for lefthand button<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Considerations:<\/strong><\/h2>\n <\/p>\n
\n- Humalog only<\/li>\n
- No patient upload software, currently has clinical Diasend support only<\/li>\n
- Righthand 1-button access button can be either bolus calculator or audio bolus, but user must choose which<\/li>\n
- No vibrate-only option for discreet bolus delivery<\/li>\n
- Not waterproof, IPX7 rating for splashproof<\/li>\n
- Meter and CGM agnostic – not integrated or paired<\/li>\n
- Proprietary infusion sets due to specially designed cartridge cap<\/li>\n
- No missed meal bolus alerts or pre-set temp basal rates<\/li>\n
- Longest length pump on market<\/li>\n
- Disposable pumps not available to Medicare\/Medicaid<\/li>\n
- Disposables must be returned to company for recycling for small fee<\/li>\n
- No native clip, accessories lacking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
<\/p>\n
Pros:<\/strong><\/span> Feature rich pump in customizable color. Free 30-day trial and $99 upgrades. Very fast set changes.<\/p>\nCons:<\/strong><\/span> No integration with meter\/CGM. No patient software yet. Not waterproof. New company to market.<\/p>\nTakeaway:<\/strong> Definitely worth saving this new kid a seat at the lunch table. Company is patient-centered and pump is reliable and simple to operate.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n
\n <\/p>\n
Insulet Omnipod (UST400)<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n <\/p>\n
<\/p>\n vs Animas Ping<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Pros:<\/strong><\/span> Integrated Dexcom CGM, Waterproof, Proven company.<\/p>\n Cons:<\/strong> <\/span>Loss of remote from previous model. Incompatibility with latest and future Dexcom updates.<\/p>\n Takeaway:<\/strong> Exciting and long-awaited new offering from reliable pump company. Wish US would have had access in 2011 when the technology was new and more relevant.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n vs Medtronic Revel<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Pros:\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>Integrated Enlite CGM with Low Glucose Suspend puts it on the pathway toward Artificial Pancreas. Proven company. Proven pump.<\/p>\n Cons:<\/strong><\/span> CGM accuracy.<\/p>\n Takeaway:<\/strong> If you have loved the Medtronic pump for the last two decades, you\u2019ll love and recognize this pump. LGS is a great feature when it works and if you trust their CGM.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n N\/A<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Pros:<\/strong><\/span> Modern touchscreen interface. Features easy to view and access.<\/p>\n Cons:<\/strong><\/span> Touchscreen means more room for user input error despite many confirmation screens. Heavy. Air bubbles a frequent issue. First gen product and new company. Site changes take a lot of time.<\/p>\n Takeaway:<\/strong> A slick, beautiful pump with nice accessories. Will appeal to smartphone users.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n vs Accu-Chek Spirit<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Pros:<\/strong><\/span> Easy bolusing from meter, Proven company.<\/p>\n Cons:<\/strong><\/span> Human factor issues (tiny screen, reliance on meter to use advanced features, difficult cartridge changes).<\/p>\n Takeaway:<\/strong> Solid, reliable pump. Awkward implementation.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n vs original Snap (1.0)<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Pros:<\/strong><\/span> Feature rich pump in customizable color. Free 30-day trial and $99 upgrades. Very fast set changes.<\/p>\n Cons:<\/strong><\/span> No integration with meter\/CGM. No patient software yet. Not waterproof. New company to market.<\/p>\n Takeaway:<\/strong> Definitely worth saving this new kid a seat at the lunch table. Company is patient-centered and pump is reliable and simple to operate.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n![\"Animas](\"https:\/\/asweetlife.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/Animas-Vibe.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nFeatures:<\/h2>\n
\n
Additional Specs:<\/h2>\n
\n
<\/h2>\n
Changes from Previous Model:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
Considerations:<\/h2>\n
\n
\nMedtronic 530g w\/ Enlite<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n
![\"Medtronic](\"https:\/\/asweetlife.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/Medtronic-530G-with-Enlite.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n\u00a0Features:<\/h2>\n
\n
\u00a0Additional Specs:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
Changes from Previous Model:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
Considerations:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
\nTandem t:slim<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Tandem](\"https:\/\/asweetlife.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/home_screen.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nFeatures:<\/h2>\n
\n
\u00a0Additional Specs:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
Changes from Previous Model:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Considerations:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
\n<\/h2>\n
Accu-Chek Combo<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Accu-Chek](\"https:\/\/asweetlife.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/Accu-Chek-Combo.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nFeatures:<\/h2>\n
\n
Additional Specs:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
Changes from Previous Model:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
Considerations:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
\nAsante MySnap<\/strong><\/a><\/h2>\n
![\"Asante](\"https:\/\/asweetlife.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/Asante-Snap-4.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\nFeatures:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
Additional Specs:<\/h2>\n
\n
Changes from Previous Model:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
Considerations:<\/strong><\/h2>\n
\n
\nInsulet Omnipod (UST400)<\/a><\/strong><\/h2>\n
![\"Insulet](\"https:\/\/asweetlife.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/12\/Insulet-Omnipod-UST4001.jpg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n