This study collected data regarding the accuracy of five currently marketed meters for home use of self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). Data regarding ease of operation of each glucose meter as well as cost and availability of meters and necessary materials were compiled. Fasting blood glucose (BG) samples were drawn from patients in the adult and pediatric diabetes clinics at the University of Kansas College of Health Sciences and Hospital. Specimens were tested by a clinical laboratory as well as by each meter. Unadjusted meter readings of whole BG were plotted against laboratory readings of serum glucose and displayed in scattergrams. Scattergrams showed decreased machine accuracy in upper and lower BG ranges. Whole BG values (meter readings) were adjusted to serum glucose levels by multiplication by 1.12. Adjusted values were compared with laboratory serum values using ANOVA for repeated measures and Dunnett's Multiple Comparisons Test: ANOVA and Dunnett's Multiple Comparisons Test showed only Glucochek II (Medistron, Ltd., West Sussex, England; distributed in U.S. by Larken Industries, Lenexa, Indiana) using Dextrostix reagent strips (Ames Division, Miles Laboratories, Elkhart, Indiana) having a statistically significant difference from laboratory values (P less than 0.01). This meter was recently revised and may show changed accuracy readings. Each meter exhibited inherent advantages and disadvantages regarding price, calibration, strip utilization, and ease of operation, which must be considered before recommendation by the health care provider.