In-Depth MiaoMiao Review + $10 MiaoMiao Discount Code!

Cazzy Magennis
Written By:
Cazzy Magennis
Last Updated:
June 17, 2020
The MiaoMiao is the exciting new device that can transform your FreeStyle Libre into a CGM. Check out my MiaoMiao review post to find out everything...
MiaoMiao with Freestyle Libre

Already on the MiaoMiao checkout page? Then just enter this MiaoMiao Discount Code: FRIEND-MFRR9VD

Purchasing your MiaoMiao or MiaoMiao 2 today? Then get your MiaoMiao discount by clicking here. This MiaoMiao coupon code entitles you to an awesome $10 off! 

Full disclosure, the amazing guys at MiaoMiao contacted me and asked me if I’d like to test the MiaoMiao whilst traveling.

They actually sent it a couple of months ago, but it didn’t turn up in time for my most recent trip, so I’ve been using it for the last couple of weeks, and will continue to use it on my next adventures abroad.

So, without further hesitation, this is my MiaoMiao review with everything you need to know.

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What is the Miao Miao?

If you haven’t heard of the Miao Miao yet, then don’t worry. It’s relatively new, but it’s surging in popularity.

In its most basic form, the Miao Miao is a device that allows you to transform your Freestyle Libre into a CGM.

A CGM is a continuous glucose monitor which allows you to constantly see your blood sugar without scanning and can give indications of rising and falling whilst also alarming you of those highs and lows.

This gives you the chance to “catch” them before they happen, thus leading to better control.

Now, I’ve spoken extensively about the FreeStyle Libre, and the MiaoMiao only works with that device.

You don’t need a Miao Miao for a Dexcom or Medtronic sensors because they are already CGMs.

Its size is almost identical to the size of your libre sensor, coming in at 38mm x 30mm x 7.5mm and weighing in at just 8g, it is light, concealable and convenient to wear.

Looking to buy the MiaoMiao? Well, you can buy through this link and get $10 off!

miaomiao sensor

How does the Miao Miao work?

It’s very very simple. When you order your MiaoMiao, it will arrive in a small box with 1 MiaoMiao device, a basic instruction sheet, a charger, and some stickers. As seen below.

To activate your MiaoMiao, you need to push the small circle at the back with a very thin pin. You’ll feel it push something and if it’s successful, the MiaoMiao will flash red meaning it’s ready for use.

Then you stick it on top of your FreeStyle Libre using the double-sided sticky tape that’s given with your Miao Miao device. These are safe for your skin.

I will say that then isn’t overly sticky if you’re constantly exercising or in water, so I would buy some alternative sticky tape to try and keep it in place.

The MiaoMiao libre transmitter will trigger alarms  at the slightest sign of glucose irregularity caught by your libre. This means, if you’re going high, it will let you know before you go high, and it can give you a predicted low time on the vice versa case.

Read Also: What Is The Best Insulin Travel Case?

miaomiao

What is the Freestyle Libre?

If you don’t know what the FreeStyle Libre is, then I suggest you check out my post before you consider purchasing a Miao Miao.

How much is the MiaoMiao?

The Miao Miao is $199.

This may seem pricey, but what you have to remember is that it’s reusable, so you don’t have to buy another one.

Unlike the Dexcom where you have to replace your transmitter every few months etc. It’s only one Miao Miao you need.

You will need to perhaps buy more sticky items from time to time, but they give you 60 when you purchase which will keep you going for a while unless you lose them.

Otherwise, I think the MiaoMiao is excellent value, and if you get your FreeStyle Libres on the NHS or through your insurance, then the Miao Miao is a worthwhile investment.

Don’t worry, you can get an awesome $10 discount which I talk about below.

Read Also: How To Keep Your Insulin Cold When Travelling

freestyle libre miao miao

How often does the MiaoMiao need to be recharged?

Now that you know it’s a rechargeable device, you’re probably wondering just how often it needs charging.

The good news is, not very!

MiaoMiao features a powerful internal battery that lasts for 2 weeks with regular usage. More so, MiaoMiao is completely re-chargeable for your convenience. Once every 2 weeks, place the device in charge using our provided charger.

Where can I buy the Miao Miao?

You can buy the MiaoMiao direct from the website.

On the website you can purchase the MiaoMiao itself, Miao Miao holders, the stickers, chargers, funky covers, etc all in one place.

Where is the Miao Miao available?

I’ve gotten this information direct off the website, so if anyone has any other experiences over availability then please do comment below so I can add in up-to-date information.

For DHL, because of battery safety issues, they can’t ship to the countries below:

  • Armenia
  • Azerbaijan
  • Brunei
  • Cambodia
  • Comoros
  • Democratic Republic of the Congo
  • Cuba
  • Cyprus
  • Ecuador
  • Egypt
  • Georgia
  • Ghana
  • Gibraltar
  • Guernsey
  • Jersey
  • Qatar
  • Kosovo
  • Kyrgyzstan
  • Libya
  • Marshall Islands
  • Mayotte
  • Moldova
  • Republic of Montenegro
  • Niger
  • Palau
  • France
  • South Africa
  • Tajikistan
  • Tunisia
  • Uganda
  • Uzbekistan

In Croatia, only these cities are reachable because of battery, Zagreb, Split, Rijeka, Pula, Zadar, Osijek, Slavonski Brod.

Read Also: My Epic Review Of The Freestyle Libre Sensor

What apps work with the Miao Miao?

MiaoMiao is compatible with all major reporting applications (xDrip, Spike, and Glimp) as well as major operating systems iOS and Android. It’s supposed to have a 99.99% automatic accurate reporting.

I’d personally say it’s around 80% which is good enough for me.

xDrip and Glimp are Android and Spike is Apple. I actually could not get my glimp app to work with the Miao Miao, I followed all the instructions but it just wasn’t happening.

Then I couldn’t find the xDrip on my app store. Turns out, it’s not there, you download it off the internet and it will work.

I use xDrip and it works perfectly. I low the feature that predicts when you will go low if it sees that trend such as “33 minutes until predicted low”. It’s actually thanks to these predictions that I’ve been able to avoid some hypos. Of course, it’s not 100% accurate.

When you set up the xDrip it should automatically connect to your Miao Miao once you connect via Bluetooth, then you add in two fingerprick tests to help it calibrate and you’re on your way!

Don't forget to claim your exclusive $10 MiaoMiao discount here ...

xdrip app

What are the benefits of the MiaoMiao?

1. The ability to catch highs and lows

The alarms of the MiaoMiao are excellent. I can set my alarms to tell me when I’m going high, rather than going high, and vice versa with lows.

This has allowed me to actually catch highs and lows before they ever occur giving me far better control of my diabetes.

This doesn’t mean it’s always 100% correct, but I’ve found that around 85% of the time it is and that’s good enough for me!

Remember you should still be preforming finger pricks.

2. It’s small

When I first thought about wearing the FreeStyle Libre I was hesitant due to it being visible to people, but I soon got over that and I don’t mind that people think it’s a nicotine patch.

The same goes for the MiaoMiao. It’s basically the same size as the FreeStyle Libre and it doesn’t cause too much fuss. You can actually jazz it up with matching libre and Miao Miao stickers which is always fun!

3. It’s accurate

As I’ve said before, I’ve actually found the MiaoMiao to be super accurate. I was naturally hesitant, to begin with, but this little device has proved me wrong!

Calibrate often and you’ll have accurate blood sugars (always do finger prick tests if you ever feel unsure).

4. Family and friend monitoring is possible

The AAP integrations allow your family or friends to monitor your blood sugars alongside you. This is excellent for if your blood sugar was running low and you didn’t get woken up with an alarm, your family or friends could contact you to make sure you're okay.

This is also excellent if you’re traveling with a companion so you have an extra set of eyes to check up on you whilst your dealing with all the elements of traveling to a new destination.

Read Also: The Types Of Insulin Pumps Available

miao miao on arm

What are the drawbacks of the MiaoMiao?

As part of my MiaoMiao review it’s important I am completely transparent and honest and provide you with the drawbacks of the device too.

1. It can get knocked off

It’s the same issue with the FreeStyle Libre. Get it caught on a door and it can easily rip off. This bothers me sometimes, but the only good thing about that is with the Miao Miao you can just restick it back on, whereas a Dexcom would be wasted.

Sometimes I’ve ripped the Miao Miao off and the Freestyle Libre has stayed in place, and sometimes I’ve ripped both off (which is super annoying of course).

2. Bad reaction to the skin

I haven’t experienced this, but I know quite a few people whose skin has reacted to the sticky tape on the Miao Miao.

This can obviously be quite frustrating with anyone who has sensitive skin (which is me too, but I’ve been okay!).

3. It takes a while to arrive

My Miao Miao took weeks to get here, and I know some people who have ordered and waited for ages for their device.

I think maybe because it comes from China might be an issue. All I can say is that if you know you want to take it away with you on a holiday, then order a month in advance to ensure it arrives on time.

It says on their website shipping takes around 10-45 days depending on the country and if you haven’t received your package in a month, then you could contact them.

Miao Miao discount

If you do want to purchase the Miao Miao you can get $10 off by buying through this link. Yes, I can 10% off the sale too, but it doesn’t cost you anything extra and you get a discount!

I’ve looked around for other discount codes, but this seems to be the best one. BTW, the final price they advertise includes your shipping and any import/export fees too which is nice.

Remember you can get that discount here.

miao miao selfie

How long does the Miao Miao last?

Forever…

Well, probably not. But, it will last 2 weeks then it will require a charge. So basically it lasts the same length of time as your Freestyle Libre, then you can recharge it and pop it back on a new FreeStyle Libre!

Pretty convenient if you ask me.

Is the Miao Miao good for traveling?

Yes!

The FreeStyle Libre has been amazing for traveling, so you can imagine that the Miao Miao takes it up a notch.

It will allow you far better control in new situations such as new climates, new time zones, trying new foods, all of that exciting stuff you get to do when you’re traveling or simply heading on holiday!

I like that it’s just one small device so it doesn’t add any extra weight for traveling with diabetes.

I’ll be taking it with me to Lithuania, the Philippines, Taiwan, Hong Kong and many more places this year. I believe it will give me even more freedom with managing my diabetes and I am excited to see how it helps me in the heat when those dreaded rows start lingering.

wearing miao miao sensor

Is the MiaoMiao a CGM?

Technically yes, it transforms your FreeStyle Libre into a CGM which allows you to see your blood sugars every 5 minutes on either a phone or on a smartwatch.

Excellent for those with an active lifestyle, or travelers like me.

Is MiaoMiao waterproof?

The MiaoMiao libre transmitter is fully waterproof and can be used while showering and getting caught in the rain.

It will simultaneously continue to provide glucose readers every 5 minutes as it features a revolutionary airtight sealing technology to protect the device from water.

This is perfect if you love the sea water like me when traveling!

Does the Miao Miao work with the FreeStyle Libre 2?

The Miao Miao does not currently work with the FreeStyle Libre 2. Although these haven’t been rolled out extensively yet.

Does the Miao Miao work with US Freestyle Libre Sensors?

The Miao Miao device will not work with US-14 days sensors by the FreeStyle Libre. There is no reason for this issue given on their website, so I am unsure why.

The 14-day sensors in the USA are a newer addition to the original 10 days. The Miao Miao will work with others, but no 14 days sensor.

Is MiaoMiao safe?

Yes, the MiaoMiao is certified by the EU commission of Radio Equipment Direct (RED). It’s verified as being 100% safe in terms of safety, health, and privacy in the international realm. It won’t share any of your information with 3rd parties.

I don’t believe it’s been approved in the USA yet, but do correct me if I am wrong. However, I do think you can order to the US off their website if you wish to try it.

MIAOMIAO 2

I received the MiaoMiao two a couple of weeks ago and thought l would update you on it.

The Miaomiao 2 is the latest product from Miao Miao and I’ve been using it for a couple of weeks now.

The actual sensor that attaches onto the Freestyle Libre is a lot slimmer which is perfect as it feels more secure when attached. The setup is the same, you just charge you’re Miaomiao 2 or reset it with a pin and attach to your libre. 

During the instruction set up it says to use it with the Tomato App. This isn’t something I was using before, so I downloaded it and set it up with that app. Set up via the app was simple and took less than 1 minute.

You set up your alarms, blood sugar goals etc and it sends noises or vibrates when you are out of range, heading high, heading low, or low. 

I don’t like this app very much, but it might be because I’m not used to it. I’ll have to see if it works with the xDrip which I was using before! But I’ll try that on my next sensor. 

The MiaoMiao 2 is waterproof, it’s got a long battery life and claims 2 weeks on one full charge. But I really do like that the MiaoMiao 2 is smaller and more discrete. I’m not a big fan of everyone asking what it is on my arm, so this makes it a little easier.

You can try the MiaoMiao 2 with $10 with my discount code, just purcahse via this link.

My Opinion on the Miao Miao

So far I LOVE it. After the annoyance of trying to get an app to work with it (Glimp not working and xDrip not on the app store but just on the web), I loved the MiaoMiao as soon as I had it on.

I literally started seeing the benefit of it within an hour as I was able to prevent my first low blood sugar which felt AWESOME!

I’ll admit that recently my control has been off and I’ve truly been struggling. It feels like everything I’ve ever learned suddenly stopped working and my insulin has turned to water, but the MiaoMiao has allowed me to scratch back and start again and I’ve truly seen the benefits of it.

The only issue I am having with the device is “losing signal”. Obviously the Miao Miao and my phone need to be close to each other in order for my blood sugars to appear there. But sometimes it loses signal even if I am not away from my phone.

Actually it lost signal for a full day and I tried everything to get it back working, in the end I had to re download the app and “start again”.

I’m not sure if that’s just an issue with me or just signal loss in general so let me know.

Overall I think it’s a worthwhile investment. If you’re on the Dexcom is costs around £160 a month in the UK. (The USA works on insurance and I don’t know how that works specifically for the Dexcom).

But in the UK it’s currently only available via self funding (in the majority of cases- exception for children are possible).

So the Dexcom costs £160 x 12= £1920 a year, approximately, which of course is a lot of money.

Whereas the MiaoMiao costs $199 dollars and the device is reusable plus the cost of a Freestyle Libre Sensor (which are now available on the NHS).

So technically yes the MiaoMiao works out better value than the Dexcom, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s better.

Dexcom is renowned for its accuracy and I’ve heard nothing but great things, which is why I’ve purchased a one month trial of the Dexcom. I intend on using it whilst in the Philippines and review it against the MiaoMiao.

I think if you can’t afford the long-term use of a Dexcom, but still want the benefits of a CGM style device, then the MiaoMiao is a worthwhile investment. The alarms work well and you will see the benefits of the device!

I hope you’ve found this MiaoMiao review useful and I will continue to update it as I move forward with my MiaoMiao and tell you about the Dexcom once I’ve tried it!

Please comment below with any questions or queries and I will do my best to answer you :)

And don’t forget if you want $10 off your purchase, buy via this link!

If you find the MiaoMiao isn't for you, then you can check out the Blucon sensor instead.

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