Insulin Pump Buying Guide 2025

An insulin pump is a device for people living with diabetes that eliminates the need to inject insulin by hand using a needle.

Insulin pumps are about the size of a deck of cards, attach to your body via tube or pod, and deliver insulin under the surface of the skin (subcutaneously). Insulin pumps help to relieve the burden of diabetes management by replacing the need to give many injections throughout the day.

Insulin pumps have been available for over 30 years, but have become more valuable and popular in recent years because the technology has continued to advance.

There are five commercially-available insulin pumps available on the market in Canada:

• Medtronic 780G
• Omnipod DASH
• Omnipod 5
• Tandem t:slim X2 with Control IQ
• Ypsomed mylife Loop with CamAPS FX

All insulin pumps listed above, with the exception of the Omnipod Dash, are Automated Insulin Delivery Systems. In Canada, automated insulin delivery (AID) refers to a system that uses a combination of devices and algorithms to automatically adjust insulin delivery based on real-time glucose readings. These systems are sometimes called “closed-loop” or “hybrid closed-loop” systems.

AID Systems Typically Include:

• Insulin pump – delivers rapid-acting insulin continuously (basal) and on-demand (bolus).
• Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) – measures glucose levels every few minutes.
• Algorithm – software (usually in the pump or a separate controller/app) that calculates and adjusts insulin delivery automatically based on CGM dat

CGMs are an important tool that work alongside insulin pumps to help inform the pump – either automatically or through your own calculations – what actions to take.

Continuous glucose monitors like Dexcom’s G6 and G7, Freestyle’s Libre 2 and Medtronic’s Guardian sensors help to reduce the burden of diabetes management by providing ‘real-time’ information about how things like foods, exercise and stress affect blood sugars without having to poke your fingers all day to get a reading.

The sensors have a flexible filament that sits just below the surface of the skin and measures blood sugars every 1 to 5 minutes. CGMs use a transmitter that sends blood sugar readings to a smartphone or insulin pump using Bluetooth transmission that does not require internet (or wi-fi).

Insulin pumps work by delivering insulin to the body on frequent basis through an infusion set attached to the skin, usually on the belly, lower back, thigh or back of arm.

With an insulin pump, long-acting insulin is no longer needed; instead the pump delivers frequent, small doses of fast-acting insulin in response to the individuals needs and activities.

When eating meals or snacks, the pump user enters in a current blood sugar reading (not required with pumps that integrate with a CGM) and the amount of carbs being eaten. The pump then calculates the amount of insulin required based on settings programmed into the pump (e.g., basal rates, carb ratios, correction factor), and administers it automatically.

Insulin pumps have a changeable reservoir, cartridge or pod that contains enough insulin for a few days use. These need to be filled and maintained by the user who purchases and stores the insulin at home in vials.

Infusion sets come in a variety of sizes and configurations that suit different body types, skin types and preferences. Like CGM sensors, infusion sets are stickers that have a flexible cannula or tube that is inserted just under the surface of the skin. Insulin from the reservoirs or cartridges in the pump flows through the cannula of the infusion site into the body. Depending which pump you use and what kind of infusion set you choose, the infusion sets and reservoirs/cartridges need to be changed every 2-3 days with the exception of extended wear sites from certain brands that last 7 days.

Continuous glucose monitors like Dexcom’s G6 and G7, Freestyle’s Libre 2 and Medtronic’s Guardian sensors help to reduce the burden of diabetes management by providing ‘real-time’ information about how things like foods, exercise and stress affect blood sugars without having to poke your fingers all day to get a reading.

The sensors have a flexible filament that sits just below the surface of the skin and measures blood sugars every 1 to 5 minutes. CGMs use a transmitter that sends blood sugar readings to a smartphone or insulin pump using Bluetooth transmission that does not require internet (or wi-fi).

DIY Automated Insulin Delivery (AID), commonly known as “looping,” refers to open-source, user-built systems that automate insulin delivery by integrating insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), and custom algorithms. Unlike commercial AID systems, DIY AID solutions are not officially approved by regulatory bodies but are developed and maintained by communities of people with diabetes and their supporters. Popular platforms include Loop (iOS), AndroidAPS, and OpenAPS.

In 2023, Diabetes Canada released a position statement and a healthcare provider guide acknowledging the growing use of DIY AID systems among Canadians with type 1 diabetes. The organization emphasizes that healthcare providers should support individuals in their choice of insulin delivery methods, including DIY AID systems, and provide guidance to optimize glycemic control and quality of life.

Observational studies have shown that DIY AID systems can lead to improved glycemic outcomes, reduced mental workload, and enhanced quality of life for users.

Additional Resources: For individuals interested in exploring DIY AID systems, several community-driven resources are available:

• Looped Facebook Group: A moderated community offering support and information on DIY AID systems.
• LoopDocs: Comprehensive documentation for setting up and using the Loop system.
• OpenAPS and AndroidAPS: Platforms providing guidance on building and operating open-source AID systems.

Insulin pumps can make life with diabetes easier, but they’re not for everyone. Insulin pump therapy is available for children, adults and older adults on insulin with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Talking to your healthcare team (e.g., endocrinologist, nurse, diabetes educator) may help you determine whether a pump is right for you. Doing your own research is also important to make sure you are making a choice that will support your lifestyle.

You may want to consider using an insulin pump if you:

• experience high variability in blood sugar readings
• are unable to meet targets with multiple daily injections (MDI)
• experience delays in food absorption (gastroparesis)
• want to adjust/pause insulin doses when exercising
• have or have had severe reactions to low blood sugar
• have diabetes and are planning a pregnancy
• want to reduce number of daily injections
• want to enjoy an increase in quality of life

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Managing diabetes with an insulin pump requires the person living with diabetes to:

• be comfortable with technology
• change infusion sites and refill cartridges or reservoirs that hold the insulin every 2-3 days
• to monitor blood sugars frequently throughout the day; either by finger poke or continuous glucose monitor (CGM)
• enter carbohydrate counts for all meals and snacks
• commit to attending follow-up appointments with an endocrinologist or diabetes educator 3-4 times per year

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Some of the benefits of using an insulin pump include:

• only using fast-acting insulin (long-acting insulin is no longer necessary when using an insulin pump)
• lower total daily dose of insulin and help with preventing insulin stacking (when you give frequent bolus corrections in a short amount of time)
• a lot less poking; using infusion sites cuts down on up to 17 extra injections over a three-day period
• more precise insulin doses and delivery based on personalized basal rates, carb ratios, and correction factors
• bolus calculator to help with calculations (you must enter carbs for meals/snacks)
• more flexibility for food choices, portion sizes and timing of meals
• easier to manage planned and unexpected events and/or physical activity
• automation between meal boluses to prevent lows, reduce highs and increase time-in-range
• convenient – integrates well with lifestyle and improved quality of life and sense of wellbeing
• reduced burden of diabetes management

Most endocrinologists (doctors who specialize in diabetes) in Canada are supported by a Diabetes Education Program (DEP). Diabetes educators working with the DEPs can help people with diabetes to determine eligibility for insulin pumps. Criteria for eligibility includes:

• being enrolled or eligible for provincial healthcare coverage (e.g., OHIP)
• being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes
• being under the care of a physician or nurse practitioner for diabetes management
• completing a pre-insulin pump information session / insulin pump therapy education modules
• Standard of care: attending at least one assessment every three months with their diabetes educator

Coverage for an insulin pump varies depending on the province you reside in. Most provinces have a financial assistance program that covers some – but not all – of the cost of using an insulin pump. Each program has different eligibility rules and requirements, but if you have type 1 diabetes there’s a good chance you will qualify.

Coverage requirements and amounts can change from time-to-time, so we encourage you to review the coverage and eligibility details directly on the official website. You’ll find the links here:

British Columbia (BC)

Alberta

Saskatchewan

Manitoba

Ontario

Quebec

New Brunswick

Nova Scotia

Prince Edward Island (PEI)

Newfoundland and Labrador

Northwest Territories

Yukon

Nunavut

The Medtronic MiniMed™ 780G is an advanced hybrid closed-loop insulin pump available in Canada that automatically adjusts basal insulin and delivers correction boluses every five minutes, even for missed or underestimated meals. When paired with the Guardian™ 4 sensor, it operates without fingerstick calibrations and supports glucose targets as low as 5.5 mmol/L. It also features an extended infusion set option that lasts up to seven days. Compared to other pumps, like the Tandem t:slim X2 or Omnipod 5, the 780G offers more frequent auto-corrections and built-in meal detection.

Disclaimer: pricing is indicative and is subject to change. Below are prices through Endor Health with direct billing to insurance available.

Control Unit: $2,994

Monthly Supplies: $212 -$360 through Endor Health

Paired CGM: $385 to $400 per month

The Omnipod DASH® is a tubeless, waterproof insulin pump system available in Canada, offering up to 72 hours of continuous insulin delivery through a discreet, wearable Pod. Controlled wirelessly via a touchscreen Personal Diabetes Manager (PDM), it simplifies diabetes management with customizable basal and bolus settings, eliminating the need for daily injections and tubing.

The Pod is small, wireless, and worn directly on the body—no tubing, nothing clipped to your belt. It’s easy to hide under clothing and feels less “medical,” which many users love.

The Omnipod DASH features a built-in, automated insertion mechanism—just press a button and the cannula inserts in seconds. No needles in sight, no manual steps, and much less anxiety for many users.

However, it’s important to note that the Omnipod DASH does not feature automated insulin delivery; it requires users to manually adjust insulin doses based on their glucose readings. For those seeking automated insulin delivery, the Omnipod 5 system offers this functionality and has been approved by Health Canada.

Disclaimer: pricing is subject to change

Monthly Supplies: $290 – $300 per month

The Tandem t:slim X2™ is a sleek, touchscreen insulin pump available in Canada that combines advanced technology with a user-friendly design.

Powered by Control-IQ™ technology, it integrates with continuous glucose monitors like the Dexcom G6 and G7 to predict glucose levels 30 minutes ahead and automatically adjust insulin delivery, including administering correction boluses when necessary. It helps smooth out highs and avoid lows, especially overnight and after meals. Users can personalize their therapy with customizable profiles and activity settings for sleep or exercise, and conveniently bolus from their smartphone using the t:connect mobile app .

Additionally, the pump supports remote software updates, ensuring access to the latest features without the need for a new device.​ It’s one of the slimmest pumps on the market, with a full-color touchscreen and a look that feels more like a modern device than a medical tool. Plus, no battery changes—just plug in to recharge.

Disclaimer: pricing is subject to change. Below are prices available through Endor Health with direct billing to insurance available:

Monthly Supplies: $220 -$250 per month

Paired CGM: $261 – $299 per month for the Dexcom G6 through Endor Health, direct billed to insurance

The mylife Loop system, combining the Ypsomed YpsoPump with the CamAPS FX app, offers an advanced automated insulin delivery (AID) solution for Canadians with type 1 diabetes. This hybrid closed-loop system integrates with Dexcom G6, adjusting insulin delivery every 8–12 minutes based on real-time glucose readings.

Users appreciate its adaptive algorithm that learns individual insulin needs, the convenience of managing therapy via smartphone, and the “Companion remote monitoring” feature, which allows caregivers to monitor glucose and insulin data remotely, providing peace of mind. Many report improved glycemic control, reduced daily management burden, and enhanced quality of life, especially for families with young children.

Disclaimer: pricing is indicative and is subject to change. Below are the prices through Endor Health with direct billing available:

Monthly Supplies: $235 – $290 per month

Paired CGM: $299 plus transmitter for Dexcom G6

The choice of insulin pump depends on individual preferences, lifestyle, and medical needs. Factors such as tubing, reservoir size, automation features, CGM compatibility, and mobile app control should be considered when selecting a pump. For more detailed information please reach out to a Diabetes Educator/Certified Pump Trainer in the care section of the Endor health app.