MGMini and MGMini Lite Review
Medical Guardian’s MGMini and MGMini Lite systems offer discrete and lightweight on-the-go protection.
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855-919-4522
SeniorLiving.org is supported by commissions from providers listed on our site. Read our Editorial Guidelines
855-919-4522
Medical Guardian is a leader in the medical alert sector, with medical alert devices that can be used at home and on the go. In fact, the company is one of our top picks for the best medical alert systems. Two of my favorite Medical Guardian systems for on-the-go use are the MGMini and MGMini Lite.
If you’re looking for a lightweight medical alert system you can wear as a belt clip or pendant and that will stay charged for days, the MGMini is a great choice. Or if you want a simple system with discrete protection that can be worn on the wrist, the MGMini Lite is my pick.
My father had never used a medical alert system before, and since he has always been a wristwatch kind of guy, he was curious to see how a wrist-worn emergency system might work. In this review, I’ll walk you through my father’s and my own experience with the MGMini Lite and the MGMini. I’ll cover everything you need to know about their features, prices, pros, and cons — and which system may be best for you.
My dad wearing the MGMini Lite
Pros
- Small and lightweight
- Sensitive fall detection
- Good GPS tracking
- Free MyGuardian mobile app
- Friendly 24/7 response team
- Easy setup
- Step tracking
- Four color options for the MGMini
- Five-day battery life for the MGMini
- Water-resistant
- Two-way communication
Cons
- Equipment fees
- No free trial or money-back guarantee
- Only a flashing light for MGMini Lite’s battery-level status
- High monthly monitoring rates compared to competition
- Strong AT&T or Verizon coverage required
The Buying Process
Buying the MGMini and MGMini Lite is a very simple process. You can purchase either online or by phone with the help of a friendly consultant. Since my father was most interested in the wrist-worn system, we went with the MGMini Lite.
Once you place the MGMini Lite in your cart to check out, you can also buy the monitoring and subscription plan and pay monthly, quarterly, or annually. I recommend the annual plan, which offers a discounted rate. There’s also the option for add-ons such as fall detection ($10 per month) and OnGuard Alerts ($2.99 per month), which allow you and the caregivers in your Care Circle to get real-time text and email notifications during an emergency. Plus, you can add an XL wristband at no extra cost. Lastly, you’ll pay a $12.50 shipping fee.
Buying the MGMini is a similar process. Along with the add-ons you get with the MGMini Lite, you can add Elite 911 ($9.99 per month), a one-button speaker box that lets you speak to a 911 operator. A white combo kit or black pendant ($2.99 per month), a wireless wall button ($2.99 per month), and a voice-activated wall button ($4.99 per month) are also available. If you like a little color in your medical alert system, the MGMini comes in four: black, pearl, rose gold, or silver.
From the Pros:Medical alert systems aren’t covered by most insurance plans, but you can apply to your local area agencies on aging for potential discounts or coverage. You can use your flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA) to pay for a medical alert system, too. Medicare Advantage may also help cover costs.
MGMini and MGMini Lite Cost
MGMini costs $39.95 a month with an equipment fee of $149.95. Mobile systems from competitors range in price from $35 to $40 per month, so the MGMini costs a bit more than the industry average, especially since it has an equipment fee. You can bring your costs down, however, by paying annually.
The MGMini Lite costs $44.95 per month. I recommend the annual payment plan, because it will save you $45 per year compared to paying monthly. Like the MGMini, the equipment fee is $149.95. Note that some companies we’ve reviewed, such as MobileHelp and LifeFone, don’t charge equipment fees, so that’s something to keep in mind when evaluating total costs.
Wondering how these systems stack up to other popular brands? For comparison, Life Alert’s mobile system costs $69.95 a month, so both Mini systems offer better value at $25 to $30 less per month. Medical Guardian’s customers don’t have to commit to a long-term contract, while Life Alert requires a three-year contract.
Lifeline, another popular brand, offers its On the Go system for $44.95 per month, which is the same price as the MGMini Lite. The MGMini and its companion mobile app, however, are a bit more modern and sleeker than Lifeline’s On the Go mobile unit. Plus, Lifeline charges a $99.95 setup fee, while Medical Guardian doesn’t charge any setup fees.
Setting Up My System
My MGMini Lite system came in a simple white box containing the device, as well as a wristband, a charging cradle, a charging cable, and a concise instruction manual. The directions were easy to follow, so I got my system up and ready to use in no time!
Unboxing the MGMini Lite
The MGMini Lite runs on the 4G LTE network and uses Wi-Fi, cellular, and GPS to get you connected to the monitoring center. Once I slipped the device into the charging cradle, I just plugged it into the wall outlet to charge.
Pro Tip: Make sure to line up the gold charging pins on the back of your device with either side of the gold pins on the cradle.
I found that charging the device was an easy process. After it was fully charged, I downloaded the MyGuardian app to activate my account. You can activate your device online or via phone.
MGMini and MGMini Lite at a Glance
| Feature | MGMini | MGMini Lite |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $39.95 a month | $44.95 a month |
| Equipment fee | $149.95 | $149.95 |
| Battery life | Up to 5 days | Up to 36 hours |
| Cellular network | AT&T | Verizon |
| Key features |
|
|
| Best for | Minimalists who want a simple design and discreet wearable necklace with a long-lasting battery | Active, on-the-go seniors who prefer a device that can be worn on the wrist |
Testing My Systems
My dad testing out the MGMini in his garden
Features
My dad thought the MGMini Lite looked like an Apple Watch, but he noticed the MGMini Lite was a lot lighter. It’s easy to wear and is more discreet for those with an active lifestyle. It’s small at 1.5 inches in length and weighs 0.7 ounces.
Trying out Medical Guardian's MGMini Lite
The watch just has one large help button so it’s very simple to use. You just push the button at any time when you need assistance. There is a two-way speaker on the watch, too. My dad thought a watch was preferable to a lanyard, and it’s a lot less noticeable than wearing the device like a necklace.
My dad really liked the design, fit, and functionality of the MGMini Lite. We liked how the excess buckle can be concealed underneath the wristband, which he noted is just like the Apple Watch. While it doesn’t have the touch-screen or smartwatch features, it does a fine job as a medical alert device.
Medical Guardian's MGMini LIte has a unique band design
The MGMini has very similar features, but it is worn as a pendant instead of on the wrist. It’s also slightly bigger and weighs about half an ounce more, but it can still be easily tucked under a shirt.
Charging and Battery Life
Medical Guardian says the MGMini’s battery lasts for five days and charges in three hours. The MGMini Lite lasts 36 hours and takes two to three hours to charge. My dad and I found that to be pretty accurate from our testing experience.
Once I started charging my MGMini Lite, I heard a voice say “charging.” When it was charging, the red battery light flashed every five seconds. A blue light also flashed every five seconds, and when it was fully charged it became solid red.
Charging the MGMini Lite
When the battery is low, the red battery light will flash slowly when it’s not in the cradle. I appreciate this indicator, as I always knew when my device needed a charge. The light around the help button turns solid blue when you press it for an emergency call.
Making a Test Call
While my dad was wearing the MGMini Lite, we made a test call by pushing the large button and holding it down until the blue call light appeared. It beeped a few times, and then after about 15 seconds, a friendly operator got on to assist us. The speakers were very clear and set at a good volume, so we could easily communicate with the representative. I appreciate how simple it is to call for help in an emergency.
Making a test call on the MGMini is just as easy. Simply press the pendant’s help button, and you’ll be connected to an operator in under a minute.
Service and Monitoring
The MGMini Lite comes with 4G LTE that connects you directly to emergency operators with the press of a button. Nationwide AT&T or Verizon cellular service is included, so you’re covered pretty much all over the map. You can request help from EMT assistance, police or fire departments, and family members through that call button.
MGMini has advanced location monitoring via GPS, Wi-Fi, and LTE. It also comes with step tracking, along with activity and inactivity updates through the MyGuardian mobile app. If you’re looking for a system to help you stay active and on top of your daily step goals, the MGMini is a great choice.
MGMini
Did You Know? 69 percent of medical alert users say they received help in an emergency thanks to their device.
Fall Detection
You can also add fall detection to either Mini system for $10 per month. This feature automatically detects the motion of a fall and calls for help, even when you can’t press your help button. My dad and I tested out the fall detection on the MGMini Lite by dropping the watch on the floor and found it was pretty accurate. It automatically called the monitoring center two out of the three times we tested it.
Occasionally, false alarms happen when the pendant thinks a fall occurs, but it hasn’t. If a false alarm happens, it’s easy to cancel the call. You just press and hold the help button until you hear “fall detection canceled.”
Water-resistance
Both MGMini and MGMini Lite are water-resistant, meaning you can wear them in the shower. This is an essential feature, as many falls happen in the bathroom. It is important to know that water-resistant is not the same as waterproof. You can get the devices wet, just make sure you don’t submerge either system in water. The manual notes that those who wear pacemakers should let their doctors know they are using this device, regarding any interactions with cell phones.
Did You Know? If you notify Medical Guardian’s customer care team that you speak a different language, their highly trained operators will use a third-party translation service to communicate with you.
Using the MyGuardian Mobile App
MyGuardian is one of our favorite medical alert apps. All Medical Guardian customers have access to the app, and it’s available on both smartphones and computers. In the app you can update billing information, add emergency contacts, set activity reminders, create an emergency plan, enter important health information, and chat with other caregivers and family members. You can also track the device, see its battery life, view an emergency call history, and track daily steps.
Using Medical Guardian s MyGuardian mobile app
I found that the app was easy to use and updated in real time. I could see exactly where the device was on a map and check on the system’s status with the tap of a button. It’s similar to other medical alert apps we’ve tested, such as Bay Alarm Medical’s app, and includes all the essential features. Note, however, that some online reviewers have complained that the app’s location tracker is inaccurate and does not update quickly enough.
Did You Know? Medical Guardian has a Refer-a-Friend program, and customers who refer someone to MG can earn up to $25.
Add-on Features and Accessories
Both the MGMini and MGMini Lite have optional add-ons and accessories that can be purchased at checkout.
| Add-ons | MGMini | MGMini Lite |
|---|---|---|
| Fall detection | $10 | $10 |
| Lockbox | $2.99 | $2.99 |
| OnGuard Alerts | $2.99 | $2.99 |
| MG Protection Plan | $6.99 | $6.99 |
| Elite 911 | $9.99 | N/A |
| White combo kit or black pendant | $2.99 | N/A |
| Wireless wall button | $2.99 | N/A |
| Voice-activated wall button | $4.99 | N/A |
Contracts and Warranty
Contracts
Medical Guardian does not have long-term contracts and customers can cancel their subscription at any time. I appreciate that, because some brands, such as Life Alert, have three-year contracts. Customers who paid ahead of time but decided to cancel before the service time frame ends will receive a prorated refund.
If you are on a monthly billing plan and cancel service within 90 days of beginning your service, you will not get a refund. You must call customer service to cancel, and customers who return equipment may be charged up to a $50 restocking fee.
Medical Guardian does not offer a free trial period. That was a bit disappointing, because other providers we’ve reviewed, such as Bay Alarm Medical and LifeFone, offer a 30-day free trial.
Warranty
Medical Guardian equipment comes with a limited one-year warranty, including the replacement of products as a result of defects in workmanship or materials.
You can purchase a protection plan for $6.99 per month to protect your device when it comes to normal wear and tear, accidental damage, and lost or stolen devices. The company also provides unlimited battery replacements.
Comparing the MGMini and MGMini Lite to the Competition
We’ll compare Medical Guardian’s Mini systems to other popular medical alert providers below.
Medical Guardian vs. Lively
While Medical Guardian’s rates are a bit higher than Lively’s costs, the company has a larger variety of devices and add-ons. Whether you are looking for on-the-go or in-home devices, Medical Guardian has five systems to choose from. Plus, Lively doesn’t offer any wrist-worn systems like the MGMini Lite. However, Lively has a wider variety of health and safety features, including on-call nurses and care advocates who can help you build a plan to meet your wellness goals. Head to our Lively review to learn more.
Medical Guardian vs. Bay Alarm Medical
Bay Alarm Medical offers a 30-day trial period, unlike Medical Guardian. Bay Alarm Medical also has affordable prices and bundle discounts for those on a fixed income. But Bay Alarm Medical doesn’t offer a wrist-worn system, and their equipment isn't quite as sleek. For those who like high-tech features, Medical Guardian may be more up your alley. You can read our Bay Alarm Medical vs. Medical Guardian comparison guide to help determine the best fit for you.
Medical Guardian vs. LifeFone
The MGMini and MGMini Lite both offer automatic fall detection for $10 per month. LifeFone provides fall detection for $5 per month — half of Medical Guardian’s cost. LifeFone also offers two systems that are nearly identical to the MGMini and MGMini Lite, but they have higher monthly rates. Read our LifeFone review for all the details.
Our Methodology: How We Tested the MGMini and MGMini Lite
Testing out Medical Guardian's MGMini system
Our tech team spent 100 hours researching and testing the MGMini and MGMini Lite. In our evaluation of the systems, we considered our research, our personal experience testing the MGMini and MGMini Lite, and previous testing data from similar products we’ve reviewed in the past to give you the clearest picture possible of how Medical Guardian’s offerings measure up. Our evaluation was based on the following criteria:
- Pricing and value: We do a careful cost-benefit analysis to help seniors in all income brackets decide whether the MGMini and MGMini Lite might offer excellent value. To provide an accurate understanding of how much each system costs, we took note of equipment fees, ongoing monitoring costs, and shipping and activation fees. We also investigated company discounts, seasonal promotions, whether there’s a free trial to try the product, and other ways to save.
- Buying process: To evaluate how clear and intuitive Medical Guardian’s purchasing process is, we noted the number of steps, how long it took to complete our purchase, and how clearly explained extra costs and fees were.
- Setup: We carefully considered all aspects of product setup, including whether instructions were clear and product equipment and accessories were well-packaged and labeled. We noted how simply and quickly our testers were able to get each system up and running.
- Testing: Our team tested each system for a week to get a feel for how they worked at home and on the go. We tested them indoors and outdoors, on walks, and while at the store. If a system was waterproof, we wore the pendant in the shower or ran it under the tap, and then made a test call afterward to ensure everything still worked properly.
- Usability: An important part of our evaluation process was including hands-on testing by seniors who may not be tech-savvy. That allowed us to gauge how user-friendly each system is even for people with different comfort levels with technology.
- Response times: We tested each system 10 times to determine the average response time of Medical Guardian’s emergency call agents. To test fall-detection accuracy and response times, we mimicked falling onto couch cushions and dropped the pendant from chest height 10 times.
- Features for caregivers: During our testing, we considered the interfaces, features, and reliability of Medical Guardian’s mobile app for ease of use and usefulness. We were impressed by how much you can do via the app, including adding emergency contacts, creating an emergency plan, updating billing information, and setting reminders.
- Customer service: With medical alert systems, it’s crucial that response agents provide competent and efficient help to seniors in an emergency. We spoke with Medical Guardian’s customer-service team multiple times to assess the quality of care.
The Bottom Line on MGMini and MGMini Lite
When considering the best medical alert system for yourself or loved ones, it’s important to choose a system that’s a good fit for your lifestyle and needs. MGMini stands out for its five-day battery life, two-way talk, water-resistant design, and advanced location tracking. The MGMini Lite offers similar features but in an even more lightweight wristwatch form. Both devices are perfect for those who want high-tech features that are simple to use and fit their active lifestyle.
Medical Guardian’s equipment fees are on the expensive side. Also, the company doesn’t offer a free trial period, which is something to keep in mind as you shop. But Medical Guardian’s devices are top notch, response times are fast, and can give you or your loved one peace of mind knowing that the device keeps its owner protected 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions About MGMini and MGMini Lite
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Can I wear the MGMini or the MGMini Lite in the shower?
Yes, you can wear either in the shower. The devices can get wet, though the company recommends towel-drying them afterward. Be careful not to submerge the devices, because they are not waterproof.
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Do you need a smartphone with the MGMini Lite?
No, you do not need a smartphone. The device has 4G LTE so it puts you in touch with emergency operators when you push the button. Then you can use the speakerphone on the device to speak to them.
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Can the MGMini protect users anywhere they go?
Yes, you will be protected since the MGMini comes with AT&T connectivity and Wi-Fi location signal backup. The device has the widest GPS coverage compared to other medical alerts.
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What can I do to stay protected when my MGMini device is charging?
Your pendant can still connect to the MGMini even if it’s still charging and you will be able to still get emergency help at the push of the button.