Diabetes mellitus is defined as a group of metabolic disorders characterized by hyperglycemia, which is one of the most serious health problems of the 21st century. Tight glycemic control is crucial for preventing diabetic complications. For more than 50 years of research, a considerable amount of glucose sensors is successively developed, and different innovative detection strategies are constantly developed. For blood glucose monitoring system, we review the history, expound the principles and advantages, discuss the recent developments and current status, and outline key challenges and opportunities in the future.