Choosing the Right Lenses: A Comprehensive Guide
Explore different lens types, materials, and coatings to find the perfect lens solution for your vision needs.
Types of Prescription Lenses
Single Vision
Corrects for one field of vision (distance, intermediate, or near).
Best for: People who need correction for only one visual distance.
Bifocal
Contains two prescriptions, typically with a visible line dividing distance vision (top) and reading vision (bottom).
Best for: People who need help with both distance and reading vision and don't mind the visible line.
Progressive
Gradually changes from distance prescription at the top to near vision at the bottom, without visible lines.
Best for: People who need multifocal correction with a seamless, natural appearance.
Lens Materials
Standard Plastic (CR-39)
The original plastic lens material.
- Good optical quality
- Affordable
- Suitable for light prescriptions
Consider when:
- You have a mild prescription (±2.00 or less)
- You're on a budget
- You don't need impact resistance
Polycarbonate
Impact-resistant material often used for sports and children's eyewear.
- Highly impact-resistant
- Lightweight
- Built-in UV protection
Consider when:
- You need durable, break-resistant eyewear
- You're shopping for children's glasses
- You have an active lifestyle
High-Index (1.67, 1.74)
Thinner, lighter lenses for stronger prescriptions.
- Thinner than standard lenses
- Lighter weight
- Better aesthetics for high prescriptions
Consider when:
- You have a stronger prescription (±4.00 or higher)
- You want thinner, more attractive lenses
- You prefer lightweight comfort
Trivex
Lightweight, impact-resistant material with excellent optical quality.
- Similar impact resistance to polycarbonate
- Superior optical clarity
- Very lightweight
Consider when:
- You need drill-mounted or rimless frames
- You want both impact resistance and optical clarity
- You have a moderate prescription
Lens Coatings & Treatments
Anti-Reflective (AR) Coating
Reduces glare and reflections, improving both vision and appearance.
Recommended for: Everyone, but especially those who work with computers, drive at night, or are photographed often.
Blue Light Filtering
Reduces exposure to blue light emitted by digital screens.
Recommended for: Heavy computer/device users, especially those who use screens before bedtime.
Photochromic (Transitions®)
Lenses that darken automatically when exposed to UV light.
Recommended for: Those who frequently move between indoor and outdoor environments.
UV Protection
Blocks harmful ultraviolet rays from reaching your eyes.
Recommended for: Everyone, as UV protection is essential for long-term eye health.
Scratch-Resistant Coating
Adds a hard surface layer to protect lenses from scratches.
Recommended for: Everyone, especially active individuals and children.
Polarized Lenses
Reduces glare from reflective surfaces like water, snow, and glass.
Recommended for: Sunglasses, especially for driving, fishing, and water sports.
Special Purpose Lenses
Computer/Office Lenses
Designed specifically for intermediate distances typical in office environments.
Optimized for: Computer use, desk work, and reducing digital eye strain.
Sports Lenses
Impact-resistant lenses often with speciality tints to enhance contrast for specific activities.
Optimized for: Athletic activities, improving visual performance in specific environments.
At Affordables, we offer a wide range of lens options to suit your specific vision needs, lifestyle, and budget. Our optical specialists can help you navigate these choices to find the perfect combination for your unique requirements.
Related FAQs
What are the different types of prescription lenses available?
We offer several types of prescription lenses to suit different vision needs: single vision lenses (for one visual distance), bifocal lenses (with two distinct viewing areas for near and far vision), and progressive lenses (multifocal lenses without visible lines, providing smooth transition between different visual distances). The right type depends on your specific prescription and lifestyle needs.
Do I need blue light filtering lenses?
Blue light filtering lenses may be beneficial if you spend significant time looking at digital screens. They filter a portion of the blue light emitted by screens, which may help reduce digital eye strain and potentially improve sleep patterns. Consider blue light filtering if you experience eye fatigue, have trouble sleeping after screen use, or spend more than 4 hours daily with digital devices. We offer this as an optional coating on all lens types.
Related Resources
Understanding Different Lens Types: Single Vision, Bifocal, and Progressive
Learn about the different lens types available and which one might be right for your vision needs.
Read ArticleUnderstanding Lens Index: Choosing the Right Thickness for Your Prescription
Learn about different lens indexes and how to choose the right one based on your prescription strength.
Read Article