Buy Eyeglasses Like a Pro: Tips and Advice

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Shopping Skills

Eyeglass shopping can feel overwhelming, but these expert tips will help you find the perfect pair while saving money.

Where to Buy Eyeglasses

In-Person Options

Private Doctors’ Offices
- Pros: High-quality glasses, personalized fitting, excellent customer service.
- Cons: High prices.
- Median price after insurance: $262.

Independent Glasses Stores
- Pros: Good quality and service.
- Cons: Costly compared to other options.
- Median price after insurance: $346.

Warehouse Clubs (e.g., Costco, Sam’s Club)
- Pros: Affordable prices, reliable service.
- Cons: Limited frame selection.
- Median price after insurance: $160–$203.

Superstores (e.g., Target, Walmart)
- Pros: Affordable, decent quality and service.
- Cons: Few standout features.
- Median price after insurance: $169–$195.

Chain Glasses Stores (e.g., LensCrafters, Warby Parker)
- Pros: Many locations, reliable customer service.
- Cons: Higher costs at some chains (e.g., LensCrafters).
- Median price after insurance: $190–$326.

Online Retailers

Pros: Convenience and lower prices.
Example: Zenni Optical median cost = $87 after insurance.
Cons: No in-person fitting, challenging for complex prescriptions (e.g., strong, progressive, or multifocal lenses).
Best for: Simple prescriptions or single-vision lenses.

Frame and Lens Selection

Lens Materials

CR-39 (Standard Plastic):
- Pros: Inexpensive.
- Cons: Heavy and less durable for strong prescriptions.

Polycarbonate:
- Pros: Lightweight, impact-resistant.
- Cons: Prone to scratches (needs coating).

Trivex:
- Pros: Better clarity and scratch resistance than polycarbonate.
- Cons: More expensive.

High-Index:
- Pros: Thinner, lighter; great for strong prescriptions.
- Cons: Higher cost.

Lens Coatings

Scratch-Resistant:
- Standard on most lenses.
- Cost: $16–$40.

Anti-Reflective (AR):
- Reduces glare and improves clarity.
- Essential for strong prescriptions or night driving.
- Cost: $75–$150.

UV Protection:
- Shields eyes from harmful UV rays.
- Cost: $10–$25.

Photochromic (Transitions):
- Darkens in sunlight; acts as sunglasses.
- Cost: $50–$150.

Blue-Light Blocking:
- May help with screen use and sleep but lacks strong evidence for eye health benefits.
- Alternatives: Use "night mode" on devices.

Expert Shopping Tips

Get a Copy of Your Prescription:
- Legally, your doctor must provide this upon request.

Know Your Pupillary Distance (PD):
- Ensures proper lens alignment.
- Have it measured by an optician or request it from your eye doctor.

Test Frames in Person:
- Opticians can advise on size, style, and prescription compatibility.

Check Return Policies:
- Ensure online retailers offer hassle-free returns.

Compare Prices:
- Online retailers (e.g., Zenni Optical, Warby Parker) often offer better deals than independent shops.

When to Choose In-Person Over Online

Strong/Complex Prescriptions:
e.g., Progressive lenses, astigmatism correction, severe nearsightedness (-6 or worse).
Custom Fit Needs:
Precise alignment is critical for comfort and clarity.

Summing it up

In-Person Advantage: Best for complex prescriptions and personalized fitting.
Online Savings: Ideal for single-vision lenses or simple needs.
Prioritize Coatings: Anti-reflective and UV protection are worth the cost.

Pro Tip: Schedule regular in-person eye exams every 1–2 years to maintain eye health and update prescriptions.