Before you finalize your next designer frame to complement your workplace attire, it’s important to follow some essential guidelines when buying eyeglasses online. Whether you’re purchasing a new pair for style, vision correction, or replacing an old one, you want to avoid post-purchase regrets from a disappointing choice. Although it may seem straightforward, buying glasses online can be confusing at every step. Don’t worry—we’re here to simplify your online shopping experience and help you make the right decision.
Here are some vital steps to keep in mind when buying eyeglasses online:
1. Get an Eye Test Before Purchasing Eyeglasses
Nothing is more crucial than having your eyes examined before buying prescription glasses online. Vision can change subtly over time, and a comprehensive eye exam will not only provide you with an accurate and up-to-date prescription but also identify any early signs of eye health issues. A typical eye test takes about 20-30 minutes and can save you from years of discomfort and vision problems.
Even if you don’t need new glasses right now, regular eye examinations—especially if you are over 40—are key to maintaining your eye health and overall quality of life. For convenience, you can get a free eye test at Specscart by visiting their Bury or Walden stores in Manchester. Their qualified optometrists will promptly assess your eyes and alert you to any changes or concerns.
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2. Focus Primarily on the Frame Size of Eyeglasses
When shopping for glasses online, you don’t have the opportunity to physically try each frame. Therefore, choosing the correct frame size is essential to ensure your glasses are neither too tight nor too loose, resulting in a comfortable fit throughout the day.
Pay attention to these three key measurements for the perfect frame size:
- Lens Width
- Bridge Width
- Temple Arm Length
These dimensions help guarantee that your glasses will fit comfortably and securely. Usually, these measurements are printed inside one of the temple arms of the frame or clearly displayed on the product page while shopping online.
3. Calculate Your Pupillary Distance (PD)
Pupillary Distance (PD) is the distance between the centers of your pupils, measured in millimeters. This measurement is crucial for aligning the lenses correctly in your frames, ensuring optimal vision and comfort. Incorrect PD placement in your prescription glasses can cause eyestrain, headaches, and difficulty focusing.
Your PD is often included on your eyeglass prescription. If it’s missing, request it from your optometrist or use reliable online tutorials to measure it yourself at home.
4. Choose the Right Lens and Coatings
Determine whether you need prescription or non-prescription lenses. For prescription glasses, identify if you require single vision, bifocal, or varifocal lenses. Understanding the specific lens type is essential since different lenses cater to diverse vision needs and offer varied benefits.
Once you have selected the lens type, consider adding protective coatings to enhance your glasses’ durability and performance. Popular coatings include:
- Anti-glare
- Anti-scratch
- Blue light blocking
- UV protection
Although coatings typically add to the cost, some retailers like Specscart provide these valuable coatings free of charge with their affordable glasses, offering impact-resistant lenses equipped with anti-glare, anti-UV, and anti-scratch coatings at no extra cost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How often should I get an eye test?
It’s recommended to have an eye test at least once every two years, or annually if you wear glasses or contacts, have pre-existing eye conditions, or are over 40 years old.
What if my PD is not on my prescription?
If your pupillary distance (PD) is missing from your prescription, you can request it from your optometrist or measure it yourself using online guides and tools.
Can I buy prescription glasses online without trying them on?
Yes, but it’s important to know your accurate measurements—such as frame size and PD—to ensure a proper fit. Many online retailers provide virtual try-on tools or detailed size charts to help.
Are anti-reflective coatings worth the extra cost?
Yes, anti-reflective coatings reduce glare from screens and outdoor light, improving comfort and clarity, especially for those who spend long hours on digital devices.
What types of lenses are available for prescription glasses?
Common lens types include single vision (for one field of vision), bifocal, trifocal, and varifocal/progressive lenses that correct for multiple distances.
