At Designer Optics, we offer a wide range of different lens materials, to ensure that you have the most choices when it’s time to manufacture your prescription lenses. But if you’ve been browsing our products, and you’re not sure what the difference is between the prescription lens materials, and what is the best lenses to choose, you’re in the right place.
Let’s discuss the basics about each type of Eyeglass Lens material – and who it may be right for, so that you can make the right decision.
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Plastic Lenses
Plastic lenses are the preferred lenses used in most prescription glasses nowadays. While glass can still be used, plastic tends to be much lighter and more durable. It’s also safer than glass, because it will not crack into small, sharp, and dangerous shards if it’s crushed or damaged.
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Polycarbonate Lenses
Are made of a tougher, specialized polycarbonate material that’s 30% thinner than traditional plastic lenses. This makes it a better choice for you if you have a higher prescription and need lenses that are thin and durable.
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Trivex Lenses
Trivex lenses are the strongest type of lens that we offer. These lenses were developed by PPG Industries in 2001, and are composed of a urethane-based monomer, using a cast molding process.
In plain English, this means that Trivex lenses provide fantastic optical clarity, compared to injection-molded poly-carbonate lenses. It also means that they are incredibly safe and impact-resistant, and thinner and more lightweight compared to regular plastic or glass lenses.
Trivex lenses are usually what we recommend for rimless frame designs, as the increased strength makes your glasses much more durable and provides enhanced clarity
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High Index Lenses
We offer two different high index lenses – 1.67 and 1.74. Let’s quickly explain what “index” means.
The term “index” in optics simply refers to the ability of a certain type of material to bend and refract light. Your glasses correct (refract) light that enters your pupil to provide you with clear vision.
Simply put, the higher the index of the material used for glasses, the thinner and lighter they can be. If you have a powerful prescription, your glasses may be incredibly heavy and thick if you use a low-index glass or plastic lens.
But with a high index lens, you can correct your vision, and your glasses can remain lightweight and attractive. -
Choose The Lens Material That’s Right For You!
Hopefully, this guide has helped explain the difference between some of our most popular lens materials. If you consult with your eye doctor and consider your own personal preferences, and you’re sure to choose the material that’s right for you!
Comments (29)
Designer Optics
791 Kent Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11205
Juliette Akopian
How can I choose the right size?
David
Is it possible to order new lens without purchasing new frames?
Lorraine Williams
I purchased Versace 2214 and I need to replace nuts and bolts. Do you have those so that I repair my glasses.
barbara silverman scott
do u offer photogrey multifocal lens?
if yes please quote me onGG00380 red/red 54 or56 multifocal – pals antiglare coat – blue light (?) photogrey – anti scratch –
did i leave anything out?
Joe
Can progressive lenses be made to be transition lenses also? Thanks.
Eric Wiltrout
Why can I not add lenses? Website does not seem to be working?
Dave
Wiley x active klein sunglasses have polycarbonate lenses, but are they also Trivex lenses ?
Emmy
If I buy glasses with guess written on right bottom if I add my prescription to the glasses will the logo be lost or transferred
Jermaine
Do you have an option for Plano lenses?
Milla
Is it possible to order transition lenses ?
Iwanda Williams
I’m thinking about ordering eyeglasses from your company . I wish ya’ll had a try on app, that helps alot, also do you have a chat line to assist when ordering?
Donaha
How long do it normally takes for the glasses With Prescription to be shipped
Russell Strempler
Can you give a better comparison of pros and cons on each lens mrmsaterial with ideal or most detrimental environments. I couldn’t even ascertain which of these lenses are most scratch resistant.
Joyce
What’s 58 and 53 is that the size of the frame
Arden Murillo
I need progressive lenses in 1.74 high index lenses in Transition Signature 8 Gray lenses. Can you fill these specifications?
LaToya Morrison
I see all the questions about contacts frames and lenses Im concerned about receiving my merchandise any one have iany reviews or concerns related to service.
Craig Kantner
I’m looking for polarized sunglasses to use for fishing, hopefully to see into the water, what do you recommend?
Thanks
Steven Yee
If I choose high index 1.74 lenses, does it come with anti-glare coating?
Haley
I just bought a pair of frames. I don’t have a prescription. Will the frames come with lenses?
pasti
Hi, I’d like to know which Transitions lenses you use. Would it be VII, gen 8 or XTRActive?
Erin
Can you please help me understand which lenses offer blue light protection?
Jennifer
Thanks so much but I would like to leave this for next time for a gift
Designer Optics
Dear James, Hi- Index lenses are always made of plastic.
Designer Optics
Hi Jon,
Progressive Lenses can be made in verilux but they are plastic not glass.
Designer Optics
Hi Maria, that is a great question and we are currently working on a new prescription app that will do just that, it will display the colors as close as possible to what you will get,
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