Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Ray-Ban Carlos 0947S sunglasses prescription-ready?
What is the frame material and is it durable?
What size are the Ray-Ban Carlos sunglasses?
Which Ray-Ban Carlos variants have polarized lenses?
Do the Ray-Ban Carlos sunglasses provide UV protection?
How does the Ray-Ban Carlos compare to the Wayfarer or Justin?
Compare With Similar Frames
How the Ray-Ban Carlos 0947S Sunglasses stacks up against the closest alternatives we carry.
- Similar rectangular shape and modern styling
- Prescription-ready propionate construction
- Comparable price range ($125.68–$244.0)
- More rounded, softer rectangular shape for a versatile look
- Lower starting price ($98.0–$197.0)
- Extremely popular and proven design
- Iconic, proven design with decades of heritage
- Slightly lower starting price ($117.56–$231.0)
- Square shape is universally flattering
Read the full comparison
Ray-Ban Carlos 0947S vs. Bill 2198 vs. Justin 4165
If you're drawn to the Ray-Ban Carlos RB0947S, you're likely considering other modern Ray-Ban rectangular frames. Here's how the Carlos stacks up against two popular alternatives in our collection.
Carlos 0947S vs. Bill 2198
Both the Carlos and the Bill 2198 are contemporary rectangular frames made from propionate, and they share a similar price range ($140–$244 for Carlos, $125–$244 for Bill). The key difference is in the temple design. The Carlos features ultra-wide, chunky temples that create a bold, '70s-inspired statement, while the Bill has more traditional temple proportions. If you want maximum visual impact and a frame that stands out, the Carlos is the stronger choice. If you prefer a modern rectangular shape without the chunky temple aesthetic, the Bill offers a more understated option.
Carlos 0947S vs. Justin 4165
The Justin 4165 is one of Ray-Ban's best-selling modern frames, and it's easy to see why—it's versatile, comfortable, and starts at a lower price ($98–$197). The Justin has a softer, more rounded rectangular shape compared to the Carlos's sharper angles, and its rubber temples provide excellent grip. However, the Justin is extremely common, and its design is more conservative. The Carlos offers a more distinctive look with its architectural temples and stronger rectangular lines. Choose the Justin if you want a proven everyday frame that blends in; choose the Carlos if you want to make a statement.
Carlos 0947S vs. New Wayfarer 2132
The New Wayfarer 2132 is a Ray-Ban icon with a square shape and classic styling. It's been a bestseller for decades and offers a timeless look that never goes out of style. The Carlos, by contrast, is a contemporary design with a rectangular shape and bold temples that reference '70s aesthetics. If you value heritage and want a frame that's universally recognized and flattering, the New Wayfarer is hard to beat. But if you're looking for something more fashion-forward and less ubiquitous, the Carlos brings a fresh perspective to the Ray-Ban lineup. Both are prescription-ready and offer excellent UV protection.
Our take: The Carlos RB0947S is the right choice if you want a modern rectangular frame with distinctive, chunky temples that set you apart. It's more fashion-forward than the Justin or New Wayfarer, and bolder than the Bill. If you're drawn to '70s-inspired design and want a Ray-Ban that feels fresh and contemporary, the Carlos delivers.
At a Glance
Ray-Ban Bill 2198 Sunglasses
Pros:
- Similar rectangular shape and modern styling
- Prescription-ready propionate construction
- Comparable price range ($125.68–$244.0)
- Multiple colorway options
Cons:
- Less distinctive temple design—doesn't have the Carlos's signature chunky arms
- May not make as bold a fashion statement
- Slightly different proportions may fit differently
Ray-Ban Justin 4165 Sunglasses
Pros:
- More rounded, softer rectangular shape for a versatile look
- Lower starting price ($98.0–$197.0)
- Extremely popular and proven design
- Prescription-ready with rubber temples for grip
Cons:
- Less bold and distinctive than the Carlos's chunky temple design
- More common—you'll see more people wearing Justins
- Doesn't have the same '70s retro aesthetic
Ray-Ban New Wayfarer 2132 Sunglasses
Pros:
- Iconic, proven design with decades of heritage
- Slightly lower starting price ($117.56–$231.0)
- Square shape is universally flattering
- Prescription-ready with huge range of lens options
Cons:
- More traditional styling—less fashion-forward than the Carlos
- Thinner temples don't make the same bold statement
- Square shape vs. rectangular may not suit all face shapes as well



