Choosing the right type of lenses is a crucial step when shopping for glasses. To find the best match, it’s important to start with a proper prescription from your optometrist. During an eye exam, your eye care provider will evaluate your vision and issue a prescription based on your individual vision correction needs. This prescription guides you to the appropriate lens type.
1. What Are Single Vision Lenses?
Single vision lenses—also known as monofocal lenses—are designed with a uniform optical power across the entire lens. They’re used to correct a single vision issue, whether it's nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.
These lenses are ideal for people who only need vision correction at one distance. Depending on your needs, single vision lenses can be optimized for:Distance vision – Perfect for everyday wear when you need to clearly see faraway objects.Intermediate vision – Suitable for tasks like working at a computer or playing an instrument.Near vision – Best for reading or other close-up tasks.
2. What Are Progressive Lenses?
Progressive lenses are a modern, all-in-one solution that allows you to see clearly at multiple distances without switching glasses. These lenses gradually transition from distance correction at the top, to intermediate in the middle, and reading correction at the bottom—mimicking the way your eyes naturally shift focus.
There are no visible lines like in bifocals, and you’ll experience a seamless shift as you move your gaze up or down. With progressives, you can drive, work on a computer, and read a book—all with the same pair of glasses.
3. What Are Bifocal Lenses?
Bifocal lenses are divided into two distinct optical zones: the upper portion for distance vision and the lower segment for near vision, typically for reading. These lenses are often prescribed for people with presbyopia—a condition that comes with age and affects near focusing ability.
Unlike progressive lenses, bifocals have a visible line separating the two viewing zones. While they don’t support intermediate vision like progressives do, bifocals provide a straightforward, affordable solution for those who only need correction for near and far vision.
4. What Are Non-Prescription Lenses?
Non-prescription lenses (also called plano lenses) are either completely clear or come with a standard magnification level. They’re not made to correct vision but are often worn for style, screen protection, or UV blocking.
These lenses may offer some enhancement—like mild magnification for reading or blue light filtering for screens—but don’t require a customized prescription.
Summary:
Which Lens Type Is Right for You?
Single Vision Lenses: Best for those who only need correction at one distance—whether it’s for reading, driving, or screen use.
Progressive Lenses: Ideal if your prescription includes an “ADD” value, indicating a need for multi-distance correction. These lenses allow smooth transitions for near, intermediate, and distance vision.
Bifocal Lenses: A good choice for people with presbyopia who primarily need help seeing both up close and at a distance, but not necessarily in between.
If you’re switching to progressives, be aware that they may take some time to get used to due to the gradual power changes in the lens. Single vision lenses, by contrast, are often easier to adapt to—and generally more budget-friendly.
How to Decide?
1. Review your prescription carefully.
Your optometrist will assess your visual needs and recommend the right lens type accordingly.
2. No “ADD” in your prescription?
If your prescription doesn’t include an “ADD” value, single vision lenses are likely all you need.
3. “ADD” present in your prescription?
If your prescription includes an “ADD” for reading or intermediate correction, you’ll benefit most from progressive lenses that can handle multiple distances in one pair.
