If you have vision-related issues, reading glasses can do you a world of good – helping you navigate your world. But, the numerous or endless choices available can create a frustrating experience as you try to pick the perfect pair. As you explore your options, you can click here for best reading glasses.
Still, how can you be certain to choose a pair of reading glasses that can offer the best possible quality? This guide can help you understand the differences in quality, including the various factors to consider when browsing the available selection at your local store.
1. Magnification
Your reading needs usually boil down to one critical variable: magnification. The point of reading glasses is to make things appear larger so you can see them more clearly. The amount by which reading glasses magnify is referred to as diopters.
A plus sign (+) in front of the number indicates the lenses are convex or curve outward. Conversely, a minus sign (-) implies the lenses are concave or curve inward. A higher number means your condition is more severe. Hence, you’ll likely need a stronger prescription. For example, +2.50 diopter reading glasses magnify objects 2.5 times their actual size.
So, how does magnification impact the quality of your reading glasses? Would you rather have a pair of reading glasses that makes things appear 20% larger or 100% larger? The answer is obvious. Higher-quality reading glasses will offer greater or better magnification, allowing you to see things more clearly.
2. Lens
When researching your options, ensure to ask about the lens material. Reading lenses are usually crafted from different materials. These may include CR-39, polycarbonate, and high-index plastic. Here’s a rundown of what each material offers:
- CR-39 is the most common type of material used in reading glasses. It is durable, scratch resistant, and provides good protection from UV rays. However, CR-39 lenses are thicker than polycarbonate or high-index plastic lenses.
- Polycarbonate is a lightweight material that stands up to the rigors of daily use. Besides, it’s shatter resistant. Lenses fashioned from polycarbonate also provide good protection from UV rays. That said, they are not as optically clear as CR-39 or high-index plastic lenses.
- High-index plastic is the thinnest type of lens material, and it’s recommended for people with stronger prescriptions. If your reading glasses have plastic lenses, check to see if they’re high-index. If not, they may be thicker and heavier than necessary. The lens material makes a difference in the quality of your readers.
Generally, lightweight plastic glasses tend to have a short lifespan. That implies you would have to settle for more robust and break-resistant lenses if you don’t want to keep replacing your lenses time and again. In this case, polycarbonate glasses would suffice.
Lenses are not created equal. When considering reading lenses, you can choose from various types, including:
- Bifocals – are ideal for long-distance viewing and close-up reading, making them a fix-all option.
- Progressive lenses – offer a smooth transition between distance and reading vision.
- Trifocals – they add an intermediate vision zone and can be helpful if you need to do a lot of reading and be able to see things at a distance.
So, opt for lenses that meet your needs. In so doing, you can be certain you’re paying for quality glasses that will serve you well. Also, ask about the type of coating on the lenses. Anti-reflective coatings (AR) reduce eye fatigue and allow more light to reach the eye. On the other hand, polarized lenses block glare, which can be a major issue if you wear glasses outdoors. Meanwhile, photochromic lenses change from clear to tinted in sunlight. Generally, clear lenses tend to be cheaper than coated varieties.
In a nutshell, consider the lens material, coating, and lens type when evaluating the quality of lenses. That way, you can improve the quality of your vision.
3. Frame Construction
The frame also plays a role in quality. A well-constructed frame consists of high-quality materials that can withstand regular use. If you opt for a plastic frame, you’ll be spoilt for choice – in terms of styles and colors.
And while many people prefer plastic, it’s generally less durable than other options. Titanium, for instance, is flexible and light. Plus, it holds up well over time. That said, if you’re allergic to metals like nickel, ensure the frame doesn’t contain them.
Furthermore, frame fit also impacts quality. Even the best reading glasses won’t do you good if they don’t fit properly. The frames should sit evenly on your nose, with the lenses in line with your pupils. The glasses’ arms (or temples) should be long enough to wrap around your ears without causing discomfort.
Thus, ensure the frame is the right size for your face. Otherwise, you may end up with uncomfortable glasses that do not provide the level of protection you desire.
4. Hinges
Go for readers with spring hinges, as they’re more likely to hold up over time. As such, hinges are a good indicator of quality. Spring hinges ensure a secure fit and allow the arms to stretch beyond the conventional 90-degree angle. By being flexible, such hinges prevent breakage or bending of the frame.
5. Brand
You’ll come across numerous brands when shopping for reading glasses. Mostly, more reputable brands have a good track record of creating quality products. When browsing or searching for reading glasses, look for aspects like:
- A warranty
- Good customer reviews
- A money-back guarantee.
These all indicate a company stands behind its products and is confident in their quality. In turn, you can purchase quality readers from such brands with confidence.
6. Price
In an ideal setup, we wouldn’t mind paying for high-quality readers. That said, would you feel comfortable paying a premium or exorbitant prices for brand name or designer eyewear? I doubt.
Still, the most expensive option is not necessarily the best option. In fact, based on scientific research, designer reading glasses don’t fare any better (qualitywise) than generic brands. This means off-brand readers could have a longer lifespan than purported name-brand options.
Plainly put, while you mostly get what you pay for, price isn’t always a determinant of quality. In short, endeavor to find a balance between quality and price.
When attempting to determine the quality of reading glasses, you have a lot of variables to weigh. All the same, what counts most is whether the eyewear you choose solves your problem. Once you resolve your issue, then everything else comes second. However, don’t overlook quality, as it usually determines how long your readers can last. Instead, adopt a holistic approach to evaluating your options by considering all the variables outlined.