Are you wondering about the differences in buying your glasses online vs in store?
Have you ever tried buying prescription glasses online?
Are you considering it now?
I’ve been working in eye clinics for the last 10 years. And instead of making assumptions about online glasses, I’ve been ordering them and testing them out to get first-hand experience. If you’re not sure where to buy them, here’s what I’ve found:
Pricing Online vs In Store
Usually you can find more affordable glasses online, but they can range from $10-700! This will depend on the type of lenses and frames you want: do you want the bottom of the barrel or better quality? Expect to spend about $150 for a decent pair of glasses online.
The takeaway: Usually you’ll find cheaper glasses online.
Accuracy Online vs In Store
In all honesty, I’ve had patients come in with inaccuracies in their glasses ordered online. I’ve personally had a great experience except for one company that sent the completely wrong pair of glasses.
The takeaway: You can almost guarantee that your lenses from in store will be accurate.
Progressives Online vs In Store
All of my purchases were single vision lenses. If you need bifocals or progressive lenses, there are so many extra measurements that go into making those lenses, so I always recommend purchasing in store.
The takeaway: If you’re looking for progressive lenses, definitely buy in store.
Frame Quality Online vs In Store
Overall, I’ve noticed a bit better quality in store than online. Online, quality will really run all over the place. Some brands send temple arms longer than the other, I’ve had creaky glasses (what!?), but I have encountered some great online brands with quality nearly matching what you can get in store.
The takeaway: In store is overall better for quality, but there are companies online that do have good frames. Just make sure you do a bit of research first 🙂
Lenses Online vs In Store
The glasses I received from online purchases never had bad lenses. However, you’ll be able to get lenses that are a cut above the rest from in store. You’ll also have access to more options, some of which you can’t find with any brands online.
The takeaway: You have better lens options in-store if you’re looking for the best quality.
Services Online vs In Store
The greatest difference I see in shopping online vs in store, is the services and customer experience. In a store, you have access to trained opticians to help you find the correct glasses, and great access to frames and options to make your glasses perfect for you.
Online, you lose out on that personable experience. And while you might have access to hundreds or thousands of different frames, it might be overwhelming for many.
Finally, adjustments! Most glasses fresh out of the box don’t fit perfectly. And this is where purchasing glasses from your local clinic can be more beneficial.
In the end, I don’t care if you choose to shop online. But I want you to see your best. So if you need to save some money and choose to shop online, be sure to do some research before buying your glasses. Otherwise, enjoy the in-person experience at your local clinic. And be sure to listen to the video above for my full review.
IMPORTANT: No matter where you buy your glasses it is always best to have them professionally adjusted to improve their fit and comfort. It will help you see better too.
If you are looking to purchase online glasses, it is IMPORTANT to continue seeing your eye doctor yearly for eye health evaluations. Although you may be seeing well, many eye diseases may creep up without affecting your eyesight until it’s too late.
Want to learn more about buying new glasses?
Learn how to find the best glasses for you with our easy guide 👉 http://bit.ly/BestEyeGlassesGuide
Disclaimer: This information is not meant for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should follow up with your local healthcare provider regarding all matters related to your health.