Varifocals or two pairs of glasses?

One of the most frequently asked questions our customers ask is “do I really need varifocal lenses?” Well, the truth is, each and every individual is different. However, our optical team is here to answer your questions around varifocal lenses, including the pros and cons of both, to help you decide which option is best for you.

Varifocal lenses are multifocal glasses lenses that cater to those who need a long and short distance prescription in one. If you need to regularly switch between activities like reading and working on a computer to looking at things at a much greater distance, you might be considering switching to varifocal glasses.

The pros and cons of varifocals

There are various benefits to switching to varifocal lenses. You could find varifocals are a more cost-effective option for you as purchasing one pair with varifocals could work out cheaper than two pairs. It’s also more convenient than constantly switching between your two pairs of glasses.

However, some people do experience an adjustment period when switching to varifocals. As they contain multiple prescriptions to help you see at different distances, you’ll have to look through different parts of the lenses in order to see correctly. Most new wearers find they adapt after a week or so.

Can any frame be fitted with varifocal lenses?

All of our glasses can be fitted with varifocal lenses. Simply select the varifocal lens upgrade option, input your prescription at checkout and our opticians will take care of the rest.

The pros and cons of buying two pairs of glasses

Switching between glasses is the biggest drawback of buying two pairs of glasses. For this reason, two different pairs are often preferred by those who struggle with the transition to varifocals. You might also prefer to buy two pairs of glasses if you don’t require your reading or prescription glasses all day long.

Typically, buying two pairs of glasses would be more expensive than buying varifocals. However, when you shop with us, you can take advantage of our multi-purchase discounts. With every glasses or sunglasses purchase, we offer £15 off your second pair and £30 off your third pair.

Try our home trial service

Whether you decide to try out varifocals or two pairs of glasses, don’t forget to make the most of our try before you buy glasses service. Choose 4 Arlo Wolf frames to try on at home for free and we’ll send them straight to your door.

Trial glasses don’t include prescription lenses but they are designed to put your mind at ease when it comes to finding the right pair of glasses. Try your frames on for style for up to 1 week before sending them back to us with a pre-paid postage label.

To get started, browse our range of prescription glasses for womens and prescription glasses for men – and don’t forget to check out our face shapes guide!

If you do have any questions about varifocals or anything else optical-related, please feel free to get in touch with our team.

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