In today’s digital age, buying glasses and frames online has become a popular alternative to visiting traditional brick-and-mortar opticians. With the convenience of shopping from home, a wider selection of styles, and often more competitive prices, it’s no wonder that many are considering this option for eye care. But there are several factors which can become challenges, so perhaps at your next eye exam, ask if it is the right choice for you.
Let’s explore the key factors to consider before making your decision.
The Appeal of Buying Glasses Online
Convenience at Your Fingertips
For busy individuals, the prospect of purchasing glasses online is incredibly appealing. There’s no need to take time off work or schedule an appointment; shopping online allows you to browse an extensive range of frames at any time that suits you. Whether it’s during your lunch break or late at night, online stores are always open.
A World of Options
Online eyewear retailers often offer a far broader selection than local optical shops. From trendy designs to classic styles, there is something for everyone. Additionally, many online stores provide advanced filtering tools, allowing you to search by frame shape, color, material, and even specific designer brands. This means you can easily find frames that match your personal style.
Competitive Pricing
One of the most significant advantages of buying glasses online is the potential for cost savings. Online retailers typically have lower overhead costs than traditional stores, allowing them to offer glasses at more competitive prices. However, online stores do not offer the highest or even moderate quality frames and do not offer name branded frames. Many companies also offer discounts, promotions, and sales that can further reduce costs for budget-conscious consumers.
The Risks of Buying Glasses Online
Ensuring a Perfect Fit
One of the main concerns people have about buying glasses online is getting the right fit. Glasses that don’t fit properly can be uncomfortable and may even affect your vision. To address this, many online retailers offer virtual try-on features, allowing you to see how different frames look on your face using your smartphone or computer camera. Additionally, be sure to have your correct measurements and prescription details on hand before purchasing.
Quality Assurance
While many online eyewear retailers provide high-quality products, some consumers worry about the quality of glasses purchased online due to the inability to physically try them on before buying. To mitigate this risk and make an informed decision, it’s essential to read customer reviews thoroughly, which often provide insights into the durability and comfort of the glasses.
Additionally, researching the company’s reputation can assure you of their credibility and service standards. It’s also important to verify their return policy to ensure it is consumer-friendly in case the glasses don’t fit well or meet your aesthetic preferences. Reputable retailers often provide a satisfaction guarantee or a generous return policy, allowing you to return or exchange glasses if they don’t meet your expectations, thereby reducing the risk associated with online purchases.
Online stores are more price competitive because they do not use the latest technology of materials. You have heard the saying, “You get what you pay for”. Polycarbonate is one of the oldest materials known to be used for prescription materials. It originated prior to the 1960’s. Every online optical companies use this material. However, it also has the lowest abbe value (clarity rating) of any lens known to mankind. Many patients cannot wear it and those that do can all see better in a different material such as Trivex. There are so many different materials that are better options for patients. Using an online optical store, you do not have access to the expert opticians or doctors that can advise you on what is best for your vision. Online stores do not offer these materials because they are set up for large volume and the lowest cost of materials. If you want the best or even close to the best optical options, you will need to consult and brick and mortar store with a licensed optician or doctor.
Frame quality is the main reason for purchasing glasses. For most patients, the quality of the frames is important. Do they have specially made bridges to fit certain type of noses and skin types. Are the metal frames Nickal free to avoid skin allergies and reactions. All frames online are made in China. The best quality frames are made in Italy, Japan, and Germany.
Furthermore, some companies offer virtual try-on tools to help visualize how the frames will look on your face, enhancing the online shopping experience.
Prescription Accuracy
Another concern when buying glasses online is ensuring the accuracy of your prescription lenses. While most online retailers have processes in place to verify prescriptions, it’s crucial to double-check your prescription details before placing an order and it is even more critical to have th the prescription, measurements, and alignment of the lenses checked. In addition, you will need your glasses adjusted prior to the measurements being taken and definitely the glasses are made. . If you have a complex prescription, it may be worth consulting with an optician to ensure that your lenses are manufactured correctly. Recent surveys showed that over 50% of glasses made online do not match the doctor prescription nor pass most optician quality control min standards. How do you know if your pass when you get them online….you do not because there is no optician or doctor to double check if the work was done correctly.
Tips for Buying Glasses Online
Know Your Measurements
Before shopping for glasses online, make sure you have accurate measurements, including your pupillary distance (PD) and any specific frame size requirements. With today advanced computer generated lenses (both progressives and single vision and all computer lenses) you must also have the vertex distance (distance from the backside of the lens to the front of the cornea. In addition, you will need the wrap (frames are not straight…they have a curve to them). Finally, you will need the OC height and or Segment height (these are critical for any modern single vision lens especially for young adults or teens or children). These measurements are crucial for ensuring a proper fit and optimal vision. If your online store does not offer this, then you should visit your optician to learn more about why you must have these measurements to see your best.
Leverage Virtual Try-On Tools
Take advantage of virtual try-on tools offered by many online retailers. These tools allow you to see how different frames will look on your face, making it easier to choose styles that compliment your features.
Read Reviews & Ratings
Customer reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the quality and fit of frames, as well as the retailer’s customer service. Pay attention to feedback about the comfort, durability, and accuracy of the glasses.
Understand the Return Policy
Before making a purchase, review the retailer’s return and exchange policy. This ensures that you have options if the glasses do not meet your expectations or require adjustments.
Consider an In-Person Fitting
If you’re unsure about the fit or prescription accuracy of your new glasses, it might be beneficial to visit a local optician for an in-person fitting after they arrive. An optician can assess how well the frames sit on your face and make any necessary adjustments to the nose pads, arms, or lenses to ensure they fit snugly and comfortably.
They can also verify the accuracy of your prescription and ensure that you’re getting optimal vision correction. This personalized attention ensures that your glasses offer the best possible comfort and visual clarity for your everyday needs.
Ready to Buy a New Pair of Glasses
Buying glasses online offers a convenient, affordable, and diverse shopping experience for online shoppers, eyewear enthusiasts, and budget-conscious consumers. However, it’s important to approach this option with careful consideration and due diligence. By knowing your measurements, utilizing virtual try-on tools, reading reviews, understanding return policies, and consulting with local opticians, you can make informed decisions and find the perfect pair of glasses online.
If you would like to learn more about glasses and buying them online, reach out to Danville Optometry in Danville, CA. We can help you with all your questions and personalized needs!
