Bifocal and Varifocal Lenses

Confusion can sometimes occur when trying to buy glasses online, especially when it comes to choosing between bifocal and varifocal lenses. So what can be done when you want to find the right type of corrective lenses for your particular sight needs?

When buying bifocal or varifocal glasses, knowing what each one does and which is the best for you can save you time and money!

Bifocal & Varifocal Lens Explained

Bifocal and varifocal glasses lenses are corrective lenses used in spectacles to correct 'presbyopia' - a reduced ability to focus on near objects, caused by natural ageing, which is usually noticed between the ages of 40-50 - and other similar disorders.

They are characterised by a gradual increase of lens power, usually between 15 and 20 mm with a final addition power between 1.00 to 2.50, which is added on to the wearer's other sight corrections. The levels start at a minimum - or no additional power at the top of the lens - and reach a maximum additional power of magnification at the bottom of the lens.

What Are Bifocal Lenses?

Bifocal lenses are two prescriptions in one lens. You only need to use one pair of glasses for reading, TV or driving!

What are the Benefits of Bifocal Glasses?

Bifocal glasses offer a combination lens for both distance and reading. This means there's no need for two separate pairs of glasses.

What Are Varifocal Lenses?

Varifocal lenses allow you to see near and far using just one pair of varifocal glasses. They also have an 'in-between' range which is handy for seeing things such as the dashboard in the car, or shelves in a supermarket and unlike bifocals, there's no visible line, just a smooth transition from near to far.

Benefits of Varifocal Glasses

No visible lines and an accurate blend of distance, middle and reading prescriptions are the major advantages.

Varifocal lenses also allow you to see clearly at all distances and they look just like ordinary lenses.

Applicable to both men’s glasses and women’s glasses, the lens is best suited for viewing distant objects at the top of the lenses and viewing nearby objects at the bottom of the lens.

How to Buy Bifocal or Varifocal Glasses Online

Purchasing varifocal or bifocal glasses online is quick, efficient and a cheaper alternative to buying on the high street. Simply visit https://www.onlineopticiansuk.com/ and select your frame. You'll then be able to choose bifocal or varifocal lenses from our lens builder.

If you require any further information, please contact us for additional information.