Let's be real, glasses can be expensive! For years, I dreaded the thought of needing a new pair, knowing the hefty bill that would follow. Then, I started hearing whispers about buying prescription glasses online. Was it too good to be true? Could I really get quality eyewear without breaking the bank? I decided to dive in and see for myself, and I'm here to share my journey and what I learned along the way.
My biggest fear was accuracy. I needed to know that the prescription would be correct. The first time I tried buying glasses online, I was definitely nervous. I'd always gone to a traditional optometrist, where they take precise measurements and guide you through the frame selection. The idea of doing it all myself online felt a bit daunting. I was also worried about the quality of the frames and lenses. Would they be flimsy and easily breakable? Would the lenses scratch easily? These were all valid concerns that kept me hesitant.
I initially tried Zenni, and I have to say, for the price, I was impressed. I got a pair with blue light blocking for night driving and even a pair of sunglasses. The blue light blocking feature has been a game-changer for me, especially when working on the computer late at night. However, I also wanted to explore other options. I wanted to see if I could find even better value or different styles that suited me better. That's when I started exploring other online eyewear retailers.
One crucial thing I learned is the importance of getting your Pupil Distance (PD) measurement right. This is the distance between the centers of your pupils and it ensures that the lenses are centered correctly in the frames. I found that many online retailers, including Zenni, provide helpful tutorials on how to measure your PD at home. Taking the time to get this measurement accurate is key to ensuring your glasses are comfortable and provide clear vision. After I learned how to do this, my confidence in buying glasses online grew significantly.
I have a relatively low prescription, and I've had great success buying glasses online. However, I've heard that people with stronger prescriptions can sometimes have more difficulty getting accurate results. My wife, for example, has a much higher prescription, and she didn't have the same positive experience with online glasses. It could be a matter of personal preference or the complexity of her prescription, but it's something to keep in mind if you have a strong prescription. It highlights the fact that online glasses might not be a perfect solution for everyone.
One of the biggest benefits of buying glasses online is the cost savings. I found that I could get several pairs of glasses, including sunglasses, for the price of one pair at a traditional optometrist. And honestly, I just don't bother filing claims with my insurance company for online purchases. The insurance companies often nitpick over every little detail, like coatings and materials, and it's just not worth the hassle. It's so much easier and cheaper to just buy them online outright. I've been able to get multiple pairs with different features, like blue light filters and tints, without worrying about exceeding my insurance allowance.
Beyond Zenni, I also explored Eyebuydirect. I was particularly interested in their return policy, which allowed me to send back frames if I didn't like them. I did end up returning a pair once, and the process was surprisingly smooth and hassle-free. This gave me even more confidence in trying different styles and colors. I also ordered several pairs of sunglasses from them with blue light coatings, and I've been very happy with the quality and performance.
Recently, I decided to try a rimless style. I've always been drawn to the minimalist look, and I found a pair I really liked from Cinily Net. I was looking for something lightweight and comfortable, and I stumbled upon the Krasivyy Square Rimless Glasses Frame. The fact that they're made of titanium and are ultralight really appealed to me. I ordered them with my prescription, and I've been wearing them for a few weeks now. I have to say, they're incredibly comfortable and stylish. They're so light, I barely notice I'm wearing them! The screwless design is also a nice touch, giving them a clean and modern look. I've received several compliments on them already. It’s been a great experience with Cinily Net so far.
Based on my experiences, here are some tips to help you buy glasses online successfully: