Discount prescription glasses are designed for the specific vision needs of an individual. For example, if you have astigmatism or double vision, you need specially-made glasses to solve the problem.
Because of this, discount prescription glasses can be expensive. According to a survey by Consumer Reports, the average price of glasses without insurance ranges from less than $100 to more than $400, depending on the retailer. According to a March 2022 poll by the Kaiser Family Foundation, high costs are the number one reason people put off getting glasses or other vision services.
Below, we review ways to save money when buying prescription glasses.
1. Buy discount prescription glasses online
One study found that cost is the main reason people buy prescription glasses over the Internet. In a 2019 survey, Consumer Reports found that online buyers paid less out of pocket for prescription glasses, paying a median of $91 online compared to $234 in stores.
Buying online tends to be cheaper because online retailers usually cut out the middleman and sell directly to customers. If you plan to buy discount prescription glasses online, here are some tips to make the process easier:
Look for retailers that let you try on glasses at home. Before you choose which one to buy, many online retailers will ship you some picture frames for you to try on at home. Some companies allow you to upload a photo of yourself and then virtually try on the glasses.
Review the return policy. Online companies often offer free shipping and returns.
Get the current prescription. When buying new glasses, your prescription should be no more than two years old. (For children, it should be no older than one year old.) You can go to your ophthalmologist of choice to get a prescription for lenses and submit it with your order. Some online retailers offer eye exams through local retail outlets, while others allow you to take an exam online without any eye problems or conditions.
Even online, eyewear retailers offer various types of discount prescription glasses lenses. Monocular lenses can be used to correct one vision problem, but more complex eye needs often require progressive lenses. These types of lenses have multiple prescription strengths in a single lens, so they are generally more expensive.