Bifocal vs progressive
Bifocal vs progressive
So what should you know about bifocal vs progressive lenses? At a basic level, both options offer the same thing: two prescriptions in a single lens.
However, these lenses function differently and offer unique benefits depending on the user.
Types of lenses
Bifocal lenses have two distinct sections: one for near-distance vision, one for far-distance vision. Unlike progressive lenses, this division is visible, appearing as a line in the lens.
Progressive lenses gradually transition from near to far within the lens. This transition is usually very smooth, without any clear divisions between sections.
Beyond how they work, there’s one more thing you should know about bifocal vs progressive lenses. While all bifocals essentially have the same design (a near-vision section and a far-vision section), progressives have a few variations depending on the user’s needs.
The bifocal vs progressive debate might seem confusing, but picking the right lens doesn’t have to be complicated.
The bifocal vs progressive debate might seem confusing, but picking the right lens doesn’t have to be complicated.
Because of their smooth transition between distances, progressives can also help if you deal with blurry middle-distance vision.
Progressive lenses tend to be more popular since they offer that smooth transition, but bifocals also have some benefits. Most notably, bifocals usually have bigger viewing areas for reading and computer work. Since a wider section is dedicated to looking at things up close, bifocals might be a better option if your lifestyle involves a lot of reading.
Progressives might be good for you if…
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1You regularly look between things up close and things far away.
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2You’re distracted by the lines in bifocals.
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3Your middle-distance vision is blurry.
Bifocals might be good for you if…
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1You prefer a clear distinction between prescriptions within the lens.
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2You spend a lot of time reading or looking at things up close.
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3You don’t deal with blurry middle-distance vision.
Cost of bifocals vs progressive lenses
Cost of bifocals vs progressive lenses
Pros and cons of bifocals
Let’s go over a few pros and cons of bifocals so you can make the best choice for your eye health
Benefits
Reading is easier thanks to bifocals’ dedicated near-vision section. This section is typically bigger than those available in progressive.
Bifocals have been around for a while, so finding frames you like won’t be a challenge.
Bifocal lenses might be easier to start wearing since the distinction between sections is more obvious than with progressive lenses.
Disadvantages
Some users might find the line between sections distracting.
Progressives might be a better option if you use a computer regularly. People who wear bifocals often have to tilt their heads back to see their screen through the proper section of the lens. This position can lead to neck and shoulder pain.
How to get used to lined bifocals
Lined bifocals might take a little while to get used to, but there are a few steps you can take to adjust sooner.
