Debating between glasses and contacts? Both options can improve your vision, but the best fit for you depends on lifestyle factors and personal preferences. You should also consider any medical advice from your eye doctor. Here’s our guide to making the right choice.

Prescription glasses are the classic option for most people with vision problems. They’re convenient, stylish, and you’ll probably forget you’re even wearing them after a few days. However, there are some downsides to consider, and they may not be a good fit for every lifestyle.

Pros of Prescription Glasses

• Glasses are easy to wear. Unlike contacts, you just put them on your face and you’re done. Plus, stylish frames can be a fun addition to your wardrobe.
• They can last for years. Your prescription will probably change, but glasses frames withstand the test of time with proper care.
• Glasses are easy to clean and store. Just wipe them with a microfiber cloth and pop them in a protective case.
• No need to touch your eyeballs! Touching your eyes is probably the most unpleasant part of using contacts. Glasses don’t have that problem.
• Glasses can protect your eyes from dust and debris. Frames and lenses are a barrier between your eyes and the world, which might be useful throughout the day.

Cons of Prescription Glasses

• Glasses can be uncomfortable. You can find a wide range of styles for the perfect fit, but some people may be more comfortable with contacts.
• They can break during sports or daily life. Even the most durable frames might snap if they get stepped on, kicked, or hit with a ball.
• Glasses don’t cover your total field of vision. Because the lenses don’t fully wrap around your eyes, you might have slightly blurry peripheral eyesight.

Pros of Prescription Contacts

• Contacts give you a wider field of view than glasses. Because they sit directly on the corneas, you’ll have a more natural vision experience without blurry peripheral eyesight.
• They’re easier to use during sports or exercise. You won’t have to worry about contacts falling off and getting crushed — they’ll stay put.
• Contacts are discreet. You can find minimal glasses that fade into the background, but some people prefer contact lenses since they’re totally invisible while worn.
• You’ll be able to wear non-prescription sunglasses. It’s easy to wear any pair of shades while using contacts, and you won’t need a separate pair of prescription sunglasses.
• Some contacts let you change eye colors. Since they sit on the surface of your eyes, you can choose colored lenses to alter your appearance.

Cons of Prescription Contacts

• Reusable contacts require careful maintenance. Properly storing them at night and cleaning them might be difficult or too time-consuming for some people.
• Disposable contacts have to be swapped daily. You won’t deal with as much maintenance as reusable lenses, but remembering to change out disposables may not work for some lifestyles.
• Touching your eyes isn’t fun. Contacts are completely safe for most people, but taking them in and out can be a little uncomfortable.

FAQs about Contacts vs Glasses

Are contacts cheaper than glasses?

It mostly depends on your prescription. Specialized contacts for conditions like astigmatism may cost more, but glasses with complex lenses can be pricier overall.

Are contacts and glasses prescriptions the same?

No, contacts and glasses require different prescriptions. You’ll need separate eye exams for each type.

Should you wear glasses or contacts for screen use?

Both options can correct your vision while you use screens, but glasses might be better. Some glasses have specialized lenses designed for healthier screen use, and contacts may worsen computer vision syndrome.

Can you use both contacts and glasses?

Most people shouldn’t wear contacts and prescription glasses at the same time unless instructed by their doctor. However, many people own both and swap between them depending on daily activities and preferences.

Prescription glasses and contacts each have unique benefits. You might prefer one over the other, but more and more people are using both. With glasses and contacts, you can change your eyewear depending on the activity or event. 39DollarGlasses is here to help with Online Contacts, our trusted store dedicated to contact lenses. When you order, you’ll get doctor-approved contacts shipped straight to your door, plus a coupon for a free pair of $39 glasses. Order today!