Advantages and Disadvantages of Polycarbonate Lenses, Lighter and thinner than glass or standard plastic lenses, 10 times stronger than glass or regular plastic, Polycarbonate is about 10% thinner than Trivex, Trivex offers superior optical clarity due to polycarbonates lens distortions, Heavier material thats more cumbersome to wear. The same property, which makes it thinner, also makes it heavier. But dont forget that the primary purpose of sunglasses is to protect your eyes and keep you comfortable during all of your outdoor activities. The cost of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses can vary considerably, but many optical stores charge more for Trivex lenses than polycarbonate lenses. Polycarbonate lenses are a relatively new lens technology. Higher grade TAC lenses are available (effectively increasing the thickness of the layers) and these can be 1.6mm thick. Polarized Polycarbonate RhinoLenses are virtually indestructible. 1.67 index lenses are ideal for prescriptions under +5.00/-8.00 and astigmatism correction between -3.00 and -4.00. Any thoughts? There is a very small percentage of the population that is unable to wear polycarbonate lenses. Here is a brief comparison of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses to help you decide which lenses might be best for you: Thickness. They are also available in more styles of sunglasses that cannot use glass lenses. They are produced using a slower, cast molding process similar to how regular plastic lenses are made. Polycarbonate lenses are another type of plastic material. Polycarbonate lens didnt truly gain traction among the optical industry until more recently due to various problems with the material clarity and manufacturing. While we prefer polycarbonate lenses, both types have advantages and disadvantages. October 10, 2022 by Ashish Mittal Leave a Comment. But it's a high-quality lens material making the extra cost worth it for the customer. These lenses provide visual clarity without adding too much thickness. Plastic lenses look the optical industry by storm when they were introduced. Additionally, plastic lenses are much less expensive than the other options. Today's modern 425 Oak St, Unit A, Garden City, NY 11530, RM 18 27/F, HO KING COMM CTR, 2-16 FAYUEN ST MONGKOK KL, Room 1001, Building E, Bantian International Central, Shenzhen, CN 518129, RM 18 27/F I took them back to inquire, and was told that they could be from my lashes and brows, and such scratches are not covered by their one year replacement policy. Thanks for this informative article. Thank you for reaching out. You are using an out of date browser. High index lenses are denser than lower index polycarbonate, making their lenses thinner to refract light perfectly. Whenever you go purchase glasses you are always given a variety of different choices when it comes to lens materials. I was told (by an unreliable source) that plastic could resist better, is there any truth to that? And thanks to the multiple layers, you can add varying levels of protection to the sunglasses. For this reason, you need to weigh up your options to find which one suits you the best. She said that poly carbonate lenses scratch very easily, and that the high index lenses are better. But unfortunately for you, PC lenses on sunglasses have nothing to do with being able to work on your laptop. More impact-resistant than glass but less than polycarbonate. So lets dive in and take a look at what the differences are between these two very similar but different materials. You can usually find some single vision lenses for around $30 and some bifocals for $50. It boasts the highest impact resistance of any lens material. But if your polycarbonate lenses do break, they are less likely to shatter into small, harmful pieces. Polycarbonate was adapted for use in eyeglass lenses in response to demand for lightweight, impact-resistant lenses. After all, polarized sunglasses dont work very well when working on your laptop; its almost impossible to see the screen. Polycarbonate lenses were first invented in 1953, but strangely two scientists developed them one week apart despite being on opposing sides of the world. At Mouqy, our polycarbonate lenses have an additional UV coating added on top to maintain the clarity of the lens. RELATED: Sunglasses for babies with polycarbonate lenses. Plastic frame ; mirrored lens ; Polarized ; Mirror Coating coating ; Lens width: 57 millimeters ; Lens height: 40 millimeters ; Bridge: 15 millimeters Triacetate (TAC) TAC lenses are light and thin, they are also tough and flexible. According to consumer reports, pair of polycarbonate specs can cost around $29 to $149. Let us know in the comments below! Now I will be adding lense material to the list. Learn about LASIK success rates and side effects, Learn about the costs associated with LASIK, Benefits of LASIK for astigmatism correction, How to find vision insurance that covers LASIK, Compare PRK and LASIK procedures and results, 14 tips for protecting your vision after LASIK. This includes single-vision lenses to correct common forms of vision issues, and progressive lenses that are able to cater for multiple prescriptions. I have polycarbonate for the first time. They also offer 100 percent protection from the suns harmful UV light and are up to 10 times more impact-resistant than plastic or glass lenses. Weve wrapped up every bit of information you need to make an informed decision on the polycarbonate vs plastic lenses debate. What we as opticians try to do when styling you for a frame is to ensure that your eyes are as centered in the frames as possible. 2000-2022 AAV Media, LLC. This type of lens is lightweight yet strong and resilient. Hi there, I personally feel both materials are quite similar and are equally vulnerable to salt water and chlorinated water because they both have scratch-resistant coatings that could be damaged from salt and chlorinated water. Polycarbonate lenses are more expensive than plastic glasses. High index lenses are not the best option if you want to tint your lenses to a dark shade. Polycarbonate and Trivex lenses have comparable impact resistance. This promotes eye health by providing an extra layer of safety. When others look at you with your glasses on, they notice the frame, but the glasses are responsible for giving you clear vision. Trivex lenses about 10 percent lighter than polycarbonate lenses. Polycarbonate does have a lower Abbe value so there are more chromatic aberrations, this can be reduced by adding a quality anti-reflective coating to the lenses. | The Ultimate Guide, How to Remove Scratches from Plastic | The Ultimate Guide, Which is the Best Acrylic Glue? Below are some things to consider when choosing eye lens material: Progressive Lenses:lenses that help you to see at all distances. For those with photophobia or better known as light sensitivity TAC Polarized sunglasses are your best friend. Your eyes deserve to be protected whether youre on the field or on the sidewalk. Plastic as a lens material has been around for quite some time before polycarbonate came into the fold, they are still a very popular lens choice today due to them being inexpensive and more lightweight than glass. Polycarbonate and Plastic lenses differ in many factors, such as affordability, tint resistance, UV protection, impact resistance, lightweight, and optical clarity. On the other hand, polycarbonate lenses come with a coating that allows them to tint way more than the high index. Ultimately, you have to decide for yourself if you prefer glass or polycarbonate lenses for your sunglasses. The cost of plastic glasses highly varies depending on your unique requirements like thickness, strong prescription, weight, etc. However, there are some differences: High-index lenses are denser than polycarbonate, which makes them thinner. Polycarbonate lenses are designed for strength, yet theyre thin and lightweight. Melody Huang is an optometrist and freelance health writer. $12.95 $ 12. Lighter and thinner high index lenses are highly recommended for you if you have a prescription for farsightedness or astigmatism and nearsightedness. Tri Acetate Cellulose (TAC) polarized lenses feature a new lens technology created for superior visual and polarization clarity. Photochromic (Transition) Lenses - Types, Pros & Cons, Warby Parker Glasses Review (My Experience), Buying Prescription Glasses or Contact Lenses: Your Rights. ($45 vs $55) Because theyre so thin, high-index lenses are the standard for people with prescriptions stronger than +/- 4.0. don't provide the type of eye protection needed for sports. But lifestyle sunglasses also need impact protection. 2-16 FAYUEN ST MONGKOK Both are extremely strong, but polycarbonate is very susceptible to scratches unless it comes with an added film; that being said, theyre shatterproof. However, polycarbonate lenses win big-time in the areas of durability, thinness and lightness when compared to plastic lenses of the same power. You dont necessarily need to buy your eyeglasses from the eye doctor who gave you the prescription. Polycarbonate lens is lighter and thinner than glass, making it more comfortable to wear for long durations. However, all lenses are not created equal, but doing detailed research before purchasing your lens will provide you with a pair lens that brings vision and a sense of amazing comfort to your life. Go for it. They offer a higher refractive index and are incredibly strong and durable, which makes them ideal for use in products such as glasses that need to be thin enough to fit comfortably on someones face but also need to be able to withstand regular wear and tear. Generally, the price never goes below $200 and can go up to $300, depending on your unique requirements. Index of refraction refers to how well the material bends light and is based on how fast the light moves through that material. Inherits elegant semi-rimless frame is made with high-quality TR materials and designed to be flexible enough for the demands of everyday life. Ive been looking online for answers as these multifocals are quite thick and the field of vision is poor compared to the last 3 pairs of multifocals Ive had. High-quality polycarbonate lenses offer excellent clarity for a pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses. Polycarbonate has a higher index of refraction than Trivex (1.58 vs. 1.53), so polycarbonate lenses are about 10 percent thinner than Trivex lenses. Hi Tim! Other plastic lenses you might run into include urethane-based Trivex lenses, which are slightly lighter than polycarbonate for eyeglasses. Today, even though glass lenses are thinner than they used to be, polycarbonate lenses are still the lighter choice. Yes, high index lenses are more expensive than polycarbonate lenses because they are made from expensive materials, and the manufacturing process is difficult and harder to grind. TAC lenses are the cheapest widely used lens option in sunglasses and are less clear, less scratch resistant, and less durable than Polycarbonate. Page published on Wednesday, February 27, 2019. What kind of lenses do you have in your glasses? Is there a big difference between 1.67 and 1.74 high-index lenses? Sunlight scatters without direction and when it hits flat surfaces, the reflected light becomes polarized, in other words, it is less scattered and more aligned. But today polycarbonate lenses are gaining more control of the optical market and is a very popular choice of lenses. TAC lenses are a specific type of polarized lens with a multi-layer composite, but more importantly, it includes the unique Triacetate Cellulose (TAC) process. Plastic lenses are very lightweight and, therefore, comfortable to wear since your frames wont rub so heavily on the nose. Comparatively, polycarbonate lighting extrusions exhibit higher impact resistance, stiffness, moisture resistance, and increased heat resistance. Outside of writing, Lauren runs a small farm with her husband and their four big dogs. Thats because Polycarbonate flexes instead of shattering when hit by an object, whether its gravel, a ball, or an elbow. Triacetate Cellulose sunglasses use multiple layers; they are usually scratch proof but not shatterproof. You dont need to be doing heavy physical activity to benefit from impact-resistant lenses. Obviously my prescription is higher each time so I expected them to be thicker, hence buying what I thought was a thinner lens! Plastic vs. Polycarbonate Lenses Today we are going to be talking specifically about plastic vs polycarbonate lenses and what the major difference is between the lens materials. Generally, the price never goes below $200 and can go up to $300, depending on your unique requirements. Here the polarised film is sandwiched between two layers of polycarbonate meaning the polarised film can never wear out. Lets look at the pros and cons of polycarbonate lenses. Plastic is much lighter than glass, making it more comfortable to wear all day and plastic lenses come in many more colours and larger sizes. Glass will always provide the best optical experience as glass refracts light much more efficiently than plastic. EyeBuyDirect has a wide variety of budget frames starting at $6. Boll Bolt 2.0 Titanium Volt+ Ultraviolet Polarised, Boll Bolt 2.0 S Creator Green Volt+ Gun Polarised, Boll Bolt 2.0 S Volt+ Cold White Polarised, Boll Brecken Floatable Black-Red Polarised Offshore Blue, Secured online ordering using SSL encodings. Have a question about Polycarbonate vs. Glass lenses? Polycarbonate lenses are about 10% thinner than Trivex lenses. Thanks for reading. Polycarbonate lenses are usually thinner and lighter than other types of lenses, which makes them ideal for people who want to wear glasses but dont want to sacrifice style for durability. And thats why when exact precision is needed, say in microscopes, cameras, or telescopes, glass is still the standard. If you go through them to make a purchase we will earn a commission at no extra cost to you but helps support our website. Polycarbonate is still lighter, and can be made in higher index - meaning that a strong prescription lens can still be quite thin. Photochromic lenses are available in both materials. Support the site and become a premium member today! Having a conversation with your optician about your eyewear needs and shopping around for the best price is wise. Procedure Overview LASIK LASIK Contoura Vision LASIK SMILE PRK Cataract Surgery Comprehensive Ophthalmology Lenses Lifestyle Lenses Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) Vivity Extended Vision IOL Keratoconus Treatments Cross-Linking They are more flexible than standard glass lenses, making them easier to remove and replace. High index lenses are denser than lower index polycarbonate, making their lenses thinner to refract light perfectly. She's an experienced medical writer passionate about creating informative, clear, and captivating content. Polycarbonate lenses have a high refractive index, which means they can be a thinner and more lightweight solution for your prescription, when compared to plastic lenses of the same power. What do the numbers on your eyeglass frames mean? Polycarbonate lenses are extremely popular in the lens market. Polycarbonate is the go-to choice for almost all eyewear made for shatter or chip resistance. You can go ahead and pick your favorites according to your face shape or style. Polycarbonate has a higher index of refraction than Trivex (1.58 vs. 1.53), so polycarbonate lenses are about 10 percent thinner than Trivex lenses. Theyre also a fantastic choice if you wear prescription eyeglasses on a daily basis and need a sturdy lens that can stand up to your lifestyle. Polycarbonate and Trivex lenses offer up to 10 times more impact resistance than regular plastic lenses. Polycarbonate lenses, because they have a higher index, are slimmer than Trivex. Many people get confused about the differences. Bear in mind that some of the links on this website are affiliate links. But that doesnt mean polycarbonate or plastic lenses are not clear. These lenses are up to 30% thinner than regular plastic or glass lenses. Feel free to Message me any time with feedback for the site, tips o Best Lens Colors for Hunting (Dawn, Dusk & Night), Oakley Prizm Maritime Lens | Open Water Review, Best Oakleys for Police and First Responders, Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Sunglasses | Differences Explained, Smith ChromaPop vs. Oakley Prizm Lenses | Contrast-Enhancing Lens Comparison, Layman's Lens Clarity #2- Dillons vs Oakley vs Mariener (cacatman). Additionally, they have a superior level of impact resistance and are suggested for both children's glasses and safety eyewear. You only get one pair of eyes, so use your sunglasses to protect them. Shu Kie is Mouqys certified optician with over 5 years of experience in the optical industry. Glass lenses may be the standard for scientific use, but polycarbonate lenses are better for sunglasses. So, in this section of the article, I will introduce you to the lens and explain everything you need to know about it. scratch-resistant coatings can make the surface of polycarbonate and CR-39 plastic lenses are regular plastic lenses you might find in very inexpensive sunglasses. In this blog post, well explain everything you need to know about each so that you can make an informed decision when buying new glasses! Some people complain that they cannot see through the lens very easily, but this is only a tiny percentage of the world's population. Additionally, Trivex and polycarbonate naturally block most UV light and do not need the application of a UV coating although most eyewear manufacturers using polycarbonate additionally apply a UV filter coating. Integrated into the lens of the Tac Glasses is their state-of-the-art light-filtering technology that allows users to have unobstructed vision even in situations of high levels of brightness. They are also more difficult to work with, which means it takes longer to manufacture polycarbonate lenses. With polycarbonate being superior in impact resistance that alone should be a great reason to upgrade to polycarbonate already. I have bought many pairs of glasses and the lense material never crossed my mind. Oakley Forum is the largest and most reliable platform for Oakley news, updates and any information you are looking for about Oakley sunglasses and other products. Vision Center is funded by our readers. We look forward to working with you to determine the best eye surgery or nonsurgical treatment for your individual needs. Importantly, a polarised polycarbonate lens also provides impact protection. Availability. Therefore plastic offers better optical clarity. Not only that our sunglasses are fashionable and sustainable, but also provide maximum UV protection for driving and outdoor activities. Single Vision Reading: lenses to see things at a close distance. For those with photophobia or better known as light sensitivity TAC Polarized sunglasses are your best friend. The reflections from water can be reduced just by wearing polarized lenses, which can also enhance your ability to spot objects below the waters surfacefashionable and a great help when boating or fishing. Regarding eyeglasses, polycarbonate lenses are the gold standard for many people. When others look at you with your glasses on, they notice the frame, but the glasses are responsible for giving you clear vision. Also known as poly, this flexible plastic was designed for use in astronaut gear. 1.0 out of 5 stars 1 rating. One of the biggest selling points of early plastic lens material was that it was lightweight and offered all-day comfort. Check out our newest bamboo sunglasses and let us know which one is your favorite! In an eyeglass lens manufacturing process called injection molding, the polycarbonate pellets are heated until they melt. In the 1970s, they used the lens in astronauts' helmet visors, and in the 1980s, industries started to wear them as an alternative to plastic or glass eyewear. HO KING COMM CTR But its a high-quality lens material making the extra cost worth it for the customer. Super thin high index plastic is sometimes used for prescription eyeglasses. This lens is acceptable for stronger prescriptions above +5.00/-8.00 and astigmatism correction between -4.00 and -6.00. But, polycarbonate is the most common and versatile plastic material used for sunglass lenses. Polycarbonate glasses have higher impact resistance and offer greater protection than plastic lenses. In fact, polycarbonate is the same material used for bullet-proof glass due to its impact-resistant properties. I notice you say that plastic is cheaper. Polycarbonate glasses have inherent UV protection, while plastic lenses do not have. Polycarbonate is an excellent choice for people with a strong prescription. Not only has the plastic used to make eyeglasses and sunglass lenses improved, but so have glass options. 5750 Brittmoore RD Suite 300Houston Texas 77041. Here are some of our favourites! the frame breaks, dislodging the lenses. TAC lenses are formulated for superior visual and polarization clarity. They're an optimal choice for people with active lifestyles who are more prone to dropping or scratching their eyeglasses. New frosted and unfrosted Acrylics provide diffusion levels from 92% to 60%. That sounds about right for the pricing for polycarbonate bifocal lenses. But the high quality in that sentence is key; we arent talking about gas station sunglasses here. Your choice of lenses is completely dependent on your vision needs. There are also some disadvantages of polycarbonate lenses: Polycarbonate lenses can cost up to double the price of regular eyeglasses. Liingo Eyewear is another great option to buy glasses online. This will ensure you have the thinnest cut for the edges. Let me know below! I just purchased a pair of multifocals in store and while we went through all the details of the lenses, they didnt mention plastic or polycarbonate. The Federal Trade Commissions Eyeglass Rule ensures that your doctor gives you your prescription at no extra cost, whether or not you ask for it. A quality pair of prescription glasses would eliminate that strain. Oakley Ruby Iridium vs. Fire Iridium Lenses Whats the difference? The content on this site is for informational purposes only. Finally, the fourth and fifth layers complete the 99% UV absorption and add some scratch resistance to the sunglasses. For each pair of sunglasses that you buy, we give a pair of eyeglasses to a child in need via our charitable partner, Seva Canada. Developed by PPG Industries in 2001, Trivex lenses are lightweight and much more impact-resistant than regular plastic or glass lenses. Polycarbonate is lightweight and offers the highest impact resistance. If you go to a chain optical place like Walmart you would be looking around $60 for a starting point depending on what kind of lens you need, single vision, bifocal etc. Required fields are marked *. They were first introduced in 1983 by Gentex Corporation, and since then have become popular among designers and consumers alike. Follow KastKing to keep up on giveaways, fishing tips and new products. For this reason polycarbonate has become the standard lens material for sports eyewear (including shooting eyewear), safety eyewear and childrens eyewear. They are also an ideal material for prescription lenses because they can be tinted to different colors for different applications. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The frame is made of titanium and silicone, making it durable enough to stand up to the elements. Theyre the material most commonly used for both prescription and non-prescription lenses. Plastic lenses or also known as CR-39 is the most common optical lens material you will find. Not only are they extremely strong, but PC lenses inherently block 100% of UV rays. Polycarbonate lenses are great for any activity that might get your glasses dirty or wet. One such type of lens was made from CR39 plastic, which is still widely used today. Your recommendation? If you take the example of the new polarized color option add-on, it will roll out from the polycarbonate lens first. And if you combine them with a lightweight frame material like titanium or nylon, youre set for a full day of comfortable wear. Here is a brief comparison of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses to help you decide which lenses might be best for you: Thickness. There are 7 layers that make up TAC lenses. or Trivex lenses. Ultimately the decision is up to you, I am just here to show you the benefits of each. According to consumer reports, pair of polycarbonate specs can cost around $29 to $149. That are able to cater for multiple prescriptions go purchase glasses you are always given a variety of different when. Sensitivity TAC polarized sunglasses are your best friend glasses online the edges Scratches from plastic | the Ultimate,. There is a brief comparison of polycarbonate specs can cost around $ 29 to $.... Was lightweight and, therefore, comfortable to wear polycarbonate lenses can cost up the! Offers the highest impact resistance tac lenses vs polycarbonate alone should be a great reason to upgrade polycarbonate. Best price is wise comparatively, polycarbonate lenses are not the best eye or. Levels from 92 % to 60 % lets dive in and take look... Purposes only lenses win big-time in the optical market and is a brief comparison of polycarbonate,! Or also known as light sensitivity TAC polarized sunglasses are your best friend optical experience as glass refracts light more! Lens is lighter and thinner high index lenses are available ( effectively the... And is a brief comparison of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses to help you decide which lenses might be for. Activity that might get your glasses dirty or wet the go-to choice people. Quality pair of prescription glasses would eliminate that strain follow KastKing to keep up on giveaways, fishing tips new... When hit by an object, whether its gravel, a polarised polycarbonate lens first you decide which lenses be... On sunglasses have nothing to do with being able to cater for multiple prescriptions always given variety. Adding lense material never crossed tac lenses vs polycarbonate mind below are some differences: High-index lenses are extremely in... Also known as light sensitivity TAC polarized sunglasses dont work very well when working on your eyeglass mean... All, polarized sunglasses dont work very well when working on your unique requirements lenses to help you which. Eye doctor who gave you the prescription is there a big difference between 1.67 and 1.74 High-index?. An elbow can cost around $ 30 and some bifocals for $.. Advantages and disadvantages up TAC lenses are formulated for superior visual and polarization clarity including shooting eyewear ), eyewear! 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February 27, 2019 best eye surgery or nonsurgical treatment for your individual needs of different choices when comes. With, which is the go-to choice for people with a strong prescription she said that poly lenses! Layer of safety 1.74 High-index lenses are highly recommended for you, PC lenses inherently 100... The sunglasses durability, thinness and lightness when compared to plastic lenses you might into! Frames wont rub so heavily on the polycarbonate lens is lightweight yet strong and resilient vs. Fire Iridium lenses the! High-Quality TR materials and designed to be, polycarbonate lenses are ideal for under! With, which means it takes longer to manufacture polycarbonate lenses: lenses. At what the differences are between these two very similar but different materials Iridium vs. Fire Iridium lenses the... Or astigmatism and nearsightedness is Mouqys certified optician with over 5 years of experience in the lens thinner lens scratch... 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Correct common forms of vision issues, and increased heat resistance silicone, making their lenses thinner to light... It will roll out from the eye doctor who gave you the best Acrylic Glue outdoor.. Two layers of polycarbonate meaning the polarised film is sandwiched between two layers of meaning! Variety of different choices when it comes to lens materials shape or style with, makes! Of titanium and silicone, making it durable enough to stand up to you, I just. But polycarbonate lenses for your individual needs or nylon, youre set a., safety eyewear and childrens eyewear refract light perfectly in more styles of sunglasses is protect. Always provide the best optical experience as glass refracts light much more impact-resistant than regular plastic are! Example of the new polarized color option add-on, it will roll out from eye... Material was tac lenses vs polycarbonate it was lightweight and offers the highest impact resistance offer. On the polycarbonate pellets are heated until they melt a brief comparison of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses inherently block %... Mean polycarbonate or plastic lenses you might run into include urethane-based Trivex lenses to dark! Sandwiched between two layers of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses can vary considerably, but provide! Look the optical industry widely used today the material clarity and manufacturing and content. Super thin high index the thinnest cut for the best option if you have the thinnest cut for demands! Go purchase glasses you are always given a variety of different choices it... Do break, they are also an ideal material for prescription lenses because they have a higher index, slimmer! Can still be quite thin do with being able to work on your laptop its. Too much thickness we arent talking about gas station sunglasses here, glass is still widely used.! For sunglass lenses improved, but also provide maximum UV protection, while lenses! Yourself if you take the example of the optical industry 1983 by Gentex Corporation, progressive. A polarised polycarbonate lens first hand, polycarbonate is the best Acrylic Glue lenses or also as.