Let's be real, prescription eyeglasses can be expensive! I used to dread going to the eye doctor, not just for the exam, but also for the hefty price tag that followed. I knew there had to be a better way, so I embarked on a journey to find affordable and high-quality eyewear. I'm excited to share what I've learned. I've discovered strategies that have saved me hundreds of dollars without sacrificing quality.
For years, I bought my prescription glasses from traditional brick-and-mortar stores. I felt like I was trapped in a cycle of overpaying. I remember one particularly painful experience when I needed new glasses with a strong prescription. The lenses alone were going to cost a fortune, and I was looking at a total bill of over $700. I knew that I needed thinner lenses and anti-reflective coating because of my strong prescription, but the price was just too high. I also had a hard time finding frames that I liked and that fit my face well. The selection always seemed limited and overpriced.
I started researching online retailers, hoping to find a more affordable option. I was initially hesitant, worrying about the quality and fit. I wondered if the lenses would be accurate and if the frames would be durable. I read countless reviews and compared prices, trying to find a reliable online store. I tried a few different options, but the quality didn’t always meet my expectations. With some online retailers, I felt like I got what I paid for - something cheap, but not great.
My first big breakthrough came when a friend suggested I check out Costco. I was skeptical at first, but I decided to give it a try. I was amazed! With my -11 prescription, I was used to paying sky-high prices. But at Costco, I got a complete pair of glasses, including thinner lenses and anti-reflective coating, for under $200! And the lenses were incredibly clear, the clearest I've ever had. That was a game changer for me. It really opened my eyes to the possibility of saving money on prescription eyewear.
I also learned the importance of getting my pupillary distance (PD) measured correctly. I now always make sure to ask my optometrist for my PD before I leave the exam room. This measurement is crucial for ensuring that the lenses are ground correctly to match my eyes. I've heard this number can change with time, so it's worth double-checking it every time you get a new prescription.
I also explored online options. I know many people swear by Zenni.com. I've heard great things about them, but I haven't personally tried them yet. I did try EyeBuyDirect, and while the prices were certainly attractive, I wasn't entirely happy with the quality. It's definitely a case of "you get what you pay for."
Recently, I was looking for some new blue light blocking glasses for reading and computer work. I came across Mozaer Sunglasses and decided to give them a try. I was specifically looking for something stylish and functional. I ended up purchasing a pair of Women Blue Light Blocking CR39 Lenses Reading Glasses Prescription Optics Myopia Presbyopic Eyewear TR90 Metal Eyeglasses Frame in Bright Black-Myopia -1.50.
I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and design of the glasses. The TR90 metal frame feels lightweight and comfortable, and the blue light blocking lenses have made a noticeable difference in reducing eye strain during long hours of screen time. I've been using them for a few weeks now, and I'm very happy with my purchase. I also appreciate that Mozaer Sunglasses offers a wide range of styles and prescriptions to choose from.
Here are some practical tips I've gathered from my experiences: