Choosing the right type of lens is one of the most important decisions when ordering new glasses. Single vision, varifocal, and bifocal lenses each serve different visual needs β and understanding the differences will help you make the right choice for your prescription and lifestyle.
Single Vision Lenses
Single vision lenses have a single optical prescription across the entire lens. They correct one field of vision only β either distance or near (reading), but not both.
Who are they for? Single vision lenses are ideal for people who are short-sighted (myopia), long-sighted (hyperopia), or have astigmatism, and only need correction for one distance. They're also the standard choice for children and younger adults whose eyes haven't yet developed presbyopia (age-related difficulty focusing up close).
Pros: Simple, affordable, and available in a wide range of lens materials and coatings. Easy to adapt to.
Cons: If you need correction for both near and distance vision, you'll need two separate pairs of glasses.
Browse our Single Vision Lens Options to find the right lens for your prescription.
Bifocal Lenses
Bifocal lenses contain two distinct optical zones separated by a visible line. The upper portion corrects distance vision, while the lower segment β typically a small D-shaped area β corrects near vision for reading.
Who are they for? Bifocals are suited to people who need correction for both distance and near vision, typically those over 40 who have developed presbyopia. They were the traditional solution before varifocals became widely available.
Pros: Clear, distinct zones for distance and near vision. No intermediate zone to adapt to.
Cons: The visible line between zones can be cosmetically noticeable. There's no intermediate zone, so tasks like using a computer at arm's length can be uncomfortable. The abrupt jump between zones can take some getting used to.
Varifocal Lenses
Varifocal lenses (also called progressive lenses) provide a seamless, gradual transition between distance, intermediate, and near vision β all within a single lens, with no visible line.
Who are they for? Varifocals are the modern solution for anyone who needs correction at multiple distances. They're particularly popular with people over 40 who want a versatile, natural-looking lens that handles everything from driving to reading to screen use.
Pros: No visible line. Covers all distances in one lens β distance, intermediate (computer/dashboard), and near (reading). More cosmetically appealing than bifocals.
Cons: There's a short adaptation period as your eyes learn to use different zones of the lens. The peripheral areas of the lens can have some distortion, which reduces with higher-quality varifocal designs.
Explore our range of Varifocal Lens Options, from entry-level to premium designs.
Which Lens Type Is Right for You?
Here's a quick summary to help you decide:
- Single vision β you need correction for one distance only (distance or reading)
- Bifocal β you need distance and near correction, and prefer distinct zones
- Varifocal β you need distance, intermediate, and near correction in one seamless lens
Your optician's prescription will indicate whether you need a reading addition ("Add" value), which is the clearest sign that you need either bifocal or varifocal lenses. If your prescription has no Add value, single vision lenses are the right choice.
Can I Reglaze My Existing Frames with Any Lens Type?
Yes β in most cases, your existing frames can be reglazed with single vision, bifocal, or varifocal lenses. The main consideration for varifocals is that the frame needs to be tall enough to accommodate all three zones comfortably. Our team can advise if you're unsure. Get started by browsing our single vision or varifocal lens options.