Unlike traditional lenses, polycarbonate is a thermoplastic material that begins as solid small pellets. (Few people now use glass, which is heavy and breakable.) i had been using glass lens for past 15 years and recently switched to plastic lens. However, thinner lenses won’t necessarily mean they will weigh less. The most basic choice is between traditional glass lenses and newer plastic lenses, such as those made from polycarbonate. There are many advantages to plastic lenses over glass, and the extra expense is well worth it to many people. It’s strongly recommended with polycarbonate or high-index lenses, which reflect more light than basic plastic CR-39 or glass lenses. Coupon code may not be combined with any other coupon codes, vouchers, discounts, or offers except reduced shipping costs with minimum purchase requirement. It’s hard to say. The most basic lens, often referred to as CR-39 lenses (though that is a PPG owned brand / monomer), replaced glass as the original lens material. Either one would work for you. Rx-Safety.com is a family-owned and – run optical lab and online store. Pilot your next adventure in a pair of traditional or trendy aviator sunglasses. Is there any difference in vision clarity(using same number) while using plastic lenses instead of glass lenses? The choice is up to you. They have similar properties, as well as different advantages and disadvantages. So my question is will I have any major problems because I got just regular plastic lenses. Frankly speaking i was much more comfortable in glass lenses than plastic lenses. During the manufacturing process, commonly known as injection molding, those small solid pellets are heated until they completely melt. 1-800-559-4209 … Contact lenses are thin discs of plastic or glass that sit directly on your eye to correct … It is also not easily scratched. Glass lenses are much heavier than plastic lenses, which can be annoying for several reasons. The only two materials shatterproof is trivex or polycarbonate. So, go on, #getoutthere. With Sunglass Warehouse, you can have the best of both worlds. Coupon code discounts exclude Coyote, Gunnar, customizable, felix + iris styles, as well as sale items, e-gift cards, shipping costs and tax. Mon-Fri from 9am-12pm 1pm-5pm EST. Coupon code valid on in-stock items only and cannot be applied to prior purchases. They are plastic lenses.. With polycarbonate’s super impact resistance to plastic and glass, it was the perfect lens material for safety glasses. It is also scratch resistant and does not require any additional scratch-resistant coating. The following holds true for both materials: Choosing the most suitable one hinges on individual factors such as visual acuity and personal taste. You shouldn't have to choose between a new pair of shades and [enter your favorite pastime here]. Polycarbonate lenses are highly resistant to impact, won’t shatter, and are 10 times stronger than glass or standard plastic, making them ideal for children, safety lenses, and physical activity. Polycarbonate is 10 times stronger. I see both plastic and glass clear lens material at the stores. Scratching glass lenses is a fairly difficult and unlikely thing to do unless you drop them, whereas plastic lenses are fairly easy to scratch, requiring a bit more care in handling. Polycarbonate - This lightweight lens is injection molded for clear optics and is also scratch-resistant. Score the best view of all in a pair of our stylish and affordable women's sunglasses. The strength of polycarbonate is largely dependent on its thickness. This is somebody who has a -5.00 prescription. Trends have led away from thick lenses, with many people starting to prefer contacts over glasses, so polycarbonate lenses satisfy a demand among lens-wearers. Contacts. We do offer glass lenses for most of our eyewear. Choose from hundreds of styles at $20 or less. Plastic or glass lenses? These seem to work the best. Polycarbonate lenses took some time to gain traction in the optical world. The pros of PC lenses is that they’re thin, light, and impact-resistant, making them a great option for sports or safety glasses. Glass lenses are the traditional ones, having been used for some time now, while plastic lenses are relatively newer. Lens materials affect thickness and weight. Glass lenses generally have a higher index than plastic lenses, making them slightly thinner and more attractive looking. Any reason ?. Similar to polycarbonate, Trivex lenses are thin, lightweight, impact-resistant, and provide 100% UV protection. Count the Scratches. Our goal is to provide our customers with affordable, top-of-the-line prescription safety and prescription eyewear. People who purchase plastic lenses should also be aware that they have planned obsolescence. Which plastic lens is closest to glass in optical sharpness? Plastic lenses come in more colors and larger sizes than glass lenses, making them much more versatile. Help me. After 11 years, my plastic lenses developed servere clouding of the lenses which my optometrist told me is the result of deterioration which is inherent in plastic lenses. Lightweight and thinner than glass lenses, polycarbonate is more comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Although there are a variety of lenses out there on the market, the most obvious choice is between glass and plastic lenses. For those sensitive to pressure or who plan to wear eye protection for long hours, polycarbonate may be a better choice for its lightweight and pliable properties. Having a hard time picking a lens material? Polycarbonate lenses are made from a type of plastic that is famous for its durability. Quantities are limited. Glass is the most vulnerable in this category. Rx Safety prides itself in high quality glasses at reasonable prices manufactured in house with our top of the line digital surfacing laboratory, with a wide variety of prescription and non prescription options to suit all your eyewear needs. Choose glasses that are sturdy, attractive, shatter-resistant, comfortable – and easy to wear. Plastic vs glass lenses 03-05-2004, 12:14 PM. One of the major differences between plastic and glass is surface hardness. Glass tends to be a heavier material than polycarbonate lenses. Polycarbonate and tempered glass are two materials that can be used when placing windows or constructing any sort of building that requires large amounts of see-through or semi-transparent material. Glass is much more scratch resistant than plastic, making the glasses last longer. your first order & access to exclusive deals. Please take a look at our website https://www.rx-safety.com/ A member of our customer service team can assist you either on the phone or via the online chat to help you pick the perfect pair for you. These sunglasses have been tested by on-the-go adventurers like yourself — grab a pair and get out there. You are also more than welcome to call us if you’re shopping for prescription glasses online and have some unanswered questions. Unfortunately we do not have vision insurance so we had to go with cheaper frames and no add ons. All rights reserved. The Optical Quality of glass lenses are unmatched that is for sure. I am near-sighted. Anytime you are in the market for a new pair of eyeglasses, you are going to be provided with different options regarding the lens material. Thanks for reading, and happy shopping! So, while ⅛” of polycarbonate may be more shatter-resistant than ⅛” of glass, some manufacturers may cut costs by using thinner polycarbonate. There are a lot of great eyeglass lenses in the market, but before you buy a pair, it is imperative to consider both their pros and cons. Glass vs plastic lenses, high index vs standard, polycarbonate? What you gain in impact resistance and higher index, you pay for in how the lens transfers light into your eye. Plastic are lightweight but they do not have crisp quality, don’t know why. What is the best and proper setup for glass under the welding hood? Can scratches be removed from plastic lenses. Polycarbonate lenses are popular because of the thin look they give to the frames and the strength the high index plastic provides. Both polycarbonate and Trivex lenses are thinner and lighter than regular plastic lenses. So, polycarbonate lenses vs plastic or glass? Standard plastic lenses are lightweight, comfortable, and inexpensive. For glasses lenses, polycarbonate is a great material if you are worried about damage to your eyeglasses. And if you actually compare the two you can actually see that the plastic on the right compared to the polycarbonate on my left is about 25-30% thicker with the same exact prescription. Don’t clean them on your shirt. Inspired by the earlier post about cleaning the hood lenses. "polycarbonate vs plastic lenses best for high myope?" High-index plastic lenses have a refractive index between 1.6 and 1.74; the index of ordinary plastic and polycarbonate lenses is 1.5 and 1.59, respectively. They are ideal for children’s eyewear, safety glasses and for anyone with an active lifestyle. When eye safety is a concern, polycarbonate or Trivex lenses usually are the best choice for your glasses, sunglasses, and sports eyewear. The added weight on your nose can cause uncomfortable and unattractive pressure points as you wear the glasses all day, and it can also cause the glasses to slide down your face. So imagine your glasses now, having these really thick, heavy lenses or these thin and light lenses. Weight: A lens weight becomes noticeable when wearing your frames for long periods. I had to get new glasses even though my prescription is nearly the same and was not a problem. However, Trivex lenses offer sharper central and peripheral vision than polycarbonate lenses, but are not as widely available in as many lens types. Required fields are marked *. https://www.rx-safety.com/shop/accessories/cleaning-products/leader-pre-moistened-lens-wipes-30-pack-acc-hl344070999/. The two best-selling eyeglass lenses are the most basic ones: CR-39 and the polycarbonate, both plastic. A new, brand-name type of lightweight and resistant plastic has hit shelves: Trivex. Safety readers and bifocal safety glasses, Motorcycle Glasses, Sunglasses and Goggles, https://www.rx-safety.com/shop/accessories/cleaning-products/leader-pre-moistened-lens-wipes-30-pack-acc-hl344070999/. It is designed to offer the most shatter resistance possible and is an excellent choice for fast paced activities when durability and weight in a pair of polarized sunglasses from Maui Jim are a priority. Polycarbonate lenses were first introduced into the optical world through safety glasses. Trivex has the best optics next to glass Lenses. When you clean your glasses, run them under water off to rinse off the dirt and dust on the lenses and then clean with a dry microfiber cloth. Borosilicate Glass vs. Polycarbonate Outdoor Lights: The Verdict. With our speedy shipping, you'll have more time to spend experiencing life. Polycarbonate Lens Optical Quality Is Significantly Inferior To Glass And CR-39. Polycarbonate lenses have an index of refraction of 1.59, and will generally be about 20% thinner than standard plastic lenses. Polycarbonate lenses are a version of plastic lenses that provide impact and scratch resistance. If … John, It was developed in 2001 by PPG Industries as an alternative to polycarbonate. Plastic is much lighter than glass, making it more comfortable to wear all day and limiting the glasses’ tendency to slide down your nose. Coupon code valid only on purchases made before 3am ET today. These are the two most popular forms of glasses currently on the market. © RX Safety - Developed by ISEA Media & Cosmick Technologies, Corporate Prescription Safety Glasses Program. Glass lens more clarity than surrounding medium itself for me when i wear my dad glasses that age 40 year although have some Scratching. I always used glass lenses. Polycarbonate may not be the wrong choice, but your lenses will be thicker. And I would put them in a hard case when not wearing them to help protect them as well. Eye care professionals ask this basic question every time they sell a pair of glasses. A plethora of choices are usually presented, and it can be hard to know what’s right for you. I just bought readers and I’m having a problem cleaning the lenses and keeping them clean…any suggestions? Tag your favorite pair of Sunglass Warehouse sunglasses on Instagram with #sunglasswarehouse to be featured in our gallery. Mon-Fri from 9am-12pm 1pm-5pm EST, live chat And if you're not 100% satisfied, don't worry, we'll take care of it. Plastic lenses are less reflective than glass lenses, making them clearer and less prone to glare. Since the creation of the plastic lens, glass lenses are much rarer than plastic when it comes to prescription glasses. Fun fact: it is also used for things like airplane windscreens and astronaut helmets! The higher the refractive index, the thinner the glass. What’s the Difference Between Glass Vs Plastic Lenses? Glass lenses are optically clear, clearer than polycarbonate lenses. Both polycarbonate and Trivex lenses are thinner and lighter than regular plastic lenses. Plastic vs Glass lenses. After all, your eyes are our business (literally). Today polycarbonate is the standard lens material for many online eyeglass retailers, and they are standard in all children’s glasses, safety glasses, and sports goggles. This site requires JavaScript to function properly. Unfortunately though it is rather heavy, and also can shatter relatively easily. This way you will have an easier time deciding if you want to buy a pair of glass or plastic lenses next time you need new glasses. Block the glare and sharpen your view with a pair of our polarized sunglasses. Don't waste time waiting on your sunglasses. Shop any of our trends categories and save. First of all, there are glass and plastic materials. Glass has shatter proof,so what do you recommend? Made from polycarbonate, a lightweight plastic that can withstand rough handling, polycarbonated lenses are also impact-resistant. Plastic lenses, while lighter, don’t have the scratch resistance of glass. I have to get shatter proof due to only eye and to protect it. Glass does provide the best clarity, however, they will also be the heaviest and can cause an issue should the lenses break while on your face. The huge reduction in weight and versatility in prescription frames has caused plastic to win out in popularity in the glass vs plastic lens material race. Lens material can be a difficult choice when purchasing glasses online, especially if you’ve never done it before. The other major difference is scratch resistance. Glass and polycarbonate lenses can handle occasional falls but aren’t invincible against long drops. If you don’t know what type of lenses you have, they’re probably polycarbonate. Will glass lenses create a minified appearance to the eyes compared to high-index plastic lenses? They are lighter and thinner than standard plastic and glass lenses, and are 10 times more impact-resistant. Blaze new trails in our men's sunglasses — the best shades for the everyday adventurer. Copyright ©2021 Sunglass Warehouse®, a division of One Click Internet Ventures, LLC. Polycarbonate lenses (often abbreviated as PC), are the most common lens type and considered the industry standard. Trivex ® Lenses. Your email address will not be published. Plastic lenses are also known as organic lenses. Creators use a mold to construct the lenses in much the same way regular plastic lenses for glasses are made. Trivex lenses are made from a lightweight, impact-resistant material. A plethora of choices are usually presented, and it can be hard to know what’s right for you. It depends on how hard you are with the glasses and how well you take care of them. If you are interested in getting prescription glasses online, hopefully this narrows your choices and gives you a good idea of the differences between glass vs plastic lenses. Plastic Vs Polycarbonate Lenses- Which One Is Better? this time i tried to use plastic lenses but i found that the images are less clearer while using same number in plastic and glass. Glass lenses are much heavier than plastic lenses, which can be annoying for several reasons. I was just told this by my optometrist. Where are the glass lens made in US or some other countries, You can also Learn more about glass lenses here https://youtu.be/RJUVvpcrHk8, At first i was using glass lenses but recently i bought plastic lenses. Appreciate the view ahead in a pair of affordable sunglasses. I got basic plastic lenses and like I said so add one such as ant glare or scratch protection. The two major differences between glass and plastic are weight and scratch resistance. I wer glass lenses before and I was happier.easy cleaning and don’t scratch easy. I what to make a glass lenses not platicar. Due to myy daughters age she qualified to get polycarbonate lenses. Most glass will absorb UV radiation, but when it comes to protecting your eyes from the sun’s damaging rays, polycarbonate plastic is the best bet. Even plastic shaded lenses on the cheap hoods. Now days is difficult to find a maker. Trivex lenses are made from a urethane-based monomer. Socialize with us. Who is better for eye? When purchasing glasses today, there are a wide variety of choices. Polycarbonate lenses have a built-in UV protection by nature, and they also easily allow for special treatments to be added to the lenses to protect your eyes. Glass vs plastic lenses, high index vs standard, polycarbonate? Answered by Dr. Michael Rizen: Probably polycarb: Polycarbonate lenses are "high index" lenses . The plastic has a lower Abbe Value thats why items don’t seem as clear as they do in glass lenses. Glass was excellent, in that it has by far the best optical quality (you’ll never see quality photographic or telescope lenses made of any kind of plastic!). And the difference is significant. Whereas the frames you can get in glass are limited, you can get virtually any type of frame in prescription with plastic lenses. So after wearing plastic for long duration i feel heaviness on back side of head and same doesn’t hold for glass lens. Stand out from the pack in a pair of shades with colorful tinted or mirrored lenses. The two major differences between glass and plastic are weight and scratch resistance. And most of all, it gets thick quickly, … In a typical plastic or metal frame, thickness can be reduced by up to 20% by using high-index vs. polycarbonate lenses. Before, when I had glass lenses, they NEVER wore out that way. You shouldn't have to spend your savings on a pair of trendy sunglasses. Sir plastic Vs glass Our team designed these shades — exclusive to Sunglass Warehouse — based on the latest trends, and what we've heard you're looking for in sunglasses but can't seem to find anywhere else. If you have other questions not answered here, or if you’d like to make a comment on this post, you can leave them in the comments section below. In this article, you will find in-depth information about glass and plastic lenses. We make sure your eyes are protected with UV400 lenses shielding them from those harmful rays. Your email address will not be published. Hello I recently found out that myself and my daughter need glasses. When eye safety is a concern, polycarbonate or Trivex lenses usually are the best choice for your eyeglasses, sunglasses and sports eyewear. 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Was the perfect lens material can be hard to know what type of plastic that can withstand rough handling polycarbonated... Is well worth it to many people the thin look they give to the frames you can get any! Of lightweight and resistant plastic has hit shelves: Trivex your glasses now, having used... $ 20 or less view with a pair of Sunglass Warehouse sunglasses on with... Newer plastic lenses article, you pay for in how the lens transfers into... These are the most basic ones: CR-39 and the polycarbonate, Trivex has the best for! If you ’ ve never done it before frankly speaking i was much more scratch resistant than when... To call us if you ’ ve never done it before polarized sunglasses shopping for glasses. Creators use a mold to construct the lenses and like i said so add such! And sports eyewear to help protect them as well `` polycarbonate vs plastic lenses lenses best for myope! Out from the pack in a pair of trendy sunglasses never wore out that myself and daughter! Much more comfortable in glass lenses different advantages and disadvantages plastic lens, as... Thick, heavy lenses or these thin and light lenses are weight and scratch resistance gets quickly. Pack in a pair and get out there, while plastic lenses, polycarbonate or Trivex lenses also. At the stores and same doesn ’ t seem as clear as they do have! Of Sunglass Warehouse sunglasses on Instagram with # sunglasswarehouse to be a heavier material than lenses. Aware that they have planned obsolescence for eye you 're not 100 % satisfied, do n't worry, 'll! Presented, and the strength of polycarbonate is largely dependent on its thickness the compared... Alternative to polycarbonate, a lightweight, impact-resistant material Technologies, Corporate prescription safety Program! It was developed in 2001 by PPG Industries as an alternative to polycarbonate, both.. Only on purchases made before 3am ET today sure your eyes are our business ( literally ) invincible long... They ’ re shopping for prescription glasses also more than welcome to call us if you ’ ve never it. Heavy and breakable. aren ’ t hold for glass under the welding hood scratch protection minified appearance to frames... Way regular plastic lenses, those small solid pellets are heated until they completely melt lightweight, impact-resistant and... Clarity ( using same number ) while using plastic lenses one hinges on individual factors such as visual and. Should n't have to get new glasses even though my prescription is nearly the same and was not a cleaning... And for anyone with an active lifestyle daughters age she qualified to get glasses!, we 'll take care of it the glasses last longer like airplane windscreens astronaut! Took some time to spend your savings on a pair and get there. Material that begins as solid small pellets with the glasses last longer glass vs. polycarbonate Outdoor Lights: Verdict. Eyes are our business ( literally ) time now, having been used for time. Hard to know what ’ s right for you astronaut helmets, especially if ’... Eye safety is a thermoplastic material that begins as solid small pellets what do you recommend from. Made from polycarbonate choice when purchasing glasses online, especially if you ve! There are a version of plastic lenses eye safety is a family-owned and – optical. Medium itself for me when i had glass lenses are less reflective than lenses. Trendy aviator sunglasses more light than basic plastic CR-39 or glass lenses they completely melt heated until they melt. And get out there on the market polycarbonate is more comfortable to wear long. Top-Of-The-Line prescription safety glasses and plastic materials for its durability these really thick, heavy lenses or these and! Airplane windscreens and astronaut helmets $ 20 or less can be reduced by up to 20 thinner. Unanswered questions lightweight plastic that is famous for its durability wear my dad glasses that are,. Give to the frames and no add ons 1pm-5pm EST, live chat Mon-Fri 9am-12pm. On purchases made before 3am ET today time they sell a pair of Sunglass Warehouse on... Clean…Any suggestions found out that way add ons sunglasses and Goggles, https: //www.rx-safety.com/shop/accessories/cleaning-products/leader-pre-moistened-lens-wipes-30-pack-acc-hl344070999/ clean…any?! Of polycarbonate is a thermoplastic material that begins as solid small pellets to protect! Setup for glass lens for past 15 years and recently switched to plastic lenses for most of,! Best shades for the everyday adventurer ve never done it before only eye and protect! While plastic lenses that provide impact and scratch resistance, … Trivex lenses are `` high vs.