You may have several questions when researching the perfect eyeglasses. Does a high prescription mean I have to wear thick, coke bottle glasses? If my prescription is 1.67, is that considered high-index?
Prescriptions that exceed 1.60 are considered high-index. If your prescription is 1.67, you should consider a pair of high-index lenses as opposed to standard lenses for optimal efficiency.
Read on to learn more about high-index lenses’ pros and cons. By the end, you’ll know whether high index lenses are right for you!
What are High-Index Lenses?
When regular lenses have a high prescription, they tend to be thicker and heavier. High-index lenses get around this issue by being lighter and thinner.
The higher the prescription, the thinner the lenses will be. For example, an index of 1.74 will have thinner lenses than an index of 1.67.
These days, people with significant refractive errors, nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism have more comfortable, stylish, and varied options when choosing glasses.
High-index lenses bend light efficiently when compared to traditional materials because they require less material. If your prescription is 1.67, you should consider investing in a high index lens for a sleeker, thinner look.
Are High-Index Lenses Better than Regular Lenses?
This question depends on your price point, prescription, lifestyle, and personal preferences. While anyone who wears glasses could benefit from this type of lens, it is optional for everyone to invest in this type of lens.
What are the Advantages of High Index Lenses?
There are several pros to purchasing high-index lenses. The first, of course, is that these lenses are lighter and thinner than typical lenses.
High-index lenses offer UV protection. This is a great feature if you would prefer not to switch to prescription sunglasses when you step outside.
Another great feature of high-index lenses is their visual appeal. For example, high-farsighted prescriptions tend to distort the size of the user’s pupils when using traditional materials.
The detailed peripheral vision that high-index lenses provide is superior to that of regular lenses. This is a good option if you prefer a flatter lens design.
What are the Disadvantages of High Index Lenses?
While you might be convinced that there are no drawbacks to high-index lenses, consider the following disadvantages.
Most importantly, high-index lenses are more expensive than regular lenses. The prices can range from $150-400, depending on the type of prescription. This can be quite an investment.
High-index lenses reflect 50% more light than regular lenses. However, some retailers offer an anti-reflective coating to alleviate this issue.
What are the Types of High-Index Lenses?
After reading this article, you may have decided that high-index lenses are ideal for you. If this is the case, read on to discover the features and types of high-index lenses on the market.
| Type of High-Index Lens | Characteristics |
| Aspheric lenses | Thinner; especially for high myopic Rx |
| Bifocal lenses | Darken when you go outdoors |
| Progressive glasses | Provide correction for near, intermediate & distance viewing |
| Photochromic lenses | Darken when you go outdoors |
| Polarized lenses | Reduced glare from surfaces |
| High-definition lenses | Customized to give clearer, more defined vision |
Ask your optometrist about the most appropriate features and types of high-index lenses for you.
Do I Need to Choose Specific Frames for my High-Index Lenses?
Once you have chosen your lens type, you are ready to choose your frames. You might be wondering if choosing high-index lenses limits your options.
Fortunately, high-index lenses can work with almost any style of frame; whereas thick lenses give you few style options. This is good news for people with strong prescriptions!
Are High-Index Lenses Fragile?
You might be wondering if the thinness of a high-index lens makes it less durable. While there are many benefits to high-index lenses, you must be extremely careful not to break them.
High-index lenses are more fragile and prone to scratching than traditional lenses. While you pay a premium for comfort and style, durability is unfortunately not included in that price.
Are High-Index Lenses Right for me?
If you have a strong prescription, you will benefit from the comfort of high-index lenses. Many who wear these lenses find that the extra cost is worth it.
However, if your prescription is less than -3, there is less of an incentive to splurge on high-index lenses. Luckily, there are several more economical options to choose from on the market for your prescription type.
Other Types of Lenses
If, after reading this article, you have decided that high-index lenses are not for you, consider the following alternatives:
- Clear Lenses: the least expensive, most basic choice.
- Clear with Blue Blocker: great if you spend a lot of time looking at screens.
- Transition Lenses: a fantastic option if you don’t want to buy prescription sunglasses.
They will be thicker than high-index lenses, but really, you’ll get by alright with them.
Conclusion
High-index lenses range from 1.60 to 1.74. There is not a noticeable difference between 1.67 and 1.74; though 1.74 is the thinnest lens on the market.
High-index lenses can suit any prescription strength. However, they are more expensive than regular lenses. You should buy them if your prescription is stronger than average.
