Single Vision vs Progressive vs Bifocal Lenses

Single Vision Lenses

Single vision lenses are a common type of eyeglass lens, also known as a monofocal lens, that have a uniform optical prescription and are used to correct specific vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

Single vision lenses are used for people who only need to be corrected for one range of vision distances.

When to Choose Single Vision?

For long-distance: If you wear glasses all day but don't have dual/zoom glasses, or need them most of the time to see things far away.

For middle distance: If you primarily need this pair of glasses to work on a computer or something else at arm's length or if you are a musician you need this pair of glasses to read music.

For reading: If your main focus is reading books or close-up work.

Progressive Lenses

Progressive lenses correct vision problems at near, intermediate and distance with a single lens at the same time. In progressive lenses, the shape of the corrective portion of the lens is close to a funnel or mushroom shape.

The top is used for distance vision, the center is used for mid-distance vision, and the bottom is used for near vision or reading. This means that the user can see the entire field of vision without having to switch between multiple pairs of glasses.

Natural Vision Experience

Progressive lenses provide a smooth transition from the distance through intermediate to near, with all the in-between corrections included as well. You can look up to see anything in the distance, look ahead to view your computer in the intermediate zone, and drop your gaze downward to read comfortably.

Progressive lenses are the closest to how natural vision is that you can get in a pair of prescription glasses.

Bifocal Lenses

Bifocal lenses have two different focal areas and are mainly used for correcting distance and near vision problems, not for correcting mid-distance vision problems. If we are facing the problem of presbyopia (old eyesight), where reading at close range becomes difficult, then bifocal lenses may be an option.

In bifocal lenses, the upper area (distance vision area) is used to correct distance vision problems, such as seeing distant objects or driving a vehicle. The lower area (near vision area) is used to correct nearsightedness or close reading problems.

Bifocal vs Progressive

Bifocal lenses are different from progressive lenses. Progressive lenses provide a seamless transition, from distance vision to intermediate vision to near vision, without a distinct dividing line.

Bifocal lenses have a more obvious focus switch, and the user needs to shift their gaze to the appropriate area to get the desired focus. There is usually a visible dividing line or transition area between the two correction zones.

Non-Prescription Lenses

Non-prescription lenses are no prescription lenses or lenses with a standard prescription that do not require a specific customized prescription.

Non-prescription lenses are primarily used to provide eye protection and fashion style rather than vision correction. No prescription lenses can be used as an accessory to filter UV radiation and provide additional eye protection.

Degree labeled lenses such as standard lenses used for mild myopia or hyperopia correction. These lenses may be of a specific degree, but they are made to fit a common range of degrees and do not require an individualized eye prescription.