If you wear eyeglasses, you are aware of the importance of lenses that provide clear vision. High index lenses are a popular choice for those looking for thinner and lighter lenses. These lenses have advantages and disadvantages that you should know before choosing them.
Advantages of High Index Lenses
Thinner Lenses
High index lenses are thinner and lighter than standard lenses made of plastic or glass. This is because high index lenses are made of materials that bend light more effectively, enabling lens designers to make more compact lenses. A thinner lens means that you can wear glasses that are less noticeable while still experiencing the same vision quality as your regular glasses.
More Comfortable
High index lenses are lighter than standard lenses, making them more comfortable to wear. A lighter lens also means that the glasses are less likely to slip down your face while wearing them.
Better Aesthetic
High index lenses provide better aesthetics since they are thinner. The thinner the lens of your glasses, the more harmoniously the frames will blend in with your face. This makes the glasses look more aesthetically pleasing and reduces the "bug-eye" effect that thicker lenses can produce.
Protection
High index lenses have better UV protection than regular plastic lenses. They provide 100% protection from UV rays, reducing the risk of eye problems associated with sun exposure.
High Prescription
People with high prescriptions can benefit from high index lenses. The lenses help reduce distortions and increase clarity as they refract light more effectively than standard lenses.
Disadvantages of High Index Lenses
More Expensive
High index lenses cost more than standard lenses due to the materials used in their production. The cost may deter some people from choosing high index lenses over standard lenses.
Prone to Reflections
High index lenses are more prone to reflections than standard lenses. This means that reflections from lights or screens can create glare, causing discomfort for the wearer and reducing the visual benefits of the lenses.
Scratches
High index lenses are more susceptible to scratches due to the type of materials used to make them. Scratched lenses impair both vision and aesthetics, making it important to take proper care of them.
Delicate in Nature
High index lenses are more fragile compared to regular lenses. If dropped, they might easily get damaged or even cracked.
Limited in Frame Options
High index lenses can only be fitted into certain frame types due to their size and shape limitations. Some smaller frames may not be compatible with high index lenses.
Choosing High Index Lenses
Choosing high index lenses comes down to personal preference and the needs of your prescription. If you have a high prescription, the advantages of high index lenses could outweigh the disadvantages. Additionally, if aesthetics and weight are important to you, high index lenses could be the right choice. The cost of high index lenses may be a deciding factor for some, but it is important to consider the additional benefits and their overall value.
Conclusion
High index lenses have advantages and disadvantages that you should consider before purchasing them. The benefits include thinner lenses, better aesthetics, UV protection, and a higher prescription, while the disadvantages include higher cost, scratchability, reflective tendencies, fragility and limited frame options. It is important to weigh these factors to choose the right lenses for your needs.
FAQs
- Can high index lenses fit any frame?
- High index lenses can only be fitted into certain frame types due to their size and shape limitations.
- Does the cost of high index lenses differ between brands?
- Yes, high index lenses cost can vary depending on the brand and their quality.
- Do high index lenses provide better clarity than regular lenses?
- Yes, high index lenses provide better clarity as they refract light more effectively than standard lenses.
- Can high index lenses be coated to prevent reflections?
- Yes, high index lenses can be coated to reduce reflections, which can help to eliminate glare.
- Are high index lenses more prone to yellowing than standard lenses?
- No, high index lenses are not more prone to yellowing than standard lenses, as it is the coating that is more susceptible to yellowing.
