Although at the time plastic lenses had. Interesting Read Polycarbonate VS Plastic Lenses | A Complete Analysis. So choosing the right lens is an essential task that should always be taken seriously. One of the biggest selling points of early plastic lens material was that it was lightweight and offered all-day comfort. Polycarbonate lenses are very resistant to tint compared with plastic lenses which accept tints. Fast forward to modern-day, plastic lenses are still the most popular lens material because it does still have many benefits though it does have some downsides to it as well. Other people are only worried about what the frames look like and could care less about the lenses. But unfortunately for you, PC lenses on sunglasses have nothing to do with being able to work on your laptop. There is a very small percentage of the population that is unable to wear polycarbonate lenses. For this reason polycarbonate has become the standard lens material for sports eyewear (including shooting eyewear), safety eyewear and childrens eyewear. These days, there's an expansive market for sunglass lenses, two of the most popular lens styles being plastic lens or polycarbonate lens. We think all the time! The liquid lens material is slowly baked untill it sets. That sounds about right for the pricing for polycarbonate bifocal lenses. Even though its multi-layer, a TAC lens is very thin usually no more than 1.2mm. Trivex lenses are made of a urethane-based monomer. Engaging Read Trivex VS Polycarbonate | The Definitive Guide. Polarized Polycarbonate RhinoLenses are virtually indestructible. On the other hand, polycarbonate lenses come with a coating that allows them to tint way more than the high index. Polycarbonate lenses are some of the most impact resistant lenses on the market, which makes them ideal for use in sunglasses and other products that will be worn by people who do a lot of active activity. Below are some things to consider when choosing eye lens material: Progressive Lenses:lenses that help you to see at all distances. Lower priced polarised sunglasses use a multi-layer material called TAC (Triacetate) with the front layer being the polarised film. Since plastic lenses were introduced in the 1950s, eyewear technology has been speeding along. Offering a lens with optical quality almost nearly as good as glass, BUT only being half as heavy as glass and far more impact resistant than glass. Although plastic lenses are more vulnerable to scratches, throughout the years in the industry I have seen people with plastic lenses with not one scratch on them after using them for 2 years. choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. Taking all things into account, polycarbonate lenses are 18% lighter than the high index. And since manufacturers of sports eyewear understand that frames get dropped or hit by debris, they choose polycarbonate lenses. About Me | Meet Our Team | Privacy Policy | Contact Us | Sitemap If you want your glasses to last as long as possible in the face of everyday wear and tear, polycarbonate may be the way to go! Im debating weather to send them back demanding what I ordered or just wear them to avoid a month of delay and hastle. Polycarbonate is a thermoplastic that starts as a solid material in the form of small pellets. Polycarbonate is an excellent choice for people with a strong prescription. You may also want to consider reading this article on acetate vs plastic frames if youre looking to dive deeper into your glasses materials. Venti20 Sunglasses - Lens Specifications and Glossary. All of our sunglasses are made from triacetate cellulose or TAC for short. Polycarbonate is lightweight and offers the highest impact resistance. Polycarbonate lenses work especially well on rimless and semi-rimless styles. Photochromic lenses are available in both materials. Polycarbonate is also a thicker material than TAC, adding to its durability compared to the thin, wavy plastic material of Triacetate lenses. When driving, polarized sunglasses can help reduce glare as a result of light being reflected off the hoods of other vehicles. It is also much less expensive to use than glass. And wearing them for long periods of time was a chore. They also offer 100 percent protection from the suns harmful UV light and are up to 10 times more impact-resistant than plastic or glass lenses. The first polycarbonate lenses ran into three major problems that kept it from gaining traction, these were as follow: Eventually, these obstacles were overcome and the polycarbonate material got developed to the polycarbonate material we know today, thanks to the CD and entertainment industries. And that reason is impact protection. It's highly impact-resistant and famous for standing up to forces that would shatter other materials. Check out ETD's selection of police car lights with TIR lenses. And there are a few benefits to using this style of polarized sunglasses: And its these three factors that push people to buy TAC lenses. Polycarbonate lenses are great for any activity that might get your glasses dirty or wet. The same can also be said when it comes to . According to consumer reports, pair of polycarbonate specs can cost around $29 to $149. Triacetate (TAC) TAC lenses are light and thin, they are also tough and flexible. With TAC, as the polarised film is on the front it can scratch and eventually lose some of its polarising properties. The CR stands for Columbia Resin which is the polymer that the material is made out of and the 39 means that there were 38 other Columbia Resins that didnt make the cut for optical lenses. Hi Mary! Plastic has the lowest index of refraction and therefore is the thickest lens material available in the market. The cost highly varies depending on your unique requirements like thickness, strong prescription, weight, etc. The fourth and fifth are UV absorbing layers that absorb over 99% ultraviolet rays. 1.0 out of 5 stars 1 rating. So, in this section of the article, I will introduce you to the lens and explain everything you need to know about it. If you go through them to make a purchase we will earn a commission at no extra cost to you but helps support our website. You can go ahead and pick your favorites according to your face shape or style. 2-16 FAYUEN ST MONGKOK They can talk you through the lens material options that are most appropriate for your vision. Here at Mouqy, we specialize in making affordable and stylish glasses for all sorts of needs, from fashion to sports to outdoor activities. Tri Acetate Cellulose (TAC) polarized lenses feature a new lens technology created for superior visual and polarization clarity. Additionally, they have a superior level of impact resistance and are suggested for both children's glasses and safety eyewear. GlassesUSA has a huge selection of contacts, glasses, & sunglasses. Important Factors to Consider While Choosing Lenses, Prescription Range is an Essential Factor, Thickness and Weight gets Affected by Lens Material. Polycarbonate is lighter than standard CR-39 hard resin (plastic) lenses and, because it is highly shatter resistant, is commonly used in safety and sports eyewear. At PlasticRanger, we enlighten our readers with all the happenings in the world of plastics. Trivex is another lightweight, impact-resistant material for eyeglass lenses. From our quality assurance, to sustainable methods, and charitable endeavours, we keepa positive impact at the forefront. Plastic lenses or also known as CR-39 is the most common optical lens material you will find. The plastic material itself is very vulnerable to scratches and hard scratch-resistant coatings have been developed as a solution to this problem. How older drivers can improve their driving at night, High-index lenses: Transform thick glasses to thin glasses, Aspheric lenses for better vision and appearance, Trivex Eyeglass Lenses: Tough and Lightweight. The same property, which makes it thinner, also makes it heavier. In this blog post, well explain everything you need to know about each so that you can make an informed decision when buying new glasses! All About Vision does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. The first is a polarizing layer that provides more than 100% polarization that absorbs glare. Here is a brief comparison of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses to help you decide which lenses might be best for you: Thickness. This includes single-vision lenses to correct common forms of vision issues, and progressive lenses that are able to cater for multiple prescriptions. These lenses are up to 30% thinner than regular plastic or glass lenses. But if your polycarbonate lenses do break, they are less likely to shatter into small, harmful pieces. Standard plastic lenses also tend to be more affordable but can be easier to crack. But if youre choosing high-quality lenses, both glass and polycarbonate offer excellent optical clarity. Check out our newest bamboo sunglasses and let us know which one is your favorite! Sagar Habib, a certified plastics engineer, and aficionado. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Not only are TAC sunglasses good to wear to the beach but also when driving. Polycarbonate glasses have higher impact resistance and offer greater protection than plastic lenses. scratch-resistant coatings can make the surface of polycarbonate and Plastic lenses are also much more prone to bending and breaking than polycarbonate lenses, which means they can become unusable if dropped or placed in hot conditions. Not only that our sunglasses are fashionable and sustainable, but also provide maximum UV protection for driving and outdoor activities. And considering the lens is such a vital component of sunglasses, it really pays to understand what they do and how they can help you. All About Vision and AllAboutVision.com are registered trademarks of AAV Media, LLC. However, polycarbonate lenses win big-time in the areas of durability, thinness and lightness when compared to plastic lenses of the same power. Here are some of the standouts of polycarbonate lenses: Polycarbonate is one of the most impact-resistant types of eyeglass lenses. Theyre designed to withstand impact, correct vision issues and support more active lifestyles. I have just started to need glasses for reading. Materials like crown glass, Trivex, and CR-39 steal the show. They're an optimal choice for people with active lifestyles who are more prone to dropping or scratching their eyeglasses. $80.00 charges for the FT poly. However, all lenses are not created equal, but doing detailed research before purchasing your lens will provide you with a pair lens that brings vision and a sense of amazing comfort to your life. Are contact lenses a good choice for kids? Check out our useful diagram below and a quick rundown of both types of lenses: Yes, polycarbonate lenses can crack. Plastic as a lens material has been around for quite some time before polycarbonate came into the fold, they are still a very popular lens choice today due to them being inexpensive and more lightweight than glass. Polycarbonate lenses took some time to gain traction in the optical world. Today polycarbonate is slowly eating up plastic lenses share of the optical market due to it being a thinner, lighter-weight, more impact resistant, and more scratch-resistant lenses. Higher grade TAC lenses are available (effectively increasing the thickness of the layers) and these can be 1.6mm thick. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Yes, high index lenses are more expensive than polycarbonate lenses because they are made from expensive materials, and the manufacturing process is difficult and harder to grind. Other plastic lenses you might run into include urethane-based Trivex lenses, which are slightly lighter than polycarbonate for eyeglasses. Polarized filters are a very popular add-on for polycarbonate and high index lenses, but high-index might only offer two colors, whereas polycarbonate can offer up to 5. Weight. Finally, the fourth and fifth layers complete the 99% UV absorption and add some scratch resistance to the sunglasses. Glass lenses used to be really heavy. Your recommendation? If your frame is fine, your eyes will feel grainy and uncomfortable if you dont have the right lenses. HO KING COMM CTR Single Vision Reading: lenses to see things at a close distance. Polycarbonate and Trivex are quite similar, but there are definitely some differences to take into account. Cost. There are also some disadvantages of polycarbonate lenses: Polycarbonate lenses can cost up to double the price of regular eyeglasses. In general, high-index lenses are prescribed for strong prescriptions. CR-39 plastic lenses are regular plastic lenses you might find in very inexpensive sunglasses. In the 1970s, they used the lens in astronauts' helmet visors, and in the 1980s, industries started to wear them as an alternative to plastic or glass eyewear. Love to hear your thoughts. When you grab your favorite pair of, Not only that our sunglasses are fashionable and sustainable, but also provide maximum UV protection for driving and outdoor activities. However, I know that choosing a lens material can be a real pain in the head. Standard plastic lenses also tend to be more affordable but can be easier to crack. One of the best benefits of the plastic lens is how inexpensive they are. Your choice of lenses is completely dependent on your vision needs. They're siblings, not twins, in other words. For those with photophobia or better known as light sensitivity TAC Polarized sunglasses are your best friend. Follow KastKing to keep up on giveaways, fishing tips and new products. Today's modern You only get one pair of eyes, so use your sunglasses to protect them. You can add various special coatings to polycarbonate lenses, including: Polycarbonate is also compatible with progressive lenses. Plastic lenses have a higher Abbe value than polycarbonate. This flexibility also means polycarbonate and Trivex lenses need a As I said earlier, lenses are more important than frames. Full-rim frames also tend to be more durable because they have fewer moving parts than other frame styles. Both materials offer excellent impact resistance and UV protection. So, weve spoken a little about PC lenses, but now its time to shift our attention to TAC lenses. Plastic lenses also have a higher Abbe value which causes less chromatic aberrations. However, many people do not notice this. These lenses are up to 30% thinner than regular plastic or glass lenses. Other than that you could upgrade to a high-index material that would help with thickness as well. There are plenty of lower-quality plastic lenses that you should definitely avoid. Those original opticians had it right when it came to optical clarity. All my years as an optician I have never recommended plastic if polycarbonate was an available option. Fortunately, we are no longer back in the day. This plastic tends to reflect a lot of light, leading to glare. Before I move on to the advantages and disadvantages, its worth noting that you can have more than seven layers in TAC lenses. I also tend to think TAC glasses provide more polarized sunglasses with a clearer vision, which in my mind, makes them more attractive. Trivex lenses nearly as hard as glass. Find an eyecare professional and book online in minutes! Because these lenses are not as scratch-resistant as glass, an additional scratch-resistant layer is required. Differences between Trivex vs polycarbonate lenses. In an eyeglass lens manufacturing process called injection molding, the polycarbonate pellets are heated until they melt. The liquid polycarbonate is then rapidly injected into lens molds, compressed under high pressure, and cooled to form a finished lens product in a matter of minutes. Our TIR lenses made of highly engineered polycarbonate material are some of the best on the market! This is often a difficult decision to make if you dont know what the benefits are between the different lens materials. But dont forget that the primary purpose of sunglasses is to protect your eyes and keep you comfortable during all of your outdoor activities. Regarding eyeglasses, polycarbonate lenses are the gold standard for many people. Here is a brief comparison of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses to help you decide which lenses might be best for you: Thickness. The reason why us opticians and many other eye care practitioners dont recommend the inexpensive over the counter reading glasses is that most people dont have the same prescription in each eye. Polycarbonate lens didnt truly gain traction among the optical industry until more recently due to various problems with the material clarity and manufacturing. What kind of lenses do you have in your glasses? The rigid thermoplastic is often considered 200 times stronger than glass and is thus utilized to make bulletproof windows and car shields. But I will make it a cakewalk. 1. One is made with a shatter-proof polycarbonate, while the other uses a Triacetate Cellulose. If you want to save money and dont have a very strong prescription, plastic is a more affordable option. For this reason, the lens requires a scratch-resistant coating applied. . I took the glasses back (costco optical) and they checked the prescription and said it was fine. Polycarbonate glasses have inherent UV protection, while plastic lenses do not have. Feel free to Message me any time with feedback for the site, tips o Best Lens Colors for Hunting (Dawn, Dusk & Night), Oakley Prizm Maritime Lens | Open Water Review, Best Oakleys for Police and First Responders, Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Sunglasses | Differences Explained, Smith ChromaPop vs. Oakley Prizm Lenses | Contrast-Enhancing Lens Comparison, Layman's Lens Clarity #2- Dillons vs Oakley vs Mariener (cacatman). | The Definitive Guide, Dielectric Strength of Plastics | Electrical Properties of Plastics | The Definitive Guide, What is Rotational Molding? Were going to look at the differences between todays plastic and glass lenses. Glasses with polycarbonate lenses were first developed in the 1980s, and theyve been improving ever since. Have a lovely day. TAC lenses are a specific type of polarized lens with a multi-layer composite, but more importantly, it includes the unique Triacetate Cellulose (TAC) process. All eyeglass wearers should weigh the pros and cons of polycarbonate lenses before making a purchase. Plastic frame ; mirrored lens ; Polarized ; Mirror Coating coating ; Lens width: 57 millimeters ; Lens height: 40 millimeters ; Bridge: 15 millimeters Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Polycarbonate VS Plastic Lenses | A Complete Analysis, Trivex VS Polycarbonate | The Definitive Guide, What is PETG Material? Here are some of our favourites! Polycarbonate has a higher index of refraction than Trivex (1.58 vs. 1.53), so polycarbonate lenses are about 10 percent thinner than Trivex lenses. The truth is that our eyes cant really detect the difference in clarity between glass and high-quality polycarbonate. Polycarbonate vs. Trivex lenses: A quick comparison. I am interested in: Historically the image transferred to your eyes with polycarbonate was poorer quality than plastic but with the advent of Class 1 Optical Grade polycarbonate the difference is now much less significant. We help brands optimize their online presence & performance. Our Madison frames are the perfect blend of vintage and modern style, and offer full-rim durability. | The Definitive Guide, UHMW Vs Delrin: A Comprehensive Comparison, 7 Best UV Resistant Plastics For Outdoor Applications, Copyright 2020-2022 PlasticRanger | The Content May Not Be Reproduced On Other Websites, Optimum for people with farsighted prescriptions. A polycarbonate lens is 10 times more impact-resistant than a high-index one. Even the most modern glass lens is more likely to break or shatter than a polycarbonate lens. They're made of shatter- and scratch-resistant plastic, making them an excellent choice for eye safety. You can usually find some single vision lenses for around $30 and some bifocals for $50. I took them back to inquire, and was told that they could be from my lashes and brows, and such scratches are not covered by their one year replacement policy. Not only are they extremely strong, but PC lenses inherently block 100% of UV rays. 1.74 index lenses are the thinnest high-index lenses. Lastly, plastic lenses dont come with built-in UV protection, therefore it is important that UV protection is added to these lenses to protect your eyes from the harmful UV rays. 5750 Brittmoore RD Suite 300Houston Texas 77041. Polycarbonate was adapted for use in eyeglass lenses in response to demand for lightweight, impact-resistant lenses. Plastic vs. Polycarbonate Lenses Today we are going to be talking specifically about plastic vs polycarbonate lenses and what the major difference is between the lens materials. Men Sunglasses Instead, PC is an acronym for the composite used to make the lens. More impact-resistant than glass but less than polycarbonate. Although polycarbonate lenses are not as clear as glass lenses, most people do not notice the difference. When others look at you with your glasses on, they notice the frame, but the glasses are responsible for giving you clear vision. Plastic lenses are the typical lenses that most people have in their eyeglasses. Plastic lenses can accept tint colors for the people that like a light tint on their lenses. Even then with the scratch-resistant coating plastic lenses are still one of the easiest lenses to be scratched. On higher priced polarised sunglasses (typically above 60) the lens material is likely to be polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is an excellent choice for people with a strong prescription. important step to protect your child's eyes throughout the day for a Polycarbonate lenses boast built-in protection from UV light (ultraviolet light). Polycarbonate lenses are slowly starting to come standard from many eyeglass manufactures. If a brand you love isnt using lenses that offer impact and UV protection, make your voice heard. Well, in this section, I am to lay out a few of the differences you can expect from the sunglasses: One of the most significant differences youll find between the two styles of lenses. This type of lens is lightweight yet strong and resilient. Polycarbonate rates are lower, meaning they have the potential to cause slight chromatic aberrations (visual distortions) in your peripheral vision. Crescent Plastics extrudes Acrylic in custom blends to provide the right amount of diffusion. Impact resistance. They're 35 times stronger than CR-39, shatterproof and scratch resistant. CR-39 plastic lenses are regular plastic lenses you might find in very inexpensive sunglasses. Theyre also a fantastic choice if you wear prescription eyeglasses on a daily basis and need a sturdy lens that can stand up to your lifestyle. These lenses guard your eyes against UVA and UVB sun rays. Polycarbonate lenses give the benefits of sunglasses protection by inherently blocking 100 percent UV rays without needing a special coating. There's no need to add a protective coating. Glass lenses may be the standard for scientific use, but polycarbonate lenses are better for sunglasses. Contacted as you seen on tv.co.nz . Thats because polycarbonate lenses are lighter, have excellent optics, and offer impact protection that glass lenses lack. Photochromic lenses are available in both materials. Learn about LASIK success rates and side effects, Learn about the costs associated with LASIK, Benefits of LASIK for astigmatism correction, How to find vision insurance that covers LASIK, Compare PRK and LASIK procedures and results, 14 tips for protecting your vision after LASIK. Ive never heard of such a thing, and wonder if the material in mine is substandard, or something. Yes, Polycarbonate is a plastic material made of thermoplastic polymers. Half as heavy as glass, and far less likely to shatter, the optical quality is nearly as good as glass. Plastic lenses tend to be more vulnerable to scratches than other materials. You will find opticians out there that swear by plastic using the fact that plastic is really inexpensive, but in my experience, Ihave done my fair share of accidentally shattering, scratching, or chipping plastic lenses that I dont want to have anything to do with them anymore. $12.95 $ 12. The PC lens is extremely highly resistant to impact and wont shatter. Many people get confused about the differences. Availability. Be the first to hear about new products & exclusive offers. The frames tend to be less than durable, so the glasses are so cheap. Polycarbonate and Trivex lenses are much more impact-resistant than regular glass and plastic lenses (including other high-index lenses) because these lightweight lens materials are relatively "soft" which means they can absorb energy without lens fracturing. To start with should you get plastic or polycarbonate lenses? Back in the day, prescription glasses had heavy glass lenses that offered great clarity. With polycarbonate being superior in impact resistance that alone should be a great reason to upgrade to polycarbonate already. Women Sunglasses Polycarbonate lenses are available in a wider variety of lens designs (e.g., progressive lenses and other multifocals) than Trivex lenses. lifetime of good vision. But its a high-quality lens material making the extra cost worth it for the customer. I have plastic lens. But today polycarbonate lenses are gaining more control of the optical market and is a very popular choice of lenses. Polycarbonate lenses are thinner and lighter than regular plastic lenses. Single Vision Distance: Helps you to see clearly at a distance. Hours: 9 a.m. - 12 a.m. EST, Monday - Friday. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Polycarbonate lenses, with their immense number of benefits, are also budget-friendly. Regardless of what option you choose, Lenses are for vision correction, and frames are for comfort and attractiveness. High-quality polycarbonate lenses offer excellent clarity for a pair of eyeglasses or sunglasses. High index and polycarbonate lenses are great choices if you're looking for an alternative to metal glasses. This lens is acceptable for stronger prescriptions above +5.00/-8.00 and astigmatism correction between -4.00 and -6.00. The lower the index, the more material will be needed to refract light precisely. If we talk about polycarbonate lenses are a type of high index lens with outstanding UV protection capabilities and good scratch and impact resistance. don't provide the type of eye protection needed for sports. RELATED:How to clean your glasses the right way. We look forward to working with you to determine the best eye surgery or nonsurgical treatment for your individual needs. RELATED: Sunglasses for babies with polycarbonate lenses. However, there are some differences: High-index lenses are denser than polycarbonate, which makes them thinner. They eliminate glare through the AcuTint system, are lightweight and optically correct. And well discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each material, plus our final decision on which material is better. The thin metal temples and silicon tips at the end of each arm provide stability, while remaining lightweight enough to be worn all day longwithout overwhelming your face. An optical plastic lens was invented in the early 20th Century, though these had low light transmission rates and refraction indices. Cost. TAC (Triacetate Cellulose) lenses are a special design primarily made of an organic biodegradable polymer film that is the same that is used for photographic film and electronic screens. I notice you say that plastic is cheaper. Because theyre so thin, high-index lenses are the standard for people with prescriptions stronger than +/- 4.0. Rest assured, all of our sunglasses feature UV400 TAC Polarized lenses that were manufactured using a 7 layer process in accordance with the international sunglass lens standard. sport eyeglasses. The cost and quality of polycarbonate lenses will vary depending on your prescription (stronger prescriptions may cost more) and the seller, so its worth shopping around. Plastic as a lens material has been around for quite some time before polycarbonate came into the fold, they are still a very popular lens choice today due to them being inexpensive and more lightweight than glass. Medically Reviewed by Dr. Melody Huang, O.D. Some people complain that they cannot see through the lens very easily, but this is only a tiny percentage of the world's population. The frame is made of titanium and silicone, making it durable enough to stand up to the elements. A quality pair of prescription glasses would eliminate that strain. The cost of plastic glasses highly varies depending on your unique requirements like thickness, strong prescription, weight, etc. Is there a big difference between 1.67 and 1.74 high-index lenses? Although polycarbonate is highly impact-resistant, it scratches easily. I never knew the difference in the material til now Heres a quick overview of the differences. If you are looking for high index lenses (1.74), you have to pay between $180 and $230. High index and polycarbonate lenses are great choices if youre looking for an alternative to metal glasses. Its always difficult to choose the best out of them. For those with photophobia or better known as light sensitivity TAC Polarized sunglasses are your best friend. Its the most scratch resistant lens material and blocks UV light. Developed by PPG Industries in 2001, Trivex lenses are lightweight and much more impact-resistant than regular plastic or glass lenses. In other words, PC stands for polycarbonate. Through her writing, Dr. Huang enjoys educating patients on how to lead healthier and happier lives. This is where polarized lenses come in handy because they have a filter specially made to block this glare. They usually need an anti-reflective coating. Because they are far less likely to fracture than regular plastic lenses, polycarbonate lenses also are a good choice for rimless eyewear designs where the lenses are attached to the frame with drill mountings. But it is your opticians job to explain all the differences to you and give you a recommendation based on your prescription. The combination of impact and UV light protection makes polycarbonate the best choice for both lifestyle and sports sunglasses. Polycarbonate lenses are available in a wider variety of lens designs (e.g., progressive lenses and other multifocals) than Trivex lenses. Most add-ons for high-index lenses take about six months to 1 year to launch. Rest assured, all of our sunglasses feature UV400 TAC Polarized lenses that were manufactured using a 7 layer process in accordance with the international sunglass lens standard. He covers everything within Plastics manufacturing and processing. Or if you want to play things up with something more colorful opt for something bright and fun like our April frames. 2018-2023 EyeHealthHQ.com. However, thinner lenses are not lighter in weight. Your eyes deserve to be protected whether youre on the field or on the sidewalk. Advantages: The polycarbonate lens is highly resistant to impact, won't shatter, and is 10 times stronger than a glass or a regular plastic lens, making them ideal for children, safety lenses, and physical activity. Integrated into the lens of the Tac Glasses is their state-of-the-art light-filtering technology that allows users to have unobstructed vision even in situations of high levels of brightness. If your polycarbonate sunglass lenses do crack, check the manufacturer to see if they offer replacement lenses. Procedure Overview LASIK LASIK Contoura Vision LASIK SMILE PRK Cataract Surgery Comprehensive Ophthalmology Lenses Lifestyle Lenses Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) Vivity Extended Vision IOL Keratoconus Treatments Cross-Linking As such, theyre a great option for anyone looking for a low-cost pair of glasses. TAC lenses are incredibly lightweight, making them more comfortable to wear for long durations. Polycarbonate lenses are more expensive than plastic glasses. The content on this site is for informational purposes only. I dont think so. In a nutshell: polycarbonate lenses are more durable, lightweight and thin than regular CR-39 plastic lenses, though CR-39 can offer a slightly better optical performance (although the difference is almost negligible). SEE ALSO: How To Clean Glasses Without Scratching Your Lenses! Unisex Sunglasses I only clean them with Zeiss wipes, and never set them down flat on anything. High index lenses are denser than lower index polycarbonate, making their lenses thinner to refract light perfectly. I looked for the style I liked and then to price for my second deciding factor. Optics - peripheral. This can make them a little more suitable for sports and other outdoor activities, for those times you dont want to wear contact lenses. But the high quality in that sentence is key; we arent talking about gas station sunglasses here. Thanks for this informative article. Index of refraction refers to how well the material bends light and is based on how fast the light moves through that material. Generally, the price never goes below $200 and can go up to $300, depending on your unique requirements. Without a doubt, polycarbonate is the most rigid lens material. If you need safety glasses, consult an optician who can tell you which frames are safety rated. Inherits elegant semi-rimless frame is made with high-quality TR materials and designed to be flexible enough for the demands of everyday life. invest in high-quality safety frames or frames designed specifically for Polycarbonate lenses are a relatively new lens technology. Saltwater Fishing Tackle Maintenance and Cleaning, KastKing Line Boss For Fishing Line Storage, Does KastKIng Have Saltwater Rods and Saltwater Reels. sports eyewear is dangerous and can result in a serious eye injury if However, the added durability of the polycarbonate material means that these glasses should hold up much better for everyday use than your average plastic lenses. The cost of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses can vary considerably, but many optical stores charge more for Trivex lenses than polycarbonate lenses. Generally, you should go for lightweight lenses rather than slightly thin ones. Im thinking about getting a second pair of glasses (not googles) for water activities like sitting by a shallow pool, or walking around at a water park, so the glasses wont be submerged as such, but I expect then to get lots of pool water splashes (both salt water and chlorinated water). Required fields are marked *. Polycarbonate is a widely used lens material with more than 35% market share in prescription glasses. Most people cant assess color deformation at these levels. That is all I wanted to say about High index vs polycarbonate lenses. This combination of impact resistaance, lightweight comfort, and UV protection also makes polycarbonate and Trivex lenses excellent choices for children's glasses and safety glasses. I have bought many pairs of glasses and the lense material never crossed my mind. Glass will always provide the best optical experience as glass refracts light much more efficiently than plastic. Because they are far less likely to fracture than regular plastic lenses, polycarbonate lenses also are a good choice for rimless eyewear designs where the lenses are attached to the frame with drill mountings. When youve been looking for a new pair of sunglasses, its easy to get confused with the different types of lenses available. Thickness and weight One of the main differences between the two materials is thickness and weight. Plastic is much lighter than glass, making it more comfortable to wear all day and plastic lenses come in many more colours and larger sizes. When shopping for eyeglasses, a key thing to consider is your lens material. Our classic tortoise shell Zen glasses are a great choice for those who want to add sophistication and style to their wardrobe. Youre unlikely to find more durable eyewear lenses. Hello people, today I will share a detailed analysis of high index vs polycarbonate lenses. Your professional optician can discuss the pros and cons of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses so you Yes, Polycarbonate is a plastic material made of thermoplastic polymers. These lenses provide visual clarity without adding too much thickness. Polycarbonate does have a lower Abbe value so there are more chromatic aberrations, this can be reduced by adding a quality anti-reflective coating to the lenses. My receipt lists Plast 1.49 PANORMA IMPERIUM PLUS, so I guess that means plastic. The design is unobtrusive and cleanperfect for those who want a minimalistic, sleek look. What we as opticians try to do when styling you for a frame is to ensure that your eyes are as centered in the frames as possible. Outside of writing, Lauren runs a small farm with her husband and their four big dogs. Some are known to go up to 9 layers, but theres no confirmation whether having nine layers is better than seven. Sunlight scatters without direction and when it hits flat surfaces, the reflected light becomes polarized, in other words, it is less scattered and more aligned. Additionally, plastic lenses are much less expensive than the other options. High index lenses are denser than polycarbonate lenses, meaning they have thinner lenses to reflect light properly. Obviously, I am clearly talking about CR-39 vs polycarbonate. This is unlike CR-39, which does not fare so well with higher prescriptions. The price is also dependent on extras, add-ons, and coatings. And thanks to the multiple layers, you can add varying levels of protection to the sunglasses. What kind of price range would I expect for polycarbonate lenses? But lifestyle sunglasses also need impact protection. Keep in mind that we link these companies and their products because of their quality and not because of the commission we receive from your purchases. Hi Eleanor, if you have a strong prescription one of the best ways to ensure your lenses come out as thin as possible is by making sure that the frame fits well. Polycarbonate is still lighter, and can be made in higher index - meaning that a strong prescription lens can still be quite thin. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"1.67 index lenses are ideal for prescriptions under +5.00/-8.00 and astigmatism correction between -3.00 and -4.00. Whether youre driving your car or walking down the street, you still want to protect your eyes. Now I will be adding lense material to the list. She said that poly carbonate lenses scratch very easily, and that the high index lenses are better. Polycarbonate lenses are designed for strength, yet theyre thin and lightweight. For me I am going back to plastic. The RhinoLens offers 100% UVA & UVB protection, and can also be found in our Master Angler Series. If you are a prescription contact lens wearer be sure to check out where the best places to buy contact lenses online are, coupons & promo codes are available. Which eyeglass lenses are best for me and my vision. Polycarbonate lenses are ideal for sports. However, its important to recognise that plastic can still shatter and does not provide a high level of impact protection, so it should not be used for most active or shooting sports. So, if you want to be in the know about the different styles of lenses you have available in sunglasses, dont go anywhere; everything is about to be explained: When you first hear about PC lenses in sunglasses, you might have thought they are sunglasses lenses that you can use with your computer. (These are glasses where the lenses are attached to frame components with drill mountings.). Let me know below! It boasts the highest impact resistance of any lens material. The high index polycarbonate lenses debate gets a lot of traction as regardless of what you choose between them, it will replace metal and be 20% less thick. For the best eye protection at work and during sports, be sure you also The question is, why are they good, and what do you need to know about them. I have polycarbonate for the first time. Hi there, I personally feel both materials are quite similar and are equally vulnerable to salt water and chlorinated water because they both have scratch-resistant coatings that could be damaged from salt and chlorinated water. Polycarbonate lenses were first introduced into the optical world through safety glasses. Introduced in the 1980s, they're incredibly lightweight and about 20% thinner than regular plastic lenses. Polarising Polycarbonate sunglasses are very susceptible to scratches. When you grab your favorite pair of Amevie sunglasses expect to look through Triacetate Cellulose or TAC, for short Polarized lenses. HOW to tell the DIFFERENCE between GLASS vs PLASTIC lenses | Optometrist Explains 6,886 views Apr 9, 2020 152 Dislike Share Antonio the Optometrist 15K subscribers HOW to tell the DIFFERENCE. Hi Amy! You can wear polycarbonate lenses with virtually any full-rim style. And this made them ideal for sportswear, children, and safety lenses. They shipped me polycarbonate 1.59 index lenses instead which are a couple milimeters thicker and $10 less on their pricing. Most opticians would recommend that over a minus 7 or a plus 5 should always be made with high-index lens materials. For children's eyewear, choose a sturdy frame and lightweight polycarbonate Page published on Wednesday, February 27, 2019. Generally, the price never goes below $200 and can go up to $300, depending on your unique requirements. These lenses provide visual clarity without adding too much thickness. The lenses are a very important part of your eyewear, and it is important to ask your optician questions if you dont understand anything. the frame breaks, dislodging the lenses. Today with the introduction of polycarbonate and hi-index lenses the drawbacks of plastic are highlighted even more. Helpful even for people with two different prescriptions for lenses. Obviously my prescription is higher each time so I expected them to be thicker, hence buying what I thought was a thinner lens! This lens is acceptable for stronger prescriptions above +5.00/-8.00 and astigmatism correction between -4.00 and -6.00. Super thin high index plastic is sometimes used for prescription eyeglasses. Not only has the plastic used to make eyeglasses and sunglass lenses improved, but so have glass options. Very informative. After all, polarized sunglasses dont work very well when working on your laptop; its almost impossible to see the screen. While quality eye care is important, the price can be a critical factor in your decision-making process. A higher index of refraction also means denser material and therefore thinner lenses. Bottomline Benefits: Polycarbonate Vs High Index Lenses . Learns and shares consistently about plastics technologies. The second and third layer allows durability that resists harsh environments. I recently purchased non-polycarbonate 1.61 index Digital Free Form progressive lenses from zennioptical.com. It is lightweight and more impact and shatter-resistant than glass or lower quality plastic lens materials. Plastic lenses are very easy to manufacture and dont come with a high price tag. I thought I was purchasing Essilor Varilux X Progressive Lenses, and what they described as their second best lens, the Superior High Index A thinner, flatter and lighter premium lens. Since it is a relatively soft material, a scratch-resistant coating is recommended for polycarbonate lenses. We also like them for their ultraviolet protection. But that doesnt mean polycarbonate or plastic lenses are not clear. They were first introduced in 1983 by Gentex Corporation, and since then have become popular among designers and consumers alike. October 10, 2022 by Ashish Mittal Leave a Comment. It's entirely up to your decision about what fits you the best. Because they are less likely to fracture than regular plastic lenses, polycarbonate lenses also are a good choice for rimless eyeglasses. or Trivex lenses. Customizable lenses for your vision needs. Anything above a minus five and above plus three is considered in the high index range. . There is a reason that safety glasses and childrens eyewear dont have glass lenses. They are known to be cheaper compared to high-grade lens materials. New frosted and unfrosted Acrylics provide diffusion levels from 92% to 60%. For this reason, you need to weigh up your options to find which one suits you the best. These tints are available in a variety of colors including, brown, gray, yellow, red, blue, rose, green, and more. Choosing the right lens for your sunglasses is very important if you want to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. This promotes eye health by providing an extra layer of safety. Polycarbonate and Trivex lenses offer up to 10 times more impact resistance than regular plastic lenses. So Ill try my best to analyze both materials. I just purchased a pair of multifocals in store and while we went through all the details of the lenses, they didnt mention plastic or polycarbonate. Hi Huy, Trivex lenses have less internal stress and may produce sharper central vision than polycarbonate lenses. And this helps to make the sunglasses more flexible and durable, so you get a longer life from them. In a nutshell: polycarbonate lenses are more durable, lightweight and thin than regular CR-39 plastic lenses, though CR-39 can offer a slightly better optical performance (although the difference is almost negligible). And if you combine them with a lightweight frame material like titanium or nylon, youre set for a full day of comfortable wear. Oakley Ruby Iridium vs. Fire Iridium Lenses Whats the difference? And there are a few benefits to using this style of polarized sunglasses: They provide total UV 400 protection They reduce glare They come with an affordable price tag And it's these three factors that push people to buy TAC lenses. Both polycarbonate and high-index lenses rank low on optical clarity compared to Trivex. Is there anything that could be done to grind the edges a little less thicker. Ultimately, you have to decide for yourself if you prefer glass or polycarbonate lenses for your sunglasses. Lauren completed a bachelor's degree in biopsychology from The College of New Jersey and non-degree graduate coursework in public health at Princeton University. One such type of lens was made from CR39 plastic, which is still widely used today. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How much do polycarbonate lenses cost? "}}]}, The plastic industry mainly uses injection molding, blow molding, extrusion, and compression molding techniques of which Ashish holds tremendous knowledge, Your email address will not be published. The impact protection on polycarbonate is so good that both safety and sports eyewear use polycarbonate for their lenses. All opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Oakley, Inc. Want instant exchange acces, no ads and tons of other benefits? The cost of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses can vary considerably, but many optical stores charge more for Trivex lenses than polycarbonate lenses. There are also a limited range of colours available made from glass; for all these reasons glass is not used for sports eyewear. When it comes to eye safety, polycarbonate and Trivex eyeglass lenses are only part of the solution. Polycarbonate has a higher index of refraction than Trivex (1.58 vs. 1.53), so polycarbonate lenses are about 10 percent thinner than Trivex lenses. Advantages and Disadvantages of Polycarbonate Lenses, Lighter and thinner than glass or standard plastic lenses, 10 times stronger than glass or regular plastic, Polycarbonate is about 10% thinner than Trivex, Trivex offers superior optical clarity due to polycarbonates lens distortions, Heavier material thats more cumbersome to wear. So when its best to wear polarized lenses? >. The arrival of the sun has us all excited and ready for some fun. Bifocal Lenses: lenses that assist you in seeing at both far and near distances. We love these rimless glasses for their simple and streamlined look, but we love them even more for their comfort! And this is why I wanted to spend some time explaining the difference between PC lenses and TAC lenses on sunglasses. Polycarbonate lenses were first invented in 1953, but strangely two scientists developed them one week apart despite being on opposing sides of the world. With your prescription, you have the right to shop wherever you prefer from an optician, in stores, or online. You are using an out of date browser. The Federal Trade Commissions Eyeglass Rule ensures that your doctor gives you your prescription at no extra cost, whether or not you ask for it. Therefore, All Rights Reserved, Sunglasses for babies with polycarbonate lenses, Effects of Blue Light on Eyes New Study Reveals How it Damages Your Eyes, Zenni Glasses Review 2022 The Most Affordable Glasses Online, Lightweight 20% lighter than plastic, substantially lighter than glass, The material is soft and requires a scratch-resistant coating, Distortion on lens edge for higher prescriptions, Is more reflective than plastic or glass (. Would it still be better to use polycarbonate as opposed to plastic. It may come down to what styles and brands you like typically use. Support the site and become a premium member today! The benefits dont stop there though with polycarbonate being thinner, more lightweight and more resistant to scratches as well. Thats because Polycarbonate flexes instead of shattering when hit by an object, whether its gravel, a ball, or an elbow. | The Best Plexiglass Glue, What is TPV Material? 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