In the United States, approximately two thirds of adults wear some form of vision correction, the most popular being glasses and contacts. Out of these two, you may be wondering which one is better – for your comfort, convenience and wallet.
What to Know About Contact Lenses
Contact lenses come in two materials – soft contact lenses, which are made of flexible plastic, and gas permeable (GP) contact lenses, which are more durable. Some contact lenses can be worn while you sleep, others not; some are disposed of daily while others can be stored overnight.
If you have a unique eye condition, we recommend contacts with special features. For example, toric lenses are designed for those with astigmatism, and come in both soft and GP designs. Your eye care provider will work with you to find lenses that best suit your needs.
Benefits of Contact Lenses
One of the biggest advantages of contact lenses is that they widen your field of vision. They sit directly on your eye and move with your vision without frames getting in the way.
Contacts are also great sports and other physical activities. Not only do they stay in place, they are also less likely to break.
Contact Lenses: Things to Consider
For first-time users, contacts can be a bit tricky to insert and remove, although it does get easier with practice. They also require proper care and hygiene to prevent infections. Some may also experience dryness or irritation while wearing them.
On average, contacts have a higher upfront cost than glasses, and replacement costs can be high. In many cases, they are cheaper than a pair of designer frames, and can last a long time if they are properly cared for.
What to Know About Glasses
Like contacts, there are a variety of glasses types to choose from, based on the type of lens and frame. We’ve all seen a variety of eyeglass shapes, but choosing the right lens may be less intuitive.
For example, single-vision lenses correct for one field of vision, such as near- or far-sightedness, while multifocal lenses, such as bifocals, can correct multiple vision issues.
Benefits of Glasses
Glasses are easy to put on and take off, and don’t involve having to touch your eyes. They are also less likely to be lost compared to contacts.
Glasses can also be a great fashion statement, depending on the size and shape of the frames. Who doesn’t love a distinctive pair of cat-eye glasses or a sleek pair of aviators?
Glasses: Things to Consider
Occasionally, glasses can limit your vision, such as when they fog up in humid conditions or the frames obstruct your peripheral vision. Poorly fitting or heavy glasses can also cause discomfort.
Glasses may also not be the right fit if you lead an active lifestyle. Even the need to frequently adjust them can disrupt your workout flow.
Glasses vs. Contacts: How To Choose
When making your decision, consider the three C’s: comfort, convenience and cost:
- Comfort: Contacts generally provide a more natural feel but can take some getting used to. Glasses can be adjusted for comfort but may cause pressure on your nose or ears.
- Convenience: Contacts can be more convenient for active lifestyles, while glasses are easier to maintain.
- Cost: Consider both initial investments and long-term costs. Contacts can be more expensive due to ongoing purchases, while glasses may have a higher initial cost but last longer.
See the World More Clearly
Ultimately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether glasses or contacts are better – that all depends on your lifestyle, preferences and unique eye care needs.
At Complete Eye Care, we’re here to help you navigate options and find the solution that’s right for you. Contact us today to book your appointment!