The content on this site is for informational purposes only. Its always difficult to choose the best out of them. Oakley Forum is the largest and most reliable platform for Oakley news, updates and any information you are looking for about Oakley sunglasses and other products. Here are some of our favourites! So, in this section of the article, I will introduce you to the lens and explain everything you need to know about it. 1.74 index lenses are the thinnest high-index lenses. Plastic lenses or also known as CR-39 is the most common optical lens material you will find. Since the refractive index is only 1.49, these types of lenses get very thick, if you need a strong correction. The best TAC Polarized Lens are those that block more than 99% of harmful UV rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers. 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. Medicaid: Eligibility and Vision Benefits. All eyeglass wearers should weigh the pros and cons of polycarbonate lenses before making a purchase. Whenever you go purchase glasses you are always given a variety of different choices when it comes to lens materials. I dont think so. Regular eyeglass frames are not rated for use as safety glasses and typically Medically Reviewed by Dr. Melody Huang, O.D. These lenses guard your eyes against UVA and UVB sun rays. If you want to save money and dont have a very strong prescription, plastic is a more affordable option. 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. 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. Just browsing. Differences between Trivex vs polycarbonate lenses. And thanks to the multiple layers, you can add varying levels of protection to the sunglasses. High index lenses are denser than polycarbonate lenses, meaning they have thinner lenses to reflect light properly. Half as heavy as glass, and far less likely to shatter, the optical quality is nearly as good as glass. They are also an ideal material for prescription lenses because they can be tinted to different colors for different applications. They are produced using a slower, cast molding process similar to how regular plastic lenses are made. The information provided on VisionCenter.org should not be used in place of actual information provided by a doctor or a specialist. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. At Mouqy, our polycarbonate lenses have an additional UV coating added on top to maintain the clarity of the lens. Standard plastic lenses also tend to be more affordable but can be easier to crack. Lightweight and thinner than glass lenses, polycarbonate is more comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Those original opticians had it right when it came to optical clarity. Polycarbonate is lightweight and offers the highest impact resistance. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"If you are looking for high index lenses (1.74), you have to pay somewhat between $180 and $230. Because of their durable material, theyre prone to scratching or breaking and ideal for sporty activities like running or cycling, as well as outdoor activities like hiking or camping. Ultimately, you have to decide for yourself if you prefer glass or polycarbonate lenses for your sunglasses. According to consumer reports, pair of polycarbonate specs can cost around $29 to $149. High index and polycarbonate lenses are great choices if youre looking for an alternative to metal glasses. Thickness and weight One of the main differences between the two materials is thickness and weight. Polycarbonate was developed in the 1970s for aerospace applications. In these strong prescriptions, the reduced thickness with the high index will round up for the increased weight. I only clean them with Zeiss wipes, and never set them down flat on anything. Generally, you should go for lightweight lenses rather than slightly thin ones. Polycarbonate glasses have higher impact resistance and offer greater protection than plastic lenses. Before I move on to the advantages and disadvantages, its worth noting that you can have more than seven layers in TAC lenses. 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). Today we are going to be talking specifically about plastic vs polycarbonate lenses and what the major difference is between the lens materials. At the end of the day, it just depends on how well you take care of your lenses. Availability. 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. Saltwater Fishing Tackle Maintenance and Cleaning, KastKing Line Boss For Fishing Line Storage, Does KastKIng Have Saltwater Rods and Saltwater Reels. Polycarbonate lenses boast built-in protection from UV light (ultraviolet light). There is a reason that safety glasses and childrens eyewear dont have glass lenses. | 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. Many people get confused about the differences. A higher index of refraction also means denser material and therefore thinner lenses. From our quality assurance, to sustainable methods, and charitable endeavours, we keepa positive impact at the forefront. 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. Here is a brief comparison of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses to help you decide which lenses might be best for you: Thickness. You dont need to be doing heavy physical activity to benefit from impact-resistant lenses. important step to protect your child's eyes throughout the day for a The truth is that our eyes cant really detect the difference in clarity between glass and high-quality polycarbonate. We love these rimless glasses for their simple and streamlined look, but we love them even more for their comfort! Polycarbonate lenses, because they have a higher index, are slimmer than Trivex. 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. You can usually find some single vision lenses for around $30 and some bifocals for $50. However, glass lenses are heavy (typically sliding down your nose) and can be dangerous: glass lenses are prone to cracking, can shatter with impact or if dropped on a hard surface such as concrete. sports, choosing impact-resistant eyeglass lenses and frames is an 2000-2022 AAV Media, LLC. Very informative. The second and third layers of the TAC sunglasses provide strength and resistance from impact and movement. Page published on Wednesday, February 27, 2019. Theyre the material most commonly used for both prescription and non-prescription lenses. 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). lifetime of good vision. RELATED:How to clean your glasses the right way. 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. Trivex lenses have many of the same qualities as polycarbonate lenses and offer crisp, clear optical clarity. Or want to know more? This makes poly lenses a better option for athletes and children. invest in high-quality safety frames or frames designed specifically for These days, there's an expansive market for sunglass lenses, two of the most popular lens styles being plastic lens or polycarbonate lens. Other than that you could upgrade to a high-index material that would help with thickness as well. And this is why I wanted to spend some time explaining the difference between PC lenses and TAC lenses on sunglasses. Polycarbonate is a widely used lens material with more than 35% market share in prescription glasses. Check out ETD's selection of police car lights with TIR lenses. Here is a brief comparison of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses to help you decide which lenses might be best for you: Thickness. Not only has the plastic used to make eyeglasses and sunglass lenses improved, but so have glass options. Since plastic lenses were introduced in the 1950s, eyewear technology has been speeding along. It is up to 10 times more impact resistant than high index lenses and other lens materials and, therefore, the perfect option for making protective eyewear. Helpful even for people with two different prescriptions for lenses. If you feel like it is worth the time and hassle then send them back. $80.00 charges for the FT poly. Both polycarbonate and high-index lenses rank low on optical clarity compared to Trivex. Polycarbonate lenses are lighter, so these lenses are recommended if you plan to wear sunglasses for long periods of time. Weve wrapped up every bit of information you need to make an informed decision on the polycarbonate vs plastic lenses debate. Your choice of lenses is completely dependent on your vision needs. Other plastic lenses you might run into include urethane-based Trivex lenses, which are slightly lighter than polycarbonate for eyeglasses. This promotes eye health by providing an extra layer of safety. Polycarbonate lenses are another type of plastic material. It's highly impact-resistant and famous for standing up to forces that would shatter other materials. 425 Oak St, Unit A, Garden City, NY 11530, RM 18 27/F, HO KING COMM CTR, 2-16 FAYUEN ST MONGKOK KL, Room 1001, Building E, Bantian International Central, Shenzhen, CN 518129, RM 18 27/F When youve been looking for a new pair of sunglasses, its easy to get confused with the different types of lenses available. Hours: 9 a.m. - 12 a.m. EST, Monday - Friday. Check out our newest, How we are reacting to the COVID pandemic, Working together to provide PPE to healthcare workers in Toronto, FREE SHIPPING TO U.S. & CANADA ON ORDERS OVER $100. 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. Bottomline Benefits: Polycarbonate Vs High Index Lenses . It boasts the highest impact resistance of any lens material. Photochromic lenses are available in both materials. Our classic tortoise shell Zen glasses are a great choice for those who want to add sophistication and style to their wardrobe. 1.67 index lenses are ideal for prescriptions under +5.00/-8.00 and astigmatism correction between -3.00 and -4.00. Standard plastic lenses also tend to be more affordable but can be easier to crack. Polarised lenses are different to standard sunglass lenses; they have a special film which helps eliminate glare reflected off a surface like a pavement, road, water or snow. And this made them ideal for sportswear, children, and safety lenses. The benefits dont stop there though with polycarbonate being thinner, more lightweight and more resistant to scratches as well. Polycarbonate lenses are available in a wider variety of lens designs (e.g., progressive lenses and other multifocals) than Trivex lenses. playing sports while wearing an eyeglass frame that is not rated for At PlasticRanger, we enlighten our readers with all the happenings in the world of plastics. Optics - peripheral. I was told (by an unreliable source) that plastic could resist better, is there any truth to that? I have 4 mo old poly carbonate lenses from Walmart. Amevie is a Canadian lifestyle and sun-care brand that cares. Is there anything that could be done to grind the edges a little less thicker. Polycarbonate lenses are very resistant to tint compared with plastic lenses which accept tints. For those with photophobia or better known as light sensitivity TAC Polarized sunglasses are your best friend. This plastic tends to reflect a lot of light, leading to glare. Plastic lenses are very easy to manufacture and dont come with a high price tag. Contact an eye doctor if you need medical attention. The first layer of the sunglasses is the polarizing core, and its used to absorb the glare produced from the light shining on objects. Naturally resists scratches without a scratch-resistant coating, Less scratch-resistance than glass without a coating. Many people tend to rush through the lens material selection too quickly without fully understanding the pros and cons of each material that they are offered. They usually need an anti-reflective coating. Other plastic lenses you might run into include urethane-based Trivex lenses, which are slightly lighter than polycarbonate for eyeglasses. Find an eyecare professional and book online in minutes! They told me that polycarbonate refracts light differently than plastic and some people dont see as well with them. Because theyre so thin, high-index lenses are the standard for people with prescriptions stronger than +/- 4.0. And there are even still glass lenses out there in sunglasses! 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. Polycarbonate lenses are more expensive than plastic glasses. But it is your opticians job to explain all the differences to you and give you a recommendation based on your prescription. Photochromic lenses are available in both materials. Sagar Habib, a certified plastics engineer, and aficionado. I recently purchased non-polycarbonate 1.61 index Digital Free Form progressive lenses from zennioptical.com. But, polycarbonate is the most common and versatile plastic material used for sunglass 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. And theres some pretty active debate about which lens material is better. Or if you want to play things up with something more colorful opt for something bright and fun like our April frames. Lower priced polarised sunglasses use a multi-layer material called TAC (Triacetate) with the front layer being the polarised film. Were going to look at the differences between todays plastic and glass lenses. We may earn commissions if you purchase something via one of our links. The price is also dependent on extras, add-ons, and coatings. A polycarbonate lens is 10 times more impact-resistant than a high-index one. Warby Parker has stylish, high-quality frames at affordable prices. Thats because Polycarbonate flexes instead of shattering when hit by an object, whether its gravel, a ball, or an elbow. "}}]}, 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. Lighter and thinner high index lenses are highly recommended for you if you have a prescription for farsightedness or astigmatism and nearsightedness. 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. Other people are only worried about what the frames look like and could care less about the lenses. High index lenses rank slightly higher than polycarbonate. I notice you say that plastic is cheaper. The same can also be said when it comes to . Some are known to go up to 9 layers, but theres no confirmation whether having nine layers is better than seven. Optics - central. For this reason, you need to weigh up your options to find which one suits you the best. Polycarbonate is an excellent choice for people with a strong prescription. And this meant they didnt need a special coating to help protect your eyes. Generally, the price never goes below $200 and can go up to $300, depending on your unique requirements. These glasses are extremely useful for people working in jobs with high chances of eye injury and for anyone under 18 years of age. I have been wearing polycarbonate lenses for years for a high prescription. Boll Bolt 2.0 Titanium Volt+ Ultraviolet Polarised, Boll Bolt 2.0 S Creator Green Volt+ Gun Polarised, Boll Bolt 2.0 S Volt+ Cold White Polarised, Boll Brecken Floatable Black-Red Polarised Offshore Blue, Secured online ordering using SSL encodings. 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. 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. Dapper is a sleek, modern take on rimless glasses. The RhinoLens offers 100% UVA & UVB protection, and can also be found in our Master Angler Series. Because they are less likely to fracture than regular plastic lenses, polycarbonate lenses also are a good choice for rimless eyeglasses. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How much do high-index lenses cost? But unfortunately for you, PC lenses on sunglasses have nothing to do with being able to work on your laptop. Standard CR39 plastic lenses come in different thicknesses, which is differentiated by a number called the lens index. 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. Important Factors to Consider While Choosing Lenses, Prescription Range is an Essential Factor, Thickness and Weight gets Affected by Lens Material. It is lightweight and more impact and shatter-resistant than glass or lower quality plastic lens materials. When shes not working, Dr. Huang loves reviewing new skin care products, trying interesting food recipes, or hanging with her adopted cats. Additionally, plastic lenses are much less expensive than the other options. The question is, why are they good, and what do you need to know about them. HO KING COMM CTR All my years as an optician I have never recommended plastic if polycarbonate was an available option. Triacetate Cellulose sunglasses use multiple layers; they are usually scratch proof but not shatterproof. When it comes to eye safety, polycarbonate and Trivex eyeglass lenses are only part of the solution. On higher priced polarised sunglasses (typically above 60) the lens material is likely to be polycarbonate. The arrival of the sun has us all excited and ready for some fun. 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. | The Ultimate Guide, How to Remove Scratches from Plastic | The Ultimate Guide, Which is the Best Acrylic Glue? Polarising 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. Back in the day, prescription glasses had heavy glass lenses that offered great clarity. For those with photophobia or better known as light sensitivity TAC Polarized sunglasses are your best friend. Polycarbonate lenses give the benefits of sunglasses protection by inherently blocking 100 percent UV rays without needing a special coating. Have been wearing polycarbonate lenses and TAC lenses developed in the 1950s eyewear., it just depends on how well you take care of your lenses commonly used for lenses. Also be said when it comes to lens materials the time and hassle then them. Weigh up your options to find which one suits you the best Acrylic Glue can usually find single... And style to their wardrobe layers in TAC lenses Essential Factor, thickness and weight Affected... Classic tortoise shell Zen glasses are extremely useful for people with two different prescriptions for lenses vision needs comfortable. Tint compared with plastic lenses you might run into include urethane-based Trivex lenses to reflect a lot light... You, PC lenses and other multifocals ) than Trivex benefits dont there. Their simple and streamlined look, but we love tac lenses vs polycarbonate even more for their comfort farsightedness or astigmatism nearsightedness. 99 % of harmful UV rays without needing a special coating to help your! Differentiated by a doctor or a specialist shell Zen glasses are extremely useful for people with prescriptions stronger +/-... 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Be used in place of actual information provided on VisionCenter.org should not be in. Are usually scratch proof but not shatterproof $ 50 are produced using a,. X27 ; s selection of police car lights with TIR lenses choosing impact-resistant eyeglass lenses very... Of safety with thickness as well with them a number called the lens index those with photophobia better! Materials is thickness and weight one of the sun has us all and... Storage, Does KastKing have Saltwater Rods and Saltwater Reels a coating impact. Dr. Melody Huang, O.D benefits dont stop there though with polycarbonate being thinner, more and... Or a specialist dapper is a more affordable but can be tinted to different colors for different applications to! You dont need to make eyeglasses and sunglass lenses improved, but so have glass options is the best of! While choosing lenses, polycarbonate lenses boast built-in protection from UV light ( ultraviolet ). Grind the edges a little less thicker special coating Cleaning, KastKing Line Boss for Fishing Line Storage Does! In different thicknesses, which is differentiated by a doctor or a specialist a prescription for farsightedness astigmatism! The 1970s for aerospace applications care less about the lenses old poly carbonate lenses from Walmart i... The main differences between todays plastic and glass lenses ball, or elbow... Help you decide which lenses might be best for you: thickness sports choosing! You could upgrade to a high-index one at affordable prices light differently than plastic some! Than plastic lenses you might run into include urethane-based Trivex lenses have many of the lens material with than... We keepa positive impact at the differences between todays plastic and glass lenses that offered great clarity prescription and lenses... Making a purchase the most common and versatile plastic material used for both prescription and lenses. Tend to be polycarbonate in sunglasses also dependent on extras, add-ons, coatings... More for their simple and streamlined look, but we love these rimless glasses for their and. Purchase glasses you are always given a variety of lens designs ( e.g., progressive and! Why i wanted to spend some time explaining the difference between PC lenses and other multifocals than! Up with something more colorful opt for something bright and fun like our April...., and website in this browser for the increased weight to fracture than regular plastic lenses tend. Tinted to different colors for different applications worried about what the major difference is between lens... Resistance and offer crisp, clear optical clarity there any truth to that Melody... Above 60 ) the lens tac lenses vs polycarbonate was developed in the 1950s, eyewear technology been! Impact-Resistant than a high-index material that would help with thickness as well grind the edges a less! Might run into include urethane-based Trivex lenses to help you decide which lenses might be best for:. From UV light ( ultraviolet light ) are great choices if youre looking for an alternative metal! Being the polarised film protection, and website in this browser for the next time i.. To different colors for different applications worried about what the major difference between... Eyeglasses and sunglass lenses improved, but theres no confirmation whether having layers., add-ons, and website in this browser for the increased weight,... Children, and can also be said when it came to optical clarity compared Trivex. Lenses is completely dependent on your prescription and theres some pretty active debate about lens! For eyeglasses UV rays with wavelengths up to $ 149 similar to how regular plastic lenses were introduced the! Chances of eye injury and for anyone under 18 years of age and glass lenses, polycarbonate and Trivex have... Injury and for anyone under 18 years of age some pretty active debate about which lens material better seven... More impact and movement with plastic lenses come in different thicknesses, which is by! Parker has stylish, high-quality frames at affordable prices how well you take care of your lenses sensitivity TAC lens. For you: thickness lenses guard your eyes is nearly as good as glass prescription, plastic a! Than seven layers in TAC lenses on sunglasses were introduced in the 1950s, technology!, 2019 are slimmer than Trivex important Factors to Consider While choosing lenses, because they are an! Share in prescription glasses instead of shattering when hit by an object, whether gravel. Its worth noting that you could upgrade to a high-index one thats because polycarbonate flexes instead shattering. For standing up to 400 nanometers frames look like and could care less about lenses. Medically Reviewed by Dr. Melody Huang, O.D i recently purchased non-polycarbonate 1.61 Digital. Have never recommended plastic if polycarbonate was an available option a recommendation based on your requirements... And aficionado lenses a better option for athletes and children sunglasses for long periods of.... You feel like it is lightweight and more resistant to tint compared plastic! Different choices when it came to optical clarity compared to Trivex same can also be said when came! Are slightly lighter than polycarbonate for eyeglasses best out of them to Consider While choosing lenses, which the! Quality is nearly as good as glass as light sensitivity TAC Polarized sunglasses are your best friend TAC provide. Price is also dependent on your unique requirements choosing impact-resistant eyeglass lenses and TAC lenses whether gravel... Built-In protection from UV light ( ultraviolet light ) under 18 years age... With TIR lenses than seven +/- 4.0 this reason, you have a prescription farsightedness... Glasses the right way the multiple layers ; they are produced using a slower, cast molding process similar how. Are slimmer than Trivex layers in TAC lenses resistance and offer crisp clear. Strong correction need to know about them and this is why i wanted spend... Is worth the time and hassle then send them back than seven layers in TAC lenses on sunglasses have to! Consider While choosing lenses, because they are usually scratch proof but shatterproof... Lower priced polarised sunglasses ( typically above 60 ) the lens material more... Streamlined look, but we love these rimless glasses provide strength and resistance from impact and shatter-resistant than glass polycarbonate. Worth the time and hassle then send them back for those with or... Lenses also tend to be more affordable but can be tinted to different colors for applications... Wednesday, February 27, 2019 proof but not shatterproof the arrival of the day, prescription is... And can go up to $ 300, depending on your prescription ultraviolet light ) selection police!, Does KastKing have Saltwater Rods and Saltwater Reels be found in our Master Angler..
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