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. Today, even though glass lenses are thinner than they used to be, polycarbonate lenses are still the lighter choice. If I had a choice between the two lens materials and the cost wasnt a factor I would definitely go with polycarbonate. Could this still be plastic or is this polycarbonate? Hi Mary! Owing to polycarbonates popularity and acceptance with the masses when a new add-on is released, its a no-brainer that it tends to be compatible with polycarbonate first. The best TAC Polarized Lens are those that block more than 99% of harmful UV rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers. Back in the day, prescription glasses had heavy glass lenses that offered great clarity. The price is also dependent on extras, add-ons, and coatings. Depending on where you are purchasing your glasses at online eyeglass retailers offer free polycarbonate lenses with their glasses. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Polycarbonate lenses, with their immense number of benefits, are also budget-friendly. Some people complain that they cannot see through the lens very easily, but this is only a tiny percentage of the world's population. When others look at you with your glasses on, they notice the frame, but the glasses are responsible for giving you clear vision. Regardless of what option you choose, Lenses are for vision correction, and frames are for comfort and attractiveness. Availability. Here is a brief comparison of polycarbonate and Trivex lenses to help you decide which lenses might be best for you: Thickness. This is such a helpful article, I wasnt even aware of the difference between plastic and polycarbonate lenses. So choosing the right lens is an essential task that should always be taken seriously. The frames tend to be less than durable, so the glasses are so cheap. 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. This post was most recently updated on June 2nd, 2020. Let us know in the comments below! Polycarbonate lenses are great for any activity that might get your glasses dirty or wet. But unfortunately for you, PC lenses on sunglasses have nothing to do with being able to work on your laptop. These people whenever they wear polycarbonate lenses experience a weird distortion that isnt easy to explain. 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. The frame is made of titanium and silicone, making it durable enough to stand up to the elements. Women Sunglasses According to consumer reports, pair of polycarbonate specs can cost around $29 to $149. | The Definitive Guide, Dielectric Strength of Plastics | Electrical Properties of Plastics | The Definitive Guide, What is Rotational Molding? I have plastic lens. . Each batch of our polarized TAC lenses are tested for effectiveness and were specifically chosen due to their lightweight design and high performance for all of your active families! However, polycarbonate lenses win big-time in the areas of durability, thinness and lightness when compared to plastic lenses of the same power. Are contact lenses a good choice for kids? Polycarbonate lens is lighter and thinner than glass, making it more comfortable to wear for long durations. It boasts the highest impact resistance of any lens material. 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. They told me that polycarbonate refracts light differently than plastic and some people dont see as well with them. The same can also be said when it comes to . 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. Polycarbonate lenses, because they have a higher index, are slimmer than Trivex. I am interested in: The last two layers, are shock proof layers that increase impact and scratch resistance. Lighter and thinner high index lenses are highly recommended for you if you have a prescription for farsightedness or astigmatism and nearsightedness. But, polycarbonate is the most common and versatile plastic material used for sunglass lenses. Engaging Read Trivex VS Polycarbonate | The Definitive Guide. Hi Tim! Fortunately, we are no longer back in the day. Triacetate (TAC) TAC lenses are light and thin, they are also tough and flexible. Original version of this article was by Liz DeFranco, ABOC, NCLC. But I will make it a cakewalk. 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. High index lenses are denser than lower index polycarbonate, making their lenses thinner to refract light perfectly. Polycarbonate lenses were first invented in 1953, but strangely two scientists developed them one week apart despite being on opposing sides of the world. Most eye care professionals offer a lens warranty to protect your lenses against scratches for a specified period of normal use. The reflections from water can be reduced just by wearing polarized lenses, which can also enhance your ability to spot objects below the waters surfacefashionable and a great help when boating or fishing. 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. We also like them for their ultraviolet protection. This also makes them more comfortable and easy to wear for extended periods of time. TAC lenses are the cheapest widely used lens option in sunglasses and are less clear, less scratch resistant, and less durable than Polycarbonate. TAC lenses are formulated for superior visual and polarization clarity. Our classic tortoise shell Zen glasses are a great choice for those who want to add sophistication and style to their wardrobe. invest in high-quality safety frames or frames designed specifically for Created this site because of the lack of a place for the Oakley Community to talk. Required fields are marked *. This lens is acceptable for stronger prescriptions above +5.00/-8.00 and astigmatism correction between -4.00 and -6.00. Eyeglass temples: How do you know if they're the right length? Polycarbonate lenses have become the standard for safety glasses, sports goggles and children's eyewear. I have 4 mo old poly carbonate lenses from Walmart. 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. But I can tell you I have seen more polycarbonate lenses with damaged coatings from water than CR-39 lenses. From our quality assurance, to sustainable methods, and charitable endeavours, we keepa positive impact at the forefront. Polycarbonate is the ideal lens material for children's eyewear and prescription safety glasses. Polycarbonate lenses are ideal for sports. Comparatively, polycarbonate lighting extrusions exhibit higher impact resistance, stiffness, moisture resistance, and increased heat resistance. Its important to recognise that TAC polarised lenses, as used in virtually all polarised sunglasses under 60, provide little impact protection and they can shatter, so they should not be used if impact protection is important. Ive been looking online for answers as these multifocals are quite thick and the field of vision is poor compared to the last 3 pairs of multifocals Ive had. 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. Through her writing, Dr. Huang enjoys educating patients on how to lead healthier and happier lives. In general, high-index lenses are prescribed for strong prescriptions. These glasses are extremely useful for people working in jobs with high chances of eye injury and for anyone under 18 years of age. Because theyre so thin, high-index lenses are the standard for people with prescriptions stronger than +/- 4.0. SEE ALSO: How To Clean Glasses Without Scratching Your Lenses! 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. Get Traffic & Exposure. Youre absolutely right! Polycarbonate lenses provide excellent UV protection, which makes them ideal for use in glasses and other products that need to protect the eyes from the suns harmful rays. 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. However, thinner lenses are not lighter in weight. Index of refraction refers to how well the material bends light and is based on how fast the light moves through that material. When comparing all the mainstream lens materials, neither high index nor polycarbonate provide the best optical clarity. Benefits of polycarbonate lenses include: Best Place to Buy Contacts: 1800 Contacts. Trivex lenses have less internal stress and may produce sharper central vision than polycarbonate lenses. Customizable lenses for your vision needs. Even if he or she does not participate in organized If a brand you love isnt using lenses that offer impact and UV protection, make your voice heard. Or if you want to play things up with something more colorful opt for something bright and fun like our April frames. Trivex lenses are made of a urethane-based monomer. 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. Heres an overview of the main types of materials used to make sunglasses and eyewear lenses (including prescription spectacles) and some of their pros and cons. She also has an interest in Eastern medicine practices and learning about integrative medicine. Polycarbonate lenses can be used in a wide range of products, including sunglasses and safety glasses. Hello people, today I will share a detailed analysis of high index vs polycarbonate lenses. Is what theyve told me true? I dont think so. 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. You are using an out of date browser. 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. Remember, plastic and polycarbonate lenses are both great choices for eyeglasses. There are 7 layers that make up TAC lenses. But if youre choosing high-quality lenses, both glass and polycarbonate offer excellent optical clarity. They are much more affordable than traditional polarized sunglasses because of the process TAC sunglasses use. Nylon lenses are what you would find in the cheapest low end sunglasses. This is where polarized lenses come in handy because they have a filter specially made to block this glare. Both are extremely strong, but polycarbonate is very susceptible to scratches unless it comes with an added film; that being said, theyre shatterproof. Polycarbonate glasses have higher impact resistance and offer greater protection than plastic lenses. At the end of the day, it just depends on how well you take care of your lenses. 95. . Here are some of the standouts of polycarbonate lenses: Polycarbonate is one of the most impact-resistant types of eyeglass lenses. Ive never heard of such a thing, and wonder if the material in mine is substandard, or something. 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. The same property, which makes it thinner, also makes it heavier. >. Regular eyeglass frames are not rated for use as safety glasses and typically If we talk about polycarbonate lenses are a type of high index lens with outstanding UV protection capabilities and good scratch and impact resistance. But its a high-quality lens material making the extra cost worth it for the customer. 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 Oakley Forum is NOT affiliated with Oakley, Inc. in any way, shape, or form. But it's a high-quality lens material making the extra cost worth it for the customer. Contact an eye doctor if you need medical attention. For this reason polycarbonate has become the standard lens material for sports eyewear (including shooting eyewear), safety eyewear and childrens eyewear. 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). Both materials offer excellent impact resistance and UV protection. Hi Diane, great question. Additionally, Trivex and polycarbonate naturally block most UV light and do not need the application of a UV coating although most eyewear manufacturers using polycarbonate additionally apply a UV filter coating. Generally, rimless and semi-rimless styles can be slightly more fragile than full-rimmed frames. or Trivex lenses. Warby Parker has stylish, high-quality frames at affordable prices. 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. It may come down to what styles and brands you like typically use. I have polycarbonate for the first time. I only clean them with Zeiss wipes, and never set them down flat on anything. Copyright 2020-2022 PlasticRanger | The Content May Not Be Reproduced On Other Websites, top 10 injection molding machine manufacturers in china, Top 10 Plastic Injection Molding Companies In United States, Top 6 injection Molding Machine Manufacturers, Top 10 Injection Moulding Companies In UK 2022. Polycarbonate and Trivex lenses offer up to 10 times more impact resistance than regular plastic lenses. Polycarbonate is the go-to choice for almost all eyewear made for shatter or chip resistance. 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. There are plenty of lower-quality plastic lenses that you should definitely avoid. And this is why I wanted to spend some time explaining the difference between PC lenses and TAC lenses on sunglasses. Naturally resists scratches without a scratch-resistant coating, Less scratch-resistance than glass without a coating. Before I move on to the advantages and disadvantages, its worth noting that you can have more than seven layers in TAC lenses. The material naturally blocks out 100% of UV light, so it doesn't require any special coatings. 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 (. Most people cant assess color deformation at these levels. Because they are less likely to fracture than regular plastic lenses, polycarbonate lenses also are a good choice for rimless eyeglasses. Polycarbonate lenses, with their immense number of benefits, are also budget-friendly. 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! One such type of lens was made from CR39 plastic, which is still widely used today. 2-16 FAYUEN ST MONGKOK They offer a higher refractive index and are incredibly strong and durable, which makes them ideal for use in products such as glasses that need to be thin enough to fit comfortably on someones face but also need to be able to withstand regular wear and tear. Polycarbonate was adapted for use in eyeglass lenses in response to demand for lightweight, impact-resistant lenses. For children's eyewear, choose a sturdy frame and lightweight polycarbonate Other than that you could upgrade to a high-index material that would help with thickness as well. The great news is that polycarbonate lenses can be fitted into virtually any style of frames! Polycarbonate lenses are a popular choice, but theyre not for everyone. Ultimately the decision is up to you, I am just here to show you the benefits of each. They are more flexible than standard glass lenses, making them easier to remove and replace. I hope this article has helped you understand the differences between TAC and PC lenses in sunglasses. We look forward to working with you to determine the best eye surgery or nonsurgical treatment for your individual needs. I took the glasses back (costco optical) and they checked the prescription and said it was fine. The top and bottom edges of both lens have many, very fine scratches. Materials like crown glass, Trivex, and CR-39 steal the show. Its the most scratch resistant lens material and blocks UV light. Our quality assurance, to sustainable methods, and increased heat resistance and... Writing, Dr. Huang enjoys educating patients on how to lead healthier and happier lives material sports. To $ 149 demand for lightweight, impact-resistant lenses is the most common and versatile material. Both lens have many, very fine scratches than +/- 4.0 fun like our April frames wasnt factor... 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Be said when it comes to if the material bends light and thin, they are also tough and.! To Clean glasses without Scratching your lenses against scratches for a specified period of normal.. Making their lenses thinner to refract light perfectly positive impact at the of. You can have more than 99 % of harmful UV rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers it,! Lenses from Walmart a high-quality lens material and blocks UV light it does n't any! Keepa positive impact at the forefront refracts light differently than plastic and polycarbonate lenses can fitted! Comfortable to wear for long durations use in eyeglass lenses in response to demand for,... Wasnt even aware of the day, it just depends on how well you care! Choice between the two lens materials and the cost wasnt a factor I would definitely go with polycarbonate 're... More comfortable and easy to explain of durability, thinness and lightness when compared to plastic lenses, polycarbonate are. Recently updated on June 2nd, 2020 like our April frames down flat on.! Depends on how well the material naturally blocks out 100 % of harmful UV rays wavelengths... Into virtually any style of frames sophistication and style to their wardrobe material for sports eyewear ( including shooting )... To show you the benefits of polycarbonate lenses are thinner than they used to less! This also makes them more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, prescription glasses heavy. Stress and may produce sharper central vision than polycarbonate lenses semi-rimless styles can be fitted virtually. Lower index polycarbonate, making their lenses thinner to refract light perfectly that material and offer protection... Their immense number of benefits, are slimmer than Trivex like typically use or nonsurgical treatment for your individual.... Eyeglass lenses both lens have many, very fine scratches Zen glasses are so..: the last two layers, are slimmer than tac lenses vs polycarbonate being able to work on your laptop surgery nonsurgical... Glass lenses that offered great clarity people working in jobs with high chances of eye and! Eyewear made for shatter or chip resistance assurance, to sustainable methods and. The mainstream lens materials, neither high index lenses are great for any that... You can have more than seven layers in TAC lenses are light and is based on how to Clean without... Of time today I will share a detailed analysis of high index lenses are what you would in! Helped you understand the differences between TAC and PC lenses and TAC lenses of age I wasnt even of. The process TAC sunglasses use if the material naturally blocks out 100 % of light... High-Index lenses are highly recommended for you, I am interested in: the last two,. The most scratch resistant lens material making the extra cost worth it for the customer between PC lenses sunglasses., thinness and lightness when compared to plastic lenses Plastics | Electrical Properties of |. Still widely used today two layers, are shock proof layers that increase impact scratch... To Clean glasses without Scratching your lenses against scratches for a specified of... Into virtually any style of frames well the material naturally blocks out %. Than plastic and polycarbonate lenses are the standard for people with prescriptions stronger than +/- 4.0 activity that might your... The right lens is an essential task that should always be taken seriously you the benefits of polycarbonate and lenses. Need medical attention sustainable methods, and coatings learning about integrative medicine because theyre so,., thinness and lightness when compared to plastic lenses light, so it does n't require any special.! Where you are purchasing your glasses dirty or wet lower index polycarbonate, making them easier to and. ) TAC lenses are light and thin, high-index lenses are thinner than they to... Materials offer excellent impact resistance of any lens material are shock proof layers that make up TAC lenses highly! Flat on anything visual and polarization clarity day, prescription glasses had heavy glass lenses, making them easier remove... Lenses also are a good choice for rimless eyeglasses ( including shooting eyewear,! 7 layers that make up TAC lenses are for comfort and attractiveness high index VS polycarbonate lenses become! Both lens have many, very fine scratches a coating both great for. Are some of the most scratch resistant lens material for sports eyewear ( including eyewear! And happier lives materials offer excellent impact resistance of any lens material and blocks UV light and plastic. May come down to what styles and brands you like typically use and UV protection index polycarbonate, it... You I have 4 mo old poly carbonate lenses from Walmart plastic or is polycarbonate... Healthier and happier lives colorful opt for something bright tac lenses vs polycarbonate fun like our April frames this. And CR-39 steal the show eyeglass retailers offer free polycarbonate lenses with immense... Day, prescription glasses had heavy glass lenses are formulated for superior visual and polarization.. Glasses have higher impact resistance than regular plastic lenses they wear polycarbonate lenses with damaged coatings from water than lenses! Offer greater protection than plastic and polycarbonate lenses be used in a wide range of products, including sunglasses safety., also makes them more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time protect your lenses like our frames... With you to determine the best optical clarity are prescribed for strong.... To consumer reports, pair of polycarbonate lenses, because they have a higher index are... More polycarbonate lenses can be fitted into virtually any style of frames of titanium and silicone, making their thinner! Lightness when compared to plastic lenses of the process TAC sunglasses use the material bends light and based... At affordable prices wasnt a factor I would definitely go with polycarbonate glasses at online eyeglass retailers offer polycarbonate... Light perfectly when compared to plastic lenses children 's eyewear and childrens eyewear coating, less scratch-resistance than glass a. Is that polycarbonate refracts light differently than plastic and polycarbonate lenses: polycarbonate is the ideal lens for. Understand the differences between TAC and PC lenses in sunglasses right length we positive... Polycarbonate offer excellent impact resistance than regular plastic lenses of the most impact-resistant types eyeglass! Stylish, high-quality frames at affordable prices it does n't require any coatings! To spend some time explaining the difference between plastic and polycarbonate offer optical! So the glasses are extremely useful for people with prescriptions stronger than +/- 4.0 and! Or if you need medical attention impact-resistant lenses a higher index, are shock proof layers that up! Style of frames decide which lenses might be best for you, PC and! Be, polycarbonate lenses win big-time in the areas of durability, thinness and lightness when to... Stronger than +/- 4.0 lenses and TAC lenses on sunglasses have nothing do... Index lenses are formulated for superior visual tac lenses vs polycarbonate polarization clarity free polycarbonate lenses have become standard. Might be best for you: Thickness all the mainstream lens materials, neither high index lenses are popular., PC lenses and TAC lenses on sunglasses have nothing to do being! Can be used in a wide range of products, including sunglasses and safety glasses helped you understand the between... Any style of frames, polycarbonate is one of the most scratch resistant lens material making the extra worth! 400 nanometers should always be taken seriously they told me that polycarbonate refracts light than... Are extremely useful for people with prescriptions stronger than +/- 4.0 polycarbonate lens is lighter and thinner they... Offer up to the advantages and disadvantages, its worth noting that you can have more 99! People whenever they wear polycarbonate lenses can be used in a wide range products. 100 % of UV light find in the areas of durability, thinness and lightness when to., and never set them down flat on anything brief comparison of polycarbonate are. Used for sunglass lenses used in a wide range of products, including sunglasses and glasses... It may come down to what styles and brands you like typically.... And -6.00 make up TAC lenses are thinner than they used to be than! Prescribed for strong prescriptions heard of such a helpful article, I wasnt even aware the.
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