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Why is buying prescription glasses and sunglasses online becoming so popular?

Recent research suggests that in the UK, almost 1 in 10 glasses wearers are now buying their prescription glasses and sunglasses from an online retailer rather than from their traditional High Street Optician. The research also indicates that the number of people buying their glasses online will more than double in the next few years.


Most people now understand that they are not obliged to buy their glasses from wherever they had their eye test done – indeed the Optician must provide a paper or electronic copy of the patient’s eye test results whether or not they want to buy glasses from them.


Perhaps it’s not so surprising that buying glasses online has become so popular. The last few years has seen a complete change in consumer attitudes when it comes to making online purchases – what would have until only a few years ago seemed ‘high risk’ online purchases such as motor cars, electronic goods and furniture are now common place. Many consumers have come to realise that buying more complex high value items from a reputable online supplier actually comes with as much if not greater consumer protection that buying from more traditional suppliers.

What are the benefits?

  • Online retailers often have lower overhead costs compared to brick-and-mortar stores, allowing them to offer more competitive prices on prescription glasses. This can result in significant cost savings for consumers.

  • Shopping online provides the convenience of browsing through a wide range of frame styles and lens options from the comfort of your own home. You can take your time to compare products and read reviews without any pressure.

  • Online retailers typically offer a broader selection of designer frames and lens options than many physical stores. This variety allows you to find a style that suits your lifestyle and budget.

  • Online platforms make it easy to compare prices, features, and customer reviews across different brands and models. This can help you make an informed decision based on both your budget and specific needs.


  • Some online retailers provide tools that allow you to virtually try on different frames and customise features such as lens coatings, tints, and thickness. This customisation can help you tailor your glasses to your individual preferences.

  • Many online eyewear retailers offer home try-on programs where you can select a few frames to be sent to your home for a trial period. This allows you to physically try on different styles before making a final decision.

  • Many online stores make it easy for you to upload your prescription directly to their website. This simplifies the ordering process and ensures that you receive glasses with the correct prescription.

  • Some online retailers offer virtual assistance or chat support to help you with the selection process and answer any questions you may have.

What to look out for

While there are advantages to buying prescription glasses online, it's important to ensure that the online retailer is reputable and follows proper quality standards. Be sure to check customer reviews, return policies, and warranty information before making a purchase. Additionally, it's advisable to have your prescription updated regularly by an eye care professional.


As millions of consumers have discovered, there are significant advantages to buying prescription glasses online, but there are also some potential drawbacks that individuals should consider before making a purchase.


Some consumers can find it challenging to assess the fit and comfort of glasses when shopping online. Without trying them on in person, there's a risk that the frames may not be suitable for your face shape or may feel uncomfortable, leading to the need for returns or exchanges and unlike in-person purchases where an optician can make on-the-spot adjustments to ensure a perfect fit, online purchases may lack this level of customisation. Adjustments for nose pads, temple arms, and other factors might be limited or require a visit to a local optician.

While many online retailers have systems for uploading prescriptions, there is a potential for errors in inputting the prescription information. Accuracy is crucial for vision correction, and mistakes could lead to discomfort or inadequate vision correction.


Home try-on programs offered by some online retailers are really useful, but the experience of trying on frames in a physical store and receiving immediate feedback from an optician may be preferred by some individuals.


Ultimately, the decision to buy prescription glasses online or in-person depends on individual preferences, comfort levels, and the importance of factors like fit, style, and professional guidance in the purchasing process. It's essential to carefully research online retailers, read customer reviews, and understand the return policies before making a decision.

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