Single Vision vs Reading Glasses: What's the Difference?
Introduction
When shopping for glasses, it's easy to assume that all glasses are the same. However, single vision prescription glasses and ready-made reading glasses are designed for different purposes and don't suit everyone.
Understanding the difference can help you choose eyewear that provides clear, comfortable vision throughout your day.
What Are Single Vision Prescription Glasses?
Single vision prescription glasses contain one prescription across the entire lens. They are individually made to match your eyesight and can be prescribed for distance vision or for near tasks such as reading.
Because they're made specifically for your eyes, they provide more accurate vision correction than off-the-shelf alternatives.
What Are Ready-Made Reading Glasses?
Ready-made reading glasses, often found in supermarkets and pharmacies, have identical magnifying power in both lenses.
They're intended for people who simply need basic magnification for close work and who have very similar prescriptions in both eyes, with no astigmatism or other prescription requirements.
They aren't suitable for everyone.
The Main Differences
Single vision prescription glasses are customised to your prescription, including the power required for each eye and any astigmatism correction.
Ready-made reading glasses use the same power in both lenses and cannot correct differences between your eyes.
This means prescription glasses usually provide clearer, more comfortable vision, particularly during prolonged use.
Who Should Choose Prescription Glasses?
Prescription glasses are generally the better choice if:
• You have different prescriptions in each eye.
• You have astigmatism.
• You wear glasses for distance vision.
• You spend long periods reading or working on a computer.
• You want the most accurate vision possible.
An up-to-date prescription ensures your lenses are made specifically for your eyesight.
Can Ready-Made Reading Glasses Cause Problems?
For some people, ready-made readers may cause headaches, eye strain or blurred vision if they don't match their prescription.
While they can be convenient for occasional use, they aren't a substitute for properly prescribed glasses when individual vision correction is required.
Buying Prescription Glasses Online
Ordering single vision prescription glasses online is straightforward once you have a current prescription.
Simply choose your favourite frame, enter your prescription details and your lenses will be made to match your eyesight before being delivered directly to your door.
Making the Right Choice
Both types of glasses have their place, but they're designed for different people and different visual needs.
If you need precise, personalised vision correction, single vision prescription glasses provide the accuracy, comfort and clarity that ready-made reading glasses simply can't match.