Is it better to have 2 pairs of glasses or varifocals?
Emma Payne
Published Jan 14, 2026
You could find varifocals are a more cost-effective option for you as purchasing one pair with varifocals could work out cheaper than two pairs. It's also more convenient than constantly switching between your two pairs of glasses. However, some people do experience an adjustment period when switching to varifocals.
Are varifocals better than two pairs of glasses?
Bifocals or varifocals may be advisable if you need to switch from distance and near visual tasks frequently. If you do a lot of reading or driving, separate pairs may be better for you as they offer clear all-round vision.
Is it a good idea to have two pairs of glasses?
Eye doctors always recommend that patients have more than one pair of prescription eyeglasses. Not only is this for fashion purposes, but it also helps protect your vision and eyes in case your primary pair of spectacles is damaged or breaks.
Are varifocals good for your eyes?
Varifocal lenses are usually required by those over the age of 40; this is because of a normal loss of near focusing ability. The crystalline lens in our eye loses elasticity and gets stiffer as we grow older, resulting in our close sight deteriorating.
Are reading glasses better than varifocals?
An easy solution to these problems are Enhanced Reading Lenses. These lenses are a great alternative to varifocals and offer a big benefit of larger mid-range and near areas and extra range to single vision reading glasses.
38 related questions foundShould varifocals be worn all the time?
This process varies across individuals, but most people get used to varifocal glasses after two weeks. This is why it's so important to continue to wear your varifocal glasses consistently so that your eyes can adjust to them.
How do I know if my varifocals are correct?
Your vision has changed.
If you feel that your vision has changed, it could be because your frame is out of alignment. This is particularly true of varifocals – if they are not sitting correctly, you could be looking through the wrong part of the lens, and your vision will seem blurry.
Can you drive with varifocals?
Can you use varifocals for driving? Yes, you can drive in varifocals, they're especially useful if you struggle to see both near and far. With the need to switch between a satnav/dashboard (near), the road (intermediate vision) and distant road signs (far vision), they are convenient while you are on the road.
Do you move head or eyes with varifocals?
It is important to wear your new varifocals in the position in which they were fitted. To look at an object turn your head and not just your eyes toward it. Move your head vertically until the object glides into focus. The length of time it takes to adapt to new varifocals will differ from person to person.
Why can't I read with my varifocals?
The common problem associated with the varifocal glasses is the complication in focusing on the object from different zones of the glass lenses. Eyes and brain take some time to get adjusted to the different refractive zones of the glass lenses.
How many pairs of glasses is normal?
While glasses aren't just a fashion statement, it's wise to have more than one pair in case one is lost or breaks, it's true that glasses have a huge impact on how you look. Owning several pair, at least four, allows you to gracefully switch out your glasses as you change both your clothes and your location.
Why do some people wear 2 pairs of glasses?
Wearing Two Pairs of Glasses at the Same Time
Rather than constantly having to switch from your sunglasses to clear a clear pair when you walk indoors, Transitions, changeable lenses activate to the environment. It's like having two pairs of glasses in one. The lenses are clear indoors and turn dark outdoors.
How many pairs of glasses does the average person own?
The survey revealed 38% owned only 1 pair of glasses and only 8% had 3 to 5 pairs – this includes spares, prescription sunglasses, occupational lenses etc… 1 in 12 have multiple pairs, that's all. By comparison 5% of respondents have 1 pair of shoes but 33% have 3 to 5 pairs.
Do varifocals make you dizzy?
Dizziness and headache, a stiff neck, fatigue and constantly tripping when going up the stairs – there are many stories about the problems encountered by wearers as they get used to new progressive lenses.
What shape glasses are best for varifocals?
In a nutshell
For varifocal lenses, choose oversized glasses frames but avoid cat-eye or aviator style glasses.
What is the best way to use varifocal glasses?
5 tips to adjust to varifocal glasses sooner
- Wear your varifocal glasses as much as possible. Do you know how any habit of yours comes into being? ...
- Do not wear any other pair of glasses in between. ...
- Do not perform crucial activities like driving during the process. ...
- Move your head. ...
- Chin up, eyes down.
Can I change my Specsavers glasses?
Answer: Yes, we want you to be completely happy with your purchase at Specsavers. If you have any concerns within 100 days of the date of purchase, we will put it right. No quibble, no fuss.
Whats the difference between varifocals and bifocals?
Bifocal lenses allow two different prescriptions to be combined into one lens while varifocal lenses allow a combination of three prescription types. Visible transition line that divides both the prescription sections are present in bifocals but absent in varifocals.
Can I get glasses just for driving?
Buying glasses or lenses for driving is simple. You can add driving lenses to your new or existing frame. Simply add driving lenses from our lens builder. Buying driving lenses online is quicker, more efficient and cheaper than visiting the high street.
Where should bifocal line be?
Where should the line be on bifocals? It should be at the same level as your bottom eyelid. This means that if you glance down to read or sew, your eyes will gravitate toward the lower part of the lens, which gives you the best close-up vision. If your bifocal line is too high, you might lack adequate distance vision.
Why do my varifocals make me feel sick?
Due to the distortion at the sides of the lenses you can sometimes experience what we call swim and sway. This means that the sides of your vision can feel like it's moving as you move your head. This can make some people feel a little nauseous.
Why do glasses with same prescription feel different?
If your prescription is the same, but the glasses feel wrong
Your eyes and brain may need time to adapt to the new frame shape and size. The way the frame sits on a person's face is also very important, and so is the material and weight of the frame.
Do you need a spare pair of glasses?
Whether you're traveling somewhere new or going about your normal routine, you can't predict the future. That is why it's always a good idea to have a backup pair of glasses on hand. Accidents can and will happen so if you lose or break your glasses, having a spare will make sure your vision is never compromised.
How many prescription glasses do you need?
You must have at least one perfect pair of prescription glasses that you use every day.
How many pairs of glasses will insurance cover?
Typically, Medicaid covers the cost of one pair of replacement glasses per year. If you are 21 or younger, you are allowed two pairs of replacement glasses per year. Glasses may be replaced if they are broken, lost, or stolen.