How to Find Cheap Prescription Glasses Online - Zenni, Warby Parker, Eyebuydirect

Introduction to Buying Glasses Online

In today's digital age, more and more people are turning to the internet to purchase eyeglasses. With the rise of online retailers like Zenni Optical, Warby Parker, and Eyebuydirect, buying prescription glasses and sunglasses online has never been easier or more affordable. But for many, the idea of buying glasses online without trying them on first can seem daunting. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through what you need to know to find the perfect pair of glasses online.

The Benefits of Buying Glasses Online

There are several key advantages to purchasing eyewear from an online retailer versus a traditional brick-and-mortar optical shop:

Lower prices - Online retailers have less overhead and can offer eyeglasses at a fraction of the cost, with frames starting at just $6.95 at Zenni.
Huge selection - Online shops have a nearly endless variety of frames and lens options to choose from.
Convenience - Glasses can be shipped directly to your door for easy access.
Virtual try-on - Most online retailers offer virtual try-on tools to help you visualize frames on your face.

How to Find the Right Pair of Glasses Online

Follow these tips for finding the perfect pair of eyeglasses online:

Know your prescription - Have an up-to-date glasses prescription from your optometrist before shopping online.
Take measurements - Use a ruler to measure your pupil distance, frame width, temple length, and bridge size.
Consider face shape - Determine whether frame shapes like round, rectangular, or cat eye complement your face.
Use virtual try-on - Upload a photo or use a webcam to see frames virtually overlayed on your face.
Read reviews - Check out other customer reviews and photos to evaluate real-life fit.
Compare prices - Shop around online to find the best deals on frames and lenses.
Look for warranty - Opt for retailers that offer free returns, exchanges, and warranty options.

Buying Glasses at Zenni Optical

Zenni Optical is one of the most popular online destinations for buying affordable prescription eyeglasses, prescription sunglasses, and more. Here's what you need to know about the Zenni shopping experience:

The Zenni Ordering Process

Ordering glasses at Zenni involves a few simple steps:

Enter your prescription information into Zenni's website.
Use the virtual try-on system to upload a photo and see frames on your face.
Browse Zenni's extensive catalog of men's, women's, and kids' glasses.
Customize frame, lens, and add-on options like tints, coatings, etc.
Place your order and wait approximately 2-3 weeks for delivery.

Zenni Frame and Lens Options

With thousands of frames and lens choices, highlights of Zenni's offerings include:

Frames - Men's, women's, and kids' frame styles starting at $6.95. Name brand frames available.
Lenses - Single vision and progressive lenses in plastic, mid-index, and polycarbonate materials.
Prescription sun lenses - RX sunglasses with UV blocking lens tints.
Coatings - Scratch-resistant, anti-reflective, UV blocking, and blue light filtering coatings.
Add-ons - Additional options like high index lenses, tinted lenses, polarized lenses, and more.

Zenni Virtual Try-On

The Zenni optical virtual try-on tool allows you to upload a photo of yourself and see recommended frames overlayed on your face. You can also use a webcam to view frames in real-time. This helps determine which frame widths, shapes, and styles look best on your face shape before ordering.

Buying Glasses at Warby Parker

Warby Parker is another popular online retailer praised for affordable and fashionable prescription eyewear. Here are key things to know about Warby Parker:

Warby Parker Frame and Lens Options

Warby Parker offers a wide selection of frame and lens options including:

Frames - Men's, women's, and kids' styles starting at $95. Name brand and Warby Parker brand frames.
Lenses - Single vision and progressive plastic and polycarbonate lenses.
Sunglasses - Warby Parker designs their own non-prescription and prescription sunglasses.
Coatings - Anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, and blue light filtering coatings available.
Contacts - Warby Parker sells their own brand of contacts and solutions.

Warby Parker Home Try-On

Warby Parker pioneered the idea of a free at-home try-on program. You can browse frames online then select 5 pairs to be shipped directly to your home. You have 5 days to try them on and send back anything you don't like free of charge. This makes finding the perfect pair easy and convenient.

Warby Parker Virtual Try-On

The Warby Parker virtual try-on tool allows you to take a live photo or upload a picture to try on frames virtually. You can view glasses on your face from multiple angles to determine fit.

Buying Glasses at Eyebuydirect

Eyebuydirect is another reputable online retailer to consider when buying affordable prescription eyewear online. Here are the key things to know about Eyebuydirect:

Eyebuydirect Frame and Lens Options

Eyebuydirect offers a wide selection of fashionable yet inexpensive frames and lens options:

Frames - Men's, women's, and kids' styles starting at just $6. Most frames under $50.
Lenses - Single vision and progressive lens materials and coatings.
Sunglasses - Non-prescription and prescription sunglass options.
Contact lenses - Also sell disposable, 2-week, and monthly contact lenses.
Eyewear packs - Bundled frames with lenses packaged together.

Eyebuydirect Virtual Try-On

Eyebuydirect uses face mapping technology to allow you to upload a photo and try frames on digitally. You can view the glasses from multiple angles to assess fit and style.

Tips for Finding the Best Glasses Online

Keep these tips in mind as you shop online eyewear retailers to find your perfect pair of glasses:

Shop sales and coupons for the best deals on frames and lenses.
Read return policies - make sure you can exchange or return glasses if the fit is off.
Compare prices between retailers to get the lowest price.
Read customer reviews about frame quality, fit, and sizing.
Join rewards programs for discounts and freebies.
Don't pay extra for unnecessary add-ons like excessive warranty coverage.
Carefully enter your prescription details accurately.
Take your time using virtual try-on to find frames that complement you.

Get the Perfect Fit Buying Glasses Online

While buying glasses online is more affordable and convenient, getting the perfect fit can be tricky without trying frames on in person

FAQs

How do I get my pupillary distance measurement for buying glasses online?

You can have your optometrist measure your pupillary distance (PD) during your eye exam. Alternatively, you can measure it yourself at home with a ruler. Have someone help you measure from the center of one pupil to the other while looking straight ahead.

What if my glasses don't fit properly when I receive them?

Most online retailers allow you to return or exchange eyewear for free if the fit is incorrect. Check return policies before ordering. You can also have a local optician make minor fit adjustments to glasses you order online.

Are there extra fees buying glasses online?

There are no hidden fees buying glasses online. However, options like high index lenses, anti-reflective coating, polarized lenses, etc. do cost extra. Read each product page carefully so you know the total cost.

How long does it take to get glasses ordered online?

Standard shipping takes 10-14 business days in most cases. Some retailers like Zenni Optical offer faster 1-3 day priority shipping for an added fee.

Can I return prescription glasses if I don't like them?

Most major online retailers allow you to return glasses for a full refund or exchange within a set time frame, usually 14 to 30 days after delivery.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.