18 Top Eyewear & Contacts Companies

How to buy glasses and contacts online with fewer surprises

Online optical stores can cost less than a high-street shop, but they rely on you supplying accurate details. A little preparation saves a lot of remakes.

• A current prescription: glasses and contact lenses use different prescriptions. A contact lens prescription includes the lens brand, base curve and diameter, and sellers in many places must verify it.
• Pupillary distance (PD): this measurement centers the lenses. Ask your optician for it, since a wrong PD is a common reason glasses feel off.
• Lens extras: the frame price often excludes thinner lenses, coatings, tints and progressive designs. Price the complete pair.
• Returns and remakes: check how long you have to return frames, if prescription lenses are refundable and who pays return shipping.
• Delivery: some stores make lenses overseas, so delivery can take several weeks.
• Benefits: if you have vision insurance or a spending account, ask if the store can bill it or give you an itemized receipt.

Problems customers mention

Reviews often describe progressive lenses that are hard to get right online, coatings added at checkout without being noticed, and slow refunds for returned orders. Double-check every number before you pay and keep your prescription document. CandorRated company pages show who runs the website, how long the domain has existed, contact details found and reviews, so you can see who you are ordering from.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use my glasses prescription for contacts?

No. Contacts need a separate fitting and prescription from an eye care professional.

Are progressive lenses safe to order online?

They can be, but they need precise measurements. Many people find an in-person fitting easier for a first pair.