Are high index lenses better than polycarbonate?

High index lenses are typically recommended for individuals who require a strong eyeglass prescription for common vision problems, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Because of their durability, polycarbonate lenses are much less likely to break or fracture than even high index lenses.

What is Mid index lens?

The higher the number, the thinner and lighter the lens. The lower numbers are classified as mid-index lenses. Mid-index lenses, such as 1.54, 1.56, and 1.57, are thinner than glass, and nearly as strong as CR-39. Trivex is an improvement over Polycarbonate.

Which lens material is the most scratch-resistant?

Glass
Glass. Glass offers superior optics and is the most scratch-resistant material available. However, glass must be specially treated for impact resistance. Glass is also much heavier in weight and not offered in many designs.

Are polycarbonate lenses as good as glass lenses?

Polycarbonate lenses are highly resistant to impact, won’t shatter, and are 10 times stronger than glass or standard plastic, making them ideal for children, safety lenses, and physical activity. Lightweight and thinner than glass lenses, polycarbonate is more comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

What index is polycarbonate?

Our polycarbonate lenses have a 1.59 index which, while quite thin, is more focused on durability than lightness. Our 1.6, 1.67, and 1.74 index lenses can all be considered high index. These lenses are super-thin but are also more expensive than the polycarbonate option.

Who should get high index lenses?

High-index lenses are eyeglass lenses that are designed to be thinner and lighter than regular lenses. They are generally recommended for people who have significantly high refractive errors and strong prescriptions for nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

Do high index lenses make eyes look bigger?

We think this is probably where the misconception around them is why people are asking whether high index lenses make their eyes look smaller. The short answer is no, they won’t.

Are polycarbonate lenses better than high index lenses?

High index lenses are more expensive than polycarbonate, but there are no polycarbonate high index lenses. So if you are looking for cheaper lenses, poly may be a good choice. Just know that, if they get scratched, you may be purchasing new glasses sooner than if you’d gone with high index, effectively negating the money you saved originally.

What are mid index lenses made of?

The 1.57 mid index lenses are meant for people with moderately strong prescriptions, and they are thinner and lighter than standard lenses. The lens is a polycarbonate composite made from polycarbonate, other polymers, and resins that keep it thinner and lighter than the standard 1.50 lens.

What are the different lens index numbers?

The lens index numbers usually range from 1.50 to 1.74. What is the difference between 1.50 standard vs. 1.57 mid index lenses? The 1.50 standard index lenses are the thickest lenses you can buy for a standard pair of prescription glasses. These lenses work best for light prescriptions that have superior clarity and fall between -3.00 and +3.00.

What is the index of polycarbonate?

Since polycarbonate is 1.58 index, it is considered a “mid index” lens. Standard plastic lenses are around 1.48, so polycarbonate is a good, inexpensive alternative to standard plastic lenses if you do not have a very high prescription.