If you struggle to read newspapers up close or see signs far away, you may need bifocal or reading glasses depending on your vision needs.
Bifocal and reading glasses can often be confused, bifocal means it offers clear vision at far and close distances while reading glasses provide clear vision at just close distances.
Our guide below will discuss the differences between bifocal and reading glasses, the signs you need them, and where to shop for the best reading glasses.
Understanding Bifocals
Bifocals are a type of glasses that have two distinct optical powers in one lens. The upper part of a bifocal lens assists with correcting distance vision while the lower part is for near vision when reading books or looking at a computer screen.
There are two main styles of bifocal glasses -
Line bifocals - These have a visible line separating the top and bottom half of the glasses.
Progressive - A seamless no-line lens design that helps with clear vision at all distances; near, intermediate, and far.
Read our full guide on Bifocal lenses here.
Understanding Reading Glasses
Reading glasses are eyewear that are specifically made to help people who have presbyopia or other conditions that can affect near vision. This assists with magnification for tasks like reading newspapers/books, sewing, or looking at screens where you need to be able to focus close-ups.
Most of the time, reading glasses will be prescribed due to age-related changes, also known as presbyopia. Presbyopia is a natural vision change that happens to everyone, it is not a disease and cannot be prevented.
Signs You Might Need Reading Glasses
If you're struggling to read things up close then check these following symptoms which indicate it might be time for reading glasses.
Common Symptoms
You find yourself holding materials at arm's length to see them.
You squint or blink a lot to try to focus on small print.
Rather than your glasses helping you keep on taking them off to see better up close.
Words can appear very blurry in dark environments.
Your vision affects daily activities when doing close-up tasks such as reading, sewing, using a phone, or working on computers for long periods.
Headaches and eye strain happen more often after close-up activities due to your eyes working harder than they used to, this discomfort is relieved by wearing reading glasses.
If you have the above symptoms but still aren’t certain you need reading glasses, check out our guide here.
Bifocal Vs Reading Glasses - What's The Difference?
Bifocals and reading glasses have some commonalities since they can both provide clear vision at close distances.
However, they also have differences such as -
Visual experience - Bifocals are more suitable for someone who switches between close-up and far-away tasks often since they offer visual correction within the same glasses at both distances with seamless transition between the two. Reading glasses only help with close vision correction.
Cost - Reading glasses are much more affordable than bifocals, especially the over-the-counter types. These make them ideal for when you only need help with close-up tasks.
Lifestyle considerations - If your work or daily tasks involve switching between close and far-distance vision often, bifocals are the more suitable choice. For those who need assistance with close-up vision, reading glasses are best.
Adjustment period - Reading glasses have a quicker adjustment period since they correct one distance only.
Portability - Reading glasses are more portable and easy to carry around in a pocket or purse when needed. Bifocals are worn more consistently as a primary pair of glasses and, therefore, not as portable.
Find The Ideal Reading Glasses At GlassesShop
GlassesShop offers a wide range of sunglasses and eyeglasses for single-vision, bifocal, and progressive lenses.
We recommend considering your face shape and personal style when choosing glasses and making use of our try-on features such as the try before you buy option and virtual try-on tool to see which complements your features best.
Other features such as anti-reflective coatings, glare reduction, blue light blocking, water resistance, and anti-scratch protection to meet your specific needs. Some examples are our Blue Block Pro Glasses, Prescription Blue Light Glasses, and Photochromic Blue Light Glasses.
We offer a range of promotions and quality guarantees with all our eyeglasses such as buy one get one free, different coupon codes, free shipping over $69, and a 365-day guarantee.
The current flash sale allows you to buy any for just $7 and get an extra $1 off for new customers. Shop our full range of reading glasses and bifocals here.