What Type of Glasses Lenses Do I Need? Expert Advice

Are your spectacle lenses too heavy or do they look thick and ugly?

Do you feel you just don’t see as well as you should in your glasses?

Do you struggle with some visual tasks like your computer screen?

Choosing the right spectacle lenses can feel confusing. Single vision, varifocal, high-index, photochromic, anti-fatigue, coatings… why are there so many options, and which ones do you actually need?

The truth is, your lenses have a far bigger impact on how well you see – and how comfortable you feel wearing your glasses – than the frames do. The right lenses can give you sharper vision, reduced eye strain, and a slimmer, more attractive finish. The wrong lenses? Headaches, distortion, and constant frustration.

In this guide, we’ll make it simple.

 

Step 1 – What do you need your lenses for?

The first step is choosing the correct lens design based on how you use your eyes.

Lens Type Best For Description
Single vision – distance Driving, TV, everyday wear One prescription for far vision
Single vision – reading Books, hobbies, close work Optimised for near use
Single vision – computer Screens 50–80 cm away Reduces eye strain at working distance
Bifocal Distance + reading Clear segments, visible line
Varifocal Distance + intermediate + reading Seamless focus at all distances
Occupational / Office lenses Computers + close work Wider mid-range for desk work

✔ If you’re over 40 and finding it harder to focus close up, varifocals or occupational lenses are usually the best solution.

Step 2 – Lens quality: why it matters

All lenses are not created equal. Two lenses with the same prescription can perform completely differently depending on how they are made.

Lens Quality Level What it Means Ideal For
Standard Entry level optics Occasional wear
Digital / Freeform Sharper, wider vision Everyday wear
Premium personalised Tailor-made to your frame, fit and lifestyle Best clarity + widest fields
Ultra Premium Includes enhanced stability + anti-distortion tech Complex prescriptions

At Jacksons, we take precise facial and frame measurements (including head posture, eye rotation, pantoscopic tilt and more) using advanced measuring technology to ensure your lenses are optimised for how you wear your glasses.

Step 3 – Lens thickness & weight

Stronger prescriptions can result in thicker lenses – but this can be managed with high-index lens materials that make lenses slimmer and lighter.

Index Best For Benefits
1.5 (standard) Low prescriptions Budget options
1.6 -2.00 to -4.00 Thinner + lighter
1.67 -4.00 to -6.00 Slim lenses without distortion
1.74 High prescriptions Maximum thinness

Step 4 – Lens upgrades worth considering

Some upgrades don’t just improve how you see – they also improve how you feel wearing your glasses.

✅ Anti-reflection coating – essential for clarity, especially at night
✅ Scratch resistance – extends lens life
✅ Blue light protection – helps with eye fatigue from digital screens
✅ Photochromic lenses (Transitions) – adapt to sunlight
✅ Polarised lenses – cut glare for driving and outdoors
✅ Anti-fog coating – useful for sport and masks

Which lenses are best for you?

Here are some easy recommendations:

Your Situation Our Recommendation
Full-time glasses wearer Premium personalised lenses
First-time varifocal wearer Latest generation varifocals
Desk worker or professional Occupational lenses
Driver Anti-reflection + polarised sunglasses
High prescription High-index + personalised design
Light-sensitive Transitions or tinted lenses

Final Thoughts

Your prescription is only part of the story. The lens design, quality, coatings and custom measurements will make the biggest difference to your comfort and your visual performance. That’s why we take time to recommend lenses based on your life, not just your prescription.