Purchasing spectacles online has rapidly grown in popularity across the UK in recent years. By leveraging the internet’s convenience and a vast array of options, more and more people are bypassing traditional opticians and high-street retailers in favour of digital marketplaces. In this article, we’ll delve into the essentials of buying glasses online, highlighting the pros and cons and offering a guide to help you navigate the process effectively.
The Advantages of Buying Glasses Online
One of the most significant advantages of buying glasses online is the sheer breadth of options available. From designer frames to budget choices, the variety is truly impressive. This is especially beneficial if you have a particular style or brand in mind that may not be available in a local shop.
Price is another compelling reason. Often, online retailers can offer lower prices than high-street opticians, primarily because they don’t have the same overhead costs.
Convenience is a further benefit. You can browse and choose frames at your leisure, without feeling rushed or pressurised by an in-store salesperson.
The Drawbacks
However, purchasing glasses online is not without its drawbacks. Not being able to try the frames on before buying is a significant disadvantage. While many online retailers offer virtual try-ons, these don’t always accurately represent how the glasses will look and feel in real life.
Another concern is the quality of the glasses. As you’re not able to physically inspect them before purchase, there is an inherent risk that they may not meet your expectations in terms of build quality or materials used.
Lastly, if you have a complex prescription or require bifocals or varifocals, it can be more challenging to get these precisely correct without a professional fitting.
Steps to Buying Glasses Online
Step 1: Get Your Prescription
Before buying glasses online, it’s imperative to have an up-to-date prescription from an optometrist. In the UK, it’s recommended to have an eye test at least every two years, but more frequently if you’re over 40 or have a family history of eye disease.
Step 2: Understand Your Prescription
Decoding your prescription may seem like a daunting task. However, understanding the basic parameters like sphere (SPH), cylinder (CYL), and axis can help you make an informed purchase. It’s essential to ask your optometrist to include your pupillary distance (PD) measurement on your prescription.
Step 3: Choose Your Frames
Choosing frames is perhaps the most exciting part of buying glasses. Look for a frame that complements your face shape and fits your style. Don’t forget to consider the material, colour, and brand.
Step 4: Choose Your Lenses
Once you’ve chosen your frames, you’ll need to select your lenses. Consider factors like lens thickness, anti-reflective coatings, and whether you need single vision or multifocal lenses.
Step 5: Checkout and Delivery
After finalising your selection, proceed to checkout. You’ll need to input your prescription details accurately and await your new glasses’ arrival in the post.
Final Notes
With the right preparation, buying glasses online can be a convenient and cost-effective way of purchasing eyewear. It’s crucial to have an up-to-date prescription and understand the basics of it. Equally, doing research about the online retailer’s return policy and customer reviews can also be helpful in ensuring a smooth purchasing process. Despite some challenges, the benefits of buying glasses online are making this option increasingly popular among spectacle wearers in the UK.
