Updated on October 9, 2024
Are Adjustable Eyeglasses the Right Choice for Me?


Vision Center is funded by our readers. We may earn commissions if you purchase something via one of our links.
Are you tired of constantly switching between reading glasses and regular glasses? Adjustable glasses might be the perfect solution.
These eyewear options offer a versatile and affordable way to correct minor vision problems, especially for those with presbyopia. Let's discuss how adjustable glasses work, their features and benefits, and where to find the perfect pair.
What are Adjustable Glasses?
Adjustable glasses are a versatile and affordable solution to correcting minor vision problems. They canβt replace regular glasses, but they work well enough to make some activities much easier.
Also known as variable focus glasses and adjustable focus reading glasses, adjustable glasses allow wearers to see near and far. Theyβre similar to other multifocal lenses (bifocals and trifocals) but less expensive and available without a prescription.
Glasses with adjustable focus lenses are especially convenient for people with presbyopia (age-related farsightedness). They can correct other refractive errors, including myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness).
How Do Adjustable Glasses Work?
Each lens on adjustable glasses has a membrane that moves outward or inward based on the amount of fluid it contains. The fluid comes from a small syringe in each arm of the glasses. Pumping fluid in or out of the lens changes its refractive power.
Pumping fluid in increases its power allowing it to correct farsightedness. Meanwhile, pumping fluid out decreases the lens power for clearer distance vision which helps correct nearsightedness.
Where to Buy Glasses + Contacts
Best Overall: Warby Parker
Fastest Delivery: EyeBuyDirect
Also Great: Liingo
Best Place to Buy Contacts: Discount Contacts
What are the Features of Adjustable Glasses?
Adjustable eyeglasses use innovative technologies to provide personalized vision correction. One common approach uses lenses that contain a special fluid that can be manipulated by turning a small dial on the frame.
Turning the dial changes the shape of the lens, adjusting its power to match your visual needs. Another approach uses sliding lens technology, which uses two sliding lenses to alter the overall power of the glasses.
What are the Pros & Cons of Adjustable Glasses?
Adjustable glasses provide a level of customization that isnβt possible with regular glasses. You can fine-tune it for different tasks, eliminating the need for multiple pairs of glasses, which can be great for people with presbyopia.
However, theyβre not without limitations. We listed down some of the pros & cons of adjustable glasses:
Pros | Cons |
Affordable and convenient | Bulkier than traditional frames |
No need for a prescription or eye exam | Not as precise as most prescription glasses |
Durable | It can be difficult to adjust |
Reduces eye strain and fatigue | Easily scratched |
Most brands offer magnification and blue-light filtering capabilities | Not suitable for people with complex prescriptions |
How Much Do Adjustable Glasses Cost?
You might be surprised to learn that adjustable glasses can be a cost-effective solution in the long run. In some cases, adjustable glasses can cost less than traditional prescription glasses.
The average cost of adjustable glasses is about $25. Some brands offer adjustable eyewear for less than $5 a pair.
Where to Buy Adjustable Glasses
Several brands offer adjustable eyeglasses. Here is a table of our favorites and their features:
Brand | Features |
Dial Vision | There are dials on both arms for individual lens adjustment, available without a prescription. Itβs more affordable than traditional prescription lenses. |
Eyejusters | Glasses change focus with the simple twist of a dial. The dial on each side provides individualized focusing power and is discreetly hidden. Vision correction ranges from +0.50 to +4.00. It has durable, scratch-resistant lenses, and unisex glasses are available in various colors, designs, and materials. |
Global Vision | Affordable glasses cost about $5 to $20, and theyβre functional and stylish. |
Adlens | It has a compound lens system, anti-reflective coating, and vision correction ranging from -4.00 to +5.00. It allows you to focus at any distance with one pair of glasses. |
Flex Vision | It has focus control, revolutionary dual lens technology, and is made of acrylic. The style is suitable for both men and women, lightweight and comfortable to wear with vision correction ranging from -6 diopters for nearsightedness to +3 diopters for farsightedness. |
Adjustable glasses offer a convenient and affordable solution for those seeking versatile vision correction. If you're tired of juggling multiple pairs of glasses, adjustable glasses might be the perfect fit. We highly recommend consulting your doctor and exploring the various brands and styles available on the market.
In this article
6 sources cited
Updated on October 9, 2024
Updated on October 9, 2024
About Our Contributors
Kelly Brown, a content writer for Vision Center, is dedicated to sharing vital information to assist individuals in making informed decisions about their vision health. Her writing covers a range of topics, from selecting the best eye doctor to addressing health issues impacting vision, with the aim of educating readers through informative and engaging content.
Dr. Melody Huang is an optometrist and freelance health writer with a passion for educating people about eye health. With her unique blend of clinical expertise and writing skills, Dr. Huang seeks to guide individuals towards healthier and happier lives. Her interests extend to Eastern medicine and integrative healthcare approaches. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new skincare products, experimenting with food recipes, and spending time with her adopted cats.