What is the difference between optical and prescription glasses?
When talking about glasses, many people use the terms “optical glasses” and “prescription glasses” interchangeably, as if they were the same thing. However, it’s important to note that there are significant differences between the two types of glasses.
Understanding the differences between these terms is key to choosing the right pair of glasses and avoiding surprises, allowing you to get the most out of them. Whether you’re looking for elegant style, comfort, or the vision correction you need, there is always a perfect solution available.
In this article, we’ll explore what optical glasses and prescription glasses are, what each is for, and how to choose the best option based on your needs and personal style.
What are optical glasses?
Optical glasses are primarily designed for aesthetic or protective purposes, although some may include prescription lenses like prescription glasses. However, it’s important to highlight that optical glasses cover a much broader spectrum. These glasses don’t always correct significant vision problems; they are often used as a fashion accessory to complement your style or to protect your eyes from the sun, wind, or dust.
Main uses:
- Primary use – Style and basic protection.
- Lenses – Can include UV or anti-reflective filters and don’t always have a prescription.
- Style factor – Optical glasses are an easy way to add personality to your look without needing vision correction.
What are prescription glasses?
Prescription glasses are glasses with lenses specifically made to correct vision problems such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, or presbyopia. These glasses require an eye exam and a prescription from an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Prescription glasses are a specific type of optical glasses.
Main uses:
- Primary use – Accurate vision correction.
- Lenses – Custom-made according to the prescription and can include treatments like anti-reflective coating, photochromic lenses, or special filters.
- Style factor – Today, glasses are no longer limited to vision correction; they can also be a fashion accessory, combining design, color, and quality materials.
Key differences between optical and prescription glasses
| Feature | Optical glasses | Prescription glasses |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Fashion or basic eye protection | Vision correction |
| Lenses | Can be non-prescription, tinted, or UV-protective | Custom-made to correct vision problems |
| Use | Everyday style, sun protection, blue light filter | Correct myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, presbyopia |
| Customization | Limited | Fully customized to your prescription |
As you can see, the main difference lies in the function of the lenses. While optical glasses can include prescription or non-prescription lenses and serve as a simple style or protective accessory, prescription glasses are specifically designed to improve vision and must be adapted to the prescription.
What stands out in both cases is that glasses don’t have to be only functional or only aesthetic, they can be both.
Bloom Eyewear: style and function combined
At Bloom Eyewear, we believe glasses shouldn’t be just functional or just aesthetic; they should be both. That’s why each design is created to provide comfort, style, and, when necessary, vision correction.
Our glasses can be customized to ensure they meet all your needs. Don’t hesitate to explore the Bloom Eyewear collection to find the perfect model for you.
You may also like...
