Choosing the right varifocal lenses can feel overwhelming.
With so many different brands, lens designs, coatings and price points available, it's no surprise that many people simply don't know which option is best for them.
The good news is that choosing the right varifocal isn't about buying the most expensive lens—it's about selecting the one that best matches your prescription, your lifestyle and the way you use your glasses every day.
At Lens Craft Studio, we believe understanding your options is the first step towards comfortable, natural vision.
What are varifocal lenses?
Varifocal lenses allow you to see clearly at multiple distances through a single pair of glasses.
Unlike bifocals, they have no visible dividing line, providing a smooth transition between:
- Distance vision
- Intermediate vision (computer use)
- Near vision (reading)
Modern varifocals are available in many different designs, each offering different levels of performance.
Not all varifocals are the same
One of the biggest misconceptions is that all varifocal lenses perform equally well.
In reality, there are significant differences between lens designs.
Higher-quality designs often provide:
- Wider distance vision
- More comfortable intermediate vision
- Easier reading
- Less distortion in your peripheral vision
- Faster adaptation
For many people who wear varifocals all day, these improvements can make a noticeable difference.
Your prescription is only part of the picture
A common mistake is choosing lenses based only on prescription strength.
In reality, we also consider:
- Your prescription
- Your frame size and shape
- Your pupillary measurements
- Your working distance
- Your occupation
- Your hobbies
- How long you wear your glasses each day
For example, someone who spends eight hours working at a computer may benefit from a different lens design than someone who mainly drives and reads.
Think about how you use your glasses
The best varifocal is the one that suits your lifestyle.
Ask yourself:
- Do you spend long periods using a computer?
- Do you drive regularly, especially at night?
- Do you read for extended periods?
- Are you active outdoors?
- Do you frequently switch between different viewing distances?
The answers help determine which lens design will provide the most comfortable vision.
Don't overlook lens coatings
The lens itself is only part of the solution.
Premium coatings can improve both comfort and durability by providing:
- Reduced reflections
- Better night driving performance
- Improved scratch resistance
- Easier cleaning
- Water and grease resistance
- UV protection
For many people, investing in a quality coating offers excellent long-term value.
Is a thinner lens always better?
Not always.
Many people believe that choosing the highest-index lens automatically gives the best result.
In reality, the ideal lens material depends on your prescription, frame choice and cosmetic preferences.
For some prescriptions, a quality 1.60 lens provides an excellent balance between thinness, optical clarity and value.
This is one reason why personalised advice is so important.
Why personalised recommendations matter
There isn't a single "best" varifocal lens.
The best lens for one person may not be the right choice for someone else.
That's why we created LensMatch™.
Rather than asking you to choose between confusing product names and technical specifications, we review:
- Your prescription
- Your frame
- Your lifestyle
- Your visual priorities
- Your budget
We then explain exactly which varifocal lenses we recommend—and why.
Book a LensMatch™ assessment
Every LensMatch™ assessment is personally completed by Luke Baker BSc (Hons) MCOptom, a UK Registered Optometrist with more than 25 years of clinical experience.
You'll receive:
- A personalised lens recommendation
- An explanation of your options
- Independent professional advice
- A quotation for varifocal replacement lenses if you wish to proceed
If you decide to order your new lenses through Lens Craft Studio, we'll deduct the cost of your LensMatch™ assessment from your order.
Final thoughts
Choosing varifocal lenses shouldn't be confusing or based on guesswork.
The right combination of lens design, material and coatings can transform your vision and improve your comfort every day.
If you're unsure which varifocal lenses are right for you, book a LensMatch™ assessment today and receive a personalised recommendation from an experienced UK Registered Optometrist before you buy.