When it’s time to upgrade your prescription lenses, one of the most important (and often overlooked) choices you’ll make is the **material*of your lenses. From polycarbonate to high-index plastic, the right lens material can enhance your vision, reduce eye strain, and improve the comfort of your glasses—without breaking the bank.
At LensFactory, we offer a range of lens options to fit your lifestyle, prescription, and budget. In this post, we’ll break down the differences between common lens materials and help you decide which one is best for you.
Lens Materials Overview
Let’s take a closer look at the most popular prescription lens materials on the market today:
1. Standard Plastic
Best for: Low prescriptions, budget-conscious users
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Lightweight and affordable
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Good optical clarity
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Limited durability and thickness with stronger prescriptions
Worth noting:*Standard plastic is a solid choice if your prescription is mild and you’re looking for the most economical option.
2. Polycarbonate
Best for: Active lifestyles, kids, rimless or semi-rimless frames
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Impact-resistant and lightweight
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Built-in UV protection
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Slightly less optical clarity than CR-39 but more durable
Why it matters:*Polycarbonate lenses are 10x more impact-resistant than standard plastic—perfect for sports, work environments, and everyday wear.
3. Trivex
Best for: Those who want a balance of clarity, durability, and comfort
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Even lighter than polycarbonate
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Excellent impact resistance
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Superior optical clarity
Bonus: Trivex lenses offer better visual clarity and less distortion compared to polycarbonate, while still providing the same rugged durability.
4. High-Index Plastic
Best for: Strong prescriptions, style-conscious users
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Ultra-thin and lightweight
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Reduces lens thickness for stronger prescriptions
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Available with all premium coatings
Why you’ll love it: High-index lenses are the most discreet option. If you hate the “coke bottle” look, these are your best bet for slim, comfortable eyewear.
Which Lens Material Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick guide:
|
Your Needs |
Best Lens Material |
|
Budget-friendly, basic prescription |
Standard Plastic (CR-39) |
|
Active lifestyle, kids’ glasses, rimless frames |
Polycarbonate or Trivex |
|
Strong prescription, thin and light lens desired |
High-Index Plastic |
|
Best overall optical clarity and durability |
Trivex |
LensFactory’s Expert Tip:
Don’t forget the coatings! Regardless of material, adding anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, and blue light coatings can make a huge difference in comfort and performance—especially if you spend time on screens or drive at night.
Why Lens Material Matters
Choosing the right lens material is about more than just prescription strength. It affects:
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How your glasses feel on your face
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How clearly you see throughout the day
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How durable your lenses are*against drops, scratches, or pressure
At LensFactory, we help you match your lens material to your lifestyle—whether you're a student, athlete, professional, or just someone who wants to enjoy clearer, more comfortable vision every day.
Universal Call to Action
Ready to give your favorite frames a new lease on life?
Discover how easy and affordable it is to replace your lenses with LensFactory. [Visit lensfactory.com](https://lensfactory.com) to get started today!