Ordering Online Eyeglasses: How It Works

The internet has been a money-saving tool in so many areas of commerce. Online eyeglasses is one area where customers can save immensely and pay just a fraction of what they’d pay offline. Skeptics may think that because of the drastically reduced prices online compared to the prices typically found at a brick-and-mortar eyeglasses store, that this must mean it’s too good to be true, but that’s definitely not the case.

You’ll find that the quality of eyeglasses purchased online is just as good as a pair from your ophthalmologist’s office, and if they’re not to your liking, most stores will let you return your glasses or get a replacement pair with no questions asked. Online eyeglasses stores are able to give immense savings by having low overhead. Many stores also purchase their products and have them made overseas. You may not be able to try them on in-person when you buy eyeglasses online, but the savings are too good to pass up.

The process of ordering glasses online may seem daunting, but with a little planning, anyone can successfully submit an order. The steps below explain exactly what’s required to get a pair of great fitting glasses, with your correct prescription, sent to you in no time.

Get your prescription: The first and most important step is to visit your eye doctor and have your eyes checked. Make sure your prescription is exactly as it should be, since it can change more often than you might realize. After your appointment, ask for your prescription on paper so you can take it home to buy your eyeglasses online. It’s against the law for an ophthalmologist to withhold your prescription, so don’t worry about your eye doctor refusing.

Get your pupillary distance: This measures the distance between both of your eyes. When the measurement is correct, it can make a huge difference in how your frames fit. Since this measurement isn’t always included with your eye prescription, you can either have your doctor take the measurement or you can take the measurement yourself. Many of the stores in our review provide a how-to guide on getting this measurement at home.

Get the measurements of your current frames: If you don’t like your current frames, get the measurements of your favorite pair of frames or head down to your local eyeglasses shop, and find a pair you love and jot down the measurements. Having the exact frame measurements will ensure that the frames you choose online will fit perfectly. The frame measurements are typically stamped inside the temple or on the bridge.

Get shopping and pick your frames: It can be hard to finally decide on a pair of frames when you have thousands of frames at your fingertips, but this can be the fun part too. Remember to make note of the frames’ temple measurements when you’re shopping and to also stay on track and not be lured by frames because of their style. Use the search-by-temple-size function if it’s available to save you from needless disappointment.

Choose the right lens options: This is the most important step in making sure your order is accurate. You will be asked to input your prescription and then to select the type of lens you want, and then the lens material. You’ll also be offered several lens add-ons such as anti-glare, UV protection and photochromic lens coatings, all at drastically reduced prices. You can even add sunglasses to your order without breaking the bank.

Place your order and wait for your glasses to arrive: Use a credit card to purchase your glasses in the advent of any accidental charges. The delivery time for receiving glasses greatly varies between sites. Many promise delivery within seven to 14 days, with many also offering expedited shipping options if you need your glasses sooner.

Once you order eyeglasses online, you’ll wonder why you haven’t tried it sooner. From amazingly reduced prices to an immense selection you’d never find at a store in-person, ordering glasses online is a smart decision that you’re sure to fall in love with.