Acetate vs plastic glasses frames, which is better?

If you have bought too many eyeglasses frames, you probably know several types of frames depending on what they're made of. You might even have contemplated acetate vs plastic glasses. They're two of the most popular frames in the market. Checking the features of these two will help you better decide which eyeglasses type to choose for your next eyewear. 

What is acetate?

Some call acetate as cellulose acetate, which is made of cotton and wood pulp. Scientist Paul Schützenberge developed one of the earliest synthetic fibers in 1865 and 1940. Cellulose acetate was first used as an eyeglass material. This innovation in eyewear material has the reputation of being durable and providing striking colors. Most importantly, acetate is known for easily creating a custom fit. 

Pros and cons of acetate glasses

Familiarize yourself with acetate's features and what it can do to your eyeglass frames. Check out the points below. 

Pros

Comfort. Eyeglasses made of acetate offer the best comfort. They're lightweight, so the frame won't put too much unnecessary strain on the face or nose. Acetate frames are an excellent option for people who lead an active lifestyle, as the material can withstand wear and tear. 

Hypoallergenic. You need not worry about skin allergic reactions as eyeglasses made of acetate are unlikely to cause irritation. Those with sensitive skin can rely on this material. 

Versatility. With acetate, eyewear manufacturers can easily create frames in different colors, textures, and patterns, giving users a vast array of options. 

Cons

Price. Acetate eyeglasses can be slightly more expensive than other materials. The manufacturing procedures and their quality generally contribute to the higher price. 

Weight. Yes, acetate frames are relatively lightweight. However, they're heavier than other materials like aluminum or titanium. 

Pros and cons of plastic glasses

If you think a plastic eyeglass frame is for you, assess the material's benefits and drawbacks to ensure you get the best glasses. 

Pros

Thicker frame. This can be an advantage if you have thick lenses and ensure a better grip on your eyeglasses. 

Hypoallergenic. Plastic eyeglasses are another option for people with metal allergies. 

Comfortable to wear. The molded bridge, which rests on the nose, provides a better snug fit while the weight is lightweight enough for the back of the ears not to get sore. 

Cons

Heavier. Yes, you might feel the plastic frames are slightly heavy, especially if you have a stronger prescription. 

One size fits all. Since plastic eyeglasses are all molded the same, they might not fit comfortably for everyone. This is why if you prefer wearing eyeglasses made of plastic, try them out first before buying. 

Acetate vs plastic glasses frames, which is better for you?

Now, here comes the huge question - choosing acetate vs plastic glasses. 

Acetate eyeglasses are generally regarded as better and higher quality than plastic frames. While most people also prefer plastic eyeglasses because they're also high-quality, the manufacturing process of plastic frames makes them more brittle than acetate ones. Also, plastic is generally harder to adjust because no metal wires are in their temples. Most importantly, acetate frames have more diverse patterns and color choices. 

We always advise that selecting the best material depends on various factors. Of course, you must consider the pros and cons and your preferences. You just have to choose wisely. 

Best acetate glasses for men and women

We explore the different acetate eyeglasses frames from which you can take inspiration. The list below shows some of the most popular designs today. 

1.Josie

The bold rim borders give you peace of mind that the thick lenses will be intact, especially if you perform physical activities. This design comes in five color variants, so you can explore each and see which among them complements your skin tone. Before completing your order, make sure to customize the lenses if you use the frame as prescription glasses. Since they're made of acetate, these frames can guarantee a longer lifespan. 

2.Clarence

As mentioned, one of the best things about acetate frames is that they can be customized in various colors and designs. This Clarence design is evidence of this. People with oval and round faces will love these rectangular glasses, as they provide the right balance on their faces and accentuate their overall features. All color variants, which come in tortoiseshell, pink, and teal, look great, especially for people with lighter skin tones. 

3.Melanie

You can never go wrong with cat-eye glasses. They guarantee that all wearers will look stylish and stand out in the crowd. This Melanie frame is all that and more. Its solid frames provide a better hold on strong prescription lenses. You can customize your lenses or buy the frame as is. 

Best plastic glasses for men and women

There's also a plethora of options for plastic glasses. We listed some of the best ones below. 

1.Elizaveta 

These glasses have oversized rims but won't cover your facial features. Instead, the design will make you more noticeable in the crowd. These sleek and stylish oval eyeglasses are among the most popular designs today. Ensure to get a pair before they sell out. Choose among six color options. 

2.Qara

These Qara frames might look square-shaped but can also be considered oval. This means anyone can wear this design, as oval glasses are generally ideal for almost all face shapes. All four color choices lean towards earth tones, so they're easy to pair with any outfit. Transparent frames are the best if you want to create an illusion of not wearing eyewear. 

3.Grant

While some plastic eyeglasses are incredibly lightweight, these Grant frames are incredibly lightweight with their thin rim borders. You can quickly customize the lenses based on your recent eye prescription. We recommend the red tortoiseshell design if you want to bring a pop of color to your face. Meanwhile, black and dark purple are ideal for those who opt for darker hues. Most previous buyers love the simplicity of the design, so it might be fitting for you to try this frame as well. 

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