Which is better – lined or no-line bifocals?
Bifocals are prescription eyeglasses that combine two different lenses in one eyewear. The upper part of the lens is for distance vision and the lower part is for reading. Bifocals are typically needed by people with pre-existing vision issues, like myopia or hyperopia, who are in their mid-forties. This is the age when many people start to experience difficulty reading small print.
If you are nearsighted or farsighted, and your eye doctor then also recommends that you use reading glasses, you still use your original prescription glasses and an additional pair for reading. However many find that having to switch between glasses several times during the day can be a bit tedious. For this reason, it makes so much more sense to wear bifocals.
Differences between Lined and No-Line Bifocals
Bifocals can either be lined or unlined. If this is your first time to use bifocals, deciding between the two kinds might be one of the more important decisions you need to make. There is no actual correct choice because it would depend mainly on your personal preference. However, lined and no-line bifocals do have glaring differences. It is very important to understand these differences so that you can make the right choice for you.
The most obvious difference is that lined bifocals come with a visible horizontal line that divides between the two different lens grades. The variation in vision as you cross this line is very abrupt. Oftentimes, lined bifocals dedicate a fairly large area for the reading part. There is also minimal distortion on either side.
No-line bifocals, on the other hand, have no discernible boundary between the different lens grades. In fact, the lens shifts gradually from the distance vision part to the reading part, hence you can see differently depending on which part of the lenses you are looking through. No-line bifocals are also called progressive lenses, and are in fact multifocal because of the wide range of vision that it provides.
Which Is Better – Lined or No-Line Bifocals?
There is no definite answer as to which is better because it depends on each individual's preferences. If you are after aesthetics, no-line bifocals definitely look better because there is no distracting line that goes across your eyes. But if you are thinking more of your budget, then lined bifocals might be a better choice. No-line bifocals are typically more on the pricey side.
At the end of the day, both types of bifocals will help improve your vision across different distances. The important thing is to get checked by an eye doctor so that you can wear the right prescription for you.
Which Is Harder to Get Used to – Lined or No-Line Bifocals?
Wearing any kind of glasses for the first time will certainly take some getting used to. Even regular single-lens prescriptions can make people uncomfortable during the first couple of days. But if the glasses are a perfect fit, the transition period will soon be over and you will be perfectly at ease wearing your new glasses.
Between lined and no-line bifocals, there is no clear verdict as to which is easier or harder to get used to. Some people find lined bifocals to be a bit easier because apparently, the line serves as a guide that dictates what part of the lens they should look through. Also, since there are just two different lens grades in lined bifocals, the eyes can adjust more quickly.
On the other hand, there are also users of no-line bifocals that prefer the clear lens without the distracting line. Either way, it will take about 2 weeks for someone to get used to wearing bifocals of any kind. The first few days might bring symptoms like nausea or dizziness but these will eventually pass. You will also soon develop a natural instinct for looking through the right part of the lens without having to think about it at all.
Best Frames for Lined Bifocals
1. Sarah Square Frames in Tortoiseshell
Wider frames are strongly recommended for lined bifocals for more comfortable switching between the two lens grades. This is why our top choice for ladies looking for the perfect lined bifocals frame is the Sarah square glasses in tortoiseshell. The oversized lenses are 51mm in height, perfect for both long distance vision and close-up reading.
2. Pasa Square Frames in Brown
If you prefer something that will not cover your face so much, the Pasa square glasses in brown finish would be a great pick. This unisex pair of glasses is made of a combination of TR90 and metal, ensuring comfort and durability. It also has a very modern look that definitely adds a touch of style to any attire.
3. Ryker Oval Frames in Ebony Zebrano
Exude coolness and sophistication with the Ryker oval glasses. Ideal for both long distance and close-up vision, this piece of eyewear features a unique wood finish combined with sleek metal, creating a truly fashion-forward ensemble.
Best Frames for No-Line Bifocals
1. Caius Cat Eye Frames
Just like the lined variety, no-line bifocals still require a substantial lens area to be perfectly functional. For the ladies, we think the Caius cat eye glasses in champagne are a very charming choice. Both the shape and the color are very feminine but it elicits a no-nonsense style that's sure to make heads turn when you walk into a room.
2. Charlotte Square Frames
For the men, our favorite pick is the Charlotte square glasses, either in black or in tortoiseshell. The thin metal of the frame makes it lightweight, which is great for comfort and ease of wearing. Plus, the 48mm height of the lens makes it easy to switch across different prescriptions.
3. Virginia Round Frames
For those who want to see clearly while making a strong fashion statement at the same time, we recommend the Virginia round glasses in the brown, teal and black combination. Again, the large lens makes it great for bifocal prescriptions, and the lightweight TR90 makes it perfect for all-day wear.
Related articles:
Bifocal reading glasses explained: what is the best pair?
Everything about multi focus reading glasses
What are advantages and disadvantages of bifocal lenses
Bifocal glasses explained: how do they work?
Are bifocal sunglasses worth it?
Single-vision lenses vs. multifocal lenses: what should you choose?
How to adjust to bifocal and progressive glasses?
