If you’ve ever had to juggle between different pairs of glasses for reading, driving, and everyday activities, you’ve probably wondered if there’s a more convenient option. That’s where varifocal glasses come in. They combine multiple prescriptions into a single lens, giving you sharp vision at all distances without the need to swap your eyewear.
How Do Varifocal Contact Lenses Work
Varifocal lenses are designed with three main viewing zones:
Distance Vision – The top portion of the lens is for looking at things far away, such as when driving or watching TV.
Intermediate Vision – The middle part helps you see clearly at arm’s length, ideal for computer work or cooking.
Near Vision – The bottom section is for close-up tasks like reading or using your phone.
Unlike bifocal lenses, which have a visible dividing line, varifocals have a smooth, gradual transition between each zone. This means no distracting jumps in focus and a more natural viewing experience.
Benefits of Varifocal Glasses
- All-in-one solution – One pair of glasses for all distances.
- No visible lines – Modern, discreet lens appearance.
- Smooth vision transition – Comfortable viewing from near to far.
- Cost-effective – No need to buy multiple pairs for different tasks.
Getting Used to Varifocals
Some people find varifocals take a little time to get used to, as your eyes and brain adapt to the different viewing areas. Most wearers adjust within a few days to a couple of weeks. The key is to move your head rather than just your eyes when switching focus between distances.
Reglazing Your Varifocal Glasses
If you already have a frame you love, My Glasses Reglaze can fit brand-new varifocal lenses into it – saving you money and keeping your favourite style. Whether your prescription has changed or your old lenses are scratched, reglazing is a quick, affordable way to refresh your eyewear.
Ready to Upgrade to Varifocals?
Varifocal glasses are a stylish, practical solution for people who need clear vision at all distances. At My Glasses Reglaze, we can provide high-quality varifocal lenses tailored to your prescription – all fitted into the frame of your choice.
📞 Contact us today or start your online reglaze order to enjoy the convenience of varifocals without the high street price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions About Varifocal Glasses
What is the difference between varifocal and bifocal glasses?
Varifocal lenses have a smooth transition between distance, intermediate, and near vision without visible lines, while bifocals have distinct lines separating distance and near zones.
How long does it take to get used to varifocal glasses?
Most people adjust within a few days to a couple of weeks. It helps to move your head to find the right focus area instead of just your eyes.
Are varifocal glasses suitable for all prescriptions?
Varifocals can be made for most prescriptions, but an eye care professional will advise if they’re suitable for your specific vision needs.
Do varifocal glasses work well for computer use?
Yes, varifocals have an intermediate zone perfect for computer screens, offering clear vision without needing a separate pair of glasses for computer use.
Can you get varifocal sunglasses?
Absolutely! Varifocal lenses can be made with tinted or photochromic coatings to create varifocal sunglasses, giving you clear vision at all distances while protecting your eyes from the sun.
What does a varifocal prescription look like?
A varifocal prescription will usually include measurements for both distance vision and an “Add” value for near vision.
Here’s how to read your prescription and check:
Distance section –
This shows your prescription for seeing far away.SPH (Sphere) corrects short-sightedness (-) or long-sightedness (+).
CYL (Cylinder) and AXIS correct astigmatism, if you have it.
Near section (or “Add”) –
The “Add” value tells the optician how much extra magnifying power you need for reading or close work.It’s usually written as +0.75 to +3.50.
If your prescription includes an “Add” for one or both eyes, it means you need help with both near and far vision.
Why this means varifocals –
If you have both a distance prescription and an Add, you need different lens powers for different distances. Varifocal lenses combine these into one lens, with a smooth transition from distance to intermediate to near vision — no visible lines like bifocals.
View our full How to Read a Prescription guide to understand your prescription.
What are the best varifocal lenses?
At My Glasses Reglaze, we offer a premium range of varifocal lenses tailored to different needs and lifestyles:
Gold Varifocal Lenses: Our third-tier option provides a great balance of clarity, comfort, and value. They feature wide viewing zones for distance, intermediate, and near vision, with only minimal peripheral blur. Ideal for everyday use and active lifestyles.
Platinum Varifocal Lenses: The top tier in our range, these lenses deliver exceptional clarity across all vision zones while significantly reducing peripheral blur. They offer a natural visual experience and all-day comfort, perfect for wearers seeking premium quality.
ZEISS DriveSafe® Varifocal Lenses: Designed specifically for dynamic vision on the road, these lenses improve focus between the road, dashboard, and mirrors. The DuraVision DriveSafe Coating reduces reflections and glare, especially at night, making driving safer and more comfortable.
Our experts can help you choose the best varifocal lenses to suit your prescription and lifestyle.
