We unravel the mystery of progressive lenses, with prices ranging from €150 to €1500. These costs aren’t random—they depend on several key factors like brand, material, thickness, coatings, and extra features. Let’s take a closer look at what influences the price the most.
1. Type and quality of the lens
A major factor is the type and quality of the lens itself. This includes the durability of coatings and the overall lifespan of the glasses. Some manufacturers even offer a warranty of 1 year (including our trusted glass supplier). Progressive lenses come in various designs, each featuring unique glass structures and innovative technologies from their makers. You can choose between ‘budget’ and ‘premium’ lenses—the difference lies mostly in the size of the viewing zones. Larger viewing zones with less edge distortion mean better comfort and sharper vision, which usually means a higher price.
2. Lens strength
The prescription strength also affects cost. High corrections or strong cylinders (for astigmatism) often require customized lenses, which increases the price. If you want thinner, lighter lenses (to avoid the “thick glasses” look), additional thinning options will also add to the cost. Generally, stronger prescriptions mean thicker lenses. Frame size also impacts thickness because lenses are thinnest at the center and thicker toward the edges. Larger frames often benefit from extra thinning to keep lenses slim.
3. Lens coatings
Coatings can significantly influence the price. Popular options include anti-reflective coating, scratch resistance, blue light filtering, and dirt-repellent layers. Each coating adds value and comfort but also adds to the overall cost.
4. Brand
Just like fashion, the brand matters. Well-known names like Carl Zeiss, Hoya, Essilor, Tokai Optecs, and Rodenstock all produce high-quality lenses. We personally trust Tokai Optecs, the only lens manufacturer with production in Belgium, for their excellent quality and craftsmanship.
5. Where you buy your lenses
The retailer can affect pricing too. Large chains like Pearle, Hans Anders, and Eyewish buy in bulk and can offer competitive base prices for standard lenses. However, add-ons like coatings can quickly raise the price. Independent opticians and optometrists may have different pricing models for the same lenses, so it pays to compare before buying.
At Glazoo, you can order new progressive lenses for your favorite frames starting at €175—up to 70% cheaper than traditional opticians. We provide quality lenses without breaking the bank. 😄👓