Are Polycarbonate Lenses Worth It? (Their Advantages and Disadvantages, Too!)

Choosing eyeglasses these days is about more than simply design. You should also think about the material that your lenses are constructed of. Glass, plastic, or polycarbonate are the most common lens materials.

The material used to make a lens has little bearing on its corrective power, but it can have a significant impact on one's lifestyle.

Lenses evolve in tandem with technological advancements. Previously, they were solely composed of glass. The majority of them are now composed of high-tech polymers. These new ones are lighter, less likely to break than glass, and can be coated with a UV filter to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.

What Are Polycarbonate Lenses?

Within a week of each other in 1953, two scientists on opposite sides of the globe independently discovered polycarbonate. Polycarbonate became a common lens option in the 1980s, initially used for electrical and electronic applications such as distributor and fuse boxes.

Polycarbonate lenses have been the industry standard for safety glasses, sports goggles, and children's eyewear since then, and their popularity shows no signs of waning. This is the material for you if you or your children are always bumping, scratching, or dropping your spectacles. Polycarbonate eyeglass lenses are up to ten times more impact resistant than ordinary plastic eyeglass lenses, making them an excellent choice for persons who lead an active lifestyle. Hence, polycarbonate lenses are worth it. Its pros and cons will exactly tell why they are.

The Pros Of The Polycarbonate Lenses

Polycarbonate lenses are durable, giving additional eye protection and supporting better eye health. 

They're 10 times more impact resistant than plastic eyeglasses, so they're less likely to shatter or break. 

They have a higher scratch resistance than ordinary plastic lenses, thus they will last longer. 

If you want to correct vision, don't add thickness.

They reduce the amount of distortion.

The UV rays are completely blocked.

They are perfect for anyone who is prone to being hit.

They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from strong prescriptions to glasses for specific eye problems.

The Cons Of The Polycarbonate Lenses

Polycarbonate can be easily scratched. In fact, part of the reason for their durability is also the source of this flaw. The material is very soft, making it more susceptible to scratches. The lenses will not break. Even so, these scrapes can obstruct your eyesight in some conditions.

Polycarbonate is equally as crisp as normal plastic. Because of the different manufacturing techniques, neither your central nor peripheral vision will be as clear. Of course, these differences are insignificant. Whether they're important or not depends on the situation in which you'll be wearing your safety glasses. Polycarbonate may not be the best choice if your job requires a high level of attention to detail or a clear view of your complete surroundings for maximum safety.

The expense of polycarbonate safety lenses should not be underestimated. This material may be the greatest alternative for safety eyewear available, and that excellence comes with a price. Polycarbonate lenses, in particular, can cost up to twice as much as normal lenses. Of course, you get what you pay for. If the anti-scratch coating is required, the additional cost might be too much for your budget.

Conclusion

Each lens has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Choosing the lens for your frames relies on you. Polycarbonate lenses, for example, maybe the best option if you're concerned about the weight of your frame. We will not recommend one above another if it is not appropriate for your visual needs. Of course, are you seeking for a pair of safety glasses that genuinely works? Polycarbonate can be a good option for you and it can be really worth it! Still, your eye doctor can advise you on whether polycarbonate lenses are right for you based on your prescription and lifestyle.

References

Eyeglasses: Tips to Help You Pick the Right Lenses
Polycarbonate vs Glass Lenses
Polycarbonate Lenses
Polycarbonate Prescription Safety Lenses: Advantages and Disadvantages
Glass vs. Polycarbonate Lenses