Lens type
Single Vision Lenses
The most common prescription lens type — one focal length for reading, distance or computer use. Available across all four lens indexes with a range of optional coatings.
What is single vision
One prescription. One focal length.
A single vision lens corrects for one viewing distance only — near, intermediate or far. It is the most widely prescribed lens type and suitable for the majority of people who wear glasses.
How does it work?
The entire lens surface carries the same prescription power. When you look through any part of the lens you get the same correction — unlike varifocal or bifocal lenses which have different zones for different distances.
Who needs single vision?
Single vision is prescribed for people who need correction at only one distance. This includes most people who wear reading glasses, most people who wear glasses for driving, and most first-time glasses wearers.
How do I know if I need it?
Your prescription will show a single SPH and CYL value without an ADD power. If your prescription has an ADD value, you need correction at more than one distance — varifocal or bifocal lenses would be more suitable.
Vision types
What do you need single vision lenses for?
Single vision lenses are prescribed for three different purposes. Your prescription will indicate which type you need.
Near vision
Reading glasses
Corrects close-up vision for reading, writing and other near tasks. Typically prescribed for people over 40 whose near vision has started to deteriorate.
Shop reading glasses →Distance vision
Distance glasses
Corrects long-range vision for driving, watching TV and general outdoor use. The most commonly prescribed single vision lens type.
Shop distance glasses →Intermediate vision
Computer glasses
Optimised for screen distance — typically 50–70cm. Reduces eye strain during long sessions at a desk or working from home.
Shop computer glasses →LENS INDEX
Choose your lens thickness
Single vision lenses are available across all four indexes. A higher index means a thinner, lighter lens — most important for prescriptions above ±2.00.
LENS COATINGS
Optional upgrades for your single vision lenses
All single vision lenses come with a coating as standard. Additional upgrades are available at checkout.
Anti-scratch
A hardened surface treatment included as standard with all 1.50 index lenses. Protects against everyday wear and extends the life of your lenses.
Anti-reflective (MAR)
Reduces glare from screens, artificial lighting and oncoming headlights. Included as standard on 1.60, 1.67 and 1.74 index lenses. Available as an optional upgrade on 1.50 index lenses.
Blue light filter — optional upgrade
Filters blue light emitted by screens. A popular add-on for heavy device users, particularly those who experience eye strain or disrupted sleep.
Transition — optional upgrade
Automatically darkens in sunlight and clears indoors. Available on single vision lenses — one pair for all lighting conditions.
Sunglass tint — optional upgrade
A permanent tint that turns your frames into prescription sunglasses. Available in a range of shades and densities to suit your preference.
Polarised — optional upgrade
Eliminates reflected glare from flat surfaces such as water, roads and snow. Available as part of our sunglass tint options — ideal for driving and outdoor use.
How to order
How to order single vision lenses
1
Choose a frame
Browse our full range of frames from £10. All frames are compatible with single vision lenses across all four indexes.
2
Select single vision
Choose single vision at the lens type step. Then select your vision type — reading, distance or computer.
3
Choose your index and coatings
Select your lens index based on your prescription strength. Add any optional coatings and enter your prescription details.
✓ Next-day delivery on standard 1.50 orders before 3pm
Ready to order your single vision glasses?
All lenses are glazed in-house by our qualified technicians. Next-day delivery on standard 1.50 single vision orders placed before 3pm. Frames from £10.
