Where to Buy Prescription Glasses Online?
Buying glasses online has never been easier—or more overwhelming. With dozens of retailers offering prescription glasses, sunglasses, and blue light glasses at the click of a button, choosing the right provider can feel like a minefield. How do you know where to buy glasses online safely, affordably, and with guaranteed quality?
This comprehensive guide breaks down the do’s and don’ts when shopping for glasses online, helping you make an informed choice that protects your eyes, your wallet, and your style.
The Do’s of Buying Glasses Online
1. Do Choose a Reputable Retailer
Always shop from established, well-reviewed online opticians. Look for customer reviews, Trustpilot ratings, and any industry certifications or awards. Retailers like Glasses Store, who specialise in prescription eyewear for all types of prescriptions—including high prescriptions—offer greater reliability and expertise.
Tip: Stick to UK-based online opticians if you live in the UK to ensure easier returns, faster delivery, and products that comply with UK health standards.
2. Do Know Your Prescription Details
Before buying glasses online, make sure you have a copy of your current prescription, including your pupillary distance (PD) measurement. PD is crucial to ensure your lenses are properly centred in your frames.
Tip: If your prescription is over two years old, it’s worth getting a fresh eye test before ordering new glasses.
3. Do Understand Lens Options
Your choice of lens material and coatings can greatly impact comfort, clarity, and durability. When buying online, look for retailers that offer:
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High-index lenses for strong prescriptions
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Anti-reflective coatings
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Scratch-resistant coatings
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UV protection
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Blue light filtering options
Choosing the right lens options can dramatically improve your glasses-wearing experience.
4. Do Use Virtual Try-On Tools
Many online retailers now offer virtual try-on technology that allows you to see how different frames will look on your face and helps you find the right frame size. Glasses Store’s virtual try-on feature makes it easier than ever to pick frames that fit and flatter.
Tip: Make sure the retailer provides detailed frame measurements (lens width, bridge width, and temple length) alongside the virtual tool.
5. Do Check for Warranties and Return Policies
Before making a purchase, read the retailer’s warranty and return policy. Look for:
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Minimum 12-month frame warranties
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30–90 day satisfaction guarantees
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Free or low-cost return shipping
Retailers like Glasses Store offer 12-month warranties and 90-day returns for added peace of mind.
6. Do Compare Value, Not Just Price
Cheap glasses can seem attractive, but make sure you’re comparing value rather than just cost. Look at what’s included—such as coatings, frame quality, customer service, and aftercare.
Tip: Some retailers offer bundled deals (e.g., 2-for-1 offers) that make premium glasses more affordable.
7. Do Read Customer Testimonials
Testimonials can give valuable insight into the quality of both the product and the customer service. Look beyond the star rating—read a few detailed reviews to see how a retailer handles returns, problems, and customer satisfaction.
The Don’ts of Buying Glasses Online
1. Don’t Buy Without Checking Credentials
Avoid purchasing from online stores that don’t clearly display their contact information, business address, or customer support channels. Lack of transparency is a red flag.
2. Don’t Skip Checking Frame Sizes
Ordering frames without checking size measurements can lead to an uncomfortable fit. Avoid frames that are too wide, too narrow, or poorly balanced on your face. Use the virtual try-on feature at Glasses Store to find the perfect fit easily.
3. Don’t Forget About Lens Quality
Some very low-cost online glasses retailers use inferior lens materials or outdated manufacturing techniques. Poor-quality lenses can distort vision, scratch easily, and even damage your eye health over time.
4. Don’t Assume All Coatings Are Included
Many websites advertise cheap glasses but charge extra for basic features like anti-glare, scratch resistance, or UV protection. Always check what is included in the listed price.
5. Don’t Ignore Delivery Times
Prescription glasses require custom lens manufacturing, which takes time. However, at Glasses Store, all single vision and non-prescription lenses ordered before 3pm are dispatched for next-day delivery, offering industry-leading speed.
6. Don’t Overlook Customer Support
If anything goes wrong—incorrect prescription, damaged frames—you’ll need responsive customer service. Make sure the company offers multiple ways to contact them (phone, email, live chat).
7. Don’t Compromise Eye Health for Price
Bargain-basement deals may be tempting, but your vision is too important to risk. Always prioritise quality materials, accurate prescription manufacturing, and professional advice when needed.
What Makes Glasses Store a Trusted Choice?
At Glasses Store, we specialise in high-quality prescription glasses with UK-based service and support. Whether you’re buying basic reading glasses, stylish sunglasses, or high prescription glasses online, we ensure:
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Expert prescription handling
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Surfaced and stock lens options
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High-index lenses for strong prescriptions
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MAR (Multi Anti-Reflective) coatings included
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Thin, lightweight, and stylish frames
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12-month warranties and easy 90-day returns
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Free shipping on orders over £99
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Next-day delivery on all single vision and non-prescription lenses ordered before 3pm
You’ll find transparent pricing, excellent customer service, and a curated range of glasses for all needs and budgets.
FAQs About Buying Glasses Online
Is it safe to buy prescription glasses online?
Yes, if you choose a reputable retailer. Make sure your prescription is accurate and the company offers warranties and returns.
Can I use my current prescription to order online?
Absolutely, as long as it’s still valid (usually within two years of your eye exam).
What if my glasses don’t fit when they arrive?
Most reputable retailers offer free returns or adjustments. Glasses Store offers a 90-day return policy for hassle-free exchanges.
How do I know my frame size?
Use Glasses Store’s virtual try-on feature to visualise how different frames will fit your face and confirm sizing.
Are high prescription glasses available online?
Yes! Glasses Store specialises in high prescription glasses with thin, lightweight lens options.
Should I add coatings to my lenses?
We recommend anti-reflective, scratch-resistant, and UV-protective coatings for better durability, comfort, and vision quality.
How long will it take to receive my glasses?
Single vision and non-prescription orders placed before 3pm are dispatched for next-day delivery.
Are cheap glasses online worth it?
They can be if you verify lens quality, coatings, and customer service policies. Always prioritise value over lowest price.
Final Thoughts
Buying glasses online can save you time and money while offering a broader selection than traditional opticians. However, taking a careful, informed approach is key to ensuring you get the right product for your needs.
Stick with reputable UK-based retailers like Glasses Store, pay attention to lens options and frame sizing, and don’t sacrifice quality for a bargain. Your eyes deserve the best care—and your glasses should feel just as good as they look.
Ready to find your perfect pair? Explore Glasses Store today for expert advice, excellent value, and eyewear you’ll love wearing every day.
