In this article:
- Best places to buy replacement prescription lenses online
- More vision recommendations
If you need to wear glasses then you know there's nothing worse than broken prescription lenses. It can be debilitating when you can't see the world in front of you, which is why it's so important to have some extra prescription lenses on hand in case of an emergency. There are a bunch of awesome places online to buy replacement prescription lenses, too.
The companies that offer prescription lens updates for your favorite frames rely on some of the latest technology. We're talking way beyond simple glass lenses: multifocal lenses, transition lenses, polarized lenses, tinted lenses, lenses with antiglare coating and so much more.
I've pulled together a list of the best lens-replacement vendors to help you narrow down your options. All of these companies also sell frames and full prescription eyeglass and sunglass packages. However, the main thing that differentiates them is the eyeglass lens replacement option to send your current frames in and get a new prescription filled. That means you can hold onto your favorite pair, instead of fighting to find new frames you like as much as your old ones.
Each company will either send you a box with a return shipping label inside to mail in your glasses, or, if you already have a box for your glasses, the company will just send you the return shipping label. It's an easy process.
If you're wondering whether these eyewear retailers make prescription lenses for audio glasses like theBose Frames,Amazon Echo FramesandRazer Anzu, most do. (Only a few have officially partnered with Bose, like Lensabl and the Bose Tempo sports model, but you can also get prescription lenses separately.)
We'll update these best replacement lenses for glasses list as we try more. Before we dive in, keep in mind the following prerequisites, caveats and tips:
- Most of the prescription eyewear sites highlighted here for eyeglass lens replacement offer a discount for first-time customers.
- In most cases, you'll need to know your prescription andpupillary distance from your optometrist before you use an online glasses retailer -- so make sure you get a hard copy the next time you get your vision checked. Once you have your current prescription, most of these websites will let you upload a picture of the prescription from your phone the first time you buy prescription eyewear.
- If you don't know your prescription, certain lens-replacement outfits in this roundup can simply duplicate the lenses you have in your existing frames. (If a lens is cracked or scratched, you may simply want to replace it if your prescription is current.)
- Some eyeglass lens replacement sites will ask you to send a description or photo of your frame (and perhaps ask for a model number if you have one), so they can prep your order and process it faster.
- Most but not all existing frames can accept new prescription lenses.
- Seehow to buy glasses online and save hundreds of dollarsfor more tips.
Read more:Use Your Phone to Check Your Vision
Best places to buy replacement prescription lenses online
Screenshot by David Carnoy/CNET
Shipping Info
Free, takes 2 business days (after processing and receiving the glasses)
Return Policy
7-day free returns or exchanges
Insurance Accepted
No (reimbursement available depending on insurance company)
Features Offered
Anti-glare (polarized), anti-scratch, UV protection, water-repellent
As its name implies, Overnight Glasses can make you a new set of prescription glasses quickly -- and really quickly if you're willing to pay extra for a new pair of glasses. If you buy a frame/lens package, fast three- to four-day service is available for $9. (It takes slightly longer for progressive lens and bifocal lens types.) The quality of the lenses I got was as good as that from other replacement lens sites, so there's no sacrifice of prescription eyewear quality for speed.
As for new lenses for your current frame, you ship your frames to Overnight Glasses and it'll replace your lenses with new ones in 48 hours. The service can do polarized, blue light, transitions and many other types, though progressives take an additional two days (so 72 hours total from the time your frames are received).
If you're looking for a truly overnight option, the emergency, 24-hour rush service costs an additional $60 for single vision. As noted, a progressive lens order can take an additional two days, so the fastest you can get new progressive lenses is three days.
Overnight makes lenses for Bose Frames and Amazon Echo Frames audio glasses.
Notable site features: The site has a clean look and is easy to navigate. There are multiple shipping options.
Shipping times:As fast as 48 hours from the time your eyeglass frame is received, while 24-hour rush service costs an additional $59 for single vision (progressives take an additional two days).
Read more: Best Bluetooth Audio Glasses and Sunglasses for 2023
Screenshot by David Carnoy/CNET
Shipping Info
Free, takes 2-5 business days (after processing and receiving the glasses)
Return Policy
No returns/refunds. All sales final. If lens were incorrectly made, customers have 30-days to request a remake.
Insurance Accepted
No (reimbursement available depending on insurance company)
Features Offered
Use your own frame, blue light filter, anti-glare (polarized), anti-scratch, UV protection
Although it offers full frame/lens packages, Lensabl puts its lens replacement service front and center and comes up high in search results when Googling "lens replacement." Its motto is "Your frames, our lenses," with prices starting at $77 for buying a basic pair of single-vision lenses. A pair of tinted sunglasses lenses starts at $97. The budget new lens options are decent enough, but it does make a difference (in terms of sharpness and clarity) to step up to lenses more in the $150-plus range.
You upload your prescription online and pick the type of lens you want, and then Lensabl sends you a box with a prepaid return shipping label. You simply mail in your old frame in the box (shipping is free). First-time prescription lens customers get 15% off.
Lensabl does make prescription lenses for Bose Frames audio sunglasses.
Notable site features: For $25, you canrenew your prescription online. Not everybody qualifies to take the online eye exam -- you have to answer some questions to see if you qualify -- but if you do, Lensabl says, "All you need is your computer, [your] smartphone and about 15 minutes of time." Your results will be reviewed by an eye doctor or optometrist licensed in your state who will then issue you a new prescription via email.
Current deals and coupons: 10% off single vision lenses, contacts lenses, frames and other lens types with promo codeSEE10,10% off Lensabl+ Vision Plans with promo codePLUS10.
Shipping times:Lensabl pledges "about two weeks" turnaround time from when you ship your frames to when you'll receive your prescription eyewear back.
Screenshot by David Carnoy/CNET
Shipping Info
Free, takes 2-7 business days (after processing and receiving the glasses)
Return Policy
30-day free returns or exchanges
Insurance Accepted
No (reimbursement available depending on insurance company)
Features Offered
Anti-scratch, anti-smudge, UV protection
While it's had shops in the New York area for a while, ReplaceRxLenses is somewhat new to the online replacement-lens arena. My experience using this retailer was smooth, with a relatively quick turnaround time (about a week, but I was in New York). Its prices are competitive and slightly cheaper for some lens types.
The site says what differentiates it from competitors is that it doesn't have an assembly-line format for fulfilling orders, where one worker is responsible for manufacturing the lenses, another is responsible for tracing the frame and edging the lenses to fit the frame and another might handle the final eyeglass inspection. "With us, one technician works on a customer's order from start to finish," a rep told me. "We believe this format results in a better end product because there is almost no chance of information being lost or mistakes being made along the way."
ReplaceRxLenses says it can do a replacement for prescription eyewear or replace nonprescription lenses for Bose, Amazon Echo, Snapchat Spectacles and many other audio/smart frames.
Notable site features: The site says it has experience working with frame types and lenses that some other places can't handle. "We have plenty of experience working with sports frames, wraparound frames, vintage frames and extended range prescriptions," a rep told me. "Many other online replacement services can only work with certain frame types and up to certain prescriptions."
The site tries to get as much information about a customer's frame beforehand so it can begin working on the order even before receiving the frame, which helps expedite the order. (I submitted a photo of my frame).
Current deals and coupons: 15% off for new customers in exchange for your email address (leave site to see offer).
Shipping times: 7 to 14 days.
Eyeglasses.com
Shipping Info
Free, 1-6 business days (after processing and receiving the glasses)
Return Policy
30-day free returns or exchanges
Insurance Accepted
No (reimbursement available depending on insurance company)
Features Offered
Anti-glare (polarized), clip-on sets available
Eyeglasses.com has a huge selection of both frames and lenses and is also one of a small number of sites that offer a lens replacement service for existing frames, with prices starting at $49. As with all the other sites here, you simply choose the lens you want (that can be a little daunting because there are so many options) and you'll get sent a prelabeled box with which to return your frames, with free shipping both ways. If you don't know your prescription -- and don't want to change your current prescription -- you can opt to have Eyeglasses.com's technicians "read your lenses and duplicate them."
The service isn't superspeedy in terms of turnaround time, but the lenses are high-quality and the eyewear site has good online help options, including a Replacement Lenses Wizard and an online chat feature. Unlike Lensabl, which highlights its lens replacement service, Eyeglasses.com doesn't market the option front and center.
Eyeglasses.com makes lenses for Bose Frames and Amazon Echo Frames audio glasses.
Notable site features: Eyeglasses.com says it only sells "high-quality, individually made lenses made in the USA," and the sample glasses I tried had excellent lenses that gave me a very sharp image. There's a huge selection of lens options, and you get a "Perfect Lenses Guarantee" that allows you to send your glasses back if they don't work for you -- you can get a redo or a full refund, your choice.
Current deals and coupons: 15% off for new customers in exchange for your email address.
Shipping times: For replacement lenses, you can expect it to be a 10-to-14-day process from the time you place your order. You can cut down the time a bit with a one-day shipping option for an extra $12 fee.
Screenshot by David Carnoy/CNET
Shipping Info
Free, takes 1-3 business days (after processing and around two weeks to make the lenses)
Return Policy
90-day free returns or exchanges on unopened products. DIY lenses have a 30-day return policy.
Insurance Accepted
No (reimbursement available depending on insurance company)
Features Offered
Anti-scratch, anti-glare (polarized), UV protection
LensDirect says it can make quality lenses for a wide array of frames -- "practically any frame unless it just absolutely doesn't make any fundamental sense like putting a +7.5 prescription on a semi rimless frame" -- and has its own machine in-house that can cut the lenses anytime (other retailers have this as well). "We make lens replacement more affordable than our competitors without sacrificing quality," a rep told me.
However, LensDirect does not make replacement lenses for Bose and Amazon audio glasses.
My lens replacement took about a week, and the lens quality was high. After using discount codes, the cost for lenses I got was a bit less than from some competing sites like Lensabl.
Notable site features: The site has a virtual try-on feature if you're buying a frame and lens package. When it comes to an older audience (people who wear progressive or bifocal lenses), lens options tend to be more affordable (with discount codes applied), specifically when it comes to the 1.67 high-index lens, which is 40% thinner and lighter than a standard CR39 lens. "Even to a younger audience who wants to take a cheap eyeglass frame and get exactly the lens they need, our CR39 and Polycarbonate lenses start off more affordable even for them," a rep said.
Current deals and coupons: 15% off and free shipping on orders over $49 with promo codeSAVE15, 25% off for new customers in exchange for your email address
Shipping times:10 to 14 days.
More vision recommendations
- Best Prescription Sunglasses for 2023
- Best Place to Buy Contacts Online for 2023
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.
FAQs
What company will put new lenses in old frames? ›
Individuals send their frames directly to Lensabl, and the company installs the new lenses into the frames and sends them back in a few days.
Can I just get replacement lenses? ›Typically, optical shops will replace the lenses for you if your frames are in good condition and the shape of the lenses isn't too complicated. Other options include online retailers Lensabl and EyeglassX, which specialize in prescription lenses for existing glasses.
Is it OK to order Progressive lenses online? ›Contrary to what some think, you don't absolutely have to buy progressive glasses locally. They can be purchased online and you can even save a substantial amount compared to what you might pay at a local store.
Why are Zenni glasses so cheap? ›Frames are designed and manufactured by Zenni in our own state-of-the-art facility, keeping costs down. Large volume contributes to low overhead which also saves money.
Will Costco put lenses in frames purchased elsewhere? ›Costco's Policy on Frames and Lenses
It's entirely dependent on the Costco location and what their optical team decides. One thing that is consistent at all Costco's is that they are not happy about replacing lenses in your own frame. Especially if you didn't buy them there.
Luckily, online lens replacement stores like rx-able.com are a great place to get your glasses lens replacement while keeping your old frames and, best yet, saving a boatload of money.
What is the main drawback of progressive lenses? ›Drawbacks of Progressive Lenses
Some people never adjust, but most do. During the learning period, you may feel dizzy and nauseous from looking through the wrong section of lens. There may also be some distortion of your peripheral vision (what you see on the edges when looking straight ahead).
*Independent Doctors of Optometry are located in or near most Costco locations in most states. Our Kirkland Signature HD progressive lenses use the latest in lens manufacturing technology to deliver high definition vision at any distance.
Are more expensive progressive lenses better? ›Conversely, higher-quality progressive lenses position the drop so that the wearer can look through it naturally, and reduce peripheral distortion by making the viewing area wider. These changes make the lenses more expensive, but result in far better comfort and vision quality.
Is Zenni better than Warby Parker? ›Bottom line. If affordability is the most important element of your next eyeglass purchase, Zenni might be the way to go. Though it tends to have lower prices than your local eye doctor's office, Warby Parker still tends to be more expensive than Zenni.
How trustworthy is Zenni Optical? ›
Zenni Optical has an excellent reputation for being a trusted and straightforward company selling affordable online eyeglasses. Their Trustpilot rating is 4.6 stars, with many reviewers pleased with fast shipping, reasonable pricing, and top-notch customer service.
Is Zenni Optical a chinese company? ›Zenni Optical is a U.S. company, but Zenni glasses are made in China. The Zenni Optical headquarters is located in San Francisco, and the one-million-square-foot Zenni Optical factory and eyewear laboratories are located in Danyang, China.
Is Costco or LensCrafters cheaper? ›Consumer Reports surveyed more than 91,000 members, and Costco Optical topped the list of eyeglass retailers for customer satisfaction. The key factor? Price. The median cost for glasses at Costco was $186, while the median price at LensCrafters was $369.
Can I bring my own frames to Costco for lenses? ›Yes, you can bring your own frames to Costco. So bring your current frames or snag a deal a pair from several online retailers such as Warby Parker, Zenni Optical, or Frames Direct. Still, keep in mind, you can also receive a discount at Costco when you purchase multiple frames for the same person all on the same day.
Will Walmart put lenses in my own frames? ›Does Walmart replace lenses in my own frames? It depends on which Walmart you go to. Some Walmart's will replace the lenses in your frames and since they want to sell their own frames they usually add $25.00 to the cost of the lenses in a customer's own frame.
Will Target put new lenses in old frames? ›Can you place lenses in frames I did not purchase from Target Optical? Yes, it's possible to replace the lenses in your frames, but it depends on their condition due to: normal wear and tear, your particular prescription, your lenses, as well as the options you choose.
Will America's Best put new lenses in old frames? ›If your frames break or your lenses become excessively scratched during the year, bring them to your local America's Best store so we can replace them (only 1 replacement allowed). This plan does not cover lost frames or lenses.
Which progressive lens is best? ›Best progressive lenses brands
We have to emphasize Varilux X series, including Varilux Xclusive 4D, Varilux X track and Varilux X design.
If you've noticed that you have to lower your head or glasses to read at a distance, this could be a sign that your progressive lenses have been fitted high on your face. Either you or your eye doctor may be able to correct this by adjusting your frames to sit lower on your face or by widening the nose pads.
How much should progressive lenses cost? ›Average cost of progressive lenses
Compared to the slightly lower cost of bifocal lenses, the average consumer pays between $150 and $250 for their progressive lenses. For this price range, you should be able to purchase a decent set of progressive lenses.
Are Costco glasses cheaper than Walmart? ›
Costco charges $130 for high-definition progressive lenses, which, as with all Costco lenses, include an anti-reflective coating. That's about half what you'd pay at many walk-in stores. But if you need basic, plastic single-vision lenses, you can pay as little as $29 at Walmart, about half as much as at Costco.
Is LensCrafters better than Costco? ›It's about value; no low-quality, no-name brands. Costco and Walmart optical departments are half the price of LensCrafters, but they are also half the quality. Your best deals will always be to stay away from the big chains where you are just a dollar sign when you come in the door.
Is there a difference in quality of progressive lenses? ›Premium progressive lenses are designed to provide a wider and smoother view. They are highly customizable for your prescription, chosen frame, and eye anatomy. This means you'll have less visual distortions since they are custom-made for your eyes.
What is a Tier 4 progressive lens? ›There are 4 tiers of AR coatings available — each tier offers a different level of scratch and glare resistant protection, with Tier IV giving the highest level of protection, including features to help keep your glasses cleaner.
Are premium progressives worth it? ›premium progressive lenses? If the price is a factor, opt for standard progressive lenses. However, if you have a complicated prescription or need customized lenses, premium progressive lenses are the better option. Either way, the new glasses will help get your vision back on track.
Are bigger frames better for progressive lenses? ›Bigger lenses ensure you have ample coverage for each prescription. Most types of progressive lenses fit better in large frames, so you'll need bigger lenses to go with them.
Can an eyeglass store put new lenses in old frames? ›Fortunately, you can typically continue to use your existing frames when you get new lenses, provided that the frames are in good condition and aren't too complicated in shape.
How much is it to put new lenses in old frames? ›Some businesses claim to be able to repair your lenses for as cheap as $40, however that only applies to basic lenses. The cost of new lenses in your old frames can reach $100 if you add an anti-glare coating or photochromic lenses. If your looking for a store to buy new lenses without changing your frames.
Will Walmart put new lenses in old frames? ›Does Walmart replace lenses in my own frames? It depends on which Walmart you go to. Some Walmart's will replace the lenses in your frames and since they want to sell their own frames they usually add $25.00 to the cost of the lenses in a customer's own frame.
Can I bring in my own frames to LensCrafters? ›While glasses retailers differ on whether or not they allow patrons to use their frames when replacing a scratched or otherwise worn-out set of lenses, LensCrafters does enable customers to bring in their frames with a few caveats. First, they must be in good shape.
Can I bring my own frames to Costco Optical? ›
Yes, you can bring your own frames to Costco. So bring your current frames or snag a deal a pair from several online retailers such as Warby Parker, Zenni Optical, or Frames Direct. Still, keep in mind, you can also receive a discount at Costco when you purchase multiple frames for the same person all on the same day.
Are transition lenses worth it? ›Would I recommend transition lenses? Definitely. It saves money and it's convenient. New technological advancement for this lens will make it last longer, change colors faster, go clearer indoors, and darker when you are outside.
Can zenni replace lenses? ›Categories of Glasses Zenni Optical Offer. Zenni Optical does not just stop offering glasses lens replacement to its potential customers at affordable rates; they go beyond that to provide numerous frames that give customers options to select the perfect pair of glasses that suits them.
Are LensCrafters lenses good quality? ›Overview. LensCrafters has a consumer rating of 2 stars from 32 reviews indicating that most customers are generally dissatisfied with their purchases. Consumers complaining about LensCrafters most frequently mention eye exam and new glasses problems. LensCrafters ranks 82nd among Contact Lenses sites.
Can I bring my prescription to Warby Parker? ›Come into the store to take a few vision tests
We will guide you through some quick tests to figure out how you're seeing. Important! Please bring in your current eyeglasses or eyeglasses prescription. (Totally cool if it's expired.)
In short, yes, many opticians and specialty services will be able to change, replace, and put in fresh prescription lenses into most frames. Not only that but when going for the right option, this can be far more cost-effective than opting for a new pair of specs.
What brand of lenses does Walmart use? ›Equate lenses distributed by Walmart under the Equate brand allowing the customer to experience an affordable daily disposable contact lens. Equate provides a healthier and convenient contact lens option.
How long does it take to get my glasses from EyeBuyDirect? ›Your order will be delivered within 7 - 14 business days. Your glasses will usually reach you faster, but may take the full 14 business days depending on the complexity of your prescription and the package you selected.
Is Walmart a good place to buy eyeglasses? ›They have a good selection of eyewear at fair prices, including many varieties of eyeglasses and contact lenses. On top of that, the centers are tastefully decorated, which might make you more comfortable. Many people like being able to walk in without an appointment and find a popular name-brand frame.