Varifocals Lenses

How do varifocals work?

Varifocal lenses work by changing power from the top to the bottom of the lens. Moving your eyes up and down the lens will give you clear vision at all the distances you need. This means if you are using a cash machine you would be able to view the keys, screen, your card and then continue to walk down the street.

Any distance vision you need can be seen by moving your eyes between these points on the lens. At Specsavers, we use Digital Precision Eyecare to find your unique measurements. This allows our experts to see exactly where to position the lens zones you require for your different vision types, as well as finding the right type of varifocals for your chosen frame.

Distance vision

Distance vision

Distance vision is through the upper part of
the lens. There is a small amount of soft focus at the edge of your vision.

Intermediate vision

Intermediate vision

Intermediate vision is through the middle of
lens and is perfect for tasks such as using a computer.

Intermediate vision

Near vision

Near vision is through the lower part of the lens.
There is some soft focus at the edges of your vision in this part of your lens.

Types of varifocal lenses

One of the most common questions we get asked is; ‘how much do varifocals cost?’ followed with ‘what are the best varifocals?’

The answer to both really depends on your budget and what you are looking for.

There are lots of different varifocal lenses on the market offering various features depending on your lifestyle and prescription.

At Specsavers we offer four types of varifocal lenses: standard, premium, elite and tailor-made. When you come in to store we can talk you through all the options to see what suits you best.

Standard Premium Elite Tailor-made
Standard varifocal lenses - £49

Easy to adapt to, they have clear vision at distance,
intermediate and close-up, but there is some soft
focus at the edge of your vision.

  • Distance vision

  • Midrange vision

  • Near vision

Premium varifocal lenses - £79

These fit a larger range of frames than standard lenses, and feature a wider field of clear vision at distance and intermediate than standard lenses. They’re also easier to adapt to.

  • Distance vision

  • Midrange vision

  • Near vision

Elite varifocal lenses - £119

These feature a wide field of clear vision at distance, intermediate and near, with minimal soft focus. They are very easy to adapt to.

  • Distance vision

  • Midrange vision

  • Near vision

Tailor-made varifocal lenses - £159

Our highest quality varifocal lens. We’ve used the latest technology to give excellent clarity and our widest field of clear vision at distance, intermediate and near. They are the easiest to adapt to.

  • Distance vision

  • Midrange vision

  • Near vision

How long does it take to adjust to varifocal lenses?

Getting used to varifocals can take from a few days to a few weeks. You need to give your brain time to adjust to the new viewing areas, which can take a bit longer if you are trying varifocals for the first time..

We know it might feel strange but the best way to adapt is to keep wearing your glasses so that your eyes can gradually adjust.

Thanks to the detailed measurements we take, most people adjust quickly but others may experience slight dizziness at first when moving quickly from one viewing area to the next. Don’t worry these sensations don’t last long and we’re always available to reassure you if you are struggling.

We want you to be completely happy with your purchase. If you have any concerns within three months of the date of purchase, we will put it right. No quibble, no fuss.