Varifocal Lenses | Varifocal Glasses

Varifocal lenses allow you to see at any distance, because they have different sections for viewing close up and far away and everything in between. So whether you’re driving, using a computer, shopping or reading, you can wear one pair of varifocals to accommodate all your vision needs.

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.

At Specsavers, we use digital measuring technology 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 varifocal lenses for your chosen frame. 

Distance vision

The distance vision part of the varifocal lens is usually in front of the pupil, for when you look ahead.

Intermediate vision

Intermediate, or mid-range, vision is through the middle of the varifocal lens and is perfect for tasks like using a computer. There is some soft focus at the edges of your vision in this part of the lens.

Near vision

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

Browse our range of multifocal contact lenses online, a great solution for when glasses aren’t suitable

View range

Types of varifocal lenses

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

At Specsavers we offer six types of varifocal lenses: Standard, Premium, Elite, Tailor-made, SuperDrive and SuperDigital. Your optician will talk you through all the options to see which one suits you best.

If you aren’t quite ready for varifocals, you may be prescribed SuperBoost lenses.

Find out more about SuperBoost

Standard varifocal lenses - £40

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

Noticed a recent change in your vision or thinking about varifocals?

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Who are varifocals suitable for?

Presbyopia

As we get older, we’ll start to find it more and more difficult to read or focus on things that are close up. This is called presbyopia and is a perfectly normal part of ageing. Most people become aware of presbyopia when they start holding their phone or books further away in order to see them clearly. Presbyopia will start to happen around the age of 40. If this sounds familiar, and you already wear glasses, it might be time for an eye test and to maybe give multi-vision or reading glasses a go. The multi-vision glasses options include occupational, varifocal or bifocal glasses.

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Customers with multiple prescriptions

If you have prescriptions for distance, reading and the area in between (known as intermediate vision), then varifocals or occupational lenses could be for you. However, if you don’t need help with your intermediate vision but you have prescriptions for distance vision and reading, then bifocal glasses could be more suitable. Our experts in store will help you choose the right lenses.

Hobbies and interests

If you have hobbies or interests that require great vision at a specific distance, our Near and Far varifocals can be customised to make those areas wider for you. Ask our lens experts in store for more information.

How to get used to your multifocal glasses

  • Trust in the process and give it time
    Your eyes (and your brain) will adjust naturally to the different focal points of your new multifocal glasses over time if you wear them consistently. For most people, it will take a period of time to get used to wearing multifocals. How much time depends on each individual person. As with any new habit, it will typically take about 2 months to change the way you use your new multifocal glasses, so persistence is key.
  • Remember to move your head, not just your eyes
    Moving your head according to what you are doing means you will be looking through the right part of the lens for the job at hand. Keep your chin up and eyes down for reading and close work.
  • Don’t switch back to old glasses
    It will slow down the adjustment process if you switch back to wearing glasses with an old prescription, so it’s best to avoid doing this.
  • Stay safe
    Take time to practice doing things that initially need a little extra caution, like walking down stairs or uneven surfaces.
  • Your optician or store team can help with any persistent issues
    Your new multifocal glasses are covered by the 100-day guarantee*, but don’t hesitate to go back to your store before this time if you have persistent issues with your new glasses, we will be happy to make the adjustments needed for you to get on with them better.

Varifocal Lenses: Let’s Bust Some Myths

Varifocals can feel like a big step, but much of the hesitation comes from common misconceptions. Let’s set the record straight:

Myth 1: “Varifocals are hard to get used to.”

Truth: Most people adapt within a few days to a couple of weeks. Today’s modern lens designs offer smoother transitions and faster adjustment than ever before.

Myth 2: “I’ll see lines or blurry zones.”

Truth: Unlike bifocals, varifocal lenses have a seamless design with no visible line. The zones blend naturally, giving you clear vision at all distances without interruption.

Myth 3: “They’re only for older people.”

Truth: Varifocals are for anyone experiencing presbyopia, typically starting in their 40s. They're a practical, discreet option for modern lifestyles, not just for seniors.

Myth 4: “They cost a fortune.”

Truth: At Specsavers, our varifocal lenses start from just £40. We offer affordable upgrade packages with options to suit your needs and budget.

Myth 5: “You can’t wear varifocals for sport or driving.”

Truth: Many people wear varifocals every day, including for driving, working out, or using screens. We’ll help you find the right lens type and frame fit for your lifestyle.

Still unsure? Pop into your local store or book an eye test to chat through your options.

Not quite ready for Varifocal lenses? Our SuperBoost lenses are a perfect first step into multifocal lenses.

Find out more

FAQs

How long does it take to adjust to varifocal lenses?

It 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’re 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 help.

We want you to be completely happy with your purchase. So if you have any concerns within 100 days of the date of purchase, we will put it right. No quibble, no fuss.

Common problems with varifocal lenses

At first, varifocals can give you a swaying sensation as your brain adapts to the differing lens prescriptions, but it will settle over time. If you have recently started to struggle with small text or print, then your optometrist may recommend SuperBoost to help.

SuperBoost lenses might be a good stepping stone until you need more help with reading and intermediate viewing, at which point you would go on to explore multifocal lenses, which include varifocals and occupational lenses.

What is the best varifocal lens?

All our varifocal lenses are good, but it will depend on your prescription and lifestyle as to which one will be the best for you. Your optician will talk you through all the options.

Why are my varifocals blurry?

Depending on what type of varifocal you select and your prescription, the edges of your vision might be blurry. A good tip is to turn your head towards what you would like to look at rather than looking out of the edges of the lens.

Contact the store if you have any questions. Our experts are happy to discuss how your varifocal lenses work and make any adjustments for you.

Can I get varifocals on the NHS?

Yes, you can use your NHS optical voucher towards the cost of any of our varifocal lenses.

The NHS optical voucher will cover the full cost of the standard varifocal lens

Can I get varifocal contact lenses?

Yes, you can get varifocal contact lenses (also known as multifocal contact lenses). They’re a great solution for when glasses may not be suitable, like at the gym or when you’re playing a sport. And the good news is that most people are suitable for contact lenses.

What is the difference between bifocal and varifocal lenses?

Varifocals and bifocals look very different. A bifocal has an obvious line on the lens whereas the varifocal lens has a smooth unobstructed surface.

For your visual needs bifocals will only cater for two distances. Varifocals can cater for all the distances that you need to see.

Do you work with screens?

You are entitled to ask for free eyecare if you work with screens*

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2 for 1 varifocal glasses

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Your guide to lenses

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References

*100 Day Guarantee:
For glasses/sunglasses, the 100 days starts from the date of collection. For hearing devices, the 100 days starts from the date of fitting. For contact lenses, this will be the date of delivery for any contact lenses purchased online or through easycare, or the date the order is placed if purchased in store. Excludes accessories. Does not apply to replacing glasses or hearing devices if broken by the customer.