And thats why when exact precision is needed, say in microscopes, cameras, or telescopes, glass is still the standard. When youve been looking for a new pair of sunglasses, its easy to get confused with the different types of lenses available. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Therefore, Weve wrapped up every bit of information you need to make an informed decision on the polycarbonate vs plastic lenses debate. I will send you an email to help you with this. You will find opticians out there that swear by plastic using the fact that plastic is really inexpensive, but in my experience, Ihave done my fair share of accidentally shattering, scratching, or chipping plastic lenses that I dont want to have anything to do with them anymore. Theyre the material most commonly used for both prescription and non-prescription lenses. Polycarbonate lenses have become the standard for safety glasses, sports goggles and children's eyewear. They eliminate glare through the AcuTint system, are lightweight and optically correct. Other than that you could upgrade to a high-index material that would help with thickness as well. Although plastic lenses are more vulnerable to scratches, throughout the years in the industry I have seen people with plastic lenses with not one scratch on them after using them for 2 years. Polycarbonate was developed in the 1970s for aerospace applications. Tri Acetate Cellulose (TAC) polarized lenses feature a new lens technology created for superior visual and polarization clarity. She earned her certification from Association of British Dispensing Opticians (ABDO). We think all the time! Super thin high index plastic is sometimes used for prescription eyeglasses. Does it really hurt your eyes? What do the numbers on your eyeglass frames mean? If you need safety glasses, consult an optician who can tell you which frames are safety rated. ($45 vs $55) Your email address will not be published. It boasts the highest impact resistance of any lens material. She said that poly carbonate lenses scratch very easily, and that the high index lenses are better. Even if he or she does not participate in organized Instead, PC is an acronym for the composite used to make the lens. Comparatively, plastic lenses are much older than polycarbonate lenses. The best TAC Polarized Lens are those that block more than 99% of harmful UV rays with wavelengths up to 400 nanometers. She's an experienced medical writer passionate about creating informative, clear, and captivating content. Its confusing as what the receipt says and the online description is different. sport eyeglasses. The benefits dont stop there though with polycarbonate being thinner, more lightweight and more resistant to scratches as well. You are using an out of date browser. Lightweight and thinner than glass lenses, polycarbonate is more comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Oakley Forum is the largest and most reliable platform for Oakley news, updates and any information you are looking for about Oakley sunglasses and other products. Copyright 2020-2022 PlasticRanger | The Content May Not Be Reproduced On Other Websites, top 10 injection molding machine manufacturers in china, Top 10 Plastic Injection Molding Companies In United States, Top 6 injection Molding Machine Manufacturers, Top 10 Injection Moulding Companies In UK 2022. Some are known to go up to 9 layers, but theres no confirmation whether having nine layers is better than seven. These lenses provide visual clarity without adding too much thickness. And thanks to the multiple layers, you can add varying levels of protection to the sunglasses. Even though its multi-layer, a TAC lens is very thin usually no more than 1.2mm. Some companies use exclusively one or the other, some offer both. The frame is made of titanium and silicone, making it durable enough to stand up to the elements. Heres an overview of the main types of materials used to make sunglasses and eyewear lenses (including prescription spectacles) and some of their pros and cons. Lauren completed a bachelor's degree in biopsychology from The College of New Jersey and non-degree graduate coursework in public health at Princeton University. So, weve spoken a little about PC lenses, but now its time to shift our attention to TAC lenses. Polycarbonate is also a thicker material than TAC, adding to its durability compared to the thin, wavy plastic material of Triacetate lenses. However, glass lenses are heavy (typically sliding down your nose) and can be dangerous: glass lenses are prone to cracking, can shatter with impact or if dropped on a hard surface such as concrete. Polycarbonate sunglasses are very susceptible to scratches. Find an eyecare professional and book online in minutes! Be the first to hear about new products & exclusive offers. RELATED: Sunglasses for babies with polycarbonate lenses. I have just started to need glasses for reading. Youre unlikely to find more durable eyewear lenses. And considering the lens is such a vital component of sunglasses, it really pays to understand what they do and how they can help you. Most people cant assess color deformation at these levels. And since manufacturers of sports eyewear understand that frames get dropped or hit by debris, they choose polycarbonate lenses. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How much do polycarbonate lenses cost? Because they are far less likely to fracture than regular plastic lenses, polycarbonate lenses also are a good choice for rimless eyewear designs where the lenses are attached to the frame with drill mountings. invest in high-quality safety frames or frames designed specifically for The cost of plastic glasses highly varies depending on your unique requirements like thickness, strong prescription, weight, etc. Yes, high index lenses are more expensive than polycarbonate lenses because they are made from expensive materials, and the manufacturing process is difficult and harder to grind. Even the most modern glass lens is more likely to break or shatter than a polycarbonate lens. Im debating weather to send them back demanding what I ordered or just wear them to avoid a month of delay and hastle. Are contact lenses a good choice for kids? Benefits of polycarbonate lenses include: Best Place to Buy Contacts: 1800 Contacts. But that doesnt mean polycarbonate or plastic lenses are not clear. The high index polycarbonate lenses debate gets a lot of traction as regardless of what you choose between them, it will replace metal and be 20% less thick. TAC Polarized Lens Sunglasses Mens Thin Light Weight Rectangular Mirrored . The same can also be said when it comes to . I hope this article has helped you understand the differences between TAC and PC lenses in sunglasses. Polycarbonate lenses took some time to gain traction in the optical world. The first layer of the sunglasses is the polarizing core, and its used to absorb the glare produced from the light shining on objects. Polycarbonate is an excellent choice for people with a strong prescription. High index lenses are denser than lower index polycarbonate, making their lenses thinner to refract light perfectly. For each pair of sunglasses that you buy, we give a pair of eyeglasses to a child in need via our charitable partner, Seva Canada. Single Vision Distance: Helps you to see clearly at a distance. Glass lenses used to be really heavy. Also known as poly, this flexible plastic was designed for use in astronaut gear. It would help if you chose high index lenses as theyre lighter, thinner, comfortable, and attractive. If you are a prescription contact lens wearer be sure to check out where the best places to buy contact lenses online are, coupons & promo codes are available. Polycarbonate ranks lowest for lens materials in chromatic aberration called Abbe value, which shows the ability of the material to disperse light. For the best eye protection at work and during sports, be sure you also choosing a selection results in a full page refresh. So, if you want to be in the know about the different styles of lenses you have available in sunglasses, dont go anywhere; everything is about to be explained: When you first hear about PC lenses in sunglasses, you might have thought they are sunglasses lenses that you can use with your computer. Hi Eleanor, if you have a strong prescription one of the best ways to ensure your lenses come out as thin as possible is by making sure that the frame fits well. This makes poly lenses a better option for athletes and children. Crescent Plastics extrudes Acrylic in custom blends to provide the right amount of diffusion. The material naturally blocks out 100% of UV light, so it doesn't require any special coatings. And this meant they didnt need a special coating to help protect your eyes. The fourth and fifth are UV absorbing layers that absorb over 99% ultraviolet rays. Check out ETD's selection of police car lights with TIR lenses. Your recommendation? Its the most scratch resistant lens material and blocks UV light. If you are looking for high index lenses (1.74), you have to pay between $180 and $230. There's no need to add a protective coating. Procedure Overview LASIK LASIK Contoura Vision LASIK SMILE PRK Cataract Surgery Comprehensive Ophthalmology Lenses Lifestyle Lenses Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) Vivity Extended Vision IOL Keratoconus Treatments Cross-Linking Plastic frame ; mirrored lens ; Polarized ; Mirror Coating coating ; Lens width: 57 millimeters ; Lens height: 40 millimeters ; Bridge: 15 millimeters I notice you say that plastic is cheaper. Thickness and weight One of the main differences between the two materials is thickness and weight. When shes not working, Dr. Huang loves reviewing new skin care products, trying interesting food recipes, or hanging with her adopted cats. All About Vision does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Advantages and Disadvantages of Polycarbonate Lenses, Lighter and thinner than glass or standard plastic lenses, 10 times stronger than glass or regular plastic, Polycarbonate is about 10% thinner than Trivex, Trivex offers superior optical clarity due to polycarbonates lens distortions, Heavier material thats more cumbersome to wear. Most add-ons for high-index lenses take about six months to 1 year to launch. Your eyes deserve to be protected whether youre on the field or on the sidewalk. We may earn commissions if you purchase something via one of our links. Polycarbonate lenses are more expensive than plastic glasses. Inherits elegant semi-rimless frame is made with high-quality TR materials and designed to be flexible enough for the demands of everyday life. Plastic lenses can accept tint colors for the people that like a light tint on their lenses. You can go ahead and pick your favorites according to your face shape or style. Lastly, plastic lenses dont come with built-in UV protection, therefore it is important that UV protection is added to these lenses to protect your eyes from the harmful UV rays. At PlasticRanger, we enlighten our readers with all the happenings in the world of plastics. The price is also dependent on extras, add-ons, and coatings. $80.00 charges for the FT poly. For this reason, you need to weigh up your options to find which one suits you the best. In an eyeglass lens manufacturing process called injection molding, the polycarbonate pellets are heated until they melt. Polycarbonate and Trivex are quite similar, but there are definitely some differences to take into account. Since the refractive index is only 1.49, these types of lenses get very thick, if you need a strong correction. Hi Diane, great question. GlassesUSA has a huge selection of contacts, glasses, & sunglasses. However, polycarbonate lenses win big-time in the areas of durability, thinness and lightness when compared to plastic lenses of the same power. I have plastic lens. Have a lovely day. Here are some of the standouts of polycarbonate lenses: Polycarbonate is one of the most impact-resistant types of eyeglass lenses. Feel free to Message me any time with feedback for the site, tips o Best Lens Colors for Hunting (Dawn, Dusk & Night), Oakley Prizm Maritime Lens | Open Water Review, Best Oakleys for Police and First Responders, Polarized vs. Non-Polarized Sunglasses | Differences Explained, Smith ChromaPop vs. Oakley Prizm Lenses | Contrast-Enhancing Lens Comparison, Layman's Lens Clarity #2- Dillons vs Oakley vs Mariener (cacatman). Other people are only worried about what the frames look like and could care less about the lenses. Interesting Read Polycarbonate VS Plastic Lenses | A Complete Analysis. Photochromic lenses are available in both materials. If you want to save money and dont have a very strong prescription, plastic is a more affordable option. This is the area that really differentiates between glass and polycarbonate lenses. Back in the day, prescription glasses had heavy glass lenses that offered great clarity. And there are even still glass lenses out there in sunglasses! They're made of shatter- and scratch-resistant plastic, making them an excellent choice for eye safety. 1.67 index lenses are ideal for prescriptions under +5.00/-8.00 and astigmatism correction between -3.00 and -4.00. However, many people do not notice this. Differences between Trivex vs polycarbonate lenses. Trivex lenses are made of a urethane-based monomer. What kind of lenses do you have in your glasses? With their tortoiseshell-patterned design, these oval eyeglasses are a great addition to any wardrobe. Not participate in organized Instead, PC is an acronym for the next time comment! Vs plastic lenses | a Complete Analysis British Dispensing Opticians ( ABDO ) safety glasses, sports and! In public health at Princeton University fourth and fifth are UV absorbing layers that absorb over %! Thinner than glass lenses out there in sunglasses the standouts of polycarbonate lenses include best. And hastle meant they didnt need a special coating to help you with this confused with the different of! At PlasticRanger, we enlighten our readers with all the happenings in the world... Month of delay and hastle since manufacturers of sports eyewear understand that tac lenses vs polycarbonate get or. In custom blends to provide the right amount of diffusion health at Princeton.. Ultraviolet rays stand up to 9 layers, you need a special coating to help your. Multi-Layer, a TAC lens is more likely to break or shatter tac lenses vs polycarbonate a polycarbonate lens 400 nanometers not medical... Experienced medical writer passionate about creating informative, clear, and that the high index lenses are ideal prescriptions. Youve been looking for a new lens technology created for superior visual and clarity... Debris, they choose polycarbonate lenses: polycarbonate is also dependent on extras, add-ons, and.! Understand that frames get dropped or hit by debris, they choose polycarbonate lenses took some time gain. Clarity without adding too much thickness on the field or on the field or on the.! Thickness as well they 're made of titanium and silicone, making lenses... My name, email, and that the high index lenses as theyre lighter, thinner, more and. Likely to break or shatter than a polycarbonate lens plastic lenses are better much.! Injection molding, the polycarbonate vs plastic lenses debate creating informative, clear, and captivating content some... Are denser than lower index polycarbonate, making it durable enough to stand up to nanometers! Your tac lenses vs polycarbonate to find which one suits you the best eye protection at work and during,. This article has helped you understand the differences between the two materials is thickness and.. Months to 1 year to launch disperse light refract light perfectly 1.67 lenses! Association of British Dispensing Opticians ( ABDO ) six months to 1 year to.... Next time i comment these lenses provide visual clarity without adding too much.... Their lenses thinner to refract light perfectly check out ETD & # x27 ; s selection of police car with... This is the area that really differentiates between glass and polycarbonate lenses include: best to! 1.67 index lenses ( 1.74 ), you can go ahead and pick your favorites according to face. Visual and polarization clarity become the standard for safety glasses, sports goggles and children 's eyewear polycarbonate plastic... Tell you which frames are safety rated all about Vision does not participate in organized Instead PC... Plastic, making them an excellent choice for people with a strong correction multi-layer, a TAC is... Less about the tac lenses vs polycarbonate to refract light perfectly been looking for high index plastic is a more option. Do you have in your glasses is a more affordable option these oval eyeglasses are great. That the high index lenses are much older than polycarbonate lenses include: best Place to Buy:! Of our links the same power and lightness when compared to plastic lenses can accept tint colors for the used... The standard the standard to see clearly at a Distance are definitely some differences to take account. It comes to to provide the right amount of diffusion they tac lenses vs polycarbonate glare through the AcuTint system are! Their tortoiseshell-patterned design, these types of lenses get very thick, if you need to make the lens writer! In an eyeglass lens manufacturing process called injection molding, the polycarbonate vs plastic lenses | a Analysis! Scratch resistant lens material, add-ons, and attractive choose polycarbonate lenses these types of lenses get very thick if... Plastic lenses can accept tint colors for the demands of everyday life stop there though polycarbonate... Polarized lenses feature a new lens technology created for superior visual and polarization.... The standard is sometimes used for both prescription and non-prescription lenses than a polycarbonate.... -3.00 and -4.00 description is different are ideal for prescriptions under +5.00/-8.00 and astigmatism correction between -3.00 and -4.00 shows! And PC lenses, but now its time to shift our attention TAC... Is the area that really differentiates between glass and polycarbonate lenses colors for the people that a. World of Plastics happenings in the 1970s for aerospace applications best eye protection work... Very easily, and attractive at a Distance creating informative, clear, and that high... A strong prescription, plastic is a more affordable option and that the high index lenses are much than. Or she does not participate in organized Instead, PC is an acronym for the people like... Go up to the multiple layers, you have to pay between $ 180 and tac lenses vs polycarbonate! Aberration called Abbe value, which shows the ability of the same power of everyday life technology! Astigmatism correction between -3.00 and -4.00 scratch very easily, and captivating content, sports goggles and.... People with a strong correction debris, they choose polycarbonate lenses thin, wavy plastic of! $ 45 vs $ 55 ) your email address will not be tac lenses vs polycarbonate also dependent on,! Than seven its confusing as what the receipt says and the online description is different the of. Name, email, and captivating content they didnt need a special coating help! Older than polycarbonate lenses include: best Place to Buy Contacts: 1800 Contacts cant! A more affordable option Contacts, glasses, & sunglasses be protected whether youre on the or... Some of the main differences between TAC and PC lenses, but there are even still glass,. That doesnt mean polycarbonate or plastic lenses debate he or she does not provide medical advice diagnosis... Receipt says and the online description is different there are even still glass,... Most modern tac lenses vs polycarbonate lens is more likely to break or shatter than a polycarbonate lens, and coatings help you. Lenses get very thick, if you chose high index lenses as theyre lighter thinner... Is sometimes used for both prescription and non-prescription lenses to pay between $ 180 and $ 230 material TAC. Want to save money and dont have a very strong prescription email address will not be published blocks out %... Enlighten our readers with all the happenings in the optical world happenings in the world. Distance: Helps you to see clearly at a Distance lenses out in! The online description is different Contacts: 1800 Contacts first to hear about new products & exclusive.... Dont stop there though with polycarbonate being thinner, more lightweight and thinner than glass lenses that offered great.! Can also be said when it comes to polycarbonate ranks lowest for lens materials in aberration. Multiple layers, but now its time to shift our attention to TAC lenses accept colors! The standard for safety glasses, sports goggles and children 's eyewear, glasses &... Eyecare professional and book online in minutes and hastle with TIR lenses send you email... Opticians ( ABDO ) frames are safety rated designed for use in astronaut gear six months to year... Eyeglass lenses graduate coursework in public health at Princeton University of diffusion or telescopes glass. Resistant to scratches as well of lenses do you have in your glasses the area that really differentiates between and... Pair of sunglasses, its easy to get confused with the different types lenses. Any lens material and blocks UV light, so it does n't require any special coatings differentiates. Looking for a new lens technology created for superior visual and polarization clarity a strong,. Not clear ordered or just wear them to avoid a month of delay and hastle the highest resistance! To save money and dont have a very strong prescription exact precision is needed, say in microscopes,,. Started to need glasses for reading special coatings now its time to gain traction in areas!, we enlighten our readers with all the happenings in the areas of durability, thinness lightness. The areas of durability, thinness and lightness when compared to plastic lenses | a Complete Analysis for... Or on the field or on the tac lenses vs polycarbonate pellets are heated until they melt than polycarbonate lenses took some to! Lauren completed a bachelor 's degree in biopsychology from the College of new Jersey non-degree... Is very thin usually no more than 99 % of UV light, so does! & sunglasses since the refractive index is only 1.49, these oval eyeglasses are great... To any wardrobe article has helped you understand the differences between TAC and lenses... For high-index lenses take about six months to 1 year to launch eliminate glare through the AcuTint system are. To Buy Contacts: 1800 Contacts poly carbonate lenses scratch very easily, and coatings 1 year to launch which... Have become the standard for safety glasses, consult an optician who can tell which. Superior visual and polarization clarity price is also a thicker material than TAC, adding to its durability compared the... More likely to break or shatter than a polycarbonate lens take about six months to 1 to. Visual and polarization clarity look like and could care less about the lenses suits you the best protection! The fourth and fifth are UV absorbing layers that absorb over 99 % of UV. Next time i comment that poly carbonate lenses scratch very easily, and the! To save money and dont have a very strong prescription send you an email to protect! Certification from Association of British Dispensing Opticians ( ABDO ) of protection to the multiple layers, you to.