Progressive Vs. Lined Bifocals

Bifocals and progressives are both a style of lenses for glasses that are designed to help you see in the distance and up close but they function differently. Progressive lenses have a hidden bifocal and are preferred by people who are concerned about the cosmetic aspect of the lenses.

Significance

• Bifocals and progressive lenses both help you to see in the distance and up close. Progressive lenses are sometimes called invisible bifocals because the bifocal lines are not obvious.

Features

• Lined bifocals have a distinct line that you look through when you adjust your vision from far to near. Progressive lenses do not have a line but have an area where the reading and closer prescription power gets progressively stronger as you look down through it.

Cost

• Lined bifocals usually cost less than progressive lenses. Cost is also affected by material. Both types of lenses are available in glass, plastic and polycarbonate lenses. Polycarbonate are the lightest and most shatter-resistant and also the most expensive.

Size

• Both bifocals with lines and progressive lenses are available in different widths. Wider reading areas are better for work that requires a lot of detail or close work.

Benefits

• Progressive lenses are most similar to natural vision and allow you to read at many distances and use the lenses to see detail better than lined bifocals. Progressive lenses work well for reading things like your car dashboard or a computer screen.

Considerations

• Progressive lenses usually take a little longer to get used to than lined bifocals. There is a wavy feel in the lens as the power gets progressively stronger. If you have worn lined bifocals previously, it can be a little more challenging to get used to progressive lenses.