Which lens material is right for you? Compare CR-39, polycarbonate, Trivex and high-index lenses for thickness, weight, clarity, safety and value, with advice for children and strong prescriptions.
When you order glasses, the frame gets the attention, but the lens material affects how thin, light, clear and safe your glasses are. Here is a simple comparison to help you choose.
Quick Comparison
| Material | Thickness | Weight | Impact resistance | Optical clarity | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CR-39 (standard plastic) | Standard | Light | Good | Excellent | Low to moderate powers, everyday use |
| Polycarbonate | Thinner | Very light | Excellent | Good | Children, sports, rimless frames, safety |
| Trivex | Thinner | Very light | Excellent | Very good | Children and active people where available |
| High-index (1.60 / 1.67 / 1.74) | Thinnest | Light | Good | Very good | Strong prescriptions |
| Glass | Thin | Heavy | Poor; can shatter | Excellent | Rarely recommended today |
CR-39: The Reliable Standard
CR-39 plastic gives excellent clarity at a good price. It suits most low and moderate prescriptions in full-rim frames. Add an anti-reflective coating and a hard coat for longer life.
Polycarbonate: The Safety Choice
Polycarbonate is far more impact resistant than standard plastic, making it the recommended choice for:
- Children’s glasses; see our children’s eye care
- Sports and active work
- Rimless and semi-rimless frames, where lenses are drilled
- Industrial workers; see eye safety for Hattar workers
It also blocks UV naturally.
High-Index: For Strong Prescriptions
If your power is around ±4.00 or more, standard lenses can look thick at the edges (minus powers) or bulge in the centre (plus powers). High-index materials bend light more efficiently, so lenses are thinner and lighter. The higher the index, the thinner the lens.
- 1.60: a good upgrade for moderate powers
- 1.67: for high powers
- 1.74: the thinnest, for very high powers
Tip: a smaller, rounder frame also keeps strong lenses thinner.
Coatings and Treatments
- Hard coat for scratch resistance
- Anti-reflective to reduce glare
- Blue-cut for screen users
- Photochromic to darken outdoors
- UV protection
How We Help You Choose
After your eye test, we consider your prescription, frame, age, work and budget, and explain the options before you order. Read the guide to reading your prescription to understand your numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are thinner lenses always better?
For low powers the difference is small, so CR-39 is often the best value. High-index pays off with stronger prescriptions.
Which lens is best for my child?
Polycarbonate or Trivex, for safety and light weight.
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Medically reviewed by
Optometrist at Sardar Eye Clinic & Optics, Railway Station Road, Haripur, BS Optometry (Khyber Medical University) and hospital training at HMC Peshawar and Abbottabad Medical Complex, experienced in eye examinations, glasses and contact-lens prescriptions, and children’s eye care. This article is for general information — book an eye test for advice about your own eyes.
