5 Myths About the Best Place to Buy Prescription Glasses That Cost Me $200

I used to believe these myths. I was convinced that paying top dollar at my optometrist's office was the only way to get good lenses. That misconception cost me hundreds over the years. Here’s the real story on finding the best place to buy prescription glasses.

We're talking about specific, high-tech lenses here, like the MERRYS Anti Blue Light Blocking Lens A1 Series. These lenses are anti-reflective, aspheric, and come in high-index options such as 1.67 for strong prescriptions (Myopia/Hyperopia). If you settle for inferior quality, your eyes will definitely notice the difference.

If you want to save money and enjoy better vision, you need to understand these five key points:

• The most expensive brand isn't always necessary.
• Online speed promises are often misleading.
• Customer service is more important than the initial price.

Myth #1: Only the Most Expensive Lenses Work Well

This is the optical industry's biggest deception. They want you to think that unless you spend $500 on name-brand progressive lenses, your vision will suffer.

Let me set the record straight. Quality is crucial, but price doesn't always reflect it. Sometimes, you're just paying for a famous brand name or covering the overhead of a fancy clinic.

Truths Review (High Rating): "I've purchased three pairs of glasses from WP over the years and find my eyes adapt really well to their progressive lenses compared to the much more expensive ones I used to get from other opticians."

This customer discovered that more affordable progressive lenses actually worked better than the pricier alternatives. When searching for high-quality features—like a thin 1.67 index or effective blue light blocking—you should examine the specifications, not just the price.

Verdict: Always ask for the lens index (e.g., 1.67) and details on anti-reflective coatings. Don't assume the most expensive option is the best place to buy prescription glasses for you.

Myth #2: Ordering Online Guarantees Fast Delivery

Many online shops promise quick turnaround times, claiming they can make your glasses in just three days. However, they often use tricky language. They might define "production" and "shipping" according to their own unusual timeline, not the customer's expectations.

Truths Review (Low Rating): "DO NOT order from here if you need your glasses by a specific date... This company considers 'production' as three business days, so what seems like three days to most people is actually just one day for a company operating on what appears to be bankers' hours... I ordered on March 23rd... and was told on April 8th that the glasses wouldn't arrive until April 17th."

That's a significant delay. Ordering from a unreliable online retailer can mean waiting a month for an essential item you need every day. When a company uses excuses like "bankers' hours" and fails to provide a tracking number, it's a clear sign of trouble.

Verdict: Before ordering online, check recent reviews specifically about shipping times. If production and shipping dates seem vague, look elsewhere.

Myth #3: Discounts and Refunds Are Impossible to Get

When buying glasses, you might assume the listed price is final. If you find a good deal, you probably think that's all there is to it. But sometimes, better service leads to better savings—you just need to know when and how to ask.

Truths Review (High Rating): "I asked about a discount when I bought them at the Eaton Centre, and they denied any such offer existed. A quick call to customer service today, and they issued a refund to my card. I'm sticking with the Queen West location from now on!"

This person was eligible for a $175 discount simply for buying a new pair within two years of their last purchase. One staff member denied it, but another found the policy and processed the refund. The location you choose can drastically change the outcome.

Verdict: Always ask if you qualify for discounts (e.g., as a return buyer, for a second pair, or under warranty). If one representative says no, try calling customer service or visiting a different store location.

Myth #4: If You Have a Problem, You Can Easily Fix It

Many people choose the cheapest online option without considering what happens when something goes wrong. Fixing glasses usually involves adjustments, or sometimes a complete remake if the prescription is incorrect.

Truths Review (Low Rating): "...you're better off going to Eyemart Express where the only inconvenience is driving to a location, but you can get your glasses within a day. Plus, if you have a problem with glasses from Eyemart Express, you won't have to deal with returning them via snail mail."

The hassle of mailing glasses back is considerable. If the fit is slightly off, you have to pack them up, send them off, wait for processing, wait for them to be remade, and then wait for them to be shipped back. That could mean another month of delays.

The best place to buy prescription glasses offers clear, straightforward solutions for adjustments or remakes. Sometimes, this means choosing a retailer with a physical presence or an online store that provides quick, trackable returns.

Verdict: Choose a retailer that allows you to resolve issues promptly, preferably in person or through prepaid, expedited shipping labels.

Myth #5: All Lenses Offer the Same Technology

When you buy cheap glasses, you often get cheap lenses. This is where quality truly suffers. Many budget lenses are heavy, thick (high-index lenses like 1.67 are vital for strong prescriptions), and lack proper protective coatings.

The MERRYS Anti Blue Light Blocking Lens A1 Series exemplifies what high quality looks like:

• Blue Light Blocking: Essential for anyone who uses screens regularly.
• Anti-Reflective Coatings: Reduces glare for clearer vision, especially at night.
• Aspheric Design: Keeps lenses thin and prevents the "bug eye" effect common with strong prescriptions.

You must check the material details. If a company doesn't list the index (like 1.67) or mention specific coatings, assume they're using basic, heavy plastic.

Verdict: Never compromise on lens technology. The clarity, thickness, and coatings determine how well you see and how comfortable your glasses feel.

The Real Deal: How to Find the Best Place to Buy Prescription Glasses

The truth is, the best place combines advanced technology with excellent customer service. You need a company that offers MERRYS-quality lenses—anti-blue light, anti-reflective, and available in thin aspheric materials—while also respecting your time and budget.

Don't just focus on the upfront cost. Consider the total value:

1. Check Service Records: Are they known for quick adjustments or helping customers find discounts?
2. Check Delivery Guarantees: Do they make excuses about "bankers' hours," or do they provide firm tracking numbers?
3. Check Lens Specs: Are they selling basic lenses or advanced features like the MERRYS A1 Series?

By comparing these factors, you can avoid the costly mistakes I made. If you want to explore specific products and reviews further, you can see what others have to say.

Don't Believe the Lies

Stop thinking you need to spend $800 to see clearly. You deserve high-quality lenses and clear vision without being overcharged. Use these insights to demand better service and smarter technology, whether you're shopping online or in a store.

Choosing the best place to buy prescription glasses is about being a savvy shopper, not a wealthy one.