The quick answer
Compare the everyday routine
| Compare | Single-vision reading glasses | Progressive lenses |
|---|---|---|
| Lens design | One prescribed correction across the lens | Different viewing zones within one lens design |
| Primary use | The near task specified for the pair | Several viewing distances in one pair |
| Switching tasks | May require removing or changing pairs | Uses the relevant lens zone for the task |
| Order details | Reading-only prescription and appropriate measurements | Multifocal prescription and fitting measurements |
| Fast Eyeglasses availability | Eligible corrective single-vision orders | Not currently offered |
The AOA’s presbyopia information describes reading and multifocal glasses among correction options. A shopping comparison cannot decide which option is appropriate for your eyes.
Describe when you change viewing distance
Think through an ordinary activity. Do you sit with a book for a while, or alternate between a person across the room, a desk screen and a small document? List the changes rather than describing every task as reading.
A dedicated reading pair can be an option to discuss for a specific near task. Someone who frequently needs several distances should ask about a lens design that covers those needs rather than assuming one reading pair is an all-day substitute.
The reading vs. computer comparison explains why the desk screen belongs in that conversation. Avoid choosing from the word “reading” alone.
Do not delete the ADD to force an online order
A document with distance values and an ADD is not automatically a ready-to-enter reading-only prescription. Ask your prescriber’s office for the appropriate written prescription for a dedicated near pair.
Do not copy the ADD into SPH, add the numbers yourself or remove prism information to fit our checkout. We currently cannot fill bifocals, progressives or prism lenses. A different seller or an in-person fitting may be the appropriate next step for those needs.
Keep the prescribed lens design separate from optional upgrades such as anti-reflective coating. A coating does not create the additional viewing zones of a progressive lens.
Compare value using the job each pair will do
Compare a complete quote for the appropriate design, including the frame, prescribed lenses, fitting and selected options. A low price for a single-vision pair is not a like-for-like quote for progressive lenses.
For eligible reading-only orders, our everyday pairs start at $79 with standard CR-39 single-vision lenses. Upgrades and applicable prescription-strength charges are extra. Check the measurements and custom-lens return terms before buying.
Start with reading-glasses ordering information if your provider has prescribed that dedicated pair. For the broader terminology, see single vision, bifocals and progressives.
Common comparison questions
Does Fast Eyeglasses currently sell progressives?
No. We currently offer eligible corrective single-vision lenses only, with no bifocals, progressives or prism.
Can I order reading glasses from a progressive prescription myself?
Do not convert the numbers yourself. Ask the prescriber for the appropriate reading-only prescription or contact us before ordering.