Your Guide to Buying Eyeglasses Online
Finding the perfect pair of glasses can feel like a never-ending quest. You go to one store, and they don’t have the style you want. You go to another store, and they don’t have your prescription. You start to feel like Goldilocks, except instead of finding a bed that’s just right, you’re trying to find glasses that won’t make you look like a total nerd.
When you finally find a pair you like, you try them on, and…they’re too expensive. Or they don’t have your prescription in stock. Or both. It’s enough to make you want to give up and just order contacts.
But before you do that, there’s one more option you should consider: buying glasses online.
Why You Should Consider Buying Glasses Online
There are a few reasons why buying glasses online is a great option, especially if you have a hard time finding glasses in stores.
Wider Selection
First, you have a wide selection of frame sizes and styles when shopping online. If you’re looking for something specific—like non-prescription sunglasses or blue light-blocking glasses—you’re more likely to find what you’re looking for online than in stores.
Most online optical shops also sell prescription glasses, just like brick-and-mortar stores. So if you’re looking for designer brands or simply want to make a fashion statement, you can find one online.
It’s Cheaper!
Another reason to buy glasses online is that it’s usually cheaper than buying them in stores. Because so many online retailers in the eyewear industry compete for your business, they often offer deep discounts on glasses, frames, and lenses.
And since most of them offer free shipping and free returns, you can try out a few different pairs without spending a lot of money.
Convenience
Finally, buying glasses online is convenient. You can do it from the comfort of your own home, and you don’t have to deal with pushy salespeople trying to upsell you on features you don’t need. (We’ve all been there.)
Plus, many online retailers now offer virtual try-on tools that let you see how a pair of glasses look on your face before you buy them. No more guessing whether those cat-eye frames will actually suit you—you can know for sure before they even arrive at your doorstep.
For example, according to a Warby Parker review, it offers a Virtual Try-On option and a Home Try-On program that just spells convenience! These virtual try-on options can help you choose the right frame shape and frame style without you having to leave home.
The Dos and Donts of Buying Eyeglasses Online
With the booming e-commerce, buying eyeglasses online has become increasingly popular. It sounds like a great option, right? But before you start shopping around, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Do Make Sure the Website is Legit
The first thing to do when buying glasses online is to ensure that the website is legitimate. Many online eyeglass retailers are reputable and reliable, but you need to be careful where you shop—especially if it’s an unknown brand or a smaller company.
There are some telltale signs of a risky website. For online stores, be wary if:
● If they have no contact info listed on their site (like an address or phone number)
● If they don’t offer any guarantees about the safety or quality of their products
● If the prices seem too good to be true
Do Consider the Return and Exchange Policies
Another thing to consider when buying glasses online is the return policy.
Not all retailers allow you to try on glasses before you buy them as you would at a store. It’s important to know your options if you decide the frames or lenses don’t quite fit or suit your style preferences.
Many online eyeglass companies offer free returns and exchanges but check the terms of their policy before placing an order. This way, if something goes wrong with your purchase, you’ll know what steps to take and how long you have to do it.
Do Research Online
When buying glasses online, one of the best things you can do is research different brands and compare prices. Most reputable sites will have customer reviews and ratings, so take the time to read through these before you make a purchase.
You can also look at online forums, review sites, and social media channels to find recommendations for glasses brands or online retailers that other customers have had success with.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
If you’re shopping on an unfamiliar site or brand, don’t be afraid to reach out and ask questions before placing an order.
Most reputable eyeglass companies will have a contact form or live chat feature. You can contact someone directly if you need help making a selection or have any concerns about your order or the ordering process. Also, don’t forget to ask about vision insurance.
Don’t Fall for Fake Reviews and Counterfeit Products
Finally, you should be aware of fake reviews and counterfeit products when buying glasses online. Unfortunately, scams are rampant in the eyeglass industry—especially on sites like Amazon and eBay, where third-party sellers sell knockoff products or write fake reviews in exchange for compensation.
Learn how to recognize fake reviews and products. Always check the seller listing before placing an order to ensure it’s a verified retailer or legitimate source. It will also work in your favor if you get to talk to a customer service representative before buying.
The TakeAway
If you’re considering buying glasses online, we say go for it! With so many different styles available at such great prices, there’s no reason not to try them. Plus, with virtual try-on tools and free shipping and returns, what do you have to lose?
