Are Cheap Prescription Glasses Any Good?
Cheap doesn’t have to mean nasty. Here’s how to get safe, great-looking prescription glasses online in the UK — for under £20–£50 — without sacrificing quality.
Why Cheap Doesn’t Mean Low Quality
UK online opticians increasingly use the same category-leading lens labs and standards as big high-street chains. What changes isn’t the lens quality — it’s the overhead. Fewer retail shops and simpler frame ranges keep prices down while quality remains high.
How Online Stores Keep Prices Low
Lower overheads
No premium high-street rent or huge staff costs. Online operations + centralised lens edging = lower prices for you.
Streamlined frames
Fewer SKUs, classic shapes, and bulk materials cut manufacturing costs without harming durability.
Bulk lens orders
High volume purchasing makes standard single-vision lenses incredibly affordable and consistent.
Pay only for what you need
Add coatings (anti-glare, blue-light) or thinner lenses only if you need them — the base pair stays cheap.
When Cheap Glasses Might Not Be Enough
Cheap works brilliantly when…
- Single-vision prescriptions (distance or reading)
- SPH typically between −3.00 and +3.00
- You want a backup / spare pair
- You prefer classic, durable frames
Consider upgrading if…
- Very high SPH or prism lenses are required
- You need varifocals with wider clear zones
- Night driving glare bothers you (add anti-reflection)
- You want ultra-thin, high-index lenses
How to Buy Cheap Glasses Safely in the UK
- Get an up-to-date eye test. Don’t guess your SPH/CYL/AXIS/PD.
- Choose a trusted online retailer. Check independent reviews.
- Enter your prescription carefully. Double-check plus/minus signs.
- Start simple. Single-vision first; add upgrades later if needed.
- Use coatings wisely. Anti-reflection helps for screens & driving.
Value Tiers: Under £20 vs Under £50
| Feature | Under £20 | Under £50 |
|---|---|---|
| Frames | Basic classics, fewer colours | Broader styles, stronger hinges |
| Lenses | Single-vision, standard index | Single-vision + entry varifocal options |
| Coatings | Sometimes none | Anti-glare / blue-light often available |
| Best for | Spare / reading / simple Rx | Everyday wear, style choice |
Tip: under £20 is perfect for a spare pair; under £50 is the sweet spot for daily use.
Top Picks: Prescription Glasses Under £20
Even at under £20, you can find reliable frames that look stylish and hold up well for everyday use:
Axel Clear
Lightweight clear frame — versatile and on-trend for everyday wear.
Bex Pink
Playful pink frame that proves budget glasses can still stand out.
Top Picks: Prescription Glasses Under £50
If you want a little more durability, frame choice, or premium finishes, these under-£50 options strike a great balance:
Simone Black
Sleek, modern black profile — a versatile everyday favourite.
Final Verdict: Are Cheap Glasses Worth It?
For most UK buyers, cheap prescription glasses are a safe, smart way to save money. Under £20 frames are ideal for spares or readers, while under £50 frames add more choice and comfort for daily wear. Stick to trusted retailers, check your prescription carefully, and add coatings (like anti-glare) only if you need them.
Editor’s Favourite Cheap Glasses
If you’re still not sure which frames to choose, here are two of our favourite all-rounders that deliver value and style without the price tag:
Bellie Black
Classic black frames that pair with everything, at a true budget price.
Baxter Black
Smart, durable black frame — an everyday favourite under £50.
Real-World Savings: High Street vs Online
One of the biggest reasons people switch to online retailers is price. Here’s a simple side-by-side comparison showing how much you can save:
| Item | High Street Optician | Online Retailer |
|---|---|---|
| Single-vision glasses (basic) | £90–£120 | £12–£20 |
| Varifocal glasses (entry-level) | £200+ | £40–£50 |
| Anti-glare / anti-scratch coating | £30–£50 extra | £5–£10 extra |
Best Situations for Cheap Glasses
Cheap doesn’t mean unsuitable — in fact, budget glasses can be perfect in many everyday scenarios:
- Students: Affordable eyewear that won’t eat into your budget.
- Backups: Keep a spare pair in your bag, car, or office.
- Reading only: If you just need a simple prescription for books or screens, cheap frames work well.
- Fashion rotation: Buy a couple of colours or shapes without overspending.
- Kids & teens: Cheaper replacements while they grow or if frames get lost easily.
Common Myths About Cheap Glasses (Debunked)
There are lots of misconceptions about budget eyewear. Let’s set the record straight:
Myth 1: Cheap glasses damage your eyes
False. Glasses don’t weaken eyes — they simply correct vision. As long as your prescription is accurate, cheap glasses are safe.
Myth 2: They don’t last
Not always true. Many affordable frames use sturdy acetate or metal. Durability depends more on build quality than price tag.
Myth 3: NHS won’t accept them
False. The NHS doesn’t require glasses to be purchased in a specific shop. Prescription rules apply, not where you buy.
What to Check Before Ordering Glasses Online
Before you buy, double-check these key details to avoid mistakes:
- Get an up-to-date eye test. Don’t use an old prescription — eyes change over time.
- Pupillary Distance (PD). Make sure you measure or request it from your optician.
- Check plus/minus signs. A small typo can mean the wrong lenses.
- Lens add-ons. Decide if you really need anti-glare, blue-light, or thinner lenses.
- Delivery & returns. Confirm you can return them if the fit isn’t right.
FAQs: Cheap Prescription Glasses UK
Still got questions? Here are the most common queries UK buyers have about affordable glasses, with clear and honest answers:
Are cheap prescription glasses safe in the UK?
Yes. As long as you buy from a reputable UK retailer, lenses must meet optical safety standards. The low price usually comes from fewer overheads, not lower quality.
Do cheap glasses damage your eyes?
No. Glasses do not weaken or damage your eyesight. The only risk is if you enter your prescription incorrectly or use an outdated prescription.
Are £20 glasses worth it compared to £50 ones?
Yes, for spares or reading glasses. £50 glasses usually offer more frame choice, better durability, and extra coatings for daily wear.
Can I get varifocals for cheap online?
Yes. Entry-level varifocal lenses are available online for around £40–£50, far cheaper than high-street opticians. Premium designs cost more.
Do cheap glasses include coatings?
Basic pairs often come with standard scratch resistance. Anti-glare, blue-light, or ultra-thin lens coatings are optional extras for a small added cost.
What’s the cheapest place to buy glasses in the UK?
Online retailers such as LowCostGlasses consistently offer prescription glasses from under £20, compared to £90+ on the high street.
Are online glasses reliable for driving?
Yes, provided your prescription is accurate. Many drivers also add anti-glare coatings for clearer night driving.
Can I get blue-light protection with cheap glasses?
Yes. Blue-light coatings are an optional add-on and are available even on low-cost frames.
Are cheap glasses suitable for children?
Yes, but make sure frames are durable and comfortable. Many parents buy cheaper spares for kids in case of loss or breakage.
What if my cheap glasses don’t fit?
Most online opticians in the UK offer returns or free adjustments. Always check the retailer’s return policy before buying.
How long do cheap glasses last?
With normal use, budget frames can last 1–2 years. Their longevity depends on frame material and how carefully they’re handled.
About the Author: This guide was written by the UK Glasses Guide team, specialists in budget eyewear and online glasses reviews. Our mission is to help UK buyers save money while finding the right frames and lenses.
Disclosure: Some links in this guide are affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend trusted retailers we believe offer genuine value.