I found myself needing reading glasses. While my vision isn't terrible, small print has become impossible to read. Initially, I just grabbed the cheapest pairs available, thinking, "They're all just lenses anyway, right?"
I couldn't have been more mistaken. I ended up wasting hundreds of dollars on glasses that either broke, scratched easily, or simply vanished because I disliked wearing them. Moving from $20 to $49 glasses felt like a big leap, but it actually saved me money over time.
Here are the most significant improvements I noticed after upgrading:
My initial pair cost $20 and lasted just three weeks. When you buy inexpensive glasses, you might think finding good non-prescription glasses nearby is simple, but they often turn out to be more trouble than they're worth.
The materials are consistently low quality. The frames feel lightweight and brittle, with the hinges being the weakest link—typically made from cheap plastic or thin metal screws that wear out quickly.
Opting for cheap glasses often means dealing with poor service. If anything goes wrong, you're on your own. One review perfectly captures this frustration:
This kind of logistical mess is typical when you pay rock-bottom prices. You might save money initially, but you'll lose time and trust later on.
Material Check: Expect low-grade plastic or thin zinc alloy. The thin coating fades quickly, and the lenses scratch at the slightest touch.
Verdict: Steer clear of this price range for daily use. Only consider it if you need a single-use backup pair for your car.
I then upgraded to $40 glasses, which were... acceptable. They lasted about three to four months instead of just three weeks. This is where quality improves slightly, but it's still not impressive.
These glasses often look decent in pictures. They might feature slightly thicker plastic or better spring hinges. However, the lenses tend to be the weak point—clarity starts to diminish after a month of cleaning.