Let me tell you, I recently had a bit of a shock when I went to replace my glasses. I knew glasses could be pricey, but I wasn’t prepared for the sticker shock. It felt like I was being held hostage by the eyewear industry! I started digging around to find ways to save money without sacrificing quality, and I want to share what I learned.
I walked into a local optometrist, expecting a reasonable cost for a new pair of glasses. After the eye exam and frame selection, the total came to a staggering amount! Almost $2000! It felt like a punch to the gut. What surprised me even more was that I wasn't getting any help with the fitting process. With my strong prescription, a proper fit is essential for comfortable and clear vision. I began to wonder if there were cheaper alternatives.
My initial reaction was disbelief. Was this just a New Zealand thing? But after doing some research, I found that the issue of expensive glasses is widespread. The Forbes article I read highlighted how a few companies control much of the eyewear market, which can drive up prices. This made me even more determined to find a solution.
I started by asking around and doing some online research. Here’s what I discovered:
I realized that pricing varies significantly depending on where you buy your glasses. Some of the bigger chains, like Specsavers, seem to offer more competitive prices. I was quoted around $500-$600 for a decent pair, including the eye exam. This was a significant improvement compared to my initial experience. I also heard that OPSM tends to be on the pricier side, while Bailey Nelson can sometimes offer good deals.
Since I have a strong prescription (-8), I need to factor in lens thinning, which adds to the cost. I tried Clearly in the past, but I'm always open to trying new options. This time, I stumbled upon Mozaer, and it seemed promising. I have heard good things about Zenni Optical as well, so that will be my next try.
For reading glasses, especially, I wanted something stylish and functional. I needed a pair that would magnify the smaller text I encounter daily. That's when I found these Vintage Square Reading Glasses from Mozaer. They have a retro design that really appeals to me, and the leopard print is a fun touch. I ordered a pair with a strength of 1.00, and they have been a lifesaver for reading small print. The lightweight design is also super comfortable for extended wear. I highly recommend them if you're looking for stylish and practical reading glasses.
Don't forget to factor in the cost of an eye exam. Private optometrists can charge between $80 and $120 for an exam. However, some larger chains include the exam in the price of the glasses, which can save you money.
Here are some strategies I've found helpful for reducing the cost of eyeglasses: