Computer Glasses With or Without Prescription: What to Choose

In short: a simple light filter does not correct vision. If you already wear glasses or see poorly, "plano" computer glasses will not replace yours, and wearing them over the top is awkward. The right path: have your vision checked and, if needed, order glasses with correction, optionally with a coating. That is a question for an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

How prescription and non-prescription glasses differ

• Non-prescription (plano). The lenses do not correct vision, they only filter light or tint. They suit people with normal vision.
• Prescription. The lenses are made for your vision (short-sightedness, long-sightedness, astigmatism). Coatings and tint are added if wanted.

If you already have glasses or lenses

Options:

1. Your ordinary glasses (with the right correction) work for computer use if they are comfortable. You can order them with an anti-reflective coating.
2. Glasses with correction for intermediate distance. An optometrist can prescribe "computer" glasses optimised for the screen distance (about 50–70 cm). This is correction, not a filter.
3. Clip-ons or glasses over glasses. Possible, but can be heavy and uncomfortable.
4. Contact lenses with coatings, or ordinary lenses, if your doctor allows.

Do you need prescription "computer" glasses?

Many people over 40 have difficulty focusing at close range (presbyopia). Intermediate-distance or progressive glasses may suit them. It depends on your vision and is chosen by a doctor.

Will a simple filter help?

For eye strain from screens there is no evidence of benefit from a blue filter, see what the research says. If you have an uncorrected refractive error, correcting it may reduce discomfort.

When to consult

• Your eyes tire faster than before, or vision blurs.
• You get a headache after screen work.
• You have not had your vision checked for a long time (the doctor advises on frequency).
• You wear lenses and feel dryness, see dry eyes from screens.

What to consider when ordering

• A prescription from an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
• Pupillary distance.
• Frame and fit, see how to choose PC glasses.
• Coating: anti-reflective and others if wanted.
• Compatibility with a headset.

What you can do without glasses

Breaks, blinking, light and screen settings, see monitor brightness and monitor height.