Progressive lenses guide

Progressive lenses allow you to see at multiple distances, because they have different sections for viewing close up, far away and everything in between. Whether you're driving, using a computer, shopping or reading, you can usually wear one pair of progressives to accommodate most of your vision needs.

How do progressives work?

Progressive lenses work by changing power from the top to the bottom of the lens. Moving your eyes up and down the lens will give you clear vision at a variety of distances. This means if you're using an ATM you'd be able to view the keys, screen, your card and then continue to walk down the street.

At Specsavers, we use the latest technology to find your unique measurements. This allows our experts to see exactly where to position the lens zones you require for your different vision types, as well as finding the right type of progressives for your chosen frame.

Distance vision

Distance vision is through the upper part of the lens. There is typically an area of soft focus towards the edges of your vision in this part of the lens.

Intermediate vision

Intermediate vision is through the middle of lens and is great for tasks such as using a computer.

Near vision

Near vision is through the lower part of the lens. There is typically an area of soft focus towards the edges of your vision in this part of the lens.

Types of progressive lenses

There are lots of different progressive lenses available, offering various features depending on your lifestyle, prescription and visual requirements.

At Specsavers we offer three types of progressive lenses: Standard, Premium and Elite. When you come in to store, a member of the dispensing team can discuss your needs and guide you through all the options to determine which lenses will suit you best.

Frames for progressive lenses

Standard progressive lenses in 2 pairs + $200

These lenses provide clear vision at distance, intermediate and close-up, but there can be some noticeable areas of soft focus at the edges of your vision.

  • Distance vision

  • Midrange vision

  • Near vision

Premium progressive lenses in 2 pairs + $375

These fit a larger range of frames than standard lenses due to the technology used, and feature a wider field of clear vision than standard lenses. They’re also easier to adapt to.

  • Distance vision

  • Midrange vision

  • Near vision

Elite progressive lenses in 2 pairs + $550

Our highest quality progressive lens uses advanced digital lens technology, which provides the widest field of clear vision at distance, intermediate and near, with minimal soft focus. They are the easiest to adapt to.

  • Distance vision

  • Midrange vision

  • Near vision

Progressive lens offers View all progressive glasses

Tips for wearing progressives

  • When reading with your progressives, remember to keep your chin up and lower your eyes to read text
  • Take care when walking up stairs or steps - move your head down to ensure you are looking through the top part of your glasses so you can see clearly
  • If you're used to having separate reading glasses, you may notice that have a slightly reduced reading area because these lenses combine your distance and reading prescriptions
  • Be sure to wear your progressives daily, from morning to evening, so you can get used to how they work
  • If you work at a computer, adjust your monitor height to be slightly lower than eye level
  • Remember to move your head when looking around, not your eyes - your clearest vision will be through the centre of the lens. This can take a little bit of time to get used to doing, so be patient with yourself!
  • At your collections appointment, we'll fit your frames perfectly to your face to optimise your vision and set you up for success with your new lenses
  • Come back and see us at any time if you think you need an adjustment, or if you have any concerns

Frequently asked questions

Progressives and bifocals look very different. A bifocal has a noticeable line on the lens whereas the progressive has a smooth unobstructed surface.

Bifocals will only provide you with clear vision at two distances. Progressives can cater for most of the distances that you need to see.

Getting used to progressives can take from a few days to a few weeks. You need to give yourself time to adjust to the new viewing areas, which can take a bit longer if you're trying progressives for the first time.

We want you to be completely happy with your purchase. If you have any concerns within three months of the date of purchase, we will put it right. No worries, no fuss.

More help & FAQs

More about lenses

Lens options

All Specsavers glasses come with standard single-vision lenses plus a scratch-resistant treatment. You can also get extra lens treatments and options to protect or enhance your glasses.

Learn more

Single-vision lenses

This type of lens has just one prescription that covers the entire lens. Typically for people with short or long sight, who just need glasses for driving, reading or working at a computer.

Learn more

Bifocal lenses

If you need separate glasses for distance vision and reading, then bifocal lenses might be an option for you as they’re designed to accommodate two different prescriptions – usually distance and up-close vision.

Learn more

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