Finding stylish and affordable prescription glasses can be a challenge, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re looking for frames to fit your budget or just need a backup pair, finding cheap prescription glasses has never been easier if you’re willing to go online.
Here are our top picks for a pair of prescription glasses for around $50 or less:
(This page contains affiliate links. OGR may receive compensation if you click a link and make a purchase.)
Best Cheap Prescription Glasses For Women
Square Glasses 7813117
Zenni Optical is the first stop for many people looking for cheap prescription glasses, and it’s no wonder. When you’re able to get a complete pair of Rx glasses shipped to you for about $20, it’s both a wallet and a vision saver.
These flamingo-colored specs have a tiger-patterned top half and temple tips. Made of TR90 material, it’s lightweight, durable, and flexible enough to wear comfortably all day long.
They’re also universal-fit (sometimes called Asian fit), so they should stay put without sliding down your nose if you’ve got a low nose bridge.
Hepburn Cat Eye Eyeglasses
EyeBuyDirect’s Hepburn Cat Eye glasses are a stylish and affordable option for those looking for prescription glasses. It’s got flexible spring hinges and an oversize cat eye design that works well with progressive lenses.
They’re available in multiple colors including clear, ivory tortoise, and gray/floral (pictured), as well as 2 sizes, giving you plenty of options to choose from.
Wearers often receive compliments due to the trendy, vintage look they give off. They are perfect for any occasion so be prepared for many a compliment!
1491 Retro-Vintage Butterfly Eyeglasses
Who says you have to give up style and flair if you’re looking for budget eyeglasses? Definitely not here with this ultra-fun retro cat eye from YesGlasses.
Get all the old Hollywood glam you’re itching for in this striped blue number with unique square temple tips. Two sets of double rivets adorn both the front temple as well as the side arms for a little extra.
YesGlasses even includes 1.61 high-index lenses in the cost, which is great if you’ve got a higher Rx.
SmartBuy Collection Xinyi T3046 C3
SmartBuy Collection’s Xinyi T3046 C3 glasses are perfect for women who want an elegant, feminine frame without overpowering their face.
The beautiful rose gold color frame has a thin metal construction, adjustable nosepads, and round lenses with subtle angling at the browline towards the bridge. The combination of sophistication and subtlety makes these glasses a great everyday accessory.
They’re lightweight and comfortable so you can wear them all day long and look fabulous at the same time. Plus, at a crazy affordable price point, they won’t break the bank either.
Jamie Eyeglasses
The Jamie is a stylish and modern take on the classic rectangular frame. With a clear gray acetate frame, tall lens shape, and retro-modern styling, these glasses are perfect for women who want to make a bold fashion statement.
The one downside is that the frame isn’t as lightweight as some other styles, making it best for light prescriptions.
Or, you can pair them with thinner lenses. But the good news is that these glasses are available for 2-day delivery from EyeBuyDirect, so you can have them in no time!
Best Cheap Prescription Glasses For Men
Browline Glasses 195421
Zenni’s Browline Glasses offer a classic, timeless look that will never go out of style. These affordable Ray-Ban Clubmaster style glasses have a roomier fit that is perfect for those with larger faces.
The mixed material frame quality is also impressive for the extremely affordable price tag. With these glasses, you can create a timeless look that will last for years to come.
Whether you’re looking for an everyday pair of glasses or something special for a night out, this pair is sure to impress.
Merrick Eyeglasses
The Merrick Eyeglasses are a semi-rimless rectangle frame that gives off a sophisticated yet casual vibe. These glasses are perfect for everyday use as they don’t hide or obstruct your facial features.
Polycarbonate single-vision Rx lenses are included at no extra cost and the adjustable nose pads and spring-loaded hinges make for a comfortable fit.
Great on men and women alike, the Merrick is a great choice for those looking for a classic and timeless look.
Bruno Eyeglasses
The Bruno Eyeglasses are a great option for those looking for lightweight, durable, and affordable prescription glasses. The frame itself is only 10g – so light that some people even forget they’re wearing them!
The TR90 material flexes and molds to your face, making them comfortable to wear. They’re also easy to clean and care for.
And at this price, you can even get a second pair made into sunglasses! All in all, the Bruno Eyeglasses are a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable, good-looking, comfortable pair of glasses.
Lemon Round Eyeglasses
This perfectly round pair is a great choice for those looking for an affordable way to make a statement. The vintage-style round eyewires exudes a classic yet modern look, and the clear frame doesn’t obstruct any of your features.
Adjustable nosepads provide additional comfort while the lightweight construction ensures a comfortable fit for all-day wear.
Additionally, 1.61 high-index lenses are included at no extra charge, so this one’s a great choice if you’ve got a stronger prescription.
Hubris Eyeglasses
The Hubris is perfect for those with narrow faces looking for a comfortable and stylish pair of glasses. The plastic frame is flexible and comfortable to wear – and has even survived a car wreck without nary a scratch!
The light blue tint works well with most complexions without overwhelming your features.
The classic lens shape is complemented by silver oval studs at the temples, adding a hint of sophistication.
Where Can I Find Affordable Eyeglasses?
Walmart Vision Center
Big box retailers like Walmart and Target have rather decent optical centers in many locations. You can find frames and lenses that are both affordable and fashionable.
Additionally, you may be eligible for discounts if you’re part of their loyalty program or have insurance.
Walmart Vision Center provides a wide selection of glasses and frames, with styles ranging from classic to modern. Prices start around $50 for frames, with single-vision lenses starting at $31.
Costco Optical
Another great option is Costco Optical. Their stylish and functional frames start at $58 on average, with prescription lenses starting around $62.
Besides Kirkland Signature frames, you can even buy designer glasses from the likes of Burberry and Fendi, as well as sunglasses from Ray-Ban, Oakley, and Maui Jim.
You don’t even need to be a member to get eyecare services at Costco. Getting an eye exam and purchasing glasses are all possible without being a member.
Costco Optical also accepts most vision insurance plans.
Zenni Optical
When it comes to savings, buying online is often your best bet. Zenni Optical is one of the most popular online retailers for prescription eyeglasses, and their prices start at just $6.95!
Zenni offers a wide selection of frames and lenses to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that fits your style.
They also have a virtual try-on tool, so you can make sure the glasses look good on your face before you buy.
EyeBuyDirect
Another well-known online eyeglass shop, EyeBuyDirect offers a wide selection of frames and lenses, starting at just $6.
They have a great augmented reality virtual try-on tool too, so you can try on the glasses before buying.
Simply use your webcam on your smartphone or other digital device to virtually “try on” the glasses and see how they look.
Besides budget eyeglasses and sunglasses, EyeBuyDirect also carries popular Ray-Ban and Oakley frames too.
This is great because you can splurge a bit on your frames while saving money on the lenses. With prices starting at $6, EyeBuyDirect is one of the most affordable online eyeglass retailers.
Firmoo
Firmoo is another popular online eyeglass shop that offers affordable prescription glasses. Their prices start at just $19 including lenses, and they offer a huge selection of frames and lenses to choose from.
They also have a 30-day return period, so you can try a pair of glasses for a few weeks before deciding whether you want to keep them or not.
39DollarGlasses
Not the sexiest name, but the company definitely delivers when it comes to affordable eyeglasses. 39DollarGlasses offers a wide selection of frames and lenses, starting at just $39 (including polycarbonate lenses with anti-scratch coating).
What Should I Look for When Buying Low-Cost Prescription Glasses?
When shopping for low-cost prescription glasses, consider the following factors:
Prescription Accuracy
The most important factor when buying prescription glasses is ensuring that the prescription is accurate.
Be sure to have an up-to-date prescription from an eye doctor or optometrist, and verify that the glasses you’re buying have the correct prescription after you receive them.
Most retailers offer a satisfaction guarantee, so you can return or replace your glasses if the prescription is incorrect.
Lens Options
When it comes to lenses, don’t want skimp on quality. That’s not to say that you need to splurge on the most premium package, but here are a few guidelines for getting the best bang for your buck:
Standard Lenses: For low prescription levels (i.e. below -2.00 or +2.00), standard 1.50-index lenses are often sufficient. These lenses are usually the least expensive option or even included in the cost of the frame.
High-Index Lenses: When you do want to upgrade to a higher-index lens is if your powers are above -/+4.00.
High-index lenses (1.60-index and above) are thinner and lighter, which prevents the “coke bottle” effect that can occur with thick, bulky lenses. It’s well worth the price when you’ve got a strong prescription.
Avoid unnecessary add-ons: While some lens treatments (such as anti-glare) are highly recommended, you can save money by only selecting the options you truly need.
For example, a blue-light blocking filter is nice-to-have, but not entirely necessary if you’re not having trouble sleeping at night or otherwise spending hours in front of a digital screen everyday.
Frame Material
The frame material can impact the durability and comfort of your glasses. While plastic frames are generally cheaper, they may not be as durable as metal frames.
If possible, look for TR90 material if you’re going to go with a plastic frame.
Retailer Reputation & Return Policy
When shopping for low-cost prescription glasses, choose a reputable retailer.
All of our recommended retailers above have been in business for years (or even decades), with many return customers.
Additionally, make sure to familiarize yourself with your chosen optical’s return policy. If your glasses don’t fit or the prescription is incorrect, you want to ensure that you can return or exchange them easily.
How Much Do Customized Lenses Cost?
Customized lenses can significantly increase the cost of your prescription glasses.
Many online eyeglass retailers offer a variety of lens customization options, such as anti-reflective coating, photochromic lenses, and progressive or bifocal lenses.
The additional cost for customization can range from $25 to $200 or more, depending on the type of customization you choose.
Anti-reflective coating reduces glare and improves clarity for both you as well as those looking at you. It typically adds at least 10% to the cost of your lenses, but is the most recommended lens treatment if you don’t get anything else.
Progressive lenses are popular for those with presbyopia (aging eyes), but they usually add a few hundred dollars to the cost (anywhere from $150 to $400).
Want More Affordable Options? Check Out Our Best Prescription Glasses Under $100