For many people, that means fewer compromises: no more swapping between multiple pairs of glasses, no more struggling with “in-between” vision at a computer screen, and no need to settle for solutions that don’t really fit your lifestyle.
In this guide, we’ll explain when you might need varifocals, the everyday scenarios where they make the biggest difference, and how to choose the best lenses when you’re ready.
What Are Varifocal Glasses?
Varifocal lenses combine your distance, intermediate, and near prescriptions into a single lens. That means:
- Distance vision at the top of the lens (driving, watching TV, seeing far ahead)
- Intermediate vision in the middle (computer screens, car dashboard, supermarket shelves)
- Near vision at the bottom (reading a menu, checking your phone, sewing).
Unlike bifocals, varifocals don’t have a visible line, so your vision feels smoother and your glasses look like a regular pair. Learn more in our full guide to varifocal lenses.
Who Are Varifocals For?
Varifocals aren’t just for one type of person. They’re designed for anyone who wants clearer, more convenient vision across multiple distances. You might find them especially helpful if:
- You’re in your 40s or beyond and have started to notice your eyes changing, especially when reading or focusing up close
- You’re already wearing glasses and your optician has suggested varifocals as the next step
- You use screens throughout the day and need lenses that handle both near and intermediate vision comfortably
- You drive regularly and want to move smoothly between the road ahead, your mirrors, and your dashboard without changing glasses
- You’re tired of juggling multiple pairs of reading and distance glasses.
In short, varifocals are for anyone who wants a simple, all-in-one solution that adapts to daily life.
When Do You Need Varifocals?
Everyone’s eyes are different, but there are common signs and everyday scenarios where varifocals can make a huge difference to your comfort and convenience.
You’re Over 40 and Reading Feels Strained
From your 40s onwards, it’s natural to experience presbyopia – a gradual change where your eyes lose some of their flexibility, making it harder to focus on close objects. You might find yourself holding your phone further away, squinting at menus in restaurants, or struggling to read small print on labels.
Varifocals solve this problem by giving you near, intermediate, and distance vision in one lens – so instead of switching glasses for different tasks, you can just get on with your day.
For more detail, see our Varifocal Buying Guide.
You’re Constantly Switching Glasses
If you have separate glasses for distance and reading, you’ll know how frustrating it can be to keep swapping between them. At home, it means carrying two pairs around the house. Out and about, it means digging in your bag for the right pair, or realising you left your reading glasses behind when you need them most.
Varifocals eliminate this hassle by combining everything into one pair. That means fewer cases to carry, less time wasted, and more freedom to enjoy your day without constantly thinking about which glasses you need. For many people, this is the single biggest reason to make the switch to varifocals.
You Struggle With Computer Work
Many people find that their reading glasses don’t quite work for computer screens. Screens typically sit at an intermediate distance – not far enough for distance glasses, and not close enough for reading glasses. This can cause eye strain, headaches, and even posture problems if you’re leaning forward to see clearly.
Varifocals include an intermediate zone specifically designed for tasks like this, giving you a clear view of your screen without strain. If you spend long hours at a desk, you may also want to explore Digital & Lifestyle lenses – occupational lenses that provide an even wider intermediate zone, tailored to computer work.
Driving Becomes More Challenging
Driving requires quick, constant shifts in focus – looking at the road ahead, checking your mirrors, glancing at your dashboard, or reading your satnav. With single vision glasses, this often means compromises. Reading glasses won’t help you see the road clearly, while distance glasses make your dashboard blur.
Varifocals are designed for exactly this kind of multitasking. With clear zones for distance, intermediate, and near vision, they help you switch seamlessly between everything you need to see on the road – making driving safer and more comfortable.
We’ve covered this in detail in our Ultimate Guide to Driving Sunglasses.
Everyday Multitasking
Varifocals really shine when you’re moving between different tasks throughout the day. Think about:
- Cooking – you can read a recipe on your phone, chop food on the counter, and keep an eye on the oven timer, all without changing glasses
- Shopping – check prices on a shelf, read small print on labels, and still see down the aisle with ease
- Socialising – look across the table at friends, glance down at your phone, or read a menu, all in one pair.
If you often find yourself switching focus from near to far and back again, varifocals make those transitions seamless – saving you time and frustration.
Which Varifocal Lenses Are Best?
Not all varifocals are the same. Cheaper designs can feel restricted, with narrow reading areas and more distortion at the edges. Premium lenses give you:
- Wider zones for reading and computer use
- Smoother transitions between distances
- Sharper, more natural vision.
At Lensology, our top recommendation is the Omni-Vision HD – a premium market-leading varifocal lens offering ultra-wide fields of vision, minimal distortion, and advanced free-form technology.
Paired with our ULTIMA coating, you’ll also get:
- Free thinner lens upgrade
- Anti-glare, scratch resistance, and UV protection
- Easy-clean and anti-smudge finish
- 12-month warranty
- Priority processing.
And because we’re online, you’ll pay far less than the high street – around £320 for Omni-Vision HD with our ULTIMA coating, compared to an average of £609 at opticians. See our full varifocal prices here.
Adjusting to Varifocals
Switching to varifocals can feel like a big change, and everyone’s experience is slightly different. Some people put them on and feel comfortable right away. Others may take a few days, or even a couple of weeks, for their eyes and brain to fully adapt. Both are completely normal.
In the early days, you might notice:
- A slight “nodding dog” feeling as you tilt your head to find the right zone
- Peripheral distortion at the very edges of the lens
- A need to move your head more, rather than just your eyes, when looking sideways.
The good news? Your brain quickly learns how to use the different areas of the lens. Most people find that after consistent wear, usually a week or two, these early feelings fade away and the lenses start to feel natural.
Most people adapt quickly – but if you’d like extra tips, our blog on How to Get Used to Varifocals is a great place to start.
Do You Need Varifocal Glasses?
If you’re over 40, find reading harder, and often switch between different glasses, then varifocals could make a huge difference to your daily life.
With Lensology, you can order premium varifocals online at a fraction of the high street price – with expert support every step of the way. You can even call our team on 01923 940408 for free advice and order over the phone if that’s easier.
