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Lens Material 101

Know Your Numbers，See the
Difference at Payne!

Why Lens Material Matters?

At Payne, we know that selecting the right lens material, or "lens index," is vital for your vision and comfort. Each material has unique benefits in terms of weight, thickness, durability, and optical clarity. Our guided order process automatically recommends the best option for your unique prescription and selected frame. This guide will help you understand the logic behind our recommendations, ensuring you make an informed choice for your next pair of glasses.

  • Index

  • 1.50
  • 1.56
  • 1.59
  • 1.61
  • 1.67
  • 1.74

  • Category

  • Standard
  • Standard
  • Protective
  • Thin & Light
  • Extra Thin
    & Light
  • Ultra Thin
    & Light

  • Also Called

  • CR-39
  • Mid-Index
  • Polycarbonate
  • Hi-Index
  • Hi-Index
  • Hi-Index

  • Best For

  • Low Rx's
    Everyday Wear
  • Low to Mid Rx's
    Everyday Wear
  • Low to Mid Rx's
    Youth & Active
    Rimless/Half Rim
  • Mid to High Rx's
    Everyday Wear
    Rimless/Half Rim
  • High Rx's
    Everyday Wear
  • Extra High Rx's
    Everyday Wear

  • Payne vs
    Avg.
    Insurance
    Co-Pays

  • $0 vs $25
  • $2.95 vs $25
  • $10.95 vs $31
  • $19.95 vs $55
  • $33.95 vs $76
  • $74.95 vs $150
  • 1.50
  • 1.56
  • 1.59
  • 1.61
  • 1.67
  • 1.74
1.50 Index Lens
  • Index

    1.50

  • Category

    Standard

  • Also Called

    CR-39

  • Best For

    Low Rx’s Everyday Wear

  • Payne vs Avg.
    Insurance
    Co-Pays

    $0 vs $25

1.56 Index Lens
  • Index

    1.56

  • Category

    Standard

  • Also Called

    Mid-Index

  • Best For

    Low to Mid Rx's Everyday Wear

  • Payne vs Avg.
    Insurance
    Co-Pays

    $2.95 vs $25

1.59 Index Lens
  • Index

    1.59

  • Category

    Protective

  • Also Called

    Polycarbonate

  • Best For

    Low to Mid Rx's Youth & Active Rimless/Half Rim

  • Payne vs Avg.
    Insurance
    Co-Pays

    $10.95 vs $31

1.61 Index Lens
  • Index

    1.61

  • Category

    Thin & Light

  • Also Called

    Hi-Index

  • Best For

    Mid to High Rx's Everyday Wear Rimless/Half Rim

  • Payne vs Avg.
    Insurance
    Co-Pays

    $19.95 vs $55

1.67 Index Lens
  • Index

    1.67

  • Category

    Extra Thin & Light

  • Also Called

    Hi-Index

  • Best For

    High Rx's Everyday Wear

  • Payne vs Avg.
    Insurance
    Co-Pays

    $33.95 vs $76

1.74 Index Lens
  • Index

    1.74

  • Category

    Ultra Thin & Light

  • Also Called

    Hi-Index

  • Best For

    Extra High Rx's Everyday Wear

  • Payne vs Avg.
    Insurance
    Co-Pays

    $74.95 vs $150

Know Payne, Know Gain

At Payne, we eliminate the middlemen and high mark-ups to offer you quality lenses at unbeatable prices. By buying directly from us, you receive the same high-quality lens options you'd get from your eye doctor, but at a fraction of the cost. Choose from a variety of options, including Transitions or Clr2Drk Light Adaptive lenses, Polarized, Progressive, and Bi-Focal lenses. At Payne, we have just the lens for your vision needs, preferences, and budget.

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The Reviews are in!

  • Damon

  • "Payne exceeded my expectations with their progressive lenses. They're incredibly comfortable and offer perfect clarity whether I'm reading or driving. I highly recommend Payne for anyone in need of high-quality lenses!"

  • Heidi

  • "I have a high prescription and didn't think I'd be able to wear cute styles. However, Payne has a bunch of different styles that I could use! They were cheap, stylish and comfortable. I am looking forward to purchasing more glasses in the future."

  • Janet

  • "These lenses are fantastic! They are lightweight, durable, and provide exceptional clarity. My vision has never been this sharp, and I appreciate how comfortable they are, even after wearing them all day."

  • Katie

  • "Switching to progressive lenses has been a game-changer for me. No more juggling multiple pairs of glasses! They're comfortable and provide excellent vision correction."

FAQ

  • Are lenses still made from glass?

    No, most lenses today are crafted from high-quality plastics such as CR-39, polycarbonate, and high-index plastics. These materials are lighter, more durable, and provide better optical clarity than traditional glass lenses.

  • Can I use my insurance at Payne?

    Currently, Payne Eyewear does not accept insurance. Our direct-to-consumer model, however, allows us to offer high- quality lenses at prices significantly lower than traditional retail. For example, the average pair of glasses costs $43 at Payne compared to $126 when using insurance at a retail shop.

  • How do Payne lenses compare to those from my eye doctor?

    Payne lenses match the high quality of those from your eye doctor. We use advanced materials like CR-39, polycarbonate, and high-index plastics for superior optical clarity and durability. By eliminating middlemen and high mark-ups, we offer premium lenses at a fraction of the cost, making top-quality vision care more affordable.

  • How do I know which lens material is best for me?

    Our guided order process automatically recommends the best lens material based on your prescription and frame choice. Additionally, you can refer to our Lens Material Guide to understand the benefits of each material, helping you make an informed decision.

  • Is the price you list here the price I will pay when I order if I choose the corresponding lens material?

    The price shown is for the lens material, but please be aware that additional options like Transitions, Blue Light Protection, Progressive or Digital Free Form, and anti-glare coatings will affect the total cost. If your prescription or frame selection requires special processing, a digital free form lens may be needed, which will incur an additional fee.