Finding the right reading glasses can be tough. Especially progressive bifocal reading glasses. You want to see clearly, but you also want glasses that last. I've been there! I started with the cheapest options and slowly worked my way up. Here’s my journey, so you can avoid my mistakes:
My first pair of progressive bifocal reading glasses were super cheap. I found them online for just a few dollars. I thought I was getting a great deal. I was wrong.
They lasted maybe a few weeks. The frame felt flimsy, and the lenses scratched easily. Plus, the progressive part wasn't very smooth. It felt like I was constantly adjusting my head to find the right focus. One of the reviews I wish I'd seen BEFORE purchasing said, "These are OK for the price but don't expect them to last." That was an understatement!
The case they came with? The Student Teens PU Leather Women Cartoon Eyewear Bag Eyeglass Hard Box Spectacle Case Reading Glasses Case Glasses Box 5? I mean, the name alone should have been a warning! It was flimsy and offered almost no protection. The glasses were practically begging to be broken.
Another user review that rings true: "You get what you pay for. Cheap, and it shows."
Verdict: Avoid the super cheap options. They might seem tempting, but they'll end up costing you more in the long run.
After my first disaster, I decided to upgrade. I spent a bit more money, hoping for better quality. I went for something mid-range. It was… okay.
The frame was sturdier than the cheap ones. The lenses were also a bit clearer. However, I still had issues with the progressive part. It wasn't as smooth as I wanted it to be. I also noticed that the coating on the lenses started to peel after a few months.
The case was better, but still not great. It offered some protection, but I wouldn't trust it in a bag full of heavy items.
A 3-star review sums it up: "Decent glasses for the price, but nothing special." That pretty much describes my experience.
Verdict: Mid-range glasses are a step up, but still might not offer the quality and comfort you're looking for. They're a compromise.
Finally, I decided to invest in a good pair of progressive bifocal reading glasses. I did some research and came across Mozaer. I was hesitant to spend the extra money, but I'm so glad I did.