Contact Lenses vs Glasses Cost: What You Should Know Before Buying
When deciding between contact lenses vs glasses cost, most people think only about the price tag they see at the store. But the real answer isn’t that simple. Both glasses and contact lenses come with upfront costs, ongoing expenses, and hidden fees that can add up over time. If you’ve ever wondered which option is better for your eyes and your wallet, this guide will break it all down.
We will compare not only the purchase price but also the replacement, maintenance, and unexpected costs. Plus, we will share tips on how to save money while still getting the vision correction you need.
Measuring Contact Lenses vs Glasses Cost
When comparing contact lenses vs glasses cost, the best place to start is with the basics: how much you’ll spend upfront, how often you’ll need replacements, and the maintenance involved.
Upfront Costs
Glasses: The price of glasses can range widely depending on the frames, lens material, and any added features like anti-reflective coating, blue light filters, or progressive lenses. On average, a pair of prescription glasses can cost anywhere between $150 and $500. Designer frames or advanced lenses can significantly increase the price, pushing it well beyond $1,000.
Contact Lenses: The initial cost includes an eye exam plus a fitting for contacts, which can be higher than the exam for glasses alone. A box of daily disposable contact lenses typically costs between $25 and $40, lasting about a month depending on your prescription and brand.
If you want to explore more affordable contact lens options, check out FreshLens’ Daily Disposable Contact Lenses.
Replacement Costs
Glasses: Once purchased, glasses can last several years if taken care of properly. However, prescriptions often change every one to two years, and many people update their frames for style or comfort. If you scratch or break your lenses, replacement can be expensive.
Contact Lenses: Contact lens wearers face continuous replacement costs.
Daily disposables: About $300–$700 per year.
Bi-weekly or monthly lenses: Typically $200–$500 annually, plus the cost of cleaning solutions.
In the long term, glasses tend to be more cost-effective since they don’t require constant refills. But contacts offer the convenience of fresh lenses and no frame upkeep.
Maintenance Costs
Glasses: Maintenance is minimal. You may need a cleaning spray or cloth, but the costs are low.
Contact Lenses: If you wear monthly or bi-weekly lenses, cleaning and storage solutions are required. This adds $100–$150 per year to the total cost. Daily disposables don’t require cleaning supplies but are more expensive per lens.
Hidden Costs You Might Not Expect
Beyond the obvious expenses, there are other costs tied to contact lenses vs glasses cost that many buyers overlook.
Insurance Coverage
Glasses: Most vision insurance plans cover some portion of glasses, often including frames and lenses up to a certain limit. You may only pay for upgrades or brand-name frames out of pocket.
Contact Lenses: Insurance may cover part of the fitting and lenses, but it rarely offsets the ongoing expense of replacements.
Lost or Damaged
Glasses: If you lose or break them, replacing them can be costly, especially if you rely on them daily. Some optical shops offer warranty protection, but not all.
Contact Lenses: Losing a contact is usually a minor issue since you can simply replace one lens. But if it happens often, it adds up.
Checkups and Complications
Glasses: Annual eye exams are recommended, but otherwise, there are no extra medical costs.
Contact Lenses: Contact lens wearers may need more frequent checkups to monitor eye health, especially if they experience irritation or infections. This can mean more visits to the optometrist and additional expenses.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Glasses vs Contact Lenses
Here’s a quick breakdown of the contact lenses vs glasses cost factors we’ve covered so far:
|
Feature / Cost Factor |
Glasses |
Contact Lenses |
|
Upfront Cost |
$150–$500 (basic), up to $1,000+ with designer frames |
$25–$40 per box of dailies + higher exam/fitting fees |
|
Replacement |
Every 1–2 years or when prescription changes |
Continuous: $200–$700 per year depending on type |
|
Maintenance |
Low (cleaning cloth, spray) |
Medium to High (solutions for monthly/bi-weekly; none for dailies) |
|
Insurance Coverage |
Often covers lenses + frames up to a limit |
Usually partial coverage; ongoing costs rarely fully covered |
|
Risk of Damage/Loss |
High cost if broken or lost |
Minor cost if one lens is lost, but adds up |
|
Eye Health Checkups |
Standard annual exams |
May require extra visits for complications |
|
Lifestyle Fit |
Best for low-maintenance, budget-conscious, or fashion-focused users |
Best for active lifestyles, wider field of vision, and a glasses-free look |
|
Overall Cost Over 5 Years |
Generally cheaper long-term |
Typically higher, especially with dailies |
Who It’s For: Glasses vs Contacts
Glasses Are Best For:
- People who want a more budget-friendly, low-maintenance option.
- Those who enjoy eyewear as a fashion accessory.
- Anyone prone to eye irritation or eye health concerns.
Contacts Are Best For:
- People with active lifestyles (sports, outdoor activities).
- Those who prefer a natural, glasses-free look.
- Users who value comfort and convenience over long-term savings.
Lifestyle Value: More Than Just Money
Cost is important, but value also comes into play. Glasses and contacts provide different experiences, and the decision isn’t always about the cheapest option.
Glasses can be a fashion accessory, protect your eyes from dust, and require little daily effort.
Contacts provide a natural look, a wider field of vision, and convenience for active lifestyles.
The true cost is often a balance between money, comfort, and lifestyle.
If you’re leaning toward glasses, explore FreshLens’ collection of stylish Eyeglasses designed for every budget.
Tips to Save Money on Glasses and Contacts
No matter which option you choose, there are ways to reduce expenses without compromising on quality.
For Glasses
- Buy durable frames: Spending more upfront on sturdy frames saves you from frequent replacements.
- Use insurance benefits wisely: Take advantage of frame allowances or discounts.
- Consider online retailers: Many reputable stores offer prescription glasses at lower prices than brick-and-mortar shops.
For Contact Lenses
- Switch to daily disposables if possible: They eliminate solution costs and reduce infection risks.
- Buy in bulk: Ordering multiple boxes at once often comes with discounts.
- Sign up for subscriptions: Some retailers, including FreshLens, offer convenient refills with savings.
- Take care of your eyes: Following proper hygiene reduces the risk of costly complications.
Final Thoughts: Contact Lenses vs Glasses Cost
When comparing contact lenses vs glasses cost, glasses often win in terms of long-term savings, while contact lenses carry ongoing replacement expenses. However, contacts offer comfort, convenience and aesthetic advantages that some wearers find worth the price.
The right choice depends on your lifestyle, budget and personal preferences. Many people even choose to have both, glasses for home or work, and contacts for social events, sports, or when they want a glasses-free look.
Whether you are investing in durable frames or stocking up on daily lenses, remember that quality matters just as much as price. Choosing reliable providers like FreshLens ensures that your vision and eye health always come first.
Browse FreshLens’ full range of Eyeglasses and Daily Disposable Contact Lenses to find the right fit for your lifestyle and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to wear glasses or contacts?
In most cases, glasses are cheaper over time since they last longer and don’t require ongoing purchases. Contact lenses involve monthly or yearly costs that add up.
How much do contact lenses cost per month?
Daily disposable lenses typically cost $25–$40 per month, while monthly lenses can range from $15–$30 per month, plus the cost of cleaning solutions.
Is it worth switching from glasses to contacts?
It depends on your lifestyle. If you value comfort, an unobstructed field of vision, and a natural look, contacts may be worth the expense. But if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that requires little upkeep, glasses are the better choice.
