Places to Buy Prescription Glasses: Mistakes I Made (So You Don't Have To)

I made several errors when buying prescription glasses online, and I'm sharing them so you can avoid the same pitfalls. Purchasing glasses over the internet seemed like a fantastic idea—more affordable, convenient, and with a vast selection. Unfortunately, it turned into a frustrating experience. Learn from my missteps so you don't have to.

• Get glasses that actually fit properly.
• Save time and avoid the hassle of endless returns.
• Ensure your eyesight is properly protected.

Mistake #1: Going for the Cheapest Option

This was a major error. I understand wanting to save money—I saw some incredibly cheap frames online and thought I'd found a steal. I should have known better. Extremely low prices often signal poor quality. The materials felt flimsy, and the lenses scratched almost immediately. In the long run, it cost me more because I had to replace them so soon.

Real User Feedback: "You'll end up paying as much as you would at a local optometrist, but after a two-week wait, you'll receive glasses that don't even fit properly..."

Verdict: Don't focus solely on price. Consider the materials and build quality. Investing a bit more in a durable frame is a smarter financial decision.

Mistake #2: Ignoring Quality Indicators

I was so captivated by the style of the frames that I overlooked all the signs of quality. I failed to check what materials were used or look for details about the hinges or lens coatings. I simply assumed everything would be fine. For instance, I purchased a pair of Matte Green Red Square Acetate Japanese Style frames without verifying the type of acetate used. This was a significant oversight.

Real User Feedback: "...then you'll have to send them back for adjustments, wait for their return, and when they still don't fit, send them back again for a different pair. You'll just hope they fit because you haven't been able to see clearly for almost two months."

Action Step: Always look for specifics like frame material (e.g., acetate, titanium), hinge type, and lens coatings (anti-scratch, anti-glare). These details reveal a lot about the product's overall quality.

Mistake #3: Not Checking Reviews (Enough)

I did glance at a few reviews, but I only looked at those posted on the product page itself. That was a mistake, as these are often curated or biased. I should have searched for reviews on independent websites and forums. Doing so would have provided more honest feedback about the glasses' quality, fit, and the overall experience of buying prescription eyewear online.

Real User Feedback: "Then, if you order prescription Ray-Ban sunglasses, you'll wait about three weeks for them to ship, and they may never actually arrive…. You'll try to track down your nearly $400 glasses but won't be able to reach a real person..."

Action Step: Search for the brand and product name on Google and read reviews from third-party sites. Pay close attention to comments regarding fit, durability, and customer service.

Mistake #4: Falling For Ads

Those targeted online advertisements got me. A flashy ad for stylish, affordable glasses caught my eye, and I clicked immediately. The website looked professional, and the prices were appealing, but it was essentially a clever marketing trap. The glasses I received were cheaply made, poor quality, and didn't fit correctly. I'm now much more cautious about ads when considering where to buy prescription glasses.

Real User Feedback: "...you'll be forwarded to an investigative department that promises to get back to you, but you won't know when! I thought this would be a more convenient and affordable way to get glasses, but I was completely wrong!"

Verdict: Don't trust advertisements blindly. Always conduct your own research and compare prices and quality across different retailers.

Mistake #5: Skipping Research

I was in a rush and didn't do sufficient research. I didn't compare different brands or read articles about choosing frames for my face shape. I simply picked the first pair that looked good in the photos. This lazy approach was a costly mistake. The glasses didn't fit well, and the style was completely wrong for me.

Real User Feedback: "I won't make this mistake again with something as important as my eyesight. It was so disappointing."

Action Step: Take your time. Do thorough homework: read guides, compare brands, and consider your face shape and personal style before deciding.

What I Should Have Done: Choosing Cinily Net

I should have researched more and selected a reputable company like Cinily Net. After visiting their homepage, I saw they offer a wide selection with a clear focus on quality. I could have avoided all these problems by choosing a company that genuinely values its customers and their vision.

Real User Feedback: "Great selection of frames. On-site eye exams. Helpful and friendly staff. I've been a customer for years, and this new location in the mall is very convenient."

• Read more independent, third-party reviews.
• Compare materials and construction more carefully.
• Pay closer attention to customer service and return policies.

Verdict: Next time, I will prioritize quality and reliable customer service over the lowest price.

Lessons Learned

Buying prescription glasses online can be both convenient and cost-effective, but it requires careful consideration. Avoid simply choosing the cheapest option. Look for clear quality indicators, check reviews on independent sites, be skeptical of flashy advertisements, and always do your research. By steering clear of these common mistakes, you can find glasses that fit perfectly, look great, and properly protect your eyesight.