Understanding the difference between single vision, bifocal, and progressive lenses is essential before ordering prescription glasses in Pakistan. Each lens type corrects vision differently, costs differently, and suits different needs. If your optometrist has prescribed you lenses and you're confused about which type to choose — or you're over 40 and wondering whether to start with bifocals or progressives — this guide explains everything at Chashmaywaly.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Single Vision | Bifocal | Progressive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Corrects | One distance (far OR near) | Two distances (far + near) | All distances (far + intermediate + near) |
| Visible line | No | Yes — visible dividing line | No — seamless transition |
| Computer distance | Only if prescribed for that distance | No — no intermediate zone | Yes — dedicated intermediate corridor |
| Price (PKR) | 2,000 – 7,000 | 3,500 – 7,000 | 6,000 – 15,000 |
| Adaptation time | None | 1–3 days | 3–14 days |
| Ideal age | Any age | 40+ (presbyopia) | 40+ (presbyopia) |
| Image jump | None | Yes — image shifts at the line | None — smooth transition |
| Peripheral blur | None | None | Slight — in lower corners (reduces with premium tiers) |
Single Vision Lenses
The simplest and most common lens type. A single vision lens has one uniform power across the entire surface, correcting either:
- Myopia (nearsightedness): Negative power (e.g., -2.00 D) for distance viewing
- Hyperopia (farsightedness): Positive power (e.g., +1.50 D) for near viewing
- Astigmatism: Cylinder correction added to either of the above
Who Needs Single Vision?
- Anyone under 40 with a prescription (myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism)
- People over 40 who only need correction for one distance (e.g., reading glasses only)
- Dedicated computer glasses (optimised for 50–70cm distance only)
Bifocal Lenses
Bifocals contain two distinct zones separated by a visible line:
- Top zone: Distance correction (driving, walking, TV)
- Bottom zone: Near correction (reading, phone, close-up work)
The visible line makes it easy to identify which zone you're looking through. However, bifocals have no intermediate zone — the 50–70cm distance used for computer screens and dashboards is not corrected. This means computer users either strain their eyes or adopt awkward head positions.
Who Should Choose Bifocals?
- Over-40 wearers who primarily need distance and reading correction
- People who have tried progressives and couldn't adapt
- Budget-conscious wearers — bifocals cost PKR 3,500–7,000 vs PKR 6,000–15,000 for progressives
- People who don't use computers heavily
Progressive Lenses
Progressives are the modern alternative to bifocals. They provide three vision zones in a seamless gradient — no visible line:
- Top zone: Distance correction
- Middle corridor: Intermediate correction (computer screens, dashboards)
- Bottom zone: Near correction (reading, phone)
The trade-off is slight peripheral blur in the lower corners of the lens (where the zones transition), and a learning curve of 3–14 days. Premium digital freeform progressives minimise both issues significantly.
Who Should Choose Progressives?
- Over-40 wearers who use computers or screens regularly
- Anyone who dislikes the visible line on bifocals
- People who want one pair for all distances
- Active lifestyles — no image jump when looking down while walking
Cost Comparison — Pakistan 2026
| Lens Type | Budget Tier (PKR) | Mid Tier (PKR) | Premium Tier (PKR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Vision (CR-39) | 2,000 – 3,000 | 3,000 – 5,000 | 5,000 – 7,000 |
| Bifocal | 3,500 – 4,500 | 4,500 – 6,000 | 6,000 – 7,000 |
| Progressive (Standard) | 6,000 – 8,000 | 8,000 – 12,000 | 12,000 – 15,000 |
All prices include frame. Coatings (AR, blue-cut, photochromic) add PKR 500–4,000 to any tier.
Decision Guide
- Under 40, one prescription need: Single vision. No question.
- Over 40, don't use computers much: Bifocal — covers distance and reading at lower cost.
- Over 40, use computers daily: Progressive — the intermediate zone is essential for screen work.
- Over 40, want the most natural vision: Progressive — no visible line, no image jump.
- Over 40, tight budget: Start with bifocals. Upgrade to progressives when budget allows.
Related Guides
- Prescription Glasses Price in Pakistan
- Progressive Lenses Price in Pakistan
- Bifocal Glasses Price in Pakistan
- Reading Glasses Price in Pakistan
- Glasses Frame Price in Pakistan
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch from bifocals to progressives?
Yes. Many people start with bifocals and upgrade to progressives later. The transition requires a new adaptation period (3–14 days), but most former bifocal wearers adapt quickly because they're already used to looking through different zones.
Why are progressive lenses so expensive?
Progressive lenses are manufactured using complex digital surfacing technology that creates a seamless gradient between three vision zones. Each lens is custom-calculated for your specific prescription and measurements. Premium freeform progressives use even more advanced algorithms for wider corridors and less distortion.
Are trifocals better than progressives?
Trifocals add a visible intermediate zone between the distance and near segments. They're simpler to adapt to than progressives but have two visible lines and limited intermediate width. Progressives provide the same three-zone correction without visible lines and with a wider intermediate corridor. Most modern optometrists recommend progressives over trifocals.
