Buying prescription glasses has evolved. No longer limited to quick decisions in high street opticians, you can now try on glasses at home free, compare styles properly, and make a confident choice — all without stepping out of your front door.
At Glasses Direct, our Home Trial service is designed to give you flexibility, clarity and control. Whether you’re updating your everyday eyewear, exploring a new frame style, or ordering varifocal glasses, the ability to try on glasses for free at home transforms the experience of buying glasses online.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Why try glasses at home?
Trying glasses from the comfort of your home offers convenience that traditional high street shopping simply can’t match.
Instead of making a rushed decision under bright store lighting, you can:
- See how frames look in natural light
- Match them with your wardrobe
- Compare different frame types
- Take time to assess comfort
- Involve friends and family in your decision
Physically wearing glasses and getting a feel for how they fit in your own home allows you to properly evaluate your options. From subtle rimless frames to bold acetate specs, you can assess how well each frame complements your face shape and personal style.
It also saves time. No appointments, no travel and no pressure from opticians. Just a simple way to try glasses on at home for free and choose when you’re ready.
For many customers, it’s not just convenient — it’s confidence-building.
How does a home try-on work?
If you’re new to buying glasses online, the process is straightforward.
How it works:
- Browse and select up to 4 different frames online.
- Choose your preferred styles and frame sizes.
- We send your glasses to try on at home with free, quick delivery.
- Try them on for 7 days.
- Return them using our free returns label.
- Order your chosen frame with your prescription lenses.
It’s completely risk-free and designed around flexibility.
You can try on glasses at home free before committing — giving you full control over your purchase decision.
Choosing the right frames
Selecting the right frame style is about more than colour or brand. Consider:
Face shape
- Round faces suit square and rectangular frames.
- Square faces work well with round or oval styles.
Personal style
Do you prefer subtle rimless eyewear, bold acetate frames, or classic metal specs?
Prescription needs
If you need progressive lenses, blue-light glasses, or reading glasses, ensure the frame depth supports your prescription comfortably.
Our buying guides provide practical advice to help you narrow down your options confidently.
What to expect in a home try-on kit
Your Home Trial pack typically includes:
- Up to 4 frames
- Demo lenses (non-prescription)
- Clear instructions
- Pre-paid postage label
- Details on how to place your final order
Demo lenses allow you to assess the fit and appearance of the frames before adding your prescription lenses.
The process is simple and designed to be accessible, giving you a stress-free way to try on glasses for free at home.
Top benefits of home try-on services
1. Risk-free trial
There’s no obligation to buy. You can explore glasses to try on at home without financial commitment upfront.
2. Hassle-free, no pressure
Avoid rushed decisions or sales pressure. Give yourself time to choose your favourite frames.
3. Compare multiple pairs
Seeing pairs of glasses side by side makes choosing easier.
4. Involve friends and family
Take photos. Share opinions. Run a poll. It’s easier to decide with honest feedback.
5. More time to decide
Seven days gives you space to think.
6. Greater accessibility
For customers who prefer shopping from home, Home Trial services offer greater accessibility features and flexibility.
Virtual try-on vs. home try-on
Many retailers now offer virtual try-on tools using 3D modelling technology. While these tools can be helpful for narrowing options, they have limitations.
Virtual try-on:
Pros:
- Instant preview
- Convenient
- Helpful for shortlisting
Cons:
- Lighting and screen accuracy can vary
- Doesn’t reveal real-life fit and comfort
- Limited depth perception
Home try-on:
Pros:
- Real-world fit and feel
- Natural lighting
- True sizing
- Comfort testing
- Compare multiple frames physically
Cons:
- Requires a short wait for delivery
For most customers, the ideal journey combines both. Use virtual try-on to shortlist styles, then try on glasses at home free to confirm your decision.
Tips for a successful home try-on
To make the most of your Home Trial:
- Test frames in different lighting (daylight and indoor lighting).
- Wear them for longer periods to check comfort.
- Take photos from multiple angles.
- Compare frame style with different outfits.
- Check how they sit on your nose and behind your ears.
- Ask for feedback from friends or family.
FAQs
Is it really free to try on glasses at home?
Yes. You can try glasses on at home free, including free delivery and free returns.
Which frames are available for Home Trial?
There are almost 500 frames included in our free Home Trial. This excludes any styles within our Premium Designer range. To find frames available for Home Trial on our website, simply click the Home Trial toggle above the list of filters.
How long can I keep the frames?
You typically have 7 days to try them before returning.
Are the lenses prescription?
No — the Home Trial pack includes demo lenses. Once you choose your frames, you’ll add your prescription lenses during checkout. At Glasses Direct, we have a variety of popular lens options, including prescription sunglasses, varifocals, and photochromic lenses which includes Transitions® lenses.
Do I need an up-to-date eye test?
Yes. To order prescription glasses, you’ll need a valid prescription from your opticians. If you don’t have your prescription to hand, you can choose to send it later via email, phone, or post.
What happens after I return the frames?
Simply place your order online. Your finished eyeglasses will then be delivered to your door.
What if I don’t like any of the frames?
Return them and start again. There’s no obligation.
Find your perfect pair with Home Trial
Choosing new glasses should feel empowering, not pressured. With the option to try on glasses for free at home, you gain time, flexibility and clarity.
From exploring glasses to try on at home to customising your prescription lenses, the process is designed around you. Whether you’re updating your everyday specs, or investing in best-selling designer eyewear, trying frames in your own space makes all the difference.
Skip the high street rush. Take your time. Compare confidently and enjoy excellent service.
Start your Free Home Trial today and discover how easy it is to try on glasses at home — and find your perfect frames.
