Varifocal lenses explained
See near, far, and everything in between
See near, intermediate, and distance vision in one pair of glasses. Also known as progressive lenses or multifocal lenses, varifocal lenses are designed to help you move naturally through your day, whether you're reading, working, driving, or scrolling your phone.
Are varifocals right for you?
If you’ve started holding menus further away, switching between reading and distance glasses, or struggling to focus between screens and everyday tasks, varifocals could help simplify things.
Varifocals may suit you if:
- You need help with both near and distance vision
- You regularly switch between reading, screens, and driving
- You want one pair for everyday wear
- Reading feels harder than it used to
- You’re tired of changing glasses throughout the day
Quick tips to help you adjust to varifocal lenses
✔ Distance (top of lens): Look straight ahead. Turn your head (not just your eyes) to look side to side.
✔ Intermediate (middle): Slightly lift your chin whilst keeping your eyes fixed when looking at screens or dashboards.
✔ Reading (bottom): Look down and gently lift your chin.
✔ Field of vision: Near and intermediate areas are narrower but improve with higher-quality lenses.
✔ Head movement: Adjust your head position to find the clearest part of the lens.
✔ Stairs & steps: The lower part is magnified, so look through the top of the lens for safer footing.
✔ Before driving: Make sure you’re comfortable finding the right viewing areas.
The benefits of varifocal lenses
Varifocals aren't just practical — they're a smarter, more modern way to see the world. Here's why so many people make the switch every year.
One pair does it all
See clearly at every distance — driving, screens and reading — without constantly swapping glasses.
No visible line
Unlike bifocals, varifocal lenses have no dividing line. Just a smooth, natural-looking lens.
Natural vision
Your eyes move more naturally between distances, without needing to switch glasses.
Works with any frame
Varifocal lenses can be fitted into a wide range of frame styles.
Cost-effective
One pair can replace separate reading and distance glasses, making varifocals great value in the long run.
Try before you buy
Order a free Home Trial and try up to 4 frames for 7 days — no commitment, free returns.
Standard varifocal lenses
Best for: existing wearers and everyday use
✔ Easy to adapt to for current varifocal wearers
✔ Clear vision across near, intermediate, and distance
✔ Minimal distortion at the edges of the lens
✔ Great value, all-round option
Premium varifocal lenses
Best for: maximum comfort and clarity
✔ Wider, clearer field of vision
✔ Smoother focus across intermediate distances (ideal for screens)
✔ Less blur at the edges of the lens
✔ Reduced peripheral distortion
If you’re looking for the best varifocal lens, premium options provide a more natural, comfortable viewing experience throughout the day.
Our most popular premium options
Elite HD
Ideal for existing wearers, offering a wider field of vision and reduced distortion.
Supreme HD
Delivers sharper everyday clarity, especially for reading and screen use, with smooth and comfortable vision.
KODAK Easy2 Max Lens
Easy to adapt to, providing increased clarity and all-day comfort across near, intermediate, and distance vision.
What are varifocal lenses?
Varifocal lenses combine multiple prescriptions into a single lens. This makes them ideal for people with presbyopia (age-related changes in near vision).
They’re designed to support your full range of vision needs — near, intermediate, and distance — without visible lines in the lens.
How do varifocal lenses work
Each part of the lens is designed for a different distance:
Top of the lens – distance vision (e.g. driving)
Middle section (intermediate zone) – for screens and intermediate distances
Bottom of the lens – for near vision (close-up tasks like reading, phone use)
The transition between these areas is smooth, so your vision feels natural — unlike bifocal lenses, which have a visible split. Modern varifocal lenses are designed to provide clearer vision across more of the lens, with reduced blur at the edges. The result: smoother, more comfortable vision throughout the day, with less eye strain.
Clear vision without the jargon
You may hear technical terms like “freeform design” or “binocular balance”, but what really matters is this:
Today’s varifocals are designed for smoother transitions, clearer focus, and more comfortable everyday vision — helping reduce eye strain throughout the day.
Buying varifocal glasses online — simple and trusted
Ordering varifocal eyewear online is easier than you might expect — making it simple to find your perfect new glasses from home.
2. Add your prescription
Upload details from your optician provided at your most recent eye test or simply send your prescription later.
3. Select your lenses
Choose from standard varifocal lenses or premium varifocal lenses, with optional upgrades.
4. Place your order
We'll craft your glasses to your exact prescription, support you every step of the way, and deliver them straight to your door.
Try before you buy
Not sure which frames to choose? With our free Home Trial, you can:
✔ Try 4 frames at home
✔ Compare styles in real life
✔ Get feedback before you buy new glasses
It’s ideal if you’re new to varifocals or switching from contact lenses or single-vision lenses
Why shop varifocals at Glasses Direct?
✔ Thousands of varifocal pairs sold every year
✔ Lenses tailored to your prescription
✔ Clear pricing with no hidden costs
✔ Excellent customer reviews
Save on varifocal lenses
Trying varifocals for the first time? We’ve made it simple — and affordable.
Free standard varifocal lenses with code GDVF49
Upgrade to premium varifocal lenses for a wider field of vision
Whether you’re switching from single-vision lenses or exploring different types of varifocal lenses, there’s an option to suit you.
Varifocal lenses reviews
Find your varifocal glasses
Explore varifocal-ready frames and lens options designed for everyday comfort and clear vision.
