How Much Do Varifocal Lenses Cost in the UK?
If you’ve been advised to wear varifocal lenses, you’re probably wondering how much they cost — and whether they’re actually worth it.
At The Glasses Guys, we believe in clear vision and clear pricing. This guide breaks down the costs of varifocal lenses in the UK, what affects the price, and how to get the best value — whether you’re buying new glasses or upgrading your existing pair.
🧐 What Are Varifocal Lenses?
Varifocal lenses help you see clearly at all distances — near, far and everything in between — without needing separate glasses for reading or driving.
They’re ideal for anyone over 40 who’s experiencing presbyopia (age-related near vision loss). Unlike bifocals, varifocals have no visible lines, offering a smooth, natural vision experience.
Varifocals shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg — find out what you should really be paying in our 2025 UK guide.
💷 How Much Do Varifocal Lenses Cost in the UK?
Varifocal lens prices in the UK typically range from £120 to £600+ per pair. Here’s a quick overview:
| Type | Average Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Varifocals | £120 – £200 | Everyday use, basic correction |
| Mid-Range Varifocals | £150 – £350 | Better clarity, wider fields of vision |
| Premium/Freeform Varifocals | £250 – £600+ | Digital custom fitting, HD vision |
| Transition Varifocals | +£50 – £150 extra | Light-adaptive, doubles as sunglasses |
| Blue Light Varifocals | +£30 – £150 extra | Digital screens, reduced eye strain |
🧾 What Affects the Cost?
1. Lens Quality & Design
Premium varifocals reduce distortion and improve clarity — especially useful for strong prescriptions or first-time wearers.
2. Add-ons & Coatings
Each add-on boosts performance and comfort, but can also increase price:
✅ Anti-glare
✅ Scratch-resistant
✅ Photochromic (light-reactive)
3. Your Prescription
Stronger or more complex prescriptions often cost more due to advanced manufacturing needs.
4. Frame Type
Smaller or wraparound frames may need custom lens shapes — which can affect pricing.
5. Where You Buy Them
High street opticians usually charge more than independent reglazing specialists like us.
🔁 Can I Re-Lens My Existing Frames with Varifocals?
Yes — and it can save you a lot.
At The Glasses Guys, varifocal reglazing starts at just £54.99, depending on the lens type and coatings.
✔ Keep your favourite frames
✔ Save money
✔ Get top-quality modern lenses
🧠 Our Recommendation
If you wear your glasses all day, we recommend Enhanced or Premium varifocals. They may cost more, but offer:
🔍 Wider viewing zones
🌀 Less distortion
💯 Better long-term comfort
We also strongly recommend anti-glare and scratch-resistant coatings — especially for driving and screen use.
👓 Why Choose The Glasses Guys?
👥 Optical experts, not pushy salespeople
💬 Clear, honest pricing
📮 Easy re-lens process – just post your frames
🔄 Huge range of varifocal lenses and upgrades
🇬🇧 Proudly serving customers across the UK
💡 Ready to Upgrade Your Vision?
Browse our varifocal lens options on our shop page or check out our Request a Pack service to explore lens types before ordering.
📞 Contact us for personalised help
🛍️ Shop lens options to see the full range
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