Ask an Optician: Should I Get Computer Glasses?
Overview
If you spend long hours on digital screens and experience eye strain, headaches, or disruptive sleep patterns, computer glasses might be the right addition to your daily routine.
What are computer glasses?
Computer glasses are prescription or non-prescription lenses designed to reduce visual discomfort caused by prolonged screen time.
Unlike standard reading or distance glasses, computer lenses are optimised for intermediate distance: about 20 to 26 inches from your eyes, which is typically how far you sit from a computer screen.
Main benefits of computer glasses
Computer glasses are engineered to:
- Help your eyes focus comfortably on your screen.
- Provide seamless vision throughout your workday
- Improve posture by reducing the need to lean in to see clearly.
Together, these features help relieve common symptoms of digital eye strain (also called computer vision syndrome), including headaches, dry eyes, blurred vision and neck or shoulder pain.
Computer glasses vs other glasses
Different types of lenses serve different purposes, and not all are ideal for long hours at a computer.
Regular glasses are typically optimised for either distance or near vision, so they may not match the screen’s mid-range distance.
Reading glasses, depending on your prescription, can sometimes be used for computer work if the ADD value is lower, but they’re not always the most comfortable option for extended use.
Standard progressives provide clear vision at multiple distances but often have a limited intermediate zone, requiring you to adjust your head position to find focus.
Computer glasses, on the other hand, are custom-calibrated for screen distance, offering the most natural, relaxed vision for digital work and reducing eye and neck strain throughout the day.
Should I wear computer glasses?
You may benefit from computer glasses if you:
- Work 6+ hours per day at a computer or digital device.
- Experience tired eyes, blurry vision, or neck tension from screen use.
- Notice headaches or disrupted sleep after long screen exposure.
- Are over 40 and find it difficult to switch focus between near and mid-range distances.
- Have a prescription with an ADD value (used for near or progressive lenses).
If your progressive lenses don’t offer a wide enough view, or you work primarily at a desk, computer glasses can provide tailored comfort and clarity for that specific range.
EXPERT'S TIP!
“For full protection against glare, fatigue and disrupted sleep, I always recommend adding a blue light filter like zFORT® to your lenses”.
Maria Horan, Dispensing Optician
How to buy computer glasses
If you think computer glasses could help, buying them at SmartBuyGlasses is simple:
- Choose your frames: Pick any style you like from our collection. If you want additional tips, check out our guide on how to choose glasses.
- Select the “Occupational” lens type during checkout: this option is specifically designed for computer and office use.
- Upload your prescription: Ensure it includes both your distance and ADD values for accurate intermediate vision.
- Customise your lenses: Choose your preferred lens package and add the zFORT® Blue Light filter for extra screen protection.
- We’ll take care of the rest: our expert optical lab will craft your lenses to your exact specifications.
Feel free to check out our step-by-step guide on how to buy glasses online here.
Final thoughts
Computer glasses offer a simple, effective way to reduce eye strain and improve your day-to-day comfort. Whether you’re working, studying, or gaming, they help your eyes stay relaxed and focused.
Still unsure if computer glasses are right for you? Speak to one of our certified optical experts for personalised advice before ordering your next pair.