Are Wal-Mart Reading Glasses Good Quality?

There is no secret that the majority of the population suffers from some sort of vision loss.

“According to the Vision Impact Institute research, 3 out of 4 people in the U.S. have vision correction, and of those people, 71% wear glasses and 22% wear contacts.”

Over the years, many businesses and retailers have decided to capitalize on this phenomenon. Since entering the optical business in 1991, Wal-Mart has been known for carrying its affordable prices over to the realm of eyecare and its accessories.

Such cost-friendly merchandise with a normally hefty price tag may raise the question “are Wal-Mart reading glasses good quality?”

What Exactly Are Reading Glasses?

Reading glasses, which can be purchased over-the-counter or prescribed by a healthcare professional, are created to make viewing close objects easier. They are often used for reading books or while using a computer.

According to The Vision Council, most over-the-counter reading glasses vary between +1 to +4 in strength.

Whereas reading glasses are designed typically for those who do not require a major vision correction, on the contrary, prescription reading glasses are ideal for those who suffer from double vision or computer strain.

If you need to wear reading glasses for a long period of time, have an astigmatism, myopia, or some other form of severe vision dysfunction, prescription reading glasses are the better option.

What To Expect at Wal-Mart Vision Center

Wal-Mart Vision Center provides reading glasses, computer glasses, prescription eyeglasses, sunglasses, and contact lenses for its consumers.

While visiting, if you do not have a prescription, an eye exam can be provided to determine the best fit. Most Wal-Mart eye exams currently cost around $73 depending on where you live.

After selecting glasses or lenses and being fitted, your order should arrive in about a week.

However, keep in mind COVID-19 may affect the timeframe of your delivery. According to Wal-Mart, “98% of all US orders arrive within the 7-10 day delivery time stated on our website.” Wal-Mart also states that most items will arrive sooner if they are shipped from their stock.

In terms of eye care practitioners, Wal-Mart Vision Center hires licensed, certified optometrists and ophthalmologists. While some are independent contractors and others are employed, all are able to complete thorough, accurate eye exams.

Keep in mind that if your vision loss is severe and your prescription contains many specifics, you may be suited by a highly qualified, long-standing optician capable of handling certain details and catering to your individual needs.

OTC Reading Glasses vs Wal-Mart Prescription Glasses

Over-the-counter reading glasses are, simply put, two magnifying lenses placed in an eyeglass frame. The strength of over-the-counter lenses usually range between +1.00 to +3.50 diopters and vary in terms of magnification.

On the contrary, prescription reading glasses are suitable for those who require major vision correction.

For example, if both of your eyes require a different correction, or if you happen to require correction for distance vision, prescription glasses are the best alternative.

In terms of distance vision, bifocal, or multifocal, lenses are available. Over-the-counter reading glasses are not created, or strong enough, to assist with significant vision loss. 

Quality of Wal-Mart Glasses vs Private Optometrist

Wal-Mart is known for its trendy, practical eyewear offered at an affordable rate. An eclectic selection of lenses and frames are available at most locations.

The only issue? Filling special orders may become an arduous task.

The convenience of being serviced at Wal-Mart Vision Center without an appointment with a satisfying selection of glasses to choose from is an appealing feature.

On the other hand, special order certain items, progressive lenses or high-profile brand frames for example, are harder to purchase. (Progressive lenses are required for those who happen to suffer from severe farsightedness, or presbyopia, and wish to order prescription glasses with no visible line. People with presbyopia often begin with over-the-counter reading glasses and graduate to prescription glasses.)

Because Wal-Mart focuses on providing cost-friendly options, at times the quality of the product suffers. Wal-Mart operates as a discount retailer, so their approach requires them to offer products that are lower in pricing, but may also be of lesser quality.

The craftsmanship of many of Wal-Mart’s less popular eyewear brands is questionable due to a snowball effect of sorts. The variety of prescription glasses offered at the private practices of optometrists are likely to be greater, resulting in a better overall quality of prescription glasses.

In terms of pricing, visiting a private optometrist for your prescription glasses will be the more expensive option. As expected, visiting a private provider will undoubtedly be more expensive than choosing to be seen at a discount practice. “On average, an eye exam conducted in 2018 by a private optometrist will set you back about $192.” Prices are similar in 2020. 

Wal-Mart’s Top 3 Reading Glasses

1. GAMMA RAY OPTICS 5

With five pairs conveniently included, comfortable plastic frames with a barely-there feel, and two fashionable designs that can be worn with any ensemble, the GAMMA RAY OPTICS reading glasses are regarded as one of the top brands offered on walmart.com.

Wearers can choose a strength between +1.00 and +4.00 and can rest assured with a 90-day money back satisfaction guarantee. A cleaning cloth is included as well. Wal-Mart currently offers these practical reading glasses online for a surprising $14.99.

2. EYE ZOOM 3 Pack Aviator Style Metal Frame Reading Glasses

Available in 5 flattering colors with a contemporary aviator-style design, these reading glasses by EYE ZOOM are the perfect choice for the office or the comfort of your home.

Wearers can choose their desired strength, the selection varying from +1 to +3.50. The design includes a comfortable, lightweight feel without sacrificing durability.

3, TruVision Readers Reading Glasses +4.50

With clear-cut lenses featuring unmatched clarity, a haute, trendy design showcasing a fashion-forward approach, and a comfortable, lightweight frame, TruVision’s Readers Reading Glasses have obviously earned a 5-star rating on walmart.com for a reason.

Three pairs of reading glasses are included and are suitable for both men and women. For comfortability and durability, “sure-flex” spring arms, scratch resistant lenses, as well as “dura-tight” screws are featured. A microfiber bag is included to protect the lenses as well.

Wal-Mart continues to honor their promise of offering eye care options at a consumer-friendly price point. Reliable optometrists and ophthalmologists are readily available to assist and provide practical, basic eye care. By determining the severity of vision loss, one can better determine the type and strength of reading glasses required.

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