Spherical vs. Aspherical Lenses: A Comprehensive Comparison
Spherical lenses are traditional, curved lenses, while aspherical lenses offer similar vision correction with a less bulky profile. There are pros and cons to each of these lens types. This article will explore some of the differences between these lenses and when one style might be preferred over another.
What are Spherical Lenses?
Spherical lenses are the most common lens type and are often considered the standard lens type. These lenses are curved on at least one side. The curvature of the lens is crafted to focus light in a way that best enhances your vision. This is typically done with a convex (converging) or concave (diverging) lens curve. Your eye doctor will order a specific curvature based on your vision needs, and the lens maker will match the lens curvature to the prescription.
What are Aspherical Lenses?
Aspherical lenses have a slight curvature that is sometimes difficult to see with the naked eye. The curvature of these lenses is a more gradual curve than in spherical lenses and creates a more precise focus of light on the retina.
Key Differences Between Spherical and Aspherical Lenses
Outside of the basic shapes, other key differences between these lens types may factor into your decision of which lens type to choose.
Gray or Black Lenses
Gray or black is the most common tint for a sunglass lens. They provide enhanced optics and clear vision on sunny or cloudy days. Colors will look the truest through a gray-tinted lens. They provide the best color enhancement and protection against glare. If you’re looking for a lens tint you can use daily, select gray.
Production and Cost
The production of spherical lenses can be done on a larger scale in batches. Aspherical lenses, however, are created one at a time using special machines. This special manufacturing process results in a more precise product but also raises the cost of aspherical lenses compared to spherical lenses.
Style and Appeal
Spherical lenses are usually thicker because of their more rounded shape. This will give these lenses a “Coke bottle” type of appearance. Aspherical lenses are thinner, with a less obvious profile. This usually makes aspherical lenses more stylish or aesthetically pleasing, but you might not have a choice if you require a multifocal prescription such as progressive and no-line bifocals.
Strength and Power
Traditionally, stronger prescriptions have required thicker lenses. Aspherical lenses allow you to have increased vision correction without added thickness. Both lenses can deliver a sharp focus for even strong prescriptions. The aspherical lens, however, has a somewhat superior performance with less bulk than spherical lenses.
Spheric Lenses: Advantages & Disadvantages
- Cheaper to make
- Can be produced in larger batches
- Bulky, thick, too curved or too flat in high prescriptions
- Lenses and frame combination are limited
Aspheric Lenses: Advantages & Disadvantages
- Slimmer design with less bulk and
- It can fit into virtually any frame even with high prescriptions
- Custom-made with aesthetic curve to match the frame
- Higher manufacturing and purchase cost
- Longer, more complex manufacturing time
Choosing the Right Lens for Your Needs
Your prescription and the amount or specific type of vision correction you need will play a large role in the type of lens you choose. However, both spherical and aspherical lenses can meet the needs of most prescription strengths. You might make a personal choice between one lens or another based on the style and appearance you want, along with what price you can afford or what your vision insurance plan covers OvernightGlasses.com offers a variety of lens options for a complete pair of eyeglasses and automatically match your prescription with Aspheric lenses at no additional charge. When you select to use our lens replacement program or to order a complete new pair of glasses from Overnight Glasses, you can be certain that your lenses will be as thin and aesthetically looking as possible.
Summary of Spherical vs. Aspherical Lenses
Spherical and aspherical lenses are two options of lens shapes. Spherical lenses are typically more bulky but also cheaper. Aspherical lenses have a slimmer design and can fit into more frames but might cost more. Talk to your eye doctor or optometrist about the best options for your prescription. Overnight Glasses has staff that can help you place the right order for your vision needs.