5 Mistakes I Made Buying Quality Reading Glasses (So You Don't Have To)

As we age, many of us need a little help seeing things up close. I decided to purchase a pair of progressive multifocal reading glasses online, thinking I was being savvy. I came across a deal for something called the 2019 Leesbril Nomanov Anti-blue light glasses.

I understand wanting to save money, but opting for the cheapest choice led to a major headache and a complete waste of money. I ended up spending far more than I intended. I made these errors so you can avoid them. Learn from my experience and protect both your wallet and your peace of mind.

Mistake #1: Assuming the Advertised Price Was the Final Cost

I saw the low listed price and thought it was an incredible deal for progressive, anti-blue light, multifocal lenses. This was my first and most significant blunder. I took the advertised price at face value.

The company used classic bait-and-switch tactics. The moment I added the glasses to my cart, things changed quickly. They discreetly added expensive coatings and special lens treatments. The final total was a shock.

Real User Feedback: "This is such a scam! The site added costly extras without telling me, and I wound up paying three times the advertised price. ????"

I thought I was getting a $50 pair, but the final charge exceeded $150! They conceal the expensive add-ons, banking on you not noticing until checkout. They make the basic product seem inadequate without the hidden upgrades.

Action Step: Scrutinize the final checkout summary carefully. If the price suddenly triples, abandon your cart and look elsewhere. Don't repeat my mistake of assuming good intentions.

Mistake #2: Overlooking Frame and Lens Material Quality

When you invest in quality reading glasses, you're paying for durability. The advertised frames were probably made from flimsy plastic or very thin metal. When glasses are dirt cheap, the coating wears off quickly, hinges break easily, and the so-called "Anti-blue" coating might scratch off within a week.

Good frames should feel substantial and withstand daily use without bending out of shape.

How to Check for Quality Frames:

• Ask About Frame Material: Look for TR-90 plastic or durable metal alloys. If they only say "plastic" or "metal," assume it's low-grade.
• Check the Hinge Type: Spring hinges are ideal because they flex instead of snapping.
• Examine the Lenses: For multifocal lenses, the transition between prescription strengths must be seamless. Cheap progressives often result in blurry zones everywhere except the very center.

I should have realized that genuine progressive lenses with a durable anti-blue light coating can't be sold at rock-bottom prices. Extremely cheap lenses frequently cause dizziness and eye strain.

Verdict: Don't fixate solely on the ADD power (like +3.50). Pay equal attention to frame sturdiness. Weak frames mean you'll be shopping for a replacement in a few months.

Mistake #3: Failing to Read In-Depth Customer Reviews

I glanced at the surface-level reviews on the product page, which were mostly positive and likely fabricated. I should have checked third-party sites or independent forums. That's where you uncover the real stories about customer service.

If a company deceives you on pricing, they'll likely disappoint you on service as well. Dealing with this company after the sale was a nightmare.

Real User Feedback: "Extremely slow service. Very poor customer support. Based on my experience with this company, I would buy your glasses online somewhere else."

When I attempted to return the overpriced glasses, I hit a brick wall. They ignored my emails, and the return process seemed designed to make customers give up.

Real User Feedback: "The return process is also frustrating, making you wait several business days just to get a reply. I want my refund now!"

This is a major red flag. If a company is unresponsive after taking your money, they are not trustworthy. Reputable companies treat their customers well, even during returns.

Action Step: Look specifically for reviews about returns and customer service response times. If you see complaints about "weeks for a reply" or a "frustrating return process," steer clear.

Mistake #4: Succumbing to Generic Advertising and Hype

The advertisement for the "2019 Leesbril Nomanov" was very catchy. It promised the world: near vision, distance vision, anti-blue light protection, all in one stylish package. They used impressive terms like "progressive multifocal" to sound professional.

I learned that flashy advertising with big words doesn't guarantee a functional product. I fell for the hype about the price and features instead of investigating the company's actual reputation.

Another user even suggested a specific competitor that delivered better results:

Real User Feedback: "Try $39 Eyeglasses. Much better service and quality. I've used $39 for years with consistently better results. I thought I'd give this company a try. Big mistake."

The lesson is straightforward: if an offer seems too good to be true, it probably is. Trust established brands, even if they cost a bit more upfront. They provide real customer service and quality assurance.

Verdict: Stop being dazzled by glossy images. Focus on the seller's verifiable track record.

Mistake #5: Skipping Essential Measurements and Documentation

When ordering progressive glasses, the company needs precise measurements. This includes your Pupillary Distance (PD), which is the distance between your pupils. If this measurement is off even slightly, multifocal lenses won't work correctly and can cause severe headaches.

The budget site I used didn't request detailed measurements. They assumed a standard, one-size-fits-all PD. This might work for simple single-vision readers, but it fails completely for complex lenses designed for both near and far vision.

Steps I Should Have Taken:

1. Get a proper eye exam first, even if you only need readers.
2. Insist on knowing the PD they plan to use for your lenses.
3. Ensure the site uses your specific prescription, not just a generic ADD power.

If the ordering process is overly simplistic, the final product will be flawed. Purchasing proper quality reading glasses requires accurate data. Never skip the measurement step.

Verdict: If a company doesn't ask for specific measurements or a prescription, they're sending you generic, poorly made glasses that could harm your vision.

What I Should Have Done: Prioritizing Quality and Transparency

After my awful experience with hidden fees and terrible customer service, I realized true value lies in transparency. I should have sought out companies that guarantee their pricing and offer responsive support.

When searching for a new pair of quality reading glasses, look for a seller that clearly displays the cost of all coatings and accessories before you reach checkout. They should also provide a straightforward, hassle-free return policy.

For instance, companies like Mozaer Frames often specialize in transparent pricing and durable materials from the start. This means sturdy frames that won't snap if dropped and accurate lenses that genuinely reduce blue light without distorting your vision.

A quality provider offers:

• A clear, all-inclusive price with no hidden fees.
• Frames constructed from durable materials (like TR-90 or stainless steel).
• Customer service that responds to your inquiries within hours, not weeks.

Lessons Learned: Don't Buy Until You Verify These Four Things

My ordeal with the cheap, scammy glasses taught me that trying to save $50 upfront can cost you hundreds later. I ended up having to buy a second pair anyway, completely wasting the money I spent on the first.

If you're shopping for reliable progressive lenses, here's a simple checklist to prevent you from repeating my errors:

Step 1: Verify the Final Price. Add everything to your cart and confirm the total before finalizing your purchase. If it has tripled, walk away.

Step 2: Check Service Reviews. Look for specific comments regarding returns, refunds, and how quickly the company responds to emails.

Step 3: Insist on Precise Measurements. If they don't ask for your PD or full prescription, skip them. For dependable lenses, consider trusted suppliers like Mozaer Glasses, who emphasize accurate fitting.

Step 4: Invest in Quality Frames. Avoid generic, flimsy plastic. Seek out stated frame materials that ensure your glasses last more than a few months. Remember: extremely cheap often leads to poor vision and headaches.

Don't make my mistake. Spend a little more now for comfort, clear vision, and peace of mind later on.