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What Are Bifocal Lenses?
What Are Bifocal Lenses?
Bifocals are lenses with two distinct viewing areas to help you see clearly at both distance and near ranges. These lenses are available with either a visible line or a lineless option, depending on your preference.
Whether you have had trouble adapting to progressives, are an experienced bifocal lens wearer, or your child has been prescribed bifocals by your eye doctor, we've got you covered.
Bifocals and progressive lenses are different. Bifocals have two distinct optical powers (distance and near). Progressives offer a smooth transition across multiple focal points (distance, intermediate, and near) and are more commonly used.
Explore Progressive Lens Designs >If you're unsure which lens type you need, please contact your eye doctor to confirm if you need progressives or bifocals before continuing with your eyewear journey.
Classic Lined Collection
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Flat Top 28
$22.95
The Flat Top 28 bifocal corrects both near and far distances with two separate viewing areas, offering a distinct separation between tasks.
- Two distinct viewing areas: distance and near vision
- 28mm 'D'-shaped segment for near vision at the bottom
- Classic lined bifocal design
- Ideal for clear separation of near and far tasks
- Note: This is not a progressive lens and does not provide a dedicated mid-range viewing power
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Executive
$98.95
The Executive Lined Bifocal, also known as the 'Franklin Bifocal,' features a visible line across the entire width of the lens, correcting both near and far distances with two separate viewing areas, offering a distinct separation between tasks.
- Two distinct viewing areas: distance and near vision
- Full-width line across the entire lens for near vision
- Classic lined bifocal design
- Ideal for extensive reading or close-up tasks
- Note: This is not a progressive lens and does not provide a dedicated mid-range viewing power
Modern Lineness Collection
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Round Lineless
$47.90
The Round Lineless Bifocal corrects both near and far distances with two separate viewing areas, offering a seamless look without a visible line, ideal for those seeking a cosmetic upgrade from the classic Flat Top 28.
- Two distinct viewing areas: distance and near vision
- Round, lineless near vision area (32mm diameter)
- Modern seamless look—no visible line
- Offers more lens customization options
- Note: This is not a progressive lens and does not provide a dedicated mid-range viewing power
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Wide Lineless
$47.90
The Wide Lineless Bifocal corrects both near and far distances with two separate viewing areas, offering a seamless look without a visible line. Its expanded near vision area makes it ideal for those seeking a functional and stylish upgrade from the classic Executive bifocal. It's also an excellent option for children who have been prescribed bifocals by their eye doctor.
- Two distinct viewing areas: distance and near vision
- Round, lineless near vision area (40mm diameter)
- Modern seamless look—no visible line
- Ideal for extensive reading or close-up tasks
- Offers more lens customization options
- Note: This is not a progressive lens and does not provide a dedicated mid-range viewing power
Note:
The Wide Lineless Bifocal has replaced the B-Free Lineless design. If you previously used the B-Free, we recommend selecting this updated option in your order.
Customize your bifocal lens design with a variety of options
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Clear+UV
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Sunglasses
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Protective
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Blue-Light-Blocking
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Photochromic/
Transitions® -
Thin & Light
Lineless bifocals are available in a wider range of lens materials and functional add-ons like Transitions, blue light filtering, or high-index lenses. If you are accustomed to wearing a line bifocal but cannot find the options you need, consider switching to a similar lineless design. Please reference the FAQ section for more information.
Popular Bifocal Glasses
How to Order Bifocal Glasses
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1. Find a pair of frames that you like
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2. Enter your prescription
Fill in your prescription and PD. -
3. Select lens usage
Bifocals(Distance & Near Only) -
4. Select design
Our Prism Correction Technology
Our Prism Correction Technology
Payne Glasses is able to make Bifocal Lenses, Prism Correction Lenses, and most importantly Bifocals with Prism Correction. Payne Glasses is proud to be the only major online eyewear retailer who provides this service.
Learn More >Payne Advantage
Your satisfaction is our highest priority
Visual adaptation & support guide
Digitally printed to your selected Bifocal lens design, frame selection & unique measurements, programmed to cut out and affixed to the lens for try-on and post care support.
- · Easily Removable Adhesive Layer
- · Step-by-step Glasses Try-on Insert Card Included. Get tailored support for the perfect fit and clear vision.
On your time post purchase support
Expert Try-on & Frame Fit Support, along with Guidance for Lens Design Adaptation
- · Complimentary Lens Remakes with Additional Customization, based on Trained Customer Support Evaluation & Guidance.
- · Complimentary Frame Replacement as Needed, based on Trained Customer Support Evaluation & Guidance.
FAQ
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What are Bifocal Lenses and how do I know if they are for me?
If you have an "ADD" field on your glasses prescription, you have been prescribed a multifocal lens by your eye doctor.
There are two types of multifocal lenses: Bifocals and Progressives.
Bifocal lenses have two distinct viewing areas, one for distance vision and one for near vision. They are available with either a visible line or a lineless option. Progressives, on the other hand, offer a smooth transition across multiple focal points (distance, intermediate, and near) without visible lines.
Bifocals are ideal for people who need vision correction for both near and far distances. They are commonly worn by those who have had trouble adapting to progressives, experienced bifocal lens wearers, or children who have been prescribed bifocals by their eye doctor.
If you're unsure which type you need, please contact your eye doctor to confirm if you need progressives or bifocals to proceed confidently with your eyewear purchase.
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How do Bifocal Lenses work?
Bifocal Lenses have two distinct powers in the lens: the upper part for distance vision and the lower part for near vision. This design helps you see clearly at different distances without switching glasses. -
What is the difference between Lined and Lineless Bifocals ?
Lined Bifocals have a visible line separating the two optical powers. Lineless Bifocals provide a seamless look with no visible line, also available in a wider range of lens materials and functional add-ons. -
What is the difference between Bifocals and Progressives ?
Multifocal lenses are commonly prescribed for individuals with presbyopia (age-related weakening of the eyes' focusing ability) or children with accommodative difficulties. They provide multiple powers in one lens to address the need for vision at multiple distances. There are two multifocal lens types that address the need for multiple prescription powers in one pair of glasses:
Bifocals: These lenses have two distinct viewing areas, one for distance vision and one for near vision. They are available with either a visible line or a lineless option. Bifocals are ideal for people who need vision correction for both near and far distances, such as those who have had trouble adapting to progressives, experienced bifocal lens wearers, or children who have been prescribed bifocals by their eye doctor.
Progressives: These lenses offer a smooth transition across multiple focal points (distance, intermediate, and near) without visible lines. Progressives are more commonly used and provide a seamless look, making them suitable for those who prefer not to have visible lines on their lenses.
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What are the benefits of lineless bifocals?
Lineless Bifocals offer a seamless look and are available in a wider range of lens materials and functional add-ons like Transitions, blue light filtering, and high-index lenses. They provide more flexibility and customization compared to traditional Lined Bifocals. -
Can children wear bifocal lenses?
Yes, bifocal lenses can be an excellent option for children who have been prescribed bifocals by their eye doctor. Remember to opt in for impact-resistant Polycarbonate material available with both our Flat Top Line or both our Lineless designs in the order process. -
What are the limitations of bifocals?
Bifocals do not offer correction for intermediate distances, which can be a limitation for tasks like computer work. Additionally, some people may find the transition between the two viewing areas to be abrupt and less smooth compared to Progressives. -
What lens options are available with Bifocal Lens designs?
We offer a comprehensive range of functional lens options, including Transitions, Blue Light Protection, and various Lens Materials to meet the majority of prescription needs. Please refer to the specific FAQ entries for the lens design you are interested in to see the available options. Additionally, our lineless bifocal options offer extensive customization with the majority of lens add-ons. -
What lens options are available with Flat Top Lined Bifocal design?
Available options may vary depending on unique prescription needs and your selected frame, but generally, our Flat Top 28 Lined Bifocal is available with the following lens options:
Clr2Drk: Light Adaptive: Adjust to changing light conditions.
Blue Light Filtering Lenses: Reduce digital eye strain.
Anti-Reflective Coatings: Reduce glare and enhance clarity.
Sunglass (Tinted) Lenses: Protect your eyes from sunlight.
FL-41 Therapeutic Lenses: Help reduce migraine and light sensitivity.
Included 1.50 (CR-39) Lenses: Standard plastic lenses.
Mid Index 1.56 Lenses: Budget-friendly option.
High-Index Lenses: Offer a thinner, lighter profile.
Polycarbonate Lenses: Provide impact resistance and durability.
And remember, if there is something you need that is not available with Flat Top 28, our round lineless design will feature a very similar visual experience without the line and in a much wider availability of lens options.
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What lens options are available with Executive Lined Bifocal design?
Available options may vary depending on unique prescription needs and your selected frame, but generally, our Executive Lined Bifocal is available with the following lens options:
Mid Index 1.56 Lenses: Budget-friendly.
Anti-Reflective Coatings: Reduce glare and enhance clarity.
And remember, if there is something you need that is not available with Executive Line, our Wide Lineless design will feature a very similar visual experience without the line and in a much wider availability of lens options.
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What lens options are available with Round Lineless Bifocal design?
Available options may vary depending on unique prescription needs and your selected frame, but generally, our Round Lineless Bifocal is available with all lens types and materials, such as:
Transitions: Adjust to changing light conditions. (premium/brand)
Clr2Drk Light Adaptive: Adjust to changing light conditions. (Payne/house brand)
Blue Light Filtering Lenses: Reduce digital eye strain.
Anti-Reflective Coatings: Reduce glare and enhance clarity.
Sunglass (Tinted) Lenses: Shield your eyes from sunlight.
Sunglass (Polarized & Mirror): Shield your eyes from sunlight & reduce glare.
FL-41 Therapeutic Lenses: Help reduce migraine and light sensitivity.
Included 1.50 (CR-39) Lenses: Standard plastic lenses.
Mid Index 1.56 Lenses: Budget-friendly option.
High-Index Lenses: Offer a thinner, lighter profile.
Polycarbonate Lenses: Provide impact resistance and durability.
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What lens options are available with Wide Lineless Bifocal design?
Available options may vary depending on unique prescription needs and your selected frame, but generally, our Wide Lineless Bifocal is available with all lens types and materials, such as:
Transitions: Adjust to changing light conditions. (premium/brand)
Clr2Drk Light Adaptive: Adjust to changing light conditions. (Payne/house brand)
Blue Light Filtering Lenses: Reduce digital eye strain.
Anti-Reflective Coatings: Reduce glare and enhance clarity.
Sunglass (Tinted) Lenses: Shield your eyes from sunlight.
Sunglass (Polarized & Mirror): Shield your eyes from sunlight & reduce glare.
FL-41 Therapeutic Lenses: Help reduce migraine and light sensitivity.
Included 1.50 (CR-39) Lenses: Standard plastic lenses.
Mid Index 1.56 Lenses: Budget-friendly option.
High-Index Lenses: Offer a thinner, lighter profile.
Polycarbonate Lenses: Provide impact resistance and durability.
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Why was the B-Free Lineless Bifocal discontinued, and what should I choose instead?
The B-Free Lineless Bifocal was discontinued as part of our commitment to offering improved lens designs that are easier for more customers to adapt to. We recommend the Round Lineless Bifocal as a replacement. It offers a similar seamless look with a round near-vision area and no visible line, along with enhanced adaptability and more customization options.
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Contact Us
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We are available 10 AM to 9 PM Eastern Time ( 12 AM for chat ), Monday to Friday ( except public holidays ), and 1 PM to 6 PM Eastern Time on weekends. But don’t let this stop you! Please feel free to leave us a message on any channel and we will definitely get back to you the following business day!
We are available 10 AM to 9 PM Eastern Time ( 12 AM for chat ), Monday to Friday ( except public holidays ), and 1 PM to 6 PM Eastern Time on weekends. But don’t let this stop you! Please feel free to leave us a message on any channel and we will definitely get back to you the following business day!