How Do Varifocals Work? Reading Glasses vs Varifocals
Post on 3rd September 2025
As we get older, many of us notice changes in our vision. Holding books at arm’s length, struggling with menus or finding close-up tasks more difficult are all common signs of presbyopia, the natural, age-related decline in near vision.
The good news is there are excellent solutions available. But with options like reading glasses and varifocals, choosing the right pair can feel confusing. Understanding how varifocals work can help you make an informed choice about which lenses suit your lifestyle best.
At Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care, with more than 85 years of experience, we help thousands of people choose the right lenses every year. Here’s a simple guide to help you decide.
Understanding the basics
Reading glasses – single-vision lenses designed for close-up tasks, usually around 35–40cm away. They’re perfect for books, newspapers, or hobbies that need precision and detail.
Varifocals (also known as progressive lenses), multifocal lenses that blend different strengths in one lens. They give clear vision at all distances – near, intermediate, and far – without visible dividing lines.
So, how do varifocals work? The top of the lens is designed for distance vision, the middle for intermediate vision (such as computer work), and the bottom for close-up tasks like reading. This seamless gradient allows your eyes to move naturally between zones without switching glasses.
The case for reading glasses
Reading glasses are often the simplest and most affordable option if your distance vision is still sharp. They’re ideal for:
- Reading books, newspapers, and magazines
- Working on a computer or doing admin tasks
- Crafting, sewing, or other close-up hobbies
Benefits of reading glasses:
- Affordable and practical – usually cheaper than varifocals, and you can keep pairs in different places.
- Instant comfort – no adjustment period; most people adapt immediately.
- Wide field of view – the whole lens is designed for near vision, so reading feels natural.
When varifocals make more sense
Varifocals are ideal if you need support for both near and distance vision, or if switching between different pairs of glasses feels inconvenient. They’re particularly helpful if you:
- Drive regularly and need clear vision at all distances
- Work in environments requiring frequent focus shifts
- Enjoy hobbies like theatre, sport, or cooking where distances vary
- Want the convenience of one pair of glasses for everything
Advantages of varifocals:
- Intermediate vision support – the mid-zone is perfect for tasks like computer work or playing instruments.
- All-round convenience – no need to swap between pairs once you’ve adapted.
Factors to consider
- Lifestyle: If you drive, work at multiple distances, or have an active lifestyle, varifocals may be the most practical.
- Prescription strength: Milder prescriptions (+1.00 to +1.50) often suit reading glasses, while stronger ones benefit from varifocals.
- Budget: While reading glasses are cheaper, varifocals can be more cost-effective if you also need distance correction.
- Adaptation: Reading glasses need no adjustment, while varifocals take a short period to get used to.
Common misconceptions
“Varifocals are only for older people.” – Not true. Many people in their 40s benefit from varifocals to manage presbyopia while maintaining distance clarity.
“Reading glasses will make my eyes worse.” – A myth. Reading glasses don’t weaken your eyes; they simply correct near vision as your eyes age naturally.
“I can just buy reading glasses off the shelf.” – Ready-made glasses might work for mild prescriptions, but a professional eye test ensures each eye has accurate correction and screens for other eye conditions.
Making your decision – we’re here to help
Choosing between reading glasses and varifocals is a personal decision based on your lifestyle, prescription, and comfort. At Scrivens Opticians & Hearing Care, our experienced optometrists take time to understand how you live and work so they can recommend the right lenses for you.
During your comprehensive eye examination, we’ll assess your vision, explain how varifocals work, and discuss the pros and cons of each option. Remember: eyesight changes over time, so what suits you now may need adjusting in the future.
If you’d like professional advice on whether reading glasses or varifocals are right for you, visit your local Scrivens branch or explore more expert guidance on our website.