Choosing the right spectacle lenses can completely transform your vision, comfort and day-to-day experience. With so many different types of spectacle lenses available — single vision, varifocals, occupational lenses and more — it can be difficult to know which option is truly right for you.
As a registered Dispensing Optician, I’ve put together this simple, expert guide to help you understand the different lens types, when to choose them, and how they can enhance your eyewear.
Whether you’re browsing our
Spectacles for Her
or
Spectacles for Him,
your lenses matter just as much as the frames you choose.
⭐ What Are the Main Types of Spectacle Lenses?
Different lenses are designed for different visual needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types of spectacle lenses and when each one is recommended.
1. Single Vision Lenses
These lenses correct vision at one distance — either near, intermediate or far.
Ideal for:
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Reading glasses
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Computer use at one fixed distance
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Everyday distance spectacles
They remain the simplest and most widely used lens option.
2. Varifocal (Progressive) Lenses
Varifocal lenses combine multiple prescriptions into one pair of glasses, allowing clear vision at all distances with no visible dividing lines.
Perfect for:
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People aged 40+ experiencing presbyopia
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Anyone wanting just one pair for near, computer and distance
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Seamless, natural vision throughout the day
Digital varifocals now offer incredibly smooth transitions and wider, clearer fields of view.
⭐ 3. Occupational Lenses (Office Lenses)
Google is already ranking Burghley & Co for queries like what are occupational glasses, occupational lenses and occupational varifocals, so let’s explain these clearly.
Occupational lenses are designed specifically for close-up and mid-distance tasks — especially ideal for:
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Office and computer work
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Long hours at a desk
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Craft, artwork or technical tasks
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Reducing neck and shoulder strain
Compared to standard varifocals, occupational lenses give far wider and more comfortable intermediate zones, making them perfect for those who spend much of the day looking at screens or paperwork.
4. Thin & Light High-Index Lenses
These lenses reduce thickness and weight, offering:
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A slimmer appearance
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Better comfort for high prescriptions
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A more refined, premium look
Available in 1.60, 1.67 and 1.74 index materials.
5. Blue Light & Anti-Reflection Coatings
While not a lens type themselves, coatings play a huge role in clarity and comfort.
We recommend:
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Premium anti-reflection coating (for sharper vision and reduced glare)
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Blue light protection for digital screen use
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UV protection for outdoor environments
These coatings are available across our full lens range.
⭐ Which Lens Type Is Right for You?
✔ If you work at a computer → choose Occupational Lenses
Great for comfort and wider mid-range clarity.
✔ If you want one pair for everything → choose Varifocals
Perfect all-rounders.
✔ If you only need help for reading → Single Vision Reading Lenses
✔ If you want thinner, lighter glasses → choose High-Index Lenses
For personalised advice, you can always contact Burghley & Co for expert guidance.
⭐ Explore Our Lens Collection
Browse our full range of premium lens options here:
👉 Lens Collection
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⭐ Find the Perfect Frames
Pair your lenses with our curated designer eyewear collections:
🕶 Spectacles for Her
👓 Spectacles for Him
Each frame is hand-selected for quality, balance and style — with professional dispensing support available.
⭐ Need Expert Optical Advice?
As a registered Dispensing Optician, I offer:
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1-to-1 at-home styling consultations
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Personalised varifocal & occupational lens recommendations
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Frame selection support
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Detailed guidance based on your prescription & lifestyle
Feel free to get in touch anytime for tailored advice.