Varifocal lenses can completely transform day-to-day vision when they are designed, fitted and dispensed properly. They allow you to move between distance, intermediate and reading vision without constantly changing glasses.

But when corners are cut, varifocals can quickly become frustrating. Blurred edges, narrow reading areas, distortion, headaches and difficulty adapting are all common complaints.

At Burghley & Co, we regularly speak to customers who have previously been told they “just can’t wear varifocals” when in reality the issue was often poor fitting, unsuitable frames or basic lens design.

As a UK Registered Dispensing Optician-led business, our approach is simple: premium eyewear and proper optical guidance should feel more accessible online — without sacrificing the details that actually matter.

Cheap varifocals are not always bad — but they are often basic

The issue is not simply price. The problem is usually what has been compromised to reach that lower price point.

Varifocal lenses are significantly more complex than single vision lenses. They contain different zones for distance, intermediate and near vision, all blended together into one lens.

When the lens design is too basic, those zones can feel narrow, uncomfortable or difficult to use naturally.

Learn more about the different prescription lens options available at Burghley & Co.

1. The reading area can feel too narrow

One of the biggest complaints with cheaper varifocals is the reading area.

Customers often describe it as:

• “I can only read through one tiny spot.”
• “I have to move my head constantly.”
• “The edges feel blurry.”
• “I can’t seem to find the clear area.”

This usually happens because more basic varifocal designs provide less usable visual space. The wearer has to work harder to find the correct viewing position, making the glasses feel unnatural.

Good varifocals should feel comfortable and intuitive once adapted to properly.

2. The intermediate zone is often compromised

The intermediate zone is one of the most important areas in modern varifocal lenses. It is used for:

• Computer screens
• Cooking
• Dashboard vision
• Shop shelves
• Desk work
• Arm’s-length tasks

This is also one of the areas where cheaper varifocals often struggle most.

You may achieve acceptable distance and reading vision, but the middle area can feel narrow or uncomfortable. For customers who spend long periods on screens or moving between distances throughout the day, this can become tiring quickly.

For some wearers, an occupational lens may actually be more suitable than a traditional varifocal depending on how the glasses are used.

3. Poor measurements can ruin even a good lens

One of the biggest reasons online varifocals fail is inaccurate measurements.

Varifocals are measurement-sensitive lenses. The positioning of the lens in front of the eye matters significantly. If the fitting height, pupillary distance or frame positioning is incorrect, the lens may never perform properly.

This is why the “upload your prescription and hope for the best” approach often creates problems.

At Burghley & Co, our varifocal ordering process is designed differently. We send the frame to you first so you can try it on, check the fit and use the Eye Measure app to help take the required measurements before the lenses are glazed.

That process helps reduce many of the common problems associated with ordering varifocals online.

4. The wrong frame can make varifocals much harder to use

Frame choice matters more than many people realise.

Very shallow frames or styles with limited lens depth can make varifocals harder to use because there is less space available for the distance, intermediate and reading zones.

A stylish frame is important, but with varifocals the frame also needs to function well optically.

Browse our collection of designer prescription glasses suitable for both single vision and varifocal lenses.

We also recommend exploring our curated Optician’s Choice collection, featuring frames selected for comfort, fit and everyday wearability.

5. Stronger prescriptions often need thinner lenses

With stronger prescriptions, lens thickness becomes more noticeable — especially in certain frame styles.

Choosing the cheapest lens material can sometimes leave the finished glasses feeling thicker or heavier than expected.

Depending on the prescription and frame choice, thinner lens options such as 1.6, 1.67 or 1.74 may create a cleaner and more comfortable result.

Learn more about our Thin & Light lens options.

6. Cheap varifocals can become a false economy

A cheap pair of varifocals only represents value if they are comfortable enough to wear properly.

If the lenses cause headaches, poor reading comfort or constant frustration, the saving quickly disappears. Many customers eventually end up replacing or upgrading poorly chosen varifocals.

At Burghley & Co, we believe the goal should not simply be the cheapest possible lens. The goal should be the right combination of frame, lens design and fitting process for the individual wearer.

How to avoid problems when buying varifocals online

If you are ordering varifocals online, these are some of the most important things to consider:

• Choose a frame with enough depth for varifocal lenses.
• Make sure accurate measurements are taken.
• Consider how you use your glasses day to day.
• Think about screen use, driving and reading needs.
• Consider thinner lenses for stronger prescriptions.
• Avoid choosing purely on price.
• Buy from a business that understands lenses, not just fashion.

Why Burghley & Co approaches varifocals differently

We understand that ordering varifocals online can feel intimidating.

That is why our process is designed to combine online convenience with proper optical guidance.

• You choose your frame and lens options online.
• We send the frame first for you to try on.
• You use the Eye Measure app to help take measurements.
• The frame is returned for glazing.
• Your lenses are professionally checked before dispatch.

This approach helps create a more personalised and accurate varifocal experience compared with many traditional online ordering systems.

Explore our full Confidence Policy to learn more about ordering prescription eyewear online with Burghley & Co.

Premium eyewear should still feel accessible

At Burghley & Co, our goal has never been to become the cheapest online glasses retailer.

Our focus is on offering premium designer eyewear, quality lenses and proper optical guidance at fair and accessible pricing.

Whether you are choosing single vision lenses, varifocals, thinner lenses or prescription sunglasses, we believe customers should feel properly supported throughout the process.

Explore our Luxury Collection and designer sunglasses collection for styles suitable for prescription and varifocal lenses.

Final thought

Cheap varifocals often fail because too much is left to chance — poor measurements, unsuitable frames, weak lens design or incorrect lens choices for the wearer’s lifestyle.

Good varifocals need more than just a prescription. They need the right fitting process, suitable frames, accurate measurements and thoughtful lens selection.

At Burghley & Co, we believe buying prescription eyewear online should feel more personal, more transparent and more expertly guided than the traditional “add to basket and hope for the best” approach.

FAQs

Why do some people struggle with varifocals?

Many people struggle with varifocals because of poor measurements, unsuitable frames or overly basic lens designs. Accurate fitting and proper lens selection make a significant difference.

Are cheap varifocals always bad?

No, but cheaper varifocals are often more basic and may provide narrower visual zones or less comfortable intermediate vision compared with premium lens designs.

Can I buy varifocals online safely?

Yes, but the fitting process matters. Burghley & Co uses a frame-first approach so measurements can be taken before the lenses are glazed.

What is the biggest mistake when buying varifocals?

The biggest mistake is choosing purely on price without considering frame suitability, measurements or lens design.

Do I need Thin & Light lenses with varifocals?

Not always. However, stronger prescriptions often benefit from thinner lens materials for improved comfort and appearance.