Pros
- Most affordable lens type.
- Used to correct nearsightedness and farsightedness.
- Typically no adjustment period needed to get used to.
Lens Material | Refractive Index | Abbe Value | Key Features and Benefits |
---|---|---|---|
High-index plastics | 1.70 to 1.74 | 36 (1.70)
33 (1.74) | The thinnest lenses available. Block 100 percent UV. Lightweight. |
High-index plastics | 1.60 to 1.67 | 36 (1.60)
32 (1.67) | Thin and lightweight.
Block 100 percent UV. Less costly than 1.70-1.74 high-index lenses. |
Tribrid | 1.60 | 41 | Thin and lightweight.
Significantly more impact-resistant than CR-39 plastic and high-index plastic lenses (except polycarbonate and Trivex). Higher Abbe value than polycarbonate. Downside: Not yet available in a wide variety of lens designs. |
Polycarbonate | 1.586 | 30 | Superior impact resistance.
Blocks 100 percent UV. Lighter than high-index plastic lenses. |
Trivex | 1.54 | 45 | Superior impact resistance.
Blocks 100 percent UV. Higher Abbe value than polycarbonate. Lightest lens material available. |
CR-39 plastic | 1.498 | 58 | Excellent optics.
Low cost. Downside: thickness. |
Crown glass | 1.523 | 59 | Excellent optics.
Low cost. Downsides: heavy, breakable. |