What is a varifocal?

A varifocal lens changes power gradually from top to bottom, with no visible line. You look through the top for distance, the middle for arm's-length tasks like a computer screen or car dashboard, and the bottom for reading. From around our mid-40s most of us start to find close work harder, and varifocals mean one pair of glasses instead of swapping between two.

Most people get used to new varifocals within a week or two of wearing them full time. Your optometrist will take precise measurements so the lens sits exactly right for your eyes and your frame.

Varifocal prices

Varifocals are added on top of the frame you choose, measured and fitted to work in that frame.

As your reading prescription increases with age, so does the blur at the sides of a varifocal. Each Zeiss tier uses more advanced lens design to counteract it, and all three include free Zeiss Photofusion. Your optometrist will confirm the right level at your eye test.

NHS optical vouchers can go towards varifocals if you qualify. Just pay the difference.

Standard varifocals +£125On top of your frame. A modern digital varifocal with thinner 1.6 index lenses and anti-glare included. A good everyday choice when your reading prescription is still mild or you're new to varifocals.
Zeiss varifocals, tier 1 +£250On top of your frame. Usually advised in your 40s or for a milder reading prescription.
Zeiss varifocals, tier 2 +£350On top of your frame. Usually advised in your 50s or for a moderate reading prescription.
Zeiss varifocals, tier 3 +£500On top of your frame. Usually advised from your 60s or for a stronger reading prescription.
Second pair Half priceOn all private complete pairs, including varifocals and lens upgrades.
Private eye test £30 offHave your private eye test with us and buy varifocals, and the £30 test fee comes off your glasses.
Lens consultation Free20 minutes with an optometrist to choose the right varifocal for your prescription, lifestyle and budget.
Free Zeiss Photofusion on all Zeiss varifocals at Direct Vision Opticians Birmingham — saving up to £100

Free Zeiss Photofusion on every Zeiss varifocal

Photofusion lenses darken outdoors in sunlight and clear again indoors, so your varifocals double as sunglasses. Included free on all three Zeiss varifocal tiers.

Learn more about Zeiss lenses
Zeiss occupational lenses at Direct Vision Opticians Birmingham — designed for screen and desk use

Mostly at a desk or screen?

Zeiss occupational lenses give you a wider middle zone than a varifocal, ideal for long days at a computer. Many people have varifocals for everyday wear and an occupational pair for work, and the second pair is half price. Ask us in practice for pricing.

Varifocal questions

How long does it take to get used to varifocals?

Most people adapt within a week or two if they wear them full time. Every pair comes with our 28-day varifocal adaptation guarantee: if they still don't feel right, come back and we'll check them, fix any issue, or exchange them for another solution.

Why do varifocal prices vary so much?

It comes down to lens design. As your reading prescription increases, a basic varifocal design gets more blur at the sides. More advanced designs widen the clear zones to counteract it. We'll recommend the right level for your prescription and how you use your eyes, and fit it to your chosen frame.

What's the difference between standard and Zeiss varifocals?

Standard varifocals are a modern digital design and a good everyday choice for a milder reading prescription. Zeiss varifocals use more advanced lens design for wider, clearer zones, which matters more as your reading prescription increases, and come with free Photofusion. Book a free lens consultation and we'll help you choose.

How long do varifocals take to make?

Usually 10 to 14 days from ordering.

Can I use my NHS voucher towards varifocals?

Yes. If you qualify for an NHS optical voucher, you can put it towards varifocals and pay the difference. Check if you qualify.

Can I put varifocal lenses in my own frames?

Usually, yes. See reglazing your glasses. Bring your frames and a valid prescription.

Ready for varifocals?

Book an eye test, or bring your current prescription to Great Barr or Sheldon.