Switching to contact lenses or simply looking for the safest and most affordable option? One of the first questions most people ask is: “How much do contact lenses cost?” With so many different types of lenses on the market – each with their own prices, features and wear schedules – it can be hard to know what to expect.
The good news? There are safe, high-quality, cost-effective options out there. In this article, we’ll break down what you can expect to pay for contact lenses, factors that impact cost and some practical ways to save without compromising eye health.
What should contact lenses cost?
The American Academy of Optometry estimates that 40 million Americans wear contact lenses, but many could be overpaying by purchasing them directly from in-person opticians rather than exploring online options.
Buying direct from the lens manufacturer is best value - daysoft are the only contact lens manufacturer who offer direct online sales to wearers.
In the US, after you complete an eye exam (typically around $50) and a contact lens fitting (usually an additional $30-$50), federal law mandates that optometrists must provide a copy of your prescription. This allows consumers to shop around for the best deals, whether online or through various retailers.
Opticians often bundle monthly plans that include lenses, cleaning solutions and check-ups, but exploring online options can offer significant savings for all lens types.
The cost of contact lenses can depend on several key factors, including the type of lenses, prescription needs and brand. Costs are very significantly affected by the sale and supply model - buying direct from the lens manufacturer, like daysoft, will offer best value.
Here are some of the most common types of lenses and their typical price ranges:
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Daily disposable lenses
- These lenses are worn once and then discarded, offering the highest level of convenience and hygiene.
- Typical cost: between $0.75 and $2 per lens, which is about $45-$120 per month for both eyes, depending on the brand.
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Frequent or planned replacement lenses
- Worn and replaced typically every two weeks, every month, or every three months with ab appropriate cleaning schedule.
- Typical cost: between $15-$35 for a box of three to six pairs of lenses, depending on the brand.
- Frequent or planned replacement lenses carry significantly higher risks of microbial keratitis and loss of vision.
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Toric lenses (for astigmatism)
- Toric lenses are available in daily disposable versions and are specially designed for people with astigmatism.
- Typical cost: these tend to be more expensive due to their unique design, ranging from around $1-$3 per lens.
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Multifocal lenses (for presbyopia)
- If you need lenses for both near and distance vision correction, multifocal lenses are a great choice, but they tend to be on the higher end of the pricing scale.
- Typical cost: around $50-$120 per month, depending on the brand.
What influences contact lens prices?
The price of contact lenses depends on factors beyond just the type of lens. Understanding what influences the cost can help you make a more informed choice:
- Sale and supply model: lenses supplied directly by the manufacturer offer best value.
- Prescription: lenses for certain prescriptions, like high astigmatism or multifocal lenses, often cost more because of the customisation involved in their design.
- Brand: as with many products, brand names can impact the price. Some popular brands charge more due to their reputation or unique features, but there are quality alternatives that provide the same benefits at a lower cost.
- Packaging: bulk buying can often save money, with larger packs of daily lenses lenses often being more cost-effective per lens than smaller packs.
How much do contact lenses cost at daysoft?
daysoft offers high-quality, reassuringly affordable daily disposable lenses, making them a top choice for those looking to cut down on contact lens costs. daysoft lenses are priced at approximately $0.30 per lens, which means you could pay as little as $21.12 per month for a complete daily disposable contact lens experience (including delivery).
daysoft achieves these savings by manufacturing and supplying their own lenses directly to consumers, cutting out middlemen and reducing packaging waste.
Tips for saving money on contact lenses
Whether you’re a first-time contact lens wearer or an experienced user, there are several ways to keep costs down without compromising on quality or eye health:
1.Buy in bulk
If you have a stable prescription, buying larger packs can save you money in the long run. Look for deals on packs with more lenses, as they tend to offer a lower per-lens cost.
2. Consider subscription services
Some companies, including daysoft, offer subscription services that allow you to get a fresh supply of lenses delivered regularly at a discounted rate. Not only is this convenient, but it can help reduce costs over time.
3. Compare prices across brands
Not all contact lens brands have the same pricing. Do a bit of comparison to see if you can find a quality lens at a lower price. Don’t overlook trusted, direct-to-consumer brands like daysoft, which offer premium lenses at a fraction of the cost.
4. Get regular eye exams
Maintaining a regular check-up schedule with your eye doctor ensures your prescription is up to date, so you won’t waste money on lenses that no longer match your needs. Your doctor can also help you find cost-effective options that still support your eye health.
Why daysoft is a cost-effective choice for daily disposables
daysoft’s daily disposables are specifically designed to offer quality at an affordable price. By selling directly to consumers, we cut out the need for additional markups, passing on the savings to you. Each lens is made from breathable, soft material that keeps your eyes comfortable throughout the day while being gentle on sensitive eyes.
Our Soft-Edge technology creates a rounded, continuous lens edge, unlike the traditional beveled designs. This smooth edge lets your eyelids move comfortably over the lenses, enhancing the wearing experience.
Inserting daysoft lenses is quick and easy. Despite their ultra-thin structure, each lens is positioned in the blister pack consistently, thanks to our innovative INPAC technology. This prevents any folding and ensures the lenses are ready to use. Simply “scoop” the lens onto your fingertip for secure handling and a smooth, reliable application every time.
Using daily disposables also means you won’t have to spend money on contact lens cleaning solutions, saving you even more over time. And because they’re replaced every day, daily disposables are also the most hygienic option, reducing the risk of eye infections and ensuring that your lenses are always fresh. Read more about why daysoft provides the best value contact lenses in this article.
Is it worth paying more for branded contact lenses?
Branded lenses often carry a higher price tag because of marketing and distribution costs. However, they don’t necessarily offer a better experience or quality than alternatives. For example, daysoft lenses provide everything you’d expect from a premium brand, from comfort to visual clarity, at a more affordable price.
Keeping eye health a priority
Affordable lenses are great, but eye health should always come first. Choosing lenses that are comfortable, high-quality and suited to your prescription is key. Avoid stretching the wear time of your lenses and keep up with routine eye checkups to make sure your prescription is up to date. If your lenses don’t feel right, it’s important to consult your optometrist.
So, how much do contact lenses cost?
The cost of contact lenses varies widely based on the type, brand and prescription, but with some research, you can find affordable options that meet your needs. For anyone looking to save on daily lenses, daysoft’s daily disposables provide an affordable, high-quality option that’s comfortable, convenient and cost-effective.
Understanding what contact lenses cost can help you make informed decisions about your eye care. Whether you prefer dailies or monthlies, premium brands or budget-friendly alternatives, there’s an option out there for you. Remember that lenses like daysoft’s daily disposables offer a high-quality and affordable solution that doesn’t compromise your eye health.
If you’re ready to explore a cost-effective, reliable lens option, give daysoft’s dailies a try – they might just be the perfect fit for your budget and lifestyle.
