Reading Glasses by Strength

Every reading glasses style we sell, sorted by strength. We stock every strength from +0.50 to +4.00, including the quarter steps that most shops do not carry.

How to find your strength

Print our free eye chart at 100%, hold it where you normally read and find the smallest line you can read without strain. The strength printed beside that line is the one to order.

A rough guide by age

  • 40 to 44: +0.75 to +1.00
  • 45 to 49: +1.00 to +1.50
  • 50 to 54: +1.50 to +2.00
  • 55 to 59: +2.00 to +2.50
  • 60 and over: +2.50 to +3.00

This is only a guide. An eye test with an optometrist is the most reliable way to know.

A different strength for the computer

Screens sit further away than a book. Many people choose about 0.50 less for computer work: +2.00 for the screen if you read with +2.50.

When ready readers are not enough

See an optometrist if each eye needs a different strength, if you have astigmatism, or if your eyesight changes suddenly.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find my reading glasses strength?

Print our free eye chart at 100%, hold it where you usually read and find the smallest line you can read without strain. The strength beside that line is the one to order.

Which strengths do you stock?

Every strength from +0.50 to +4.00, including quarter steps such as +1.25, +2.25 and +3.75 that many shops do not carry.

What if my reading glasses feel too strong?

If you have to hold things closer than normal, or reading feels uncomfortable, choose the next strength down.

Should I use a lower strength for the computer?

Many people do. A screen is further away than a book, so about 0.50 less often feels better: +2.00 for the screen if you read with +2.50.

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