If you are here reading this, you are most likely considering the option of buying your next eyewear purchase online. There is no doubt online purchasing is a more convenient way of shopping, yet are you getting the same quality and service compared to a physical retail store? Amid claims of online stores selling fake products, it can seem too risky for some- with extra low pricing calling for raised suspicion. However, there are also plenty of legitimate online stores that sell quality branded products at a cheaper price point. To help us investigate further, let us look into the pros and cons of buying online versus retail.

Pros of buying eyewear online

Price: The biggest positive to buying online is the cheaper price point. Contact lenses and glasses can be much cheaper due to fewer in-house costs, and less need to mark up. Therefore, it doesn’t make sense to pay more, when you can purchase the same quality brands for less.

Convenience: It is no secret that one of the main appeals of online shopping is the convenience. With the comfort of shopping from your own home, whenever you want, you can order your contact lenses or glasses without the hassle of leaving your front door.

Prompt Delivery: Online stores usually offer fast shipping and delivery services, leaving less time to wait for your order. This is especially handy if you have run out of contact lenses because you forgot to order, meaning you do not have to wait for as long in-between.

Extensive Range with Quality Brands: A large range of products to choose from is also available through online retailers, giving you more choice and options compared to in-store. When looking through products online, look for sites that provide extended information about the product, including power options, and key features.

Cons of buying eyewear online

No Physical Appointment: When buying online it is imperative that you are already aware of your prescriptive power from your optometrist, as incorrect lenses can cause problems for your eyes. This includes lenses that are not the correct fit which can lead to eye irritation, or more serious conditions like infections, corneal ulcers, and vision loss. If it is your first time, or you are thinking of changing to a different lens, having a physical eye appointment is recommended so your optometrist can fit the right lens for you.

Risk of Counterfeit or Damaged Lenses: When shopping online, there is a chance that you could be buying products that are already damaged or not approved for wear, and in turn can increase the chance of serious eye infections. When buying online, ensure you are buying from a reputable supplier, and check that you are familiar with the brand. Always check your lenses before use, as products may become damaged through delivery.

Lack of Knowledge: Another point to consider when purchasing online are some sellers do not have any knowledge about the products they are selling compared with an in-house professional. Always make sure that your choice of online store has assistants that are knowledgeable and able to answer your questions.

Risk of Incorrect Purchase: If you are not familiar with what you acquire in terms of eyewear, then online purchasing poses a higher chance of you obtaining the wrong product for your eyes.

Pros of buying retail eyewear

Building Relationships with Expertise: Going in-store gives you a face-to-face interaction that you cannot get online. Building a relationship with your optometrist or sales assistant can instil feelings of trust in the product, or to help answer questions relating to your eye health. This can leave you with feelings of comfort through their expertise knowledge, compared to an online customer service assistant who you cannot see.

Higher Guarantee of Quality Products: You can be fairly assured that the products you are buying from your retail store are approved and deemed safe for your eyes. The brands of eyewear they stock are reputable brands, delivering to you a peace of mind where you needn’t worry about purchasing fake goods.

Correct Power and Proper Fitting: Buying from a retail store enables the option for your optometrist to test your lenses before you buy. This helps to ensure you are getting the correct prescription and proper fit before leaving the store. This not only aids in protecting your eye health, but saves issues of having to repurchase another product.

Cons of buying retail eyewear

More Expensive: It is no surprise that in-store retailers are more expensive than online stores for the same product.

Inconvenient: With less time in people’s busy schedules, it makes going in-store more of an inconvenience, especially when you already know what it is you want and can easily order from your phone.

Limited Choice: You may find that your retail store only carries a certain number of products due to limited space. Retail stores are inclined to stock products that are familiar and in favour, so they tend to be limited if you require another product outside of these parameters.

Both online and retail can be great choices in purchasing eyewear. Ultimately, it comes down to your preference and your needs. Both can offer quality eyewear catered to your requirements, some at cheaper price points than others. Buying eyewear online is especially beneficial when you are already familiar with the eyewear you need. Bare in mind, if shopping online, conduct some research on the site you are considering buying from to ensure they are legitimate. Also keep note of the brands they stock and familiarise yourself with these products. With these points in mind, have a think and make the decision for yourself.

Remember…

When ordering online, remember to know your prescriptive power before you buy. This makes things a lot easier when choosing your eyewear. Not only are you guaranteed to choose the correct product, but you are saving the hassle of having to repurchase or doing damage to your eyes.

Another important reminder is to take note of the brand and type of lens you normally buy so you can match it online. Familiarising yourself with this is helpful in preventing you from buying a product that may not be suitable.