Single Vision Lenses

Published on September 18th, 2023

Updated on August 29th, 2025

Single vision lenses have one prescription over the lens surface. If you need help seeing at a single distance, such as close up, these lenses may help provide the appropriate vision correction.

Keep reading to find out more about our single vision lenses at Oscar Wylee.

What are Single Vision Lenses?

Single vision lenses are a type of glasses lens that have one power, or prescription, over the whole surface of the lens. Depending on the prescription, single vision lenses can provide correction for distance vision or near vision.

When are Single Vision Lenses Prescribed?

Single vision lenses will often be prescribed to people who require a single vision correction. If you have trouble with close work for instance, which includes reading small text at a near distance, you may be prescribed reading glasses. Reading glasses are a single vision lens that are powered to correct issues such as longsightedness (hyperopia), presbyopia, an age related condition in which your eyes struggle to focus on close objects, and may also relieve eye strain for those who engage in frequent screen work.

Single vision lenses may also be prescribed if you have trouble seeing things far away. These lenses will have one prescription to help correct shortsightedness (myopia) and help people see things in the distance.

Single Vision Lenses vs Bifocal Lenses

Unlike single vision lenses, bifocal lenses can correct short-sightedness and long-sightedness, within the one pair of glasses. Bifocal lenses have two prescriptions or powers within the one lens. They are designed to help people who have trouble seeing at two different distances. Each prescription is separated by a visible line, so the wearer can know where to look for each distance.

What is the Difference Between Single Vision Lenses and Multifocal (Progressive) Lenses?

Multifocal lenses, which may also be referred to as progressive lenses, have multiple powers or prescriptions over the one lens surface. This means the wearer can see near, intermediate and far distances all in the one lens. However, unlike bifocals, these lenses do not have a visible line separating each power or prescription, so the transition from one to another is blended. Read more about these lens types on our multifocal page.

How Much do Single Vision Lenses Cost?

At Oscar Wylee, we provide a range of different lenses, from single vision to multifocal. We also have blue light filters and photochromic lens options. You can shop our range of lenses and frames online, or come into one of our stores, where our staff can help you find the lens that’s right for you. Find your nearest Oscar Wylee on our store locator page.

The Lens Index

When talking about lens types, you may often come across the phrase lens index. The lens index is a group of values that refers to how well a lens can refract light. The higher the index, the thinner and lighter the lens will be.

Single vision lenses can come in several different indexes. Generally, the stronger a prescription, the thicker and heavier the lens. The thickness and weight can be reduced by choosing a higher index lens. At Oscar Wylee we provide several indexes for your lenses including:

1.5 Index Lens

The 1.5 lens is the standard lens thickness for glasses at Oscar Wylee. This lens is suitable for those with a mild prescription.

1.6 Mid Index Lens

The 1.6 lenses are thinner than the 1.5 lens and are for people with moderate to stronger prescriptions.

1.67 Index Lens

These lenses are ideal for those with stronger prescription needs. They are thinner than the standard 1.5 lens.

1.74 Index Lens

This is the thinnest lens we offer here at Oscar Wylee. It is recommended for strong prescriptions.

Do I Need Single Vision Lenses?

If you think you may need prescription lenses, whether it be single vision lenses or any other type, it is always recommended that you come in and see the team at Oscar Wylee for an eye test. Use our online booking page to make an appointment and our optometrists will be able to determine if you need prescription lenses.

Read Single Vision Lenses in other Oscar Wylee regions and their languages.