When it comes to eyeglasses, selecting the right lenses is a critical decision, as it directly impacts your vision quality, comfort, and aesthetics. Two commonly encountered options in the world of eyewear are CR39 lenses and Anti-Reflection (Multicoated) lenses. CR39 lenses are crafted from a specific type of plastic known for their optical clarity and lightweight characteristics. On the other hand, Anti-Reflection (AR) or Multicoated lenses refer to a specialized coating applied to eyeglass lenses, regardless of their base material, to reduce glare and enhance visual clarity. In this comparison, we will explore the main features of CR39 lenses and Anti-Reflection (Multicoated) lenses, helping you make an informed choice for your eyewear needs.
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CR39 Lenses:
- Material: CR39 lenses are made from a type of plastic called allyl diglycol carbonate. They are also known as organic or plastic lenses.
- Optical Clarity: CR39 lenses provide good optical clarity, making them a popular choice for eyeglasses. They offer excellent vision correction and are suitable for most prescriptions.
- Weight: CR39 lenses are relatively lightweight, which makes them comfortable to wear for extended periods.
- Durability: While CR39 lenses are not as impact-resistant as some other materials like polycarbonate or Trivex, they are still reasonably durable and can withstand everyday use.
- Thickness: CR39 lenses can be thicker than some high-index lens materials, especially for stronger prescriptions. This may result in thicker lenses, which can be less aesthetically pleasing in some frame styles.
- Scratch Resistance: CR39 lenses have moderate scratch resistance but are not as scratch-resistant as some other lens materials.
Anti-Reflection (Multicoated) Lenses:
- Coating: Anti-Reflection (AR) or Multicoated lenses have a specialized coating applied to the lens surfaces. This coating reduces glare and reflections, enhancing the visual clarity of the wearer.
- Glare Reduction: The primary feature of AR-coated lenses is their ability to reduce glare from artificial light sources, such as computer screens or headlights from oncoming vehicles. This improves both visual comfort and the appearance of the glasses.
- Clarity: AR-coated lenses offer better visual clarity by allowing more light to pass through the lenses and reach the eyes. This reduces halos and ghosting effects, especially in low-light conditions.
- Anti-Scratch Properties: While not their primary feature, AR-coated lenses often include some level of scratch resistance, which can help protect the lens surface from minor scratches.
- Anti-Smudge: Some AR coatings also have oleophobic and hydrophobic properties, making them resistant to smudges, fingerprints, and water droplets. This makes cleaning and maintaining the lenses easier.
- Compatibility: Anti-Reflection coatings can be applied to various lens materials, including CR39. They work well with both prescription and non-prescription lenses.
Conclusion:
CR39 lenses are a type of plastic lens material known for their optical clarity and lightweight nature but may not have the same level of scratch resistance and thinness as other materials. On the other hand, Anti-Reflection (Multicoated) lenses are not a specific lens material but rather refer to a coating applied to lenses to reduce glare, improve visual clarity, and enhance the overall appearance of eyeglasses. These coatings can be applied to CR39 lenses and various other lens materials, providing benefits in terms of glare reduction and improved visual comfort.