Buying contact lenses online offers convenience, competitive pricing, and a wide range of choices. Here’s a look at some of the top online contact lens retailers, with detailed reviews of their offerings, prices, and customer service.
1. 1-800 Contacts
Overview:
1-800 Contacts is a leader in the online contact lens market, offering a massive selection of lenses from top brands.
Key Features:
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Broad Selection: Stocks popular brands like Acuvue, Air Optix, and Bausch + Lomb.
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Price Match Guarantee: Will match competitor prices on identical products.
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Convenience: Easy prescription verification process and fast delivery.
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Free Shipping: Free standard shipping on most orders.
Pros:
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Reliable customer service and easy ordering.
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Price match guarantees and fast shipping.
Cons:
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Slightly higher pricing compared to some other options.
2. GlassesUSA
Overview:
Known primarily for eyeglasses, GlassesUSA also offers an excellent selection of contact lenses with competitive pricing.
Key Features:
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Affordable Pricing: Regular discounts and promotions.
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Prescription Assistance: Online vision tests for qualifying customers.
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Free Shipping: Free shipping on all orders.
Pros:
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Great for budget-conscious buyers.
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Offers both eyewear and contact lenses.
Cons:
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Limited selection compared to dedicated contact lens retailers.
3. Contact Lens King
Overview:
Specializing in contacts, Contact Lens King focuses on offering lenses at some of the most affordable prices online.
Key Features:
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Low Prices: Known for some of the best prices in the industry.
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Wide Variety: Offers major brands and specialty lenses.
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Subscription Service: Option for auto-delivery of lenses.
Pros:
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Extremely low prices and solid customer service.
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Convenient auto-ship option.
Cons:
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Outdated website and slow customer service response.
4. Discount Contact Lenses
Overview:
One of the longest-standing online retailers, Discount Contact Lenses combines a vast selection with competitive pricing.
Key Features:
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Discounted Prices: Often offers lenses at lower-than-average prices.
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Easy Prescription Upload: Quick prescription verification.
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Free Shipping: Free shipping for most orders.
Pros:
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Regular discounts and reliable service.
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Easy to navigate website.
Cons:
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Limited returns process compared to some competitors.
5. Lens.com
Overview:
Lens.com has been around for more than 20 years and is known for offering a large variety of contact lenses and strong customer service.
Key Features:
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Brand Variety: Includes major brands like Acuvue, Alcon, and more.
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Regular Promotions: Frequent deals and discounts.
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Auto-Refill Program: Ensures you don’t run out of lenses.
Pros:
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Good variety and regular discounts.
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Long-standing reputation for customer satisfaction.
Cons:
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Website can be overwhelming with so many options.
6. Coastal
Overview:
Primarily known for eyewear, Coastal also offers a solid range of contact lenses with a focus on great customer service.
Key Features:
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Wide Range of Lenses: From daily to specialty lenses.
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Price Matching: Will match competitor prices.
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Free Shipping: Free shipping on orders over $50.
Pros:
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Reliable and accessible customer support.
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Great for both eyeglasses and contacts.
Cons:
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Slightly higher prices than niche retailers.
7. Hubble Contacts
Overview:
Hubble Contacts offers a subscription-based service for daily lenses, with a focus on affordability and convenience.
Key Features:
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Subscription Service: Delivers daily lenses directly to your door.
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Low Prices: One of the most affordable daily lens options available.
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Limited Selection: Offers only one type of daily lens.
Pros:
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Inexpensive and easy to use.
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Perfect for those who prefer daily lenses.
Cons:
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Limited to a single type of lens, not suitable for everyone.
Conclusion
Choosing the best online contact lens retailer depends on your preferences, whether you’re looking for variety, affordability, or convenience. 1-800 Contacts and Lens.com are great all-around options, while Contact Lens King and Discount Contact Lenses excel in providing affordable lenses. If you’re looking for simplicity, Hubble Contacts offers a streamlined subscription service, while GlassesUSA offers both glasses and contacts for added convenience.