Buying glasses online can feel like a total leap of faith. With so many retailers to choose from, how do you know which will give you the best look, fit, and value? I've spent countless hours staring at screens, scrolling through frame options, and squinting at virtual try-on tools.
And after extensively testing both Zenni Optical and EyeBuyDirect, I've found a clear winner for my eyewear needs.
But the journey to that decision wasn't always 20/20 - let's break down how these two optical juggernauts stack up across the factors that matter most.
If You're Looking For the Widest Selection of Frames... Zenni Optical
When it comes to sheer variety, Zenni leaves EyeBuyDirect in the dust. Zenni's massive catalog spans every imaginable style, shape, size, and material. Whether you're after classic tortoiseshell frames or bold neon statement pieces, Zenni has you covered.
I can easily filter by my preferences to find frames that perfectly suit my style. EyeBuyDirect has a respectable selection, but it can't match Zenni's seriously expansive offerings. Point Zenni.
If You Want the Highest Quality Lenses... Zenni Optical
I spend most of my waking hours glued to digital screens, so I need lenses that work as hard as I do. Zenni offers an impressive array of lens options, from basic single-vision to premium progressive lenses.
Their Blokz lenses, which filter out blue light, have been a revelation for my overworked eyes. I've found Zenni's lenses to be noticeably crisper and more durable than EyeBuyDirect's. Another win for Zenni.
If You Value the Most Realistic Virtual Try-On... Zenni Optical
Buying frames online can be daunting if you can't try them on first. But Zenni's virtual try-on tool is a total game-changer, blowing the competition out of the water. Just upload your photo, or use their "Virtual Try-On +" with your live camera in the app, and it shows you exactly how any pair will look on your face from every angle.
The rendering is spookily realistic, giving you total confidence in your purchase. EyeBuyDirect's tool works, but feels clunky and less true-to-life by comparison. Advantage? Zenni.
If Getting the Lowest Possible Price is Key... Tie
I'm all about maximizing value, and both Zenni and EyeBuyDirect deliver some serious bang for your buck. Zenni's prices start at an eye-popping $6.95 (prescription lenses included!), which is tough to beat. EyeBuyDirect is no slouch in the affordability department either, though adding a blue light filter to your lenses (an absolute must for me) will definitely increase your total spend.
While Zenni may eke out a slight edge on the entry-level end, both of these retailers offer amazing deals that leave traditional opticians in the rearview. We'll call this one a draw.
If You Need Your Glasses Yesterday... Zenni Optical
Both Zenni Optical and EyeBuyDirect frames are made-to-order, so glasses typically take 7-14 business days to be delivered by both companies. However, Zenni Optical offers a special Rush shipping option on a large selection of frames for those who need their glasses ASAP.
For $19 for the first frame and $4.95 for each additional expedited frame, Zenni produces these frames at an accelerated rate to get them to you in an estimated 3-5 business days.
If you prefer to wait, standard shipping costs $4.95 with delivery in 7-14 business days, and Express shipping is $15 with delivery in 5-10 business days.
The Ultimate Winner... Zenni Optical
Zenni Optical takes the overall crown for me. No other retailer matches their combination of massive selection, exceptional lens quality, true-to-life virtual try-on, and rock-bottom prices.
In my book, Zenni is the clear choice for savvy shoppers who want to look great and see even better. They've earned my loyalty by making it easy and affordable to find glasses that feel tailor-made for me. While EyeBuyDirect is a solid choice, Zenni remains my go-to for putting my best face forward.
Try them for yourself: I have a feeling you won’t be disappointed.
