1.67 vs. 1.74 High-Index Lenses: Which Is Better?

If you have a strong prescription, you’ve probably heard about high-index lenses—specifically 1.67 and 1.74. But which one is better for you?

Choosing between 1.67 vs. 1.74 high-index lenses depends on factors like lens thickness, weight, durability, and cost. Let’s break down the key differences so you can find the best lenses for your needs.

What Are High-Index Lenses?

High-index lenses are designed to be thinner and lighter than standard plastic lenses. The higher the index number, the thinner the lens.

🔹 Standard plastic lenses: 1.50 index
🔹 Polycarbonate lenses: 1.59 index
🔹 1.67 high-index: 30% thinner than standard plastic
🔹 1.74 high-index: 40+% thinner than standard plastic

If your prescription is stronger than -4.00D, high-index lenses help reduce the bulky “coke-bottle” effect of thick lenses.

Key Differences Between 1.67 and 1.74 Lenses

1.67 High-Index Lenses: Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:
✔️ Thinner than standard and polycarbonate lenses
✔️ More durable than 1.74 lenses
✔️ Less expensive than 1.74 lenses
✔️ Works well for prescriptions up to -7.00D
✔️ Good for progressive or bifocal lenses

❌ Cons:
❌ Slightly thicker than 1.74 high-index lenses
❌ Not ideal for extremely strong prescriptions (-8.00D and above)

Best for: Those who want thin, durable lenses at a more affordable price, especially if their prescription is between -4.00D and -7.00D.

1.74 High-Index Lenses: Pros & Cons

✅ Pros:
✔️ Thinnest high-index lenses available
✔️ Lightest option for high prescriptions
✔️ Best for prescriptions stronger than -7.00D
✔️ Reduces the “bug-eye” effect for high farsightedness (+4.00D and above)

❌ Cons:
❌ More brittle than 1.67 lenses—can crack if dropped
❌ More expensive than 1.67 lenses
❌ Higher reflectivity—anti-reflective (AR) coating is a must

Best for: People with very strong prescriptions (-8.00D and above) who want the thinnest, lightest lenses possible.

Which Lens Should You Choose?

Choosing between 1.67 and 1.74 high-index lenses depends on your prescription strength, budget, and lifestyle.

Go for 1.67 High-Index Lenses if:

✔️ Your prescription is between -4.00D and -7.00D
✔️ You want a balance between thinness, durability, and cost
✔️ You wear progressive or bifocal lenses

Go for 1.74 High-Index Lenses if:

✔️ Your prescription is stronger than -7.00D
✔️ You want the absolute thinnest and lightest lenses
✔️ You don’t mind paying a higher price for ultra-thin lenses

Pairing High-Index Lenses with the Right Frames

Since high prescriptions can cause lens distortion, the right frame choice matters.

✅ Asian fit frames: Prevents slipping for better vision stability
✅ Smaller frames: Reduce edge thickness for stronger prescriptions
✅ Lightweight materials: Titanium or TR90 frames balance the weight of high-index lenses

Final Verdict: 1.67 or 1.74?

🔹 If you want thin, affordable, and durable lenses, go with 1.67 high-index lenses.
🔹 If you need the thinnest, lightest lenses for very high prescriptions, choose 1.74 high-index lenses.

👓 No matter which you choose, pairing them with Asian fit frames from NextPair ensures maximum comfort and clarity for your vision!