With vs. Without Insurance - Buying Prescription Glasses in the US

When buying prescription glasses in the US, you have two options:
✔️ Use vision insurance (if you have it)
✔️ Pay out of pocket (without insurance)

Many people assume that insurance always saves money, but that’s not always true. Depending on your needs, you may find better deals without insurance—especially if you buy glasses online.

This guide breaks down costs, frame and lens choices, and where to buy glasses with and without insurance.

Step 1: The Buying Process – Insurance vs. No Insurance

If You Use Vision Insurance

1️⃣ Get an eye exam from an in-network provider
2️⃣ Choose frames & lenses from an approved selection
3️⃣ Pay the copay and any extras not covered by insurance
4️⃣ Glasses are usually ready in 7-10 days

🟡 Best for: Those who already have insurance and want to maximize their benefits.

If You Pay Out of Pocket (No Insurance)

1️⃣ Get an eye exam (optional—if your prescription is valid, you can skip this)
2️⃣ Choose frames & lenses from any retailer (including online stores)
3️⃣ Pay the full price, but often at a lower overall cost
4️⃣ Glasses can be ready in-store within an hour or shipped in a few days

🟡 Best for: Those looking for affordable, high-quality glasses without restrictions.

Step 2: Cost Comparison – Insurance vs. No Insurance

Typical Costs With Insurance

🟡 Eye Exam: $10-$50 copay (or free with some plans)
🟡 Frames: $150 allowance (extra cost for premium brands)
🟡 Lenses: Basic lenses covered, but upgrades cost extra
🟡 Total Out-of-Pocket Cost: $50 – $250 (depending on extras)

Typical Costs Without Insurance

🟡 Eye Exam: $50 – $100 (some online exams are $25)
🟡 Frames: $10 – $150 (online) or $150+ (in-store)
🟡 Lenses: $20 – $100 (online) or $100+ (in-store)
🟡 Total Cost: $30 – $200 (online) or $150 – $400 (in-store)

💡 Key Insight: Insurance reduces costs at optical stores, but online retailers often offer cheaper glasses without insurance.

Step 3: Frame Options – Insurance vs. No Insurance

With Insurance

✔️ Limited selection (only certain brands covered)
✔️ More expensive designer frames available, but may cost extra
✔️ Typically only available at in-network optical stores

🟡 Best for: If you want designer frames with insurance discounts

Without Insurance

✔️ More choices (buy from any retailer, online or offline)
✔️ Affordable frames available ($10 – $50 for stylish options)
✔️ Asian fit frames easily available online

🟡 Best for: If you want affordable, stylish options without insurance restrictions

Step 4: Lens Choices – Insurance vs. No Insurance

With Insurance

✔️ Basic lenses usually covered (plastic CR-39)
✔️ Thin, high-index lenses cost extra ($50 – $200 out-of-pocket)
✔️ Lens coatings (anti-glare, blue light) often not covered

🟡 Best for: Standard prescriptions with minimal upgrades

Without Insurance

✔️ More affordable upgrades (1.67 or 1.74 high-index lenses for $50 – $100 online)
✔️ Blue light & anti-glare coatings often included for free
✔️ Customization options for strong prescriptions

🟡 Best for: Those with high prescriptions or looking for thinner, lighter lenses

Step 5: Where to Buy – Insurance vs. No Insurance

If Using Insurance

✔️ Optical Chains: LensCrafters, Visionworks, Costco Optical
✔️ Private Optometrists: Often accept insurance but cost more

🟡 Best for: Those who want an in-store experience and insurance discounts

If Paying Out of Pocket

✔️ Online Retailers: NextPair, Zenni, Warby Parker, EyeBuyDirect
✔️ Wholesale Stores: Costco (affordable frames & lenses)

🟡 Best for: Those looking for cheaper, high-quality options

Common Questions About Buying Glasses in the US

1. Is it cheaper to buy glasses with or without insurance?

🟡 With insurance: Cheaper if you stick to basic frames & lenses
🟡 Without insurance: Often cheaper online, especially for high-index lenses

2. Can I buy glasses online with insurance?

Some online stores accept vision insurance, but benefits may be limited. You can also pay out-of-pocket and submit a claim for reimbursement.

3. Do insurance plans cover designer frames?

Most plans only cover up to $150, so if designer frames cost more, you’ll pay the difference.

4. What’s the best option for high prescriptions?

Without insurance, online stores offer cheaper high-index lenses. With insurance, high-index lenses cost extra.

Final Thoughts: Should You Use Insurance or Pay Out of Pocket?

✔️ Use insurance if:

• You have an employer-provided vision plan

• You prefer in-store shopping

• You need an eye exam and glasses together

✔️ Pay out of pocket if:

• You want cheaper glasses with more choices

• You have a high prescription and need thin lenses

• You prefer buying glasses online

🟡👓 No matter how you buy your glasses, make sure to choose frames that fit comfortably—especially Asian fit options for a perfect fit!