If you have a strong prescription, youโve probably heard about high-index lensesโspecifically 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. Letโs 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.
๐น Standard plastic lenses: 1.50 index
๐น Polycarbonate lenses: 1.59 index
๐น 1.67 high-index: 30% thinner than standard plastic
๐น 1.74 high-index: 40+% thinner than standard plastic
If your prescription is stronger than -4.00D, high-index lenses help reduce the bulky โcoke-bottleโ effect of thick lenses.
Key Differences Between 1.67 and 1.74 Lenses
Feature |
1.67 High-Index Lenses |
1.74 High-Index Lenses |
Thickness |
Thinner than 1.50 & 1.59 lenses |
Thinnest high-index lenses available |
Weight |
Lightweight but slightly thicker than 1.74 |
Lightest option for strong prescriptions |
Prescription Range |
Works well up to -7.00D |
Best for -6.00D and above |
Durability |
More impact-resistant |
Slightly more brittle |
Cost |
More affordable |
More expensive |
Optical Clarity |
Excellent |
Excellent, but slightly more reflections |
1.67 High-Index Lenses: Pros & Cons
โ
Pros:
โ๏ธ Thinner than standard and polycarbonate lenses
โ๏ธ More durable than 1.74 lenses
โ๏ธ Less expensive than 1.74 lenses
โ๏ธ Works well for prescriptions up to -7.00D
โ๏ธ Good for progressive or bifocal lenses
โ Cons:
โ Slightly thicker than 1.74 high-index lenses
โ 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
โ
Pros:
โ๏ธ Thinnest high-index lenses available
โ๏ธ Lightest option for high prescriptions
โ๏ธ Best for prescriptions stronger than -7.00D
โ๏ธ Reduces the โbug-eyeโ effect for high farsightedness (+4.00D and above)
โ Cons:
โ More brittle than 1.67 lensesโcan crack if dropped
โ More expensive than 1.67 lenses
โ Higher reflectivityโanti-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:
โ๏ธ Your prescription is between -4.00D and -7.00D
โ๏ธ You want a balance between thinness, durability, and cost
โ๏ธ You wear progressive or bifocal lenses
Go for 1.74 High-Index Lenses if:
โ๏ธ Your prescription is stronger than -7.00D
โ๏ธ You want the absolute thinnest and lightest lenses
โ๏ธ You donโt 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.
โ
Asian fit frames: Prevents slipping for better vision stability
โ
Smaller frames: Reduce edge thickness for stronger prescriptions
โ
Lightweight materials: Titanium or TR90 frames balance the weight of high-index lenses
Final Verdict: 1.67 or 1.74?
๐น If you want thin, affordable, and durable lenses, go with 1.67 high-index lenses.
๐น If you need the thinnest, lightest lenses for very high prescriptions, choose 1.74 high-index lenses.
๐ No matter which you choose, pairing them with Asian fit frames from NextPair ensures maximum comfort and clarity for your vision!