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What Are Trifocal Lenses?

What Are Trifocal Lenses?

Trifocal lenses are multifocal eyeglass lenses equipped with three different corrective powers. One power is for distant vision correction, one is for intermediate, and one is for near vision.

If you have trouble seeing clearly at any distance (looking up close or far away), you may have one or more of the following refractive errors:

  • Nearsightedness (myopia) – Blurry distance vision
  • Farsightedness (hyperopia) – Blurred vision up close
  • Astigmatism – Blurry vision at all distances
  • Presbyopia – The loss of near focusing ability that comes with age (sometimes called age-related farsightedness)

A flatlay of 3 pairs of eyeglasses on a white background

Glasses with single-vision lenses are designed to correct vision at only one distance, like for myopia or hyperopia. Reading glasses are designed specifically to correct presbyopia.
 
Trifocals can correct for multiple distances at the same time with their split-lens technology.

 

How Do Trifocal Glasses Work?

Trifocal lenses have three different powers for vision correction. Each power is in a different section of the lens, and a subtle but visible line separates each section.

  1. The top section provides distant vision correction for help seeing things far away.
  2. The middle part provides intermediate vision correction for computer work and other tasks done at arm’s length.
  3. The bottom section provides near vision correction for help reading and seeing things up close.

An image showing the 3 parts of trifocal lenses

The multiple lens strengths allow the wearer to perform a variety of activities without having to change glasses. For example, they can easily transition from driving to reading to using a computer, all while maintaining visual clarity.

 

Bifocal vs. Trifocal Lenses

Bifocals and trifocals are both types of multifocal lenses. This means they have two or more lens powers to correct vision at multiple distances. Both types of lenses also have a visible line separating each area of vision correction.

The biggest difference between bifocals and trifocals is the number of prescriptions or strengths in each lens. Bifocals only have two sections of vision correction — the top for distant viewing and the bottom for near viewing. Unlike trifocals, bifocals do not have a section in the center of the lens to correct vision at intermediate distance.

 

Trifocals vs. Progressives

Progressives work the same way as trifocals: Both have three separate lens powers.

But unlike trifocals, progressives do not have a visible line between each corrective power. The lack of a visible line allows for a more seamless transition between far, intermediate, and near vision correction. The focus zones in trifocal lenses are a little bigger since they don’t have to accommodate for the transition space needed in progressives.

Some people find progressives more aesthetically pleasing since they don’t have visible lines. But some people experience visual distortion when wearing or adjusting to progressive lenses.

A flatlay of two pairs of tortoise-patterned eyeglasses

Advantages & Disadvantages of Trifocals

There are pros and cons that come with trifocals, just as there are with any type of corrective lens. Consider the advantages and disadvantages before deciding on your next pair of multifocal glasses.

Here are some advantages of trifocal lenses:

  • The three corrective powers in a trifocal lens allow you to achieve vision correction for multiple refractive errors with just one pair of glasses.
  • You don’t have to worry about keeping track of (or losing multiple pairs of) glasses when you have trifocals.
  • Trifocals have a wider view in each corrective zone than progressive lenses. This can help lessen visual distortion that some people experience with progressives.

Some disadvantages of trifocal lenses include:

  • The visible line between each lens power can be difficult for some people to get used to. The lines may also cause a person to seem older than they are.
  • You may experience eye strain or “image jumps” when your focus moves between each power in a trifocal lens.
  • Trifocals may be more expensive than other lenses in some cases.

Talk to your eye doctor about what lenses may be best for your needs. Even if some factors have more to do with personal preference, they’re still worth reviewing.

 

Are Trifocals Worth It?

Trifocals can be a practical option for many people. Whether you’re curious about how the lenses work or believe they would be beneficial for your vision, it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment for a comprehensive eye exam. In addition to checking your vision and eye health, your eye doctor can answer any questions you have about trifocals and other types of lenses. 

Your eye care professional can also recommend lens materials, coatings, and other glasses features. Several features can be added to your lenses to provide an optimal viewing experience during work and play. Popular lens options at Eyebuydirect include Transitions® lenses and anti-reflective coating.

Remember that there may be an adjustment period when you first get trifocals. While any new glasses prescription can take some time to get used to, it can take even longer when your lenses have three separate focusing powers. Some people only need a week or so, but others may need a bit longer.

The more you wear your trifocals, the sooner you’ll be comfortable in them. But if you continue to have trouble adjusting, reach out to your eye doctor for advice.