Research shows that 50% to 90% of individuals who regularly use a computer are affected by Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). CVS, which often occurs when using a computer for long periods of time, can lead to blurred vision, fatigue, and eye irritation. Whether you're a working professional or an avid gamer, you can't neglect your eyes - after all, they do so much for you!

 

Key Takeaways

• Computer glasses are prescription glasses that help your eyes focus on a computer screen. Computer screens are notoriously hard on the eyes due to the distance and pixels.
• Computer glasses are able to improve posture, correct vision, magnify your screen, and reduce symptoms of CVS.
• Computer glasses are not blue light glasses. However, computer glasses are often made with a blue light filter to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of blue light.
• If you regularly use a computer or laptop, investing in a pair of computer glasses is a good idea.

The best way to support excellent ocular health is by investing in a pair of high-quality task-specific glasses, making those long periods in front of the screen far more comfortable and productive. Computer glasses are designed to prevent digital eye strain by helping your eyes focus on your computer screen.

Keep reading, and we'll tell you everything you should know about computer glasses and why they're necessary if you frequently use digital devices.

See Related: How to Properly Clean Your Glasses

What Are Computer Glasses?

Computer glasses are prescription glasses designed to help your eyes focus on digital devices like computers or laptops. Computer glasses can reduce the eye strain that comes with staring at a computer screen for long periods of time.

Frequent use of digital devices can lead to eye strain, aches and pain, and general discomfort, which can have negative impacts on your ocular health. The hundreds of tiny pixels that make up digital screens can be incredibly hard on your eyesight if you aren't wearing computer glasses.

Why Are Computer Glasses Important?

Even if you have excellent eyesight, computer screens require your eyes to work much harder than usual. This is due to two primary factors: distance and pixels.

Distance: Computer screens are typically positioned at an unideal distance that can be difficult for your eyes to focus on. To help combat this issue, we recommend following the 20-20-20 rule: While working at a computer, every 20 minutes, look at an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

Pixels: Computer screens are made up of hundreds of tiny pixels. If there is low screen resolution or low pixel count, your eyes need to work significantly harder to see text or images on the screen.

If you regularly use digital devices like a laptop or computer, you can use computer glasses to help your eyes focus on the screen. It may sound simple enough, but computer glasses are a crucial accessory for individuals who use computers for long periods of time.

What Are Reading Glasses?

What's the difference between computer glasses and reading glasses?

Computer glasses typically have designated zones that help correct and enhance near vision. They are specifically designed to help your eyes focus when looking at a computer screen.

On the other hand, reading glasses simply provide magnification and do not usually account for prescription differences, astigmatism correction, or digital eye strain. They are typically used to address normal changes to vision that come with age.

Benefits of Computer Glasses

Computer glasses are able to ease muscle fatigue and reduce the eye strain that comes with looking at a computer screen. However, the benefits of computer glasses are quite impressive and can have a profound positive impact on your ocular health, general comfort, and overall wellness.

The benefits of computer glasses include:

• Improved posture: Computer glasses reduce the need to tilt your head at an uncomfortable angle to better view your computer screen. They allow for the best possible viewing angle and can relieve aches and pain in your neck, shoulders, and back.
• Vision correction: The optical center of prescription computer glasses is located directly in front of the pupils to help correct any astigmatism.
• Magnification: Computer glasses are up to 60% more powerful than reading glasses and can help you see text and images on your computer screen better.
• Reduced symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome: Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) can lead to symptoms like blurred vision, headaches, dry eyes, and discomfort.

Bonus: What Are Bifocals And How Do They Work?

What Is Computer Vision Syndrome?

Research shows that 50% to 90% of individuals who regularly use a computer will experience some symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS).

CVS is similar to other repetitive motion injuries you can get at work. Your eyes are often overworked when you use a computer for extended periods of time. When using a computer, your eyes are required to constantly shift across the screen and between your surroundings. Plus, small images and fine print on the screen can put extra strain on your eyes.

CVS can have the following symptoms:

• General discomfort
• Blurred vision
• Double vision
• Itchy eyes
• Dry eyes
• Red eyes
• Difficulty focusing
• Headaches
• Pain in the neck, shoulders, or back

By wearing computer glasses, you can reduce these symptoms and keep your eyes healthy and happy!

What Are Blue Light Glasses?

Computer glasses are often confused with blue light glasses. Unlike computer glasses, blue light glasses are usually not prescription glasses.

Blue light glasses are meant to protect your eyes from blue light, which is emitted from all digital screens, including your computer, phone, TV, or tablet. Blue light can affect sleep by disrupting your body's production of melatonin, essentially tricking your body into thinking it's daytime.

Computer glasses with a blue light filter can help protect your eyes from the effects of blue light and offer additional relief from digital eye strain.

Do I Need Computer Glasses?

It's always a good idea to invest in task-specific glasses, whether you're an outdoor sports enthusiast or a connoisseur of luxury eyewear. Your need for computer glasses will depend on your visual needs, lifestyle, occupation, and overall eye health.

In today's digital world, most people can greatly benefit from wearing computer glasses. In general, if you regularly use a computer, you should use a pair of computer glasses!

The Bottom Line

If you want to support excellent ocular health and experience comfortable vision, getting a pair of computer glasses is a good idea. They'll help you feel confident and comfortable anytime you use your computer or laptop, ensuring you stay productive and motivated.

Keep Reading: What Glasses Will Be In Style In 2024 & 2025?

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Oculus Eyecare is Seattle’s premier optometry practice and optical boutique for those looking to see and be seen in a new way. Located in South Lake Union on Denny Way, Oculus Eyecare offers comprehensive eye care services and exams for individuals and families in Seattle. Click here to schedule an appointment or a personal styling session. To stay connected and learn more, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.