Progressive vs. Bifocal vs. Single Vision: What’s Right for You?

If your prescription includes distance and near correction, you’re likely weighing three choices: single vision, bifocal, or progressive lenses. Each corrects vision, but they deliver very different experiences.

1. Single Vision Lenses

One consistent power across the entire lens.

Best For:

• People under 40 with basic correction needs.
• Those needing only distance or only reading glasses.
• Anyone comfortable swapping pairs for different tasks.

May require two separate pairs if you need both reading and distance correction.

2. Bifocal Lenses

Two distinct powers in a single lens, divided by a visible line.

Best For:

• People comfortable with a “split zone” format.
• Those seeking a budget-friendly dual-correction option.

Considerations:

• Sudden shifts between zones can feel abrupt.
• The visible line is a cosmetic drawback for some.
• No built-in intermediate (screen) vision.

3. Progressive/Multifocal Lenses

Seamless vision at all distances with no visible lines.

Best For:

• People over 40 with both distance and near correction.
• Those seeking a sleek, line-free look.
• Digital users who need clarity across devices, documents, and distances.

Why Choose Progressives?

• More natural vision flow without a line.
• One pair for all-day wear.
• Built-in intermediate zone, unlike bifocals.

Quick Comparison Table

Why MultiFolks Recommends Progressives

We’ve built our platform around making multifocal simple and comfortable:

• AI-fitted PD and fitting height.
• Digital lens surfacing for thinner, sleeker profiles.
• Frame-specific mapping for natural alignment.

Add a 14-day comfort guarantee, and it’s a stress-free way to step into progressives.