Reading glasses use magnification levels called diopters, usually ranging from +1.00 to +3.50. Lower strengths provide light support for close-up tasks, while higher strengths help when text needs to be held closer than before. Most people begin noticing these changes in their mid-40s — a perfectly normal part of ageing.
A practical starting point is to test at home. The Luxreaders Online Vision Test shows everyday objects at different distances to help you narrow in on a suitable strength. It’s simple, interactive, and ideal if this is your first pair. (It’s not a medical exam — just friendly guidance to get you closer to the right choice.)
The classic arm’s-length method also works well:
- If text looks clearer when held farther away, you might need a slightly lower strength.
- If you instinctively bring it closer to focus, a higher strength could feel better.
Many people follow a “start low” approach. Early 40s typically begin around +1.00 to +1.50, while late 40s to early 50s usually sit between +1.50 and +2.50. These are common patterns — not rules — and it’s normal for your needs to shift gradually over time.
Age-based guidelines can help you orient yourself:
- 40–45: +1.00 to +1.50
- 45–50: +1.50 to +2.00
- 50–55: +2.00 to +2.50
- 55+: +2.50 to +3.00
Still, personal comfort matters more than any chart.
Your eyes will let you know if a strength isn’t quite right. If it’s too low, you may lean in, squint slightly, or feel like the text never fully sharpens. If it’s too high, reading might feel unnaturally close, or you may notice a brief sense of imbalance when looking up. These are gentle signals — easy to fix by adjusting one step up or down.
For screens, many people choose half a step lower than their reading-book strength. Laptops and monitors sit slightly further away, so using a lighter power helps maintain comfort at mid-range distances.
You’ll also find different types of glasses depending on where and how you read. Classic reading glasses offer magnification for close-up work. Blue light readers add a soft layer of light filtering for long hours on digital screens. Reader sunglasses bring magnification outdoors — ideal for holidays, balconies, and slow weekends in the garden.
Shopping online becomes easier when you try strengths close to each other, choose the lower option when in doubt, and look for comfortable materials like TR90 or acetate. If you haven’t worn reading glasses before, these small details make a noticeable difference in everyday comfort.
