The Right Strength: Reading Distance vs. Computer Distance

Reading glasses are an essential tool for anyone who requires help seeing text up close. Many of us use reading glasses to enjoy our favorite books, scroll through social media, or catch up on work emails. However, one common mistake that many people make is using the same strength reading glasses for both reading distance and computer distance. The truth is that using the right strength reading glasses for each task is crucial to avoiding eye strain and discomfort.

Reading Glasses: Navigating the Printed Word

When it comes to reading distance, which is typically around 16-22 inches away, you will want to choose a strength that is designed specifically for that distance. CliC reading glasses come in different strengths, ranging from +1.00 to +3.50. If you're someone who primarily reads print media such as books or newspapers, you'll want to choose a strength that's optimal for that distance. This will help you avoid eye fatigue and make reading more comfortable.

Computer Glasses: Conquering the Digital Realm

On the other hand, computer distance is typically much farther away than reading distance - usually around 28-36 inches away. Since computer screens are at a different distance compared to reading materials, the ideal strength for computer use may be different from the one you use for reading. For computer use, you'll want to consider a strength that's lower than your reading glasses with a blue blocking coating, since your eyes will be farther away from the screen.

Finding the right strength of reading glasses can be a detailed process, considering the wide range of options available. If you're new to reading glasses, it may feel like stepping into a whole new world of vision care. While Optometrists have made some generalizations about the strength of reading glasses needed at certain ages as a reference point, we believe it's best to find your personalized magnification strength.

To help with this, we recommend using our CliC Eye Chart. Simply print out the Strength Chart at actual size and hold it at your desired reading distance. Begin reading the chart from the top down, line by line, without wearing glasses. Once you can read a full line clearly, take note of the corresponding strength listed and place your order accordingly. This personalized approach ensures that you find the perfect magnification to ease common symptoms of aging eyes, such as eye strain, headaches, and squinting.

 

 

If your eyes require different strengths, rest assured that this is quite common. Our Custom Collection offers the option to select different magnification strengths for each eye. Just be sure to perform the eye chart test one eye at a time, covering one eye and assessing which line is most legible. Repeat the process for the second eye to determine the optimal strength for each. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the perfect pair of readers, whether it's helping you determine your magnification, finding the best headband type for your lifestyle, or adjusting the CliC temples for your ideal fit.