Plastic vs. mineral glass – which lens is better?
Whereas the choice of spectacle frame mainly depends on face shape and taste, other criteria apply to lenses.
Every spectacles wearer faces two important questions when purchasing a new pair of spectacles: "Which spectacles suit me? and "Which type of lenses should my spectacles have?" Whereas the choice of spectacle frame mainly depends on face shape and taste, other criteria apply to lenses.
Lenses can either be made from plastic or "real" glass, so-called mineral or silicate glass. But what are the differences and what type most suitable?
Mineral lenses:
Mineral lenses appear fragile, but are surprisingly stable and resistant. As a result, some spectacles wearers still swear by the proven mineral lenses. They are easy to clean, less prone to scratches and are suitable for stronger prescriptions as the lenses are thinner than plastic lenses. Many spectacles wearers gladly accept the slightly heavier weight. Another disadvantage with mineral lenses is that they can shatter with impact.
Mineral glass is slighthly thinner than plastic, but also heavier.
Plastic Lenses:
In contrast, plastic lenses are lightweight, thus guaranteeing a high level of wearing comfort. They are therefore the most common lens material choice today. They are ideal for children's and sports spectacles as the material is light and shatterproof. However, a disadvantage is that plastic lenses scratch more easily. Therefore, wearers should always treat them with care and not use clothing items, or similar, for cleaning the lenses. A special coating of the lenses, e.g. with the innovative Rodenstock technology Solitaire® Protect Plus 2, offers reliable protection and makes the lenses twice as scratch-resistant as a normal coating.
Today plastic lenses are considered “State of the Art” and are found in most spectacles.
