A few years ago, I found myself needing reading glasses. At first, I saw them as simple, inexpensive tools—just something to help me read small print. I wasn't concerned with how they looked; I just wanted the cheapest pair available.
That approach turned out to be a big mistake. Cheap glasses feel flimsy, break quickly, and look unprofessional in meetings. I eventually decided to change my approach and invest in stylish men's reading glasses that would last. Moving from $20 pairs to spending $49 made a world of difference.
It's not just about clear vision—it's about overall quality.
My first pair cost $20 and lasted only three weeks. I bought them online because they looked decent in the photos, but the frames were made of shiny plastic that felt like a child's toy. The lenses were thin and gave me headaches after just 30 minutes of computer use.
I quickly realized that extremely low prices mean little to no quality control.
I came across many reviews that echoed my experience:
Cheap frames often have weak plastic hinges that break at the screw joints. The lenses scratch easily and offer minimal blue light protection. Even the reading focus tended to be uneven.
Verdict: Avoid glasses under $25. They're a waste of money and can actually strain your eyes. Look for metal hinges instead of plastic ones.
I upgraded to a $40 pair, and they were... okay. Marketed as "premium entry level," these frames had a better feel, though the "Ash wood grain" style looked fake and printed on.
They worked fine for short reading sessions and held up for about four months before issues arose. The screws needed tightening every week, and the frame paint started chipping where they rested on my nose.