The need for corrective eyewear to improve vision is nothing new. For centuries, people have been wearing glasses to improve their vision and increase their quality of life. Two common types of corrective lenses are bifocals and multifocals. While they both have the same purpose of improving vision, they each have their own unique features and advantages. In this article, we will discuss the differences between bifocals and multifocals in greater detail.

What Are Bifocals?

Bifocals are corrective lenses with two different prescriptions that are combined into one lens. The two prescriptions are usually separated by a visible dividing line in the middle of the lens. The top part of the lens contains the distance prescription and the lower part has the near prescription. This allows the wearer to switch between the two prescriptions when needed without having to switch glasses.

What Are Multifocals?

Multifocal lenses are similar to bifocals in that they contain two or more prescriptions combined into one lens. However, unlike bifocals, multifocals have no visible dividing line between the prescriptions. Instead, the different prescriptions are blended together gradually with no visible line of separation. This allows the wearer to switch between the different prescriptions without having to switch glasses.