Comparison
1.5 or 1.6 lenses: which suits you?
Organic lenses with a 1.5 or 1.6 index are the ones we keep in stock at Ópticas del Sur to fit single-vision glasses in our workshop in Vecindario. Both have a water-repellent anti-reflective coating. The difference lies in the thickness, the weight and the prescription each one is designed for.
By Ópticas del Sur · Published on
At a glance
| Feature | 1.5 index | 1.6 index |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Traditional organic (CR-39) | High-index organic |
| Recommended prescription | Low to moderate, generally up to ±2.00 dioptres | Medium, generally from ±2.00 to ±4.00 dioptres |
| Thickness and weight | Standard | Up to 20% thinner and lighter for the same prescription |
| Frames | Ideal for full-rim frames | Required for rimless (drilled) and semi-rimless (nylon thread) frames |
| Coating | Water-repellent anti-reflective | Water-repellent anti-reflective |
1.5 index lenses: the quality standard
The 1.5 index is the traditional organic material (CR-39), one of the most reliable and proven materials in optics. It gives clear, distortion-free vision thanks to its high Abbe value, which reduces chromatic aberration. It is light and far more impact-resistant than old-style glass lenses.
When to choose it: for low to moderate prescriptions, generally up to ±2.00 dioptres, and for full-rim frames.
1.6 index lenses: thinner and lighter
1.6 is a high-index material: for the same prescription, the lens is up to 20% thinner and lighter than a 1.5. You notice it in how your glasses look and how comfortable they are, as they weigh less on your nose all day.
It is a very flexible, strong material. That's why it is the required choice for rimless (drilled) or semi-rimless (nylon thread) frames, where the lens is under more stress.
When to choose it: for medium prescriptions, generally from ±2.00 to ±4.00 dioptres, and for any rimless or semi-rimless frame.
What if my prescription is over 4 dioptres?
With stronger prescriptions a higher index is usually better. We explain this in high myopia: thinner, lighter lenses.
Both have a water-repellent anti-reflective coating
- Cuts annoying reflections from lights, car headlights and screens, and reduces eye strain.
- Repels water: drops run off without leaving marks, even in the rain or with condensation.
- A very smooth surface: dirt, grease and dust stick less, and the lenses are quicker to clean.
Our recommendation
The general rule is simple: for a low prescription and a full-rim frame, 1.5; for a medium prescription or a rimless frame, 1.6. In the shop we'll confirm it with your prescription and the frame you choose. Prescription glasses in Vecindario.