Plastic vs Metal Eyeglass Frames | What's The Difference?

✓ Medically Reviewed by Jack Cincotta

Glasses

 

Are there any benefits or cons to choosing plastic frames versus buying metal frames?

When choosing any of the BON CHARGE glasses range you will see a dropdown option to filter the frames by the material type - acetate, metal or mixed.

We are going to share some of the similarities and differences between eyeglass frames that are made from metal or plastic.

Metal Eyeglass Frames

What Are the Benefits of Metal Frames?

  • Metal frames offer a more minimalistic design option compared to plastic frames
  • Metal frames can have fine adjustments made to the frame as it is more bendable
  • Metal frames can be more lightweight than plastic frames
  • Metal frames can be made into semi-rimless frames styles

What Are the Disadvantages of Metal Frames?

  • Metal frames can be unsuitable for anyone with a metal allergy
  • Metal frames might be more prone to breaking at the hinges if they don't use spring hinges
  • Metal frames offer limited color options vs plastic glasses
  • Metal frames can feel more restrictive than plastic frames on the temple if you get the wrong temple size measurements

What Are the Common Materials Metal Frames Are Made From?

  • Pure titanium frames
  • Titanium alloy frames
  • Stainless steel frames
  • Monel frames
  • Flexon frames
  • Beryllium frames

Plastic Eyeglass Frames

What Are the Benefits of Plastic Frames?

  • Plastic frames can be made into thicker frame style options, which you can't get in metal frames
  • Plastic frames come in more color options including clear frames which you can't get in metal frame styles
  • Plastic frames can be more comfortable to wear due to most not having nose pads and use molded nose bridges instead
  • Plastic frames are better for people who have a metal allergy
  • Plastic frames are more ideal for people needing thicker lenses if their prescription requires that

What Are the Disadvantages of Plastic Frames?

  • Plastic frames normally have no nose pads making them less custom adjustable if they do slip down your nose
  • Plastic frames are not as pliable as metal frames so you can't make micro adjustments as easily
  • Plastic frames don't come in half-rim options

What Are the Common Materials Plastic Frames Are Made From?

  • Cellulose acetate propionate frames a.k.a Zylonite or zyl frames
  • Blended nylon frames
  • SPX frames
  • Optyl® frames

Final Thoughts

There are definitely pros and cons to both materials used in frames - metal and plastic.

Which one you decide to go with depends on your personal comfort preference and style options.

Too get a pair of the best blue light glasses visit boncharge.com

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