Why is it better to buy in clinic instead of online?

The internet, that inexhaustible source of diverse information, has risen considerably over the last few years, and has become a universally accessible platform. Consequently, it has brought about great changes in consumer behaviour. Technology overall has transformed marketing practices. New marketplaces, without any strict market regulation, take up an ever greater space in the optometry industry. So why should one buy in a clinic when buying online is cheaper and can be done from the comfort of one’s own home? Well, let's look at the question in more detail.  

Is it really worth it to buy online?

Admittedly, shopping online is attractive and convenient. Usually, whether you're shopping for clothes or for furniture, you have a fair idea in mind about the dimensions or the style that would suit you best. However, shopping for eyeglasses online is not always so advantageous.  

Even though you can try your glasses on virtually, using a photo of your face or some such application, the results are not the equivalent of a real fitting. Effectively, when in-store, one can hold and wear the glasses themselves, which gives you a good idea of the glasses’ quality and comfort. You can also assess other crucial criteria for glasses, like the shape, color, and weight. Are the frames too wide? Are they too high for your eyebrows? Or are they too low and so cut into your field of vision? Are the stems comfortable on the temples? The answers to all these questions are essential to the buying of a new pair of glasses.

Another aspect to consider is proper fitting. Each frame has specific measurements depending on its position on your face; these dimensions don’t appear on the prescription you receive after an eye exam. That being said, if you buy online, electronic measuring methods leave much to be desired and, effectively, the results are imprecise. There’s only one way to truly gauge the dimensions of your glasses: taking them in hand. In the case of a strong prescription, bad measurements can have a direct effect on your visual comfort. Also, in the event that a product is not good for you, the return policy for online purchases is not as advantageous as that of a clinic. Returns and exchanges in the clinic are easy, reliable, fast, and flexible, and do not incur additional or hidden fees.

In summary, even though the web allows you to order products online at a lower price and with only a few clicks, your eyeglass quality and visual comfort may be affected.

Why will the web never completely replace clinic eye care services?

Clinics offer an array of products for all budgets in addition to offering a selection of bundles and promotions. Moreover, in working with multiple industry suppliers, eye care professionals are always on the cutting edge of new trends. They are there to guide you to the product that will meet your needs and respect your budget without compromising quality and comfort. Before choosing a new frame, your optician will make sure to explain its characteristics and advantages, and so you can enjoy personalized help throughout the purchasing process. In addition to a free after-sale service, the in-clinic buying experience is unique because of its incomparable human touch.

Eyecare professionals working under the OPTOPLUS banner are passionate about optometry. Because they always care for the quality of their services, the majority of clinics now have online catalogues, which allow you to select your favourite frames and later try them on in-store. Our professionals ask detailed questions in order to optimize your vision quality; that way, you can also make fast and judicious choices. Book an appointment, you will be convinced!