The best contact lenses for 2025: Where to buy quality contacts online

Contact lenses revolutionized vision correction, offering a convenient alternative to glasses without sacrificing comfort or clarity. The best contact lenses can be life-changing. However, visiting the eye doctor, getting a vision test and placing your contact lens order isn't always convenient. And that's especially true if you work full time, have kids or live far from your nearest optometrist.
For many, the process of getting new contacts is a chore, so it's no surprise that online shopping for contacts has become increasingly popular. According to the Vision Council, nearly 40% of contact lenses were purchased online in 2024. But as with all online purchases, caution is warranted.
Buying contacts online might seem as safe as visiting a vision clinic, but the reality is that not all online retailers are the same. While many are trustworthy, some lack critical safety standards and expertise, which could place your eye health at risk.
"[Many] online buyers assume every retailer is authorized, but determining if a retailer is properly licensed can be difficult," says optometrist Randy McLaughlin of the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. So what should you be on the lookout for? Be sure that the retailer requires a valid current prescription, only sells FDA-approved lenses and offers reputable brands like Acuvue, CooperVision and Bausch + Lomb. Furthermore, the site should have clear policies on returns and exchanges, provide reliable customer support and comply with the Fairness to Contact Lens Consumers Act, which protects consumers' rights when purchasing contact lenses.
To help you find the best places to buy contacts online, our team tested 10 retailers, evaluating each on pricing, customer support, brand selection, shipping speed, return policies and more. We also spoke with three eye care experts to gather insights on the best practices for ordering contact lenses online. Put on your eyeglasses and continue reading to find the best contact lenses for 2025.
Best overall contact lens platform
Other platforms we liked
Types of contact lenses
Factors to consider when purchasing contact lenses online
How we chose the best online platforms for contact lenses
FAQs
Meet our experts
(back to top)
(back to top)
Contact lenses come in various types, each designed to meet specific needs, preferences and eye conditions. Here's a breakdown of the most common types:
These lenses are popular because of their comfort and ease of use. They're made from flexible, water-containing plastics that allow oxygen to flow through to the cornea and help keep your eyes healthy. Soft lenses are ideal for those with active lifestyles. They're also great for first-time users because they conform to the shape of your eye, reducing the risk of discomfort.
Subtypes of soft lenses include:
Daily disposable lenses: These lenses are worn for one day and then discarded. They're a convenient option if you don't want to worry about cleaning and storing lenses. Since you're using a fresh pair every day, daily disposables are hygienic, which can reduce the risk of eye infections. Plus, they may be more comfortable for people prone to dry eyes.
Monthly and bi-weekly lenses: These lenses are designed to be worn for a longer period before needing to be replaced. They are more cost-effective than daily disposables. However, they require regular cleaning and proper storage to maintain eye health and prevent infections.
Extended wear lenses: Made from more breathable materials, these lenses can be worn for extended periods, even overnight, for up to a week or more, depending on the brand. While convenient for people who forget to take out their lenses at night, they still require regular cleaning to avoid eye irritation and other complications.
Toric lenses: These are soft lenses designed specifically for astigmatism. Astigmatism occurs when the cornea is shaped irregularly, causing blurred vision. Toric lenses have different powers in different meridians of the lens, allowing them to correct the asymmetry of the cornea and improve vision.
Multifocal and bifocal lenses: These lenses are designed to correct presbyopia — a condition that makes it harder to focus on nearby objects, typically due to aging. Multifocal lenses provide a smooth transition between multiple prescription powers, while bifocal lenses have two distinct viewing areas—one for distance vision and one for near vision.I've
RGP lenses are made from durable, oxygen-permeable materials that allow more oxygen to pass through to the cornea than traditional soft lenses. Though they require more time to adjust to and can take a while to get used to, they are often recommended for individuals who need more precise vision correction.
RGP lenses are highly durable and resistant to deposits, so they tend to last longer than soft lenses. They're especially useful for people with astigmatism, keratoconus or other irregular corneal shapes. Because they maintain their shape on the eye, RGP lenses provide sharper vision than soft lenses, particularly for people with high prescriptions.
Scleral lenses are a specialized type of RGP lens designed for individuals with more severe vision problems or irregular corneas, such as those with keratoconus or corneal scarring.
These lenses are larger than standard RGP lenses and rest on the white part of the eye (sclera) rather than directly on the cornea. Scleral lenses create a tear-filled reservoir between the lens and the cornea, providing comfort and helping to stabilize the corneal shape.
Due to their large size and specialized nature, scleral lenses are typically prescribed after careful fitting by an eye care professional. They are often a solution for people who cannot use standard contact lenses.
Hybrid lenses combine the best of both soft and RGP lenses. The center of the lens is made from rigid gas permeable material, providing the sharp vision of RGP lenses, while the surrounding area is made from soft lens material, offering added comfort. Hybrid lenses are an excellent option for individuals with astigmatism or other vision conditions who want the clarity of RGP lenses but the comfort of soft lenses.
(back to top)
When buying contact lenses online, choosing a reputable platform that offers quality products and a secure, straightforward shopping experience is essential. Here are factors to consider when evaluating an online retailer for your contact lenses:
Prescription verification: A trustworthy online retailer should always require prescription verification before selling contact lenses to you. Reputable platforms either ask for a copy of your prescription or contact your eye doctor directly for verification. This process ensures you get the right lens type, power and fit and is an essential safety step. Be cautious if a site doesn't ask for this information, as they might not follow the necessary regulations.
Licensed and FDA-approved products: Always look for an online store that sells FDA-approved contact lenses. FDA regulation ensures the lenses meet the necessary safety and quality standards, which is critical for maintaining eye health. A reputable retailer will offer well-known and trusted brands, such as Acuvue, Bausch & Lomb, Alcon or CooperVision, which have proven track records for quality. Online retailers may also offer FDA-approved store-brand lenses. Avoid platforms that offer off-brand or nonregulated lenses, as these could put your eyes at risk of infection, discomfort or long-term damage.
Clear return and exchange policies: Even though you might be buying contact lenses online, you should still be able to return or exchange them if something goes wrong. Look for a retailer that has clear, customer-friendly return and exchange policies. At a minimum, the platform should offer a 30-day return policy for unopened boxes and a process for returning or exchanging damaged lenses. Some retailers may even allow you to return lenses that don't meet your expectations as long as they are still in the original packaging. A solid return policy means you won't be stuck with a product that isn't right for you.
Secure and convenient payment options: Security is paramount when shopping online. Make sure the retailer's website has secure payment systems (look for "https" in the URL and a lock icon in the address bar) to protect your sensitive personal and financial information. Reputable platforms offer various payment options, including credit and debit cards, PayPal and sometimes flexible payment plans or financing options. This flexibility ensures a smooth, worry-free checkout experience.
Competitive pricing with transparency: A trustworthy online retailer should offer competitive pricing on contact lenses without hidden fees. Look for retailers that are transparent about their costs, including shipping fees and subscription discounts. Many online retailers offer automatic reordering options for convenience but check if there are discounts for buying in bulk or if they accept vision insurance for an added saving. Avoid platforms with significantly lower prices than average, as they may sell unauthorized or lower-quality lenses.
Customer support and communication: Good customer service is necessary for a positive online shopping experience. Ensure the retailer provides multiple communication channels, such as phone support, email and live chat. Reputable platforms will be responsive to any questions regarding prescriptions, shipping or order issues. Check customer reviews or ratings to see how well the company handles customer service, as a lack of support can be a significant drawback when purchasing products that affect your eye health.
Shipping and delivery options: It goes without saying that you want your order to arrive quickly and safely. Choose a platform that offers reliable and timely shipping options. Many retailers offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount or expedited shipping for faster delivery. If you're running low on lenses and need them quickly, check whether the site offers next-day delivery or 2-day shipping. Additionally, look for retailers that can ship your order directly to your eye doctor's office if needed.
Product availability and variety: A reputable online retailer should have a wide selection of contact lenses to meet different needs. This includes various types of lenses, such as daily disposables, monthly lenses, colored lenses and toric lenses for astigmatism. It's also important to check that the site offers multiple brands to cater to different preferences and budgets. A broad inventory allows you to choose the lenses that best suit your prescription and lifestyle needs.
User reviews and reputation: Always check a retailer's reputation through customer reviews and ratings. Look for feedback on both the retailer's website and third-party review sites such as Trustpilot or Google Reviews. Reputable platforms will have consistent positive feedback, particularly regarding the quality of their products, customer service and overall shopping experience. Avoid stores with excessive negative reviews, especially those related to product issues.
Loyalty programs and discounts: Look for online platforms that offer loyalty programs, subscription discounts or special promotions for repeat customers. Some retailers offer programs where you can save money on future purchases, receive free shipping or even get discounts on accessories like lens cases or cleaning solutions. If you plan to reorder your contact lenses regularly, a subscription could be convenient and cost-effective.
(back to top)
To help you find the best place to buy contact lenses online, our team rigorously tested 10 different online retailers. We focused on several key factors to ensure that the platforms we recommend offer an overall top-notch user experience. These factors included pricing, insurance coverage, brand selection, shipping speed, return policies and ease of website navigation.
We also consulted three experienced eye care specialists to gain valuable insights into the do's and don'ts of ordering contact lenses online. Their expertise helped us understand the importance of a valid prescription, the potential risks of buying from unverified sources and signs of a reputable online retailer. By combining expert advice with real-world testing, we identified seven platforms that provide both safety and value, ensuring you can shop confidently for the best contact lenses.
(back to top)
In our search for the best contact lenses, three platforms missed the mark. Here's a quick look at the ones that we felt didn't stack up:
Contact Lens King: Pricewise, Contact Lens King simply couldn't compete. Not only were the contact lens prescription costs higher than average, but the $12.95 shipping fee bumped the total up even more. The lack of live chat support and long phone wait times for customer service made the experience even less appealing.
Discount Contacts: While Discount Contacts has a large selection of lenses — 125 options across 14 brands — the complicated ordering process for more complex prescriptions and limited online support were disappointing. In fact, it took over 24 hours to hear back from a customer support rep after submitting a request form.
Hubble: Hubble's monthly subscription model is appealing — and often cost-effective. For example, its Classic Brand costs $49.97 monthly, plus $3.99 shipping. However, the selection is limited. Hubble's store brand is not available for multifocal contact lens wearers, and its nonstore brand offerings are limited to Acuvue, Biotrue and Bausch + Lomb ULTRA.
(back to top)
While buying contacts online is convenient for many people, there are certain situations where it may not be the best option. Consider visiting an eye doctor instead if you're at a high risk for eye infections, are interested in costume lenses or wear rigid gas permeable (RGP) or scleral lenses. Here's a closer look at why:
Hard lenses: If you wear rigid gas permeable (RGP) or scleral lenses, these must be custom-made to specific prescription parameters. McLaughlin advises against buying these lenses online due to the precision required in their fitting.
Costume lenses: If you're considering costume or novelty lenses, particularly for events like Halloween, it's vital to exercise caution. "The chances are high that specialty or costume contact lenses are not properly regulated by the FDA and may increase the risk of infection or discomfort," explains Catherine Heyman, founding dean of High Point University School of Optometry in North Carolina.
High-risk users: If you have a history of eye infections, tend to sleep in your contacts or don't stick to the recommended schedule for discarding lenses, it's safer to see an eye doctor in person. McLaughlin advises that in these cases, getting professional advice and fitting is crucial to avoid potential complications.
Are there red flags to watch for when buying contact lenses online?
When buying contact lenses online, it's crucial to stay vigilant and recognize warning signs that could indicate a potentially unsafe retailer. "Several red flags can help you identify potentially unsafe contact lens retailers," says Heyman. She cautions against the following:
Selling lenses without requiring a prescription: It's illegal in the U.S. to sell contact lenses without a valid prescription, she says. If a retailer doesn't ask for or verify your prescription, it's a major red flag.
Offering non-FDA-approved or unfamiliar brands: Lenses from unregulated or lesser-known brands can pose serious risks to your eye health, as they may not meet the necessary safety and quality standards.
Too-good-to-be-true prices: While it's tempting to grab a bargain, drastically discounted prices often signal that the lenses may be counterfeit, expired or of inferior quality.
Lack of security: Never give your personal or financial information to a website that doesn't use a secure payment system.
Heyman also stresses the importance of checking the expiration date on your lenses once they arrive. "Once your lenses arrive, immediately check their expiration date," she says. If expired, do not use! Contact the company and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Which contact lenses are best for first-time users?
"For first-time contact lens wearers, most eye doctors recommend one-day disposable lenses," says Lernik Torossian, an ophthalmologist at the USC Roski Eye Institute. "Daily disposables eliminate the need for disinfecting and overnight storage, which helps ensure a higher level of compliance and safety." Plus, if you inadvertently drop one on your bathroom floor, you can simply throw it away without worrying too much about cost. "It's harder to do that with a contact that's meant to last an entire 30 days," says Torossian.
The highest grade of contact lenses typically refers to the prescription strength, which is measured in diopters (D). The further the diopter is from zero, the greater the level of correction required for your vision. Positive diopters (+) are used to correct hyperopia (farsightedness), while negative diopters (-) correct myopia (nearsightedness). The higher the number — whether positive or negative — the stronger the prescription needed to correct your vision. Most prescriptions fall within the range of -5 to +3 diopters, with -12 diopters being the highest for standard soft lenses.
For those with more severe myopia, some specialized lenses can correct prescriptions as strong as -20 diopters or even higher. In fact, some brands offer lenses for extreme prescriptions ranging from -30 to +30 diopters.
With very high prescriptions, rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses often perform better than soft lenses. RGP lenses can accommodate stronger prescriptions more effectively, providing clearer, more stable vision for individuals with extreme myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism.
Some of the most popular contact lens brands are Johnson & Johnson, Bausch & Lomb, Alcon and CooperVision. These companies are known for their wide range of high-quality lenses that cater to varying vision needs.
Among their offerings, daily disposables are the most popular due to their convenience and hygiene benefits, followed by monthly lenses, which are favored for their balance of cost-effectiveness and comfort. Weekly and bi-weekly lenses offer flexibility for those who want more durability, while annual lenses are less common and typically used for specialty prescriptions.
Yes, you can renew your existing contact lens prescription online with an online vision exam offered by some retailers. These exams allow you to update your prescription and reorder lenses, but they are typically only available to those with valid prescriptions. It's also important to note that online eye exams have several downsides and are not a replacement for a thorough, in-person exam by an eye care professional.
If you're looking for a brand-new contact lens prescription, you must visit an eye care professional for a comprehensive eye exam. "You need a comprehensive eye examination within 1 to 2 years — and your vision, eye health and prescription — needs to be stable to order your contacts online," says Heyman. It's imperative to have your eyes checked regularly to ensure that any changes in your vision or health are addressed before renewing or ordering new lenses.
Switching contact lens brands isn't something you should do on a whim, no matter how tempting a good deal might seem, warns Torossian. "Not all contact lenses are suitable for every individual, especially those with astigmatism, and switching brands without proper discussion, guidance and evaluation can lead to discomfort, dryness, blurred vision or even increase the risk of eye infections."
If you're considering a switch, make an appointment with your eye doctor first. "This ensures you get the proper fit and vision correction. It's essential to prevent complications," says Torossian.
(back to top)
Catherine Heyman, OD, FAAO, optometrist, founding dean of High Point University School of Optometry
Randy McLaughlin, OD, MS, optometrist with the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Lernik Torossian, OD, optometrist with USC Roski Eye Institute
(back to top)
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Learn with AIFact CheckingText to SpeechAI Summary

Related Articles

Business Insider

2 hours ago

• Business Insider

Incyte announces FDA extends review period for Opzelura sNDA

The company states: 'Incyte (INCY) announced that the FDA has extended the review period for the supplemental New Drug Application, sNDA, for ruxolitinib cream, Opzelura, a topical Janus kinase inhibitor, for the treatment of children 2-11 years old with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. The PDUFA action date has been extended by three months to September 19, 2025. The FDA extended the PDUFA action date to allow time to review additional chemistry, manufacturing and controls data on the 0.75% strength submitted by Incyte in response to a recent FDA information request.' Steven Stein, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Incyte stated: 'We are confident in the potential of ruxolitinib cream to become an important non-steroidal, topical treatment option for pediatric patients with atopic dermatitis and we will continue to work closely with the FDA to ensure the Agency has all of the information needed to complete its review.' Confident Investing Starts Here:

Associated Press

6 hours ago

• Associated Press

IBN Coverage: HeartBeam (NASDAQ: BEAT) Earns FDA Clearance for First Cable-Free ECG System for Arrhythmia Detection

This article was published by IBN, a multifaceted communications organization engaged in connecting public companies to the investment community. LOS ANGELES, CA - June 20, 2025 ( NEWMEDIAWIRE ) - HeartBeam (NASDAQ: BEAT) announced it has received FDA 510(k) clearance for its flagship ECG system, a first-of-its-kind, credit card-sized, cable-free device designed to deliver high-fidelity, three-directional cardiac recordings for arrhythmia evaluation. The clearance marks a major regulatory milestone and accelerates HeartBeam's plans to improve access to timely, remote cardiac care. When symptoms arise, patients use the app-guided system to record a 30-second ECG, which is automatically uploaded to the cloud for physician review in the context of medical history. The company will soon launch an Early Access Program to engage early adopters and providers ahead of broader commercialization. This foundational clearance also sets the stage for future advancements, including 12-lead ECG synthesis, AI-based arrhythmia detection, and remote heart attack risk scoring. HeartBeam's long-term vision is to revolutionize cardiac care by enabling continuous, predictive insights outside traditional clinical settings. To view the full press release, visit About HeartBeam Inc. HeartBeam is a medical technology company dedicated to transforming cardiac care by providing powerful cardiac insights wherever the patient is. The company is creating the first-ever cable-free 12-lead ECG capable of capturing the heart's electrical signals from three dimensions. This platform technology is designed to be used in portable devices that can be used wherever the patient is to deliver actionable heart intelligence. Physicians will be able to identify cardiac health trends and acute conditions and direct patients to the appropriate care - all outside of a medical facility, thus redefining the future of cardiac health management. The company holds 13 U.S. and 4 international-issued patents related to technology enablement. For more information, visit NOTE TO INVESTORS: IBN is a multifaceted financial news, content creation and publishing company utilized by both public and private companies to optimize investor awareness and recognition. For more information, please visit Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the InvestorBrandNetwork website applicable to all content provided by IBN, wherever published or re-published: The latest news and updates relating to BEAT are available in the company's newsroom at Forward Looking Statements Certain statements in this article are forward-looking, as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements involve risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from the information expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements and may not be indicative of future results. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, including, among others, various factors beyond management's control, including the risks set forth under the heading 'Risk Factors' discussed under the caption 'Item 1A. Risk Factors' in Part I of the Company's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K or any updates discussed under the caption 'Item 1A. Risk Factors' in Part II of the Company's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and in the Company's other filings with the SEC. Undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements in this article in making an investment decision, which are based on information available to us on the date hereof. All parties undertake no duty to update this information unless required by law. About IBN IBN is a cutting-edge communications and digital engagement platform providing tailored Platform Solutions for select private and public companies. Over the course of 19+ years, IBN has introduced over 70 investor facing brands to the investment public and amassed a collective audience of millions of social media followers. These distinctive investor brands amplify recognition and reach as well as help fulfill the unique needs of our rapidly growing and diverse base of client-partners. IBN will continue to expand our branded network of influential properties as well as leverage the energy and experience of our team of professionals to best serve our clients. IBN's Platform Solutions provide access to: (1) our Dynamic Brand Portfolio (DBP) through 70+ investor facing brands; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ news outlets; (3) full-scale distribution to a growing Social Media Network (SMN) ; (4) a network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to effectively reach target markets and demographics; (5) Press Release Enhancement to ensure accuracy and impact; (6) a full array of corporate communications solutions; and (7) total news coverage solutions. For more information, please visit Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the InvestorBrandNetwork website applicable to all content provided by IBN, wherever published or re-published: Media Contact IBN Los Angeles, California 310.299.1717 Office [email protected]

Yahoo

8 hours ago

• Yahoo

Little Remedies honey cough syrup recalled nationwide: What parents need to know

As parents, we do everything we can to keep our children safe—especially when they're sick. That's why a new nationwide recall of a popular over-the-counter children's cough medicine is raising serious concern. Medtech Products Inc. has voluntarily recalled several lots of Little Remedies® Honey Cough Syrup after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found the presence of Bacillus cereus, a harmful bacteria that can cause foodborne illness—and in severe cases, even death. The recalled syrup, a go-to for many parents looking for natural relief for their child's cough, was sold online and in stores across the U.S. between December 2022 and June 2025. While no serious injuries have been reported as of now, the company is urging families to stop using the affected products immediately. Here's what you need to know to keep your little ones safe. The recall affects Little Remedies® Honey Cough Syrup, sold in 4 FL OZ (118 mL) amber bottles, commonly found in pharmacies, grocery stores, and online retailers. The syrup is marketed as a gentle, natural remedy made with honey to soothe coughs in children — but the recent discovery of Bacillus cereus contamination has made certain lots unsafe for use. According to the official FDA notice, the bacteria was detected in certain lots, prompting a recall due to concerns about shelf stability and potential health risks. While no other Little Remedies® products are affected, all lots of this particular syrup still within the expiration date have been included in the recall out of an abundance of caution. Here are the affected lot numbers and expiration dates: Lot 0039 – Expires 11/2025 Lot 0545 – Expires 01/2026 Lot 0640 – Expires 02/2026 Lot 0450 – Expires 05/2026 Lot 1198 – Expires 12/2026 Each recalled bottle has a UPC of 7-56184-10737-9 and should have the lot number printed on both the label and the bottom of the box. If you have one of these in your medicine cabinet, read on for what steps to take next. Bacillus cereus is a type of bacteria that can cause foodborne illness when ingested — especially when it grows in products that are no longer shelf-stable. While it may sound unfamiliar to many parents, the symptoms it causes are unfortunately very recognizable. There are two common types of illness linked to B. cereus: The first appears 1 to 6 hours after exposure and typically causes nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. The second appears 8 to 16 hours after exposure, with symptoms including diarrhea and abdominal pain. In some cases, the diarrhea may be severe and watery. In most healthy children, these symptoms may pass on their own. However, exposure to high levels of can lead to more serious illness — and in rare cases, it can be fatal. If your child has consumed the recalled syrup and shows any of these symptoms, it's important to contact your pediatrician or seek medical attention right away. When in doubt, trust your instincts — you know your child best. Related: Here's how I'm preparing for my kids' sick days this year If you have a bottle of Little Remedies® Honey Cough Syrup at home, the first step is to stop using it immediately — even if your child has taken it without any symptoms. Check both the UPC (7-56184-10737-9) and the lot number, which can be found on the bottle label and the bottom of the box. Here's what to do next: If your child has taken the syrup and is experiencing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain, call your pediatrician right away. If your child seems fine, monitor them closely for symptoms for up to 24 hours. To request a refund or report an issue, you can contact Medtech directly: Call: (800) 754-8853 (Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. ET) Email: medicalaffairs@ Website: If you or your healthcare provider believe your child experienced a reaction to the product, you can also report it through the FDA's MedWatch program at It's always okay to ask questions, trust your instincts, and reach out for guidance when your child's health is involved. Related: Target recalls baby food over lead concerns—here's what parents should do Recalls like this can feel unsettling, especially when they involve products we trust. But by staying informed and taking quick action, you're doing exactly what your child needs. No serious injuries have been reported, and the recall is precautionary — but it's always better to be safe. If you have concerns, talk to your pediatrician. When it comes to your child's health, caution is care.