If you have started holding your phone further away to read it, or small print looks blurry in the evening, you probably need reading glasses. This is called presbyopia, and it happens to almost everyone after about 40. The good news: ready-made reading glasses are simple and inexpensive. The only question is which power to buy. This guide shows you how to choose.
Reading glasses power chart by age
Reading power usually increases as we get older. Use this chart as a starting point:
| Your age | Usual reading power | Typical signs |
|---|---|---|
| 40 to 45 | +1.00 to +1.25 | Small print is tiring, especially in dim light |
| 45 to 50 | +1.25 to +1.75 | You hold your phone at arm's length to read |
| 50 to 55 | +1.75 to +2.25 | Newspapers and menus are hard without glasses |
| 55 to 60 | +2.25 to +2.50 | Most close work needs glasses |
| 60 and above | +2.50 to +3.00 | Strong help needed for all near tasks |
Everyone is different, so treat the chart as a guide, not a rule. Two people of the same age can need different powers.
A simple test at home
- Sit in good light and hold a newspaper or your phone at your normal, comfortable reading distance (about 35 to 40 cm).
- Start with the power from the chart for your age.
- If the text is sharp and comfortable, that is your power.
- If it is still slightly blurry, go one step higher (+0.25).
- If the text looks too big, blurry up close, or you feel strain, go one step lower.
Tip: if you are between two powers, choose the lower one. A power that is too strong causes more strain than one that is slightly weak.
Different powers for different tasks
- Books and phones (about 35 cm): your normal reading power
- Laptop or desktop (50 to 70 cm): about 0.50 to 0.75 lower than your reading power
- Sewing, fine work (very close): you may like 0.25 to 0.50 higher
Many people keep two pairs: one for reading and a slightly weaker one for the computer.
When ready-made reading glasses are not enough
Ready-made readers have the same power in both lenses. Get a proper eye test instead if:
- Your two eyes need very different powers
- You have astigmatism (a CYL value in your prescription)
- You also need glasses for distance
- Your vision changes suddenly, or you have headaches, eye pain or double vision
If you prefer contact lenses for both near and far, multifocal lenses such as Biotrue ONEday for Presbyopia are another option.
Shop reading glasses by power
At Alankar Vision you can buy ready-made reading glasses in +1.0, +1.5, +2.0, +2.5 or +3.0, in foldable, neck-worn and classic styles. See all reading glasses, or read how to choose the right style.
Frequently asked questions
Will reading glasses make my eyes weaker?
No. Needing more power with age is natural and is not caused by wearing reading glasses.
How often should I change my reading power?
Most people go up by about +0.25 to +0.50 every few years until around 60, when it usually settles.
Can I wear reading glasses while walking?
No. They make distant objects blurry. Wear them only for close work.
Is it bad to wear the wrong power?
It will not damage your eyes, but it can cause strain and headaches. Change to a better power if you feel discomfort.
Need help?
Our opticians have helped Mumbai choose glasses since 1968. WhatsApp us on +91 88795 11150 with your age and what you want to read, and we will suggest a power, free.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Ready-made reading glasses are not a substitute for an eye examination. See an eye doctor if your vision changes suddenly, you have eye pain, or your two eyes see very differently.
