A Simple Guide to Choosing the Right Lens Material: 1.56, 1.61, or 1.67?

When it comes to eyeglass lenses, material matters more than most patients realize. The right choice makes glasses more comfortable, more durable, and better looking—especially for people with higher prescriptions.

But for many, lens indexes like 1.56 or 1.67 sound like random numbers. As an optical professional, your job is to translate those numbers into simple benefits.

Here’s how to explain lens materials clearly, and how to match each one to the patient’s prescription and daily needs.

1.56 Lenses: The Everyday Option

1.56 index lenses are a go-to choice for mild to moderate prescriptions. They offer good clarity and thickness for most wearers.

✅ Best for:

• Spherical prescriptions from 0.00 to around -2.00

• Patients who want value and reliability

• People using full-rim plastic or metal frames

✅ Why it works:

• Affordable and widely available

• Compatible with all Rising Sun coatings (HMC, HMC+ Blue, UV420)

• Easy to adjust, edge, and fit into most frames

❌ Limitations:

• Can appear thick at higher prescriptions, especially in rimless or thin frames

1.61 Lenses: Slimmer, Stronger, and Lighter

1.61 lenses are a great step up in both strength and thinness. They’re thinner than 1.56 and more impact-resistant, making them ideal for patients who wear glasses all day.

✅ Best for:

• Moderate prescriptions, especially from -2.00 to -4.00

• Patients who want a slimmer, more polished look

• People who need something more durable than basic lenses

✅ Why it works:

• Thinner than 1.56 by about 20–25%

• Stronger and lighter—more comfortable for all-day wear

• Works well with semi-rimless and metal frames

❌ Limitations:

• Slightly higher price point than 1.56

1.67 Lenses: The Best Option for High Prescriptions

For patients with higher prescriptions, 1.67 high-index lenses reduce thickness while keeping clarity intact. These lenses minimize edge thickness in myopic prescriptions and lens bulge in hyperopic prescriptions.

✅ Best for:

• High prescriptions (above -4.00 or +3.00)

• Patients concerned with lens thickness or weight

• People using slim, rimless, or fashion-forward frames

✅ Why it works:

• Much thinner than 1.56—up to 35% reduction in thickness

• Keeps lenses lighter and more comfortable

• Looks better in cosmetic terms—no “bottle effect”

❌ Limitations:

• Higher cost

• Can show more reflections if not coated properly (always pair with HMC or better)

Quick Comparison Table

Lens Index	Best For Prescription Range	Main Benefit	Recommended Frames
1.56	0.00 to -2.00 / +1.00	Budget-friendly clarity	Full-rim plastic or metal
1.61	-2.00 to -4.00	Thinner, more durable	Semi-rimless, lightweight metal
1.67	-4.00 and up / +3.00 and up	Ultra-thin, premium look	Slim, rimless, fashion frames

Rising Sun Lenses at TKR Optics

All TKR Optics lenses come from our Rising Sun lens range, which includes all three of these index options. Every lens can be ordered with:

• HMC: Scratch-resistant and anti-reflective

• Blue Shield: Blocks glare and blue light

These options make it easier to recommend a full solution—not just the material, but the protection that fits your patient’s screen time and sun exposure.

Final Thought

Choosing the right lens material doesn’t have to be confusing. If the prescription is mild, 1.56 gets the job done. If they want something slimmer and more comfortable, 1.61 is a smart upgrade. And for high prescriptions, 1.67 keeps everything sleek, clear, and wearable.

At TKR Optics, we make it easy to match the right lens to the right wearer. Talk to us if you need help choosing the best Rising Sun lens setup for your patients.