5 Key Metrics to Consider When Choosing Contact Lenses
Jun 18, 2025
Anna
Switching from glasses to contact lenses can feel like a big step—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With so many options available today, the key is to focus on what matters most for you. Your eyes, your lifestyle, and your preferences are all part of the decision.
Before diving into types of lenses and brands, let’s go over five important factors that can help you find the perfect pair of contact lenses.
1. Cost – What’s Your Budget?
Let’s be honest: cost is usually the first thing people think about. Contact lenses can range from affordable daily disposables to pricier monthly or specialty lenses. Ask yourself:
-
Are you okay with spending a bit more for premium comfort or longer wear?
-
Do you prefer daily lenses that are thrown away every night (less hassle, but higher cost) or monthly lenses (more care, but budget-friendly)?
If you’re wearing lenses regularly, it’s worth calculating the monthly and yearly cost to make sure you’re comfortable with the commitment.
2. Comfort – Do You Have Dry or Sensitive Eyes?
Comfort is non-negotiable—no one wants to feel like there’s sand in their eye all day.
If you have:
-
Dry eyes
-
Allergies
-
Sensitive eyes
Then you’ll want to look for lenses specifically designed for moisture retention and breathability, such as silicone hydrogel materials or brands labeled “for dry eyes.”
Don’t forget: lens fit also matters. If lenses shift around or feel tight, speak with your eye doctor. A small tweak in the fit can make a big difference.
3. Ease of Use – How Much Maintenance Are You Willing to Do?
Ask yourself: do you want low-maintenance lenses, or are you okay with a little cleaning and storing each day?
-
Daily disposable lenses = wear once and toss. Ideal for beginners or anyone who values convenience.
-
Bi-weekly/monthly lenses = need proper cleaning and storage in contact lens solution.
If you’re always on the go or forgetful about routines, daily lenses might be your best friend.
4. Length of Wear – How Long Will You Use Them Each Day?
Are you planning to wear contacts from morning till night? Or just occasionally for sports or social outings?
For all-day wearers, it's important to choose lenses that allow high oxygen flow to avoid red, tired eyes. Some lenses are even approved for extended wear, meaning you can sleep in them—but always check with your optometrist first!
For casual or occasional wearers, you might not need the most high-tech option—just something comfy and easy to pop in and out.
5. Vision Clarity – Are Your Prescriptions the Same in Both Eyes?
Good vision is, of course, the point of wearing lenses in the first place. Some things to consider:
-
Do you have the same prescription in both eyes?
-
Do you need lenses for astigmatism, presbyopia, or multifocal correction?
These details can affect which type of lenses you need. Make sure your prescription is current and includes base curve and diameter—these numbers ensure your lenses fit properly.
And if you wear colored contact lenses for style (like ICOICE’s colored collections 👀), be sure they offer good clarity alongside beauty!
Final Thoughts: It’s All About You
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to choosing contact lenses. Some people prioritize budget, others comfort, and others want the easiest solution possible. The key is to ask the right questions before you shop:
-
What’s my lifestyle like?
-
How sensitive are my eyes?
-
How much effort do I want to put into lens care?
Once you figure that out, choosing the right lens becomes much simpler.
Bonus Tip: Start with a Trial Pair
Most eye care providers will offer free trial lenses after an eye exam. This is a great way to see how different types feel before you commit.
And remember—your eyes change over time. Even if you’ve been wearing lenses for years, it’s worth checking in with your optometrist annually to make sure your lenses are still the best fit for your needs.
Next Step: Curious About Colored Contacts?
If you’re thinking of switching up your look, colored contact lenses are a fun option. Brands like ICOICE offer beautiful, comfortable lenses in a wide range of shades—perfect if you want to add a subtle glow or bold pop to your eyes.
Switching from glasses to contact lenses can feel like a big step—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With so many options available today, the key is to focus on what matters most for you. Your eyes, your lifestyle, and your preferences are all part of the decision.
Before diving into types of lenses and brands, let’s go over five important factors that can help you find the perfect pair of contact lenses.
1. Cost – What’s Your Budget?
Let’s be honest: cost is usually the first thing people think about. Contact lenses can range from affordable daily disposables to pricier monthly or specialty lenses. Ask yourself:
-
Are you okay with spending a bit more for premium comfort or longer wear?
-
Do you prefer daily lenses that are thrown away every night (less hassle, but higher cost) or monthly lenses (more care, but budget-friendly)?
If you’re wearing lenses regularly, it’s worth calculating the monthly and yearly cost to make sure you’re comfortable with the commitment.
2. Comfort – Do You Have Dry or Sensitive Eyes?
Comfort is non-negotiable—no one wants to feel like there’s sand in their eye all day.
If you have:
-
Dry eyes
-
Allergies
-
Sensitive eyes
Then you’ll want to look for lenses specifically designed for moisture retention and breathability, such as silicone hydrogel materials or brands labeled “for dry eyes.”
Don’t forget: lens fit also matters. If lenses shift around or feel tight, speak with your eye doctor. A small tweak in the fit can make a big difference.
3. Ease of Use – How Much Maintenance Are You Willing to Do?
Ask yourself: do you want low-maintenance lenses, or are you okay with a little cleaning and storing each day?
-
Daily disposable lenses = wear once and toss. Ideal for beginners or anyone who values convenience.
-
Bi-weekly/monthly lenses = need proper cleaning and storage in contact lens solution.
If you’re always on the go or forgetful about routines, daily lenses might be your best friend.
4. Length of Wear – How Long Will You Use Them Each Day?
Are you planning to wear contacts from morning till night? Or just occasionally for sports or social outings?
For all-day wearers, it's important to choose lenses that allow high oxygen flow to avoid red, tired eyes. Some lenses are even approved for extended wear, meaning you can sleep in them—but always check with your optometrist first!
For casual or occasional wearers, you might not need the most high-tech option—just something comfy and easy to pop in and out.
5. Vision Clarity – Are Your Prescriptions the Same in Both Eyes?
Good vision is, of course, the point of wearing lenses in the first place. Some things to consider:
-
Do you have the same prescription in both eyes?
-
Do you need lenses for astigmatism, presbyopia, or multifocal correction?
These details can affect which type of lenses you need. Make sure your prescription is current and includes base curve and diameter—these numbers ensure your lenses fit properly.
And if you wear colored contact lenses for style (like ICOICE’s colored collections 👀), be sure they offer good clarity alongside beauty!
Final Thoughts: It’s All About You
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to choosing contact lenses. Some people prioritize budget, others comfort, and others want the easiest solution possible. The key is to ask the right questions before you shop:
-
What’s my lifestyle like?
-
How sensitive are my eyes?
-
How much effort do I want to put into lens care?
Once you figure that out, choosing the right lens becomes much simpler.
Bonus Tip: Start with a Trial Pair
Most eye care providers will offer free trial lenses after an eye exam. This is a great way to see how different types feel before you commit.
And remember—your eyes change over time. Even if you’ve been wearing lenses for years, it’s worth checking in with your optometrist annually to make sure your lenses are still the best fit for your needs.
Next Step: Curious About Colored Contacts?
If you’re thinking of switching up your look, colored contact lenses are a fun option. Brands like ICOICE offer beautiful, comfortable lenses in a wide range of shades—perfect if you want to add a subtle glow or bold pop to your eyes.