Buying prescription eyeglasses?

[smh254]

I currently live in the US but will be in Beijing starting in September for language study.

I need a new pair of eyeglasses. This will probably cost me at least $200 for a decent, fashionable pair here in NYC. Would I be better off getting my eye exam and eyeglasses in Beijing? How is the quality of their products? Is it more affordable there for the same quality standards as I would get in the United States?

Thank you!

[Quest]

Get your glasses in China. They are cheap, fast, fashionable and durable.

[leana]

It'll be much more cost effecitve if you can find a reliable optician in China.

[marcusat]

I got a pair of "Gucci" prescription glasses about a year ago for US$20 and they are still going strong! definately wait till you're here

[nomad]

There are Lens Crafters all over Beijing and the prices seem comparable.

[roddy]

Generally fine to get these locally. However if you have any special requirements - high-index glass, coatings, any specific frames - then it might be worth investigating further. Could be more difficult / time-consuming to get here, and the price differential might not be so huge, especially if you compare an overseas online supplier with a Beijing storefront.

[liuzhou]

I've been buying glasses here for years and never had a problem. I need varifocals and have to wait slightly longer for them. Definitely cheaper than in the UK. I've never had any problems with special coatings (other than fighting off the salespeople who want to sell me them).