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EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker Review

About EyeBuyDirect

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker Review

Squint no more; EyeBuyDirect serves as a more convenient solution for buying prescription spectacles. Based solely online, this optical brand carries hundreds of well-known brands, ranging from Oakley to Ray-Ban.

The company prides itself on being affordable, time-saving, and super-efficient—because they cut out the middleman to help streamline the shopping process. Founded by Roy Hessel in 2005, this Californian-based company has also contributed to multiple causes, including The Trevor Project and Feed The Children.

EyeBuyDirect’s insurmountable success has won them internet recognition, which is most notably shown through its 415k following on Instagram. In addition, some media outlets, such as Forbes and InsideHook, have even featured this brand in past news articles.

About Warby Parker

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker Review

If you were to define beauty, timelessness, and elegance as one sole example, I’m sure that Warby Parker would fit the description. Best known for its own selection of high-quality optics, this eyeglasses brand offers blue light lenses and light-responsive specs for men and women.

Warby Parker is the dreamchild of four founders: Neil Blumenthal, Dave Gilboa, Andy Hunt, and Jeff Raider. Partially inspired by Kerouac’s On the Road, this online brand wanted to serve as a diversion from the oversaturated glasses market, which was notoriously known for its exorbitant prices.

The company made its official debut in 2010 in New York City. Over the years, Warby Parker has used its newfound success to give back to the community, which is best showcased in its ‘Buy a Pair, Give a Pair’ program. The brand has over 558k followers on Instagram and has been featured in popular media outlets—including The New York Times and CNBC.

In-store shopping is slowly becoming an archaic practice, and that bodes true in buying eyeglasses. It’s time to opt for something more convenient and affordable, which leads us down to our two main competitors: EyeBuyDirect and Warby Parker. The question is, what brand should you support?

Stay tuned to this EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker review as I will take an in-depth look at both companies. I’ll cover some important points regarding product quality, price, value, and overall customer feedback.

What to Consider

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker Review

Product range

When it comes to eyeglasses, companies will either carry various brands or sell their own patented designs. Both options come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages, which usually entail design variety and product range. Ultimately, the decision is based on your personal shopping preferences.

Target audience

Eyeglasses come in various shapes and sizes. With that in mind, it’s important to assess your needs and wants when buying spectacles. Do you love to make a statement, or do you prefer to keep things subtle? Customers will also need to account for budget as well, as the brand spectrum ranges from affordable to designer-grade.

Extras

Long gone are the days of ordinary lenses fitted on ordinary frames. Today, we’re spoiled with several modern-day advancements, which usually include blue light filtering and scratch-resistant spectacles.

In addition, extras will serve as website add-ons such as virtual try-on sessions and online quizzes. Sometimes the best purchase comes with several bonuses—after all, eyeglasses are usually a hefty investment.

Design features

If you’re an avid trendsetter, chances are that design serves as a crucial part of the shopping experience. Nobody likes a dull set of spectacles. Nowadays, it’s all about making a statement. Features like frame shape, color, and added embellishments can do wonders in expressing your personality.

Materials and durability

Unless you love the ‘tape over nose bridge’ look, durability is an important point to consider when buying eyeglasses. A good pair of spectacles should last for years, which is dependent on the materials used.

Materials can range from plastic-based frames to metal types. You should also keep a good eye (no pun intended) on add-ons such as scratch-resistant frames and anti-reflective coating.

Warranties

Let’s be honest; durability only goes as far as how well you treat your glasses. More often than not, we subject our spectacles to abuse—whether that be accidental sitting, dropping, or throwing. With that in mind, you should be covered under a warranty. This will help ensure normal wear and tear as well as any manufacturing defects.

Accessibility

Online shopping is great and all, but it does come with a few limitations. Some brands only operate online, which doesn’t bode well for customers who want to try on their glasses in person.

A good company will have a few in-store locations, as well as partnered brands that carry their designs to help increase accessibility. Affordability is also a crucial factor to consider, as nobody wants to pay an outrageous fee for a simple pair of specs.

EyeBuyDirect Botanist Rectangle Gray Brown Eyeglasses vs Warby Parker Gillian Teal Tortoise Review:

Simplicity, minimalism, and a touch of modern-day elegance are something that most shoppers look for when buying a pair of eyeglasses. The EyeBuyDirect Botanist Rectangle Gray Brown Eyeglasses and the Warby Parker Gillian Teal Tortoise specs are no different, as both options feature a classic design composed of clean-cut lenses and a semi-transparent frame.

Figuring that you only have room to buy one, which pair should you opt for? Instead of hopping from one tab to the other, this EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker review will outline some key facts for you to consider.

EyeBuyDirect Botanist Rectangle Gray Brown Eyeglasses:

  • Rectangle lenses fitted with two-tone gray and brown full-rim frames
  • Available in four alternative designs (black, ivory tortoise, navy striped, and brown)
  • Made out of acetate
  • Hinge studs on the end pieces
  • Features anti-scratch lens coating
  • Set in medium-width
  • Offered in four different usages (distance, multifocal, reading, and non-prescription)
  • Costs $32

Warby Parker Gillian Teal Tortoise specs:

  • Round oversized lenses fitted with thin tortoise lenses
  • Set in two alternative designs (nutmeg crystal and jet black)
  • Made out of cellulose acetate
  • Built with akulon-coated screws for durability
  • Available in medium-width
  • Offered in various prescription types (single-vision, progressives, readers, and non-prescription)
  • Compatible with several lens varieties (classic, blue light filtering, and light-responsive)
  • Price ranges from $150 to $475

Budget-conscious customers, I’m sure you’ve already settled on your final winner—but let’s discuss a few other points to consider, shall we? The Warby Parker glasses and the EyeBuyDirect specs are relatively similar when it comes to their simple designs, but there are some notable differences regarding extras.

The Botanist frames come with anti-scratch lens coating, while the Gillian Teal Tortoise lenses are offered in a variety of finishes, including blue light filtering and light-responding technology.

Aside from the cost, choices will ultimately boil down to what type of glasses-wearer you are. Are you someone who drops their specs occasionally, or do you sit in front of a screen 24/7? The answer will help you determine what option to go for.

EyeBuyDirect St Michel Round Golden Eyeglasses vs Warby Parker Percey Chestnut Crystal Eyeglasses Review:

If simplicity is your middle name, I’m sure that the EyeBuyDirect St Michel Round Golden Eyeglasses and the Warby Parker Percey Chestnut Crystal Eyeglasses will tickle your fancy.

These specs are made for those who love the minimalist aesthetic, whether that be jewelry, clothing, or interior design. I don’t know about you, but I’m getting some serious fashion editor vibes from both of these frames.

But alas, your glasses case has only room for one pair of fashionably-clad specs. To help readers settle on a decision, this EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker review will highlight a few features of both designs.

EyeBuyDirect St Michel Round Golden Eyeglasses:

  • Round oversized lenses set with thin full-rim frames
  • Made out of metal
  • Set in seven different colors
  • Features a thin nose bridge and black temple tips
  • Built with anti-scratch lens coating
  • Available in small, medium, and large
  • Offered in four different usages (distance, multifocal, reading, and non-prescription)
  • Costs $32

 Warby Parker Percey Chestnut Crystal Eyeglasses:

  • Round lenses with thick, clear frames
  • Made out of cellulose acetate
  • Set in eight different designs
  • Strengthened with akulon-coated screws
  • Available in extra narrow, narrow, medium, wide, and extra wide
  • Offered in various prescription types (single-vision, progressives, readers, and non-prescription)
  • Compatible with several lens varieties (classic, blue light filtering, and light-responsive)
  • Price ranges from $150 to $475 

Let’s set aside cost for a change and just focus on product specs. The Warby Parker lenses and the EyeBuyDirect specs are both stunning in design, but they’re quite different in terms of silhouette.

The Percey Chestnut Crystal frames offer a chunkier rim while the St Michel Round Golden ones keep things ‘light and airy’ by providing a thinner alternative. Of course, both options come in various sizes, and some customers may find Warby Parker as a more suitable option for narrow or extra wide faces.

EyeBuyDirect Good Vibes Aviator Black Sunglasses vs Warby Parker Dawson Oak Barrel Review:

There’s nothing sexier than a pair of well-made sunglasses. If you’re looking to complement your Top Gun-inspired ensemble, the EyeBuyDirect Good Vibes Aviator Black Sunglasses and the Warby Parker Dawson Oak Barrel sunnies will definitely channel some 1980s Tom Cruise vibes.

Unless you’re an avid shades collector, chances are that you’re only in the market for one summer-clad pair—but what option should you go for? To keep things easy to read, this EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker review will compare these Hollywood-ready specs.

EyeBuyDirect Good Vibes Aviator Black Sunglasses:

  • Aviator shaped lenses fitted with a thin, black wire frame
  • Available in two more designs (gold and silver)
  • Made out of metal
  • Built with a double nose bridge, adjustable nose pads, and acetate temple tips
  • Finished with anti-scratch coating
  • Offered in grey tint
  • Set in large
  • Price ranges from $39 to $59 (add-ons such as subscription and lens coating will entail a larger cost)

Warby Parker Dawson Oak Barrel sunnies:

  • Square lenses fitted with thick tortoise frames
  • Set in a second color (azure crystal with oak barrel)
  • Made out of cellulose acetate
  • Features super-defined end pieces in the brand’s signature graduated rivet design
  • Built with durable akulon-coated screws
  • Prescription lenses are made out of impact-resistant polycarbonate. Its non-prescription alternative is set with CR-39 for “maximum clarity and color
  • Scratch-resistant and UV-ray protective
  • Available in wide width
  • Offered in various prescription types (single-vision, progressives, readers, and non-prescription)
  • Price ranges from $275 to $600

While it may seem that the Dawson Oak Barrel sunnies have more to offer, the Good Vibes Aviator Black shades also come with sun protection—including polarization, mirroring, and gradients. Like Warby Parker, you can also make them prescription lenses as they’re offered in distance and multifocal.

While they’re quite different in design, the cost is a major point to consider. EyeBuyDirect is more affordable while its competitor serves as a bougier option for those who have a larger budget.

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker: Quality

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker Review

I’ll admit it. My glasses have been through hell and back, considering they’ve been dropped and crushed for years. But, through the grace of God and some luck—they’ve managed to keep shape thanks to their durable build.

I’m sure most of you are looking for that forever pair that’ll last the test of time, which is why it’s incredibly important to account for material and quality when searching for new specs. So what can I say about these two coveted optics brands for this EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker review? I’ll give you the skinny.

Let’s start with Warby Parker. This optics brand prides itself in its manufacturing process, as every frame is designed in its in-house studio. Frame materials range from cellulose acetate to high-quality titanium, which is hand-assembled and finished by a CNC machine. In addition, all designs are formulated with a blend of wood chips and German wax compound.

Afterward, each pair of glasses undergo rigorous quality control to ensure no defects. Quality also entails the brand’s wide array of lens finishes and add-ons, as some options vary from blue-light filtering, anti-scratch coating, and light-responsive technology. While Warby Parker glasses are quite expensive, you’re getting a pair that’ll last for years.

Unfortunately, EyeBuyDirect isn’t as informative as Warby Parker. Its site doesn’t provide much detail in terms of the manufacturing process. Its quality can only be determined by the materials they use for their frames and lenses. Like its competitor, this brand uses a mix of plastic-based components and metals.

It also offers a variety of lens coatings, which range from anti-scratch, anti-reflective, light-adjusting, gradient tint, water repellent, and more. To EyeBuyDirect’s credit, they do provide more resources for customers, such as ‘Eye Care Tips’ and ‘Fit & Style Eyewear Quiz.’

I’m not here to crown any winners, but I think it’s quite obvious who is more reputable when it comes to company transparency. At the end of the day, quality is indicative of its overall price and, most importantly—customer feedback. If you’re curious about learning more, I’d suggest you stay put for this EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker review.

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker: Price & Value

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker Review

So, how much are you looking to spend on a pair of eyeglasses? Like jewelry and clothing, brands can range from largely affordable to semi-exclusive.

By now, you’ve probably picked up the estimated ballpark for both of these online brands. But, what I haven’t discussed are the price variations since the cost is dependent on the prescription grade and add-ons you choose with each set of glasses.

For a more in-depth read, this EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker review will provide two examples to help readers get a better sense of each brand’s estimated costs.

EyeBuyDirect Good Vibes Aviator Black Sunglasses

Non-prescription lenses starting price: $39

  • Basic: free
  • Polarized: $30 for basic tint or $59 for mirrored tint
  • Mirrored: $29
  • Gradient: $4
  • Standard lenses: free
  • Most popular lenses (25% thinner): $40

Prescription lenses starting price: $59

  • Distance: $20
  • Multifocal: $109 for progressive or $129 for premium progressive

 Warby Parker Dawson Oak Barrel sunnies:

  • Single vision: $275
  • Progressives: $600
  • Readers: $275
  • Polycarbonate lenses: free
  • 1.67 high index lenses: $200

It’s worth noting that features such as mirroring and polarization are considered add-ons to the initial $39. The EyeBuyDirect glasses come with more customization options than its competitor, and they entail a more affordable cost.

With that being said, it doesn’t mean that Warby Parker is entirely out of the ballpark, as it offers standard pricing for all of its prescription varieties.

Of course, these costs are only indicative of the sunglasses category. Prices may be different for standard spectacles. Unfortunately, this EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker review can’t provide any estimates, as customers will need to fill out their prescription types to get a quote.

Before you crown your winning victor, you should stay tuned for the next segment for this EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker review. I’ll go over some common customer feedback to see if cost and value are on equal terms for both of these brands.

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker: What do Customers Think?

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker Review

It only takes one Google search to know that EyeBuyDirect and Warby Parker are reputable eyeglass brands. Of course, don’t take our word for it, as it’s best to take a look at the ratings and common customer feedback online.

For your viewing pleasure, I’ll provide a quick point-form summary for you to consider:

EyeBuyDirect:

  • Botanist Rectangle Gray Brown Eyeglasses: 1,065 reviews with 4.7/5 stars
  • St Michel Round Golden Eyeglasses: 2,515 reviews with 4.8/5 stars
  • Good Vibes Aviator Black Sunglasses: 1,029 reviews with 4.8/5 stars
  • Trustpilot: 18k reviews with 4.5/5 stars
  • Better Business Bureau: 198 complaints with 75 closed
  • Sitejabber: 203k reviews with 4.7/5 stars

Common customer feedback:

  • Stylish, fit true to size, and reputable in quality
  • Offered a streamlined experience in shopping for eyeglasses online
  • Affordable
  • Positive experiences with the brand’s customer service
  • Delivery was relatively quick

Warby Parker

  • Consumer Affairs: 278 reviews with 3.9/5 stars
  • Sitejabber: 298 reviews with 2.6/5 stars
  • Better Business Bureau: 62 reviews with 1.67/5 stars
  • Influenster: 510 reviews with 4.8/5 stars
  • Trustpilot: 55 reviews with 2.9/5 stars

Common customer feedback:

  • History of repeat clients
  • High-quality, fashionable, and worth the splurge
  • Ordering process was relatively easy
  • Exceptional customer service
  • A few negative reports dealing with shipping and customer service

After some initial research, it appears that EyeBuyDirect and Warby Parker are trustworthy brands to support. Both companies seem commendable in terms of product quality, price, and design.

There are a few issues dealing with customer service and shipping for Warby Parker, but it ultimately pales in comparison to the number of positives shared online.

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker: Promotions & Discounts

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker Review

EyeBuyDirect and Warby Parker are relatively affordable eyeglass brands. But, deals and steals still help. Unfortunately, it seems that Warby Parker doesn’t offer any promotions or sales at this time.

After close inspection, it appears that they aren’t particularly avid in offering any, but hey—that shouldn’t discourage you from checking in once in a while.

For now, this EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker review will feature the deals offered on EyeBuyDirect’s website.

EyeBuyDirect:

  • Buy one get 50% off: customers must use promo code: 2LOOKS at checkout
  • Offers a sale outlet in which select items are offered at a discounted price
  • Provides a student discount worth 20% off plus free shipping
  • Refer-a-friend program: Buyers can get twice the amount of points for every successful referral
  • Has a loyalty program where members get exclusive access to insider perks and deals

Of course, promos and discount codes should be viewed as the ‘cherry on top’ when you settle on a chosen brand. They shouldn’t serve as the final deciding factor. But, for those skeptical about supporting EyeBuyDirect, perhaps this segment can act as that final incentive.

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker: Shipping & Returns

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker Review

Don’t get your hopes up yet. You know what they say: the devil lies in the details—and by details I mean the shipping and returns policy.

To help mitigate disappointment, this EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker review will quickly outline some points regarding transportation costs, available locations, and delivery timeframes for readers to pick up on.

EyeBuyDirect:

  • Free shipping on orders $99 or more
  • Standard delivery costs $6
  • Delivers within 7 to 14 business days
  • Issues a tracking number alongside a confirmation email
  • Provides international shipping to some countries, including Canada and Australia 
  • Offers a 14-day Fit & Style guarantee, in which customers can return their glasses for a one-time replacement or refund within two weeks of placing their orders
  • Has a 1-year product guarantee for customers who want a replacement pair within 12 months of ordering
  • Provides a prepaid shipping label
  • Replacements are non-refundable
  • No glaring reports about delayed or unfulfilled deliveries

Warby Parker:

  • Free shipping on all orders
  • Delivery is limited to Canada and the United States
  • Estimated arrival times can range from 5 to 9 business days
  • Issues a tracking number to help customers keep tabs on their order
  • Provides a 30-day return policy with a prepaid shipping label
  • Reported issues with the brand’s return guarantee

You can take care knowing that Warby Parker and EyeBuyDirect are credible brands to purchase from. There isn’t anything too concerning when it comes to customer service and delivery times, but it’s always a good idea to have a bit of buyer’s skepticism.

If it’s any consolation, both companies are relatively quick in addressing any frustrations or grievances that are detailed online.

Who Will You Shop With?

EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker Review

So, have you settled on a brand yet? If you’re anything like me, you’re probably still outweighing the pros and cons for both of these eyeglass companies. If you want our initial output, this EyeBuyDirect vs Warby Parker review will offer a brief rundown to help finalize your decision.

While it’s universally praised for its semi-affordable prices, Warby Parker is still the pricier option out of the two. But, its quality is unmatched by any eyeglass company—as the brand takes great pride in its manufacturing process.

Compared to brands that like to offer hundreds of unique designs, Warby Parker only provides a few select frames in a more uniform collection. It’s seamless, timeless, and elegant enough for the modern-day lifestyle.

When compared to its competitor, EyeBuyDirect is more affordable. You get a decent pair of specs for around $130, and that includes all the add-ons such as anti-scratch coating and light responding technology. It also provides some leniency for replacements and broken glasses, which is best reflected in the brand’s 14-day Fit & Style guarantee and 1-year product policy.

Both brands are commendable in terms of customization, affordability, and quality. Ultimately, EyeBuyDirect and Warby Parker serve as a more convenient solution for any spec-cladden trendsetter.


Check out similar brands you might like:

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Glasses.com Review

Caddis Glasses Review

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