The Best Eyeglasses For Programmers

12.20.2019
what are the best eyeglasses for programmers?

Programmers spend long hours staring at backlit screens. Prolonged exposure to blue light emanating from computers and devices can cause digital eye strain. Gunnar computer screen glasses feature a patented lens technology that blocks blue light. Select prescription computer glasses or standard computer glasses to increase clarity and minimize glare.

programmer wearing glasses

Blue Light Protection Factor

Gunnar lenses are available in several shades of tinting with a range of BLPF ratings. Clear lenses without amber tinting have a BLPF of 35. Lenses with a light amber tint are rated BLPF 65. Darker lens shades may also be available, such as sunglasses that also shield eyes from backlit screens with a BLPF of 90. Amber Max lenses for sensitive eyes or low-light environments are rated BLPF 98. Programmers should factor in light levels in work environments to select lenses that provide a sufficient level of protection.

Screen-Specific Frame Designs

women programmer wearing glasses

Gunnar frames are designed with screen usage in mind. Most styles feature a wide format for a panoramic viewing field that wraps around the sides of the face to shield eyes from exposure to airflow, which can result in dryness. Programmers and other technology professionals should make sure that these lightweight frames have a comfortable fit. Check the lens and frame width as well as the nose and temple measurements of a frame style. Various frames feature curved nose rests or adjustable silicone pads. Choose frame materials that offer the right combination of comfort and style.

Prescription Computer Glasses Lenses

Wearers of prescription glasses may have several lens options such as standard or HD single vision lenses, lined bifocal lenses or progressive lenses that have a Digital HD finish. Programmers who work in well-lit environments may prefer to wear clear lenses. For more protection from eye strain in lower light conditions, amber or Amber Max lenses may be better options. Professionals who look at screens outdoors during the daytime may need darker lenses that combine the features of sun and screen protection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do computer glasses really help?

Lenses that block blue light may limit eye strain during long sessions of screen use. In general, the darker the tint, the more suitable lenses are for wear in surroundings with low levels of ambient light.  Gunnar glasses and other eyewear intended for computer use often have anti-reflective lens coatings to enhance clarity with or without a prescription.

Are there special glasses for computer?

Glasses designed to block blue light are intended to be worn while using computers and other devices with backlit screens. Programmers and other technology professionals who need prescription computer glasses may prefer bifocal or progressive lenses that make it possible to see nearby notes or more distant surroundings clearly in addition to a computer screen.

What are computer glasses for?

Preventing digital eye strain is the primary purpose of blue-light blocking glasses. This common syndrome may cause eyes to become dry or red and temporarily result in blurry vision or headaches. An anti-glare lens coating can also make it easier to see screens. Wearing amber-tinted lenses while working on a backlit screen after dark may also be helpful for restoring natural circadian rhythms or patterns of waking and sleeping.