Trivex vs CR-39 Lenses: Which is the Better Choice?

Trivex and CR-39 are both popular eyeglass lens materials, but they excel in different areas: Trivex provides superior impact resistance, durability, and UV protection, while CR-39 stands out for optical clarity and affordability. The ideal choice depends on your specific priorities- safety and versatility or pure optical quality at a budget price.

Key Differences Between Trivex and CR-39

Impact Resistance and Durability

Trivex lenses are engineered for strength. They are extremely impact-resistant, making them a top choice for sports eyewear and rimless frames. Because they resist cracking and shattering, Trivex is especially reliable for high-motion activities or those prone to accidents. 

CR-39, by contrast, is more brittle. While it performs well in everyday settings, it is prone to chipping or shattering under impact. For that reason, CR-39 is not recommended for rimless or drill-mounted frames and is unsuitable for people with highly active lifestyles.

Optical Clarity

When it comes to pure optical sharpness, CR-39 is the winner. With an Abbe value of about 58, it provides exceptional clarity and reduces chromatic aberration, resulting in crisp, distortion-free vision. This high clarity makes CR-39 a favorite among opticians for standard full-rim eyeglasses where impact resistance is not a concern.

Trivex also provides excellent optical clarity, with an Abbe value around 43-45, which is far superior to polycarbonate and more than adequate for most wearers. While CR-39 technically outperforms it in optical precision, Trivex balances strong clarity with added durability, making it more versatile overall.

Weight and Thickness

Trivex is thinner and lighter than CR-39, which makes it more comfortable for extended wear. Glasses with Trivex lenses feel lighter on the face, reduce pressure on the nose and ears, and work well with larger frame styles or for users who wear glasses all day.

CR-39, while not excessively heavy, is thicker and denser than Trivex. In higher prescriptions, CR-39 lenses can look bulky and feel heavier, which may reduce comfort over long periods of wear.

UV Protection

Trivex provides 100% protection against UVA and UVB rays as a built-in property of the material. This means you don’t need to pay extra for a coating, and the UV protection does not wear off over time.

CR-39 does not naturally block UV light. It requires a special coating to achieve full UV protection. For users who spend time outdoors, this adds an extra cost and layer of maintenance to ensure long-term eye health.

Cost and Availability

CR-39 is one of the most affordable lens materials on the market. It is widely available and has been a standard option for decades, making it the go-to for budget-conscious buyers who want reliable performance at a low price.

Trivex, on the other hand, is at a higher price point. The price reflects its superior durability, impact resistance, and built-in UV protection. While it may not be necessary for everyone, it offers long-term value for people who want safety, resilience, and versatility in their lenses.

Trivex vs CR-39 Summary Table

Practical Guidance

When to Choose Trivex

Trivex is the best choice for people who need maximum longevity and durability. It is also the preferred option for rimless or semi-rimless frames, where durability is critical to prevent lens breakage at drill points. In addition, the lightweight feel of Trivex makes it more comfortable for people who wear glasses all day.

When to Choose CR-39

CR-39 is ideal for users who want exceptional optical clarity on a budget. It delivers the sharpest vision at the lowest price, making it a great everyday choice for standard, full-rimmed eyeglasses. For wearers with mild prescriptions or those who primarily use glasses in low-risk environments, CR-39 offers excellent performance at an affordable cost. However, users should remember to add a UV-blocking coating if they spend significant time outdoors.

Pros and Cons of Trivex

Pros

• Extremely impact resistant
  
  

• Lightweight and thin, comfortable for long wear
  
  

• Built-in 100% UV protection
  
  

• Excellent optical clarity (better than polycarbonate)
  
  

• Crack and shatter resistant, perfect for rimless frames
  
  

Cons

• Higher cost than CR-39
  
  

• Optical clarity is slightly below CR-39
  
  

Pros and Cons of CR-39

Pros

• Highest optical clarity with Abbe value ~58
  
  

• Very affordable, budget-conscious option
  
  

• Widely available in most lens styles
  
  

• Comfortable for low prescriptions in full-rim frames
  
  

Cons

• Poor impact resistance, prone to chips and cracks
  
  

• Heavier and thicker than Trivex in stronger prescriptions
  
  

• Requires coatings for UV protection
  
  

• Not suitable for rimless or safety frames
  
  

Real-World Applications

Everyday Glasses

CR-39 is a great option for people who want glasses for simple day-to-day use. With high clarity and low cost, it is especially suited for mild prescriptions and full-rimmed frames.

Sports and Outdoor Use

Trivex is the preferred material for sports glasses, sunglasses, and outdoor eyewear. Its built-in UV protection and impact resistance provide both safety and comfort in active environments.

Children’s Eyewear

Parents often choose Trivex for children because kids are more likely to drop or damage their glasses. The durability and lightweight nature of Trivex lenses help prevent accidents while keeping the glasses comfortable.

Conclusion: Trivex vs CR-39

Trivex and CR-39 each serve important but different roles in eyewear. Trivex excels in impact resistance, durability, UV protection, and lightweight comfort, making it perfect for athletes, children, and those requiring rimless or safety eyewear. CR-39 stands out for its superior optical clarity and affordability, making it a great choice for budget-conscious users who want crisp vision in safe, everyday environments.

Both materials deliver clear vision, but your priorities will determine the best choice. If safety, durability, and versatility are essential, Trivex justifies its higher cost. If you want sharp vision at the lowest price and primarily wear full-rim glasses in safe settings, CR-39 remains a classic, budget-conscious solution.