If you’ve been looking through our lens menu, you’ll notice that we offer two main types of lenses: Lite Range and Essilor branded lenses. Both options are excellent, but they do have some key differences.
In simple terms, Lite Range lenses are a durable, affordable choice for single vision or multifocal prescriptions that deliver good performance and reliable lens coatings. Essilor lenses are more advanced, making use of cutting-edge technology and Crizal® coatings for both single vision or multifocal lenses.
If you’re wondering which is best for you, this article explains the difference.
What are Lite Range lenses?
Lite Range lenses are our long-standing option. They’re reliable, durable, and cost-effective, making them a brilliant everyday choice for many prescriptions. These lenses are a sub-range made by Essilor but aren't part of their series of branded lenses.
Within the Lite Range, there are three main lens types to choose from:
Single vision lenses – ideal for close reading, intermediate or distance vision correction.
Visio Digital varifocals – entry-level progressive lenses designed to give you smooth, comfortable transitions across near, intermediate, and distance vision all in one set of lenses.
Nova Plus 3.0 varifocals – more advanced progressives with fast adaptation and reduced head movement. These are top tier varifocal option within the Lite Range.
Coatings - All Lite Range lenses come with a complimentary HMC (Hard Multi Coat) finish, which provides anti-glare, anti-scratch, water, and smudge resistance. For added protection, you can upgrade to our Satin Blue coating which offers blue light and UV protection.
What are Essilor lenses?
Essilor is one of the world’s leading lens manufacturers, known for their heavy investment in research and development. Their lenses are designed and made with advanced technology, making them some of the most comfortable and high-performing lenses on the market.
At Banton Frameworks, we offer several Essilor lenses via our menu:
Varilux® XR Lenses – Essilor’s most advanced varifocal, designed using AI to predict natural eye movements.
Varilux® Comfort Max Lenses – built for all-day comfort with wider, more natural visual zones.
Eyezen™ anti-fatigue lenses
– perfect for younger wearers or those spending long hours on digital devices.
Coatings - Essilor lenses also come with premium Crizal® coatings, offering enhanced clarity, UV protection, and options for blue light filtering. These coatings help keep your lenses cleaner for longer while reducing glare and reflections.
Are Essilor lenses better than Lite Range lenses?
Yes — Essilor lenses are better in terms of technology and performance. They benefit from decades of research and development, alongside advanced coating options that make them stand out as some of the most innovative lenses in the world.
That said, Lite Range lenses are still an excellent option, especially if you want something affordable and straightforward. They’re actually also part of the Essilor product family, and were previously the only lenses we offered here at Banton Frameworks. If you use single vision lenses, have a mild prescription, are just starting-out with varifocals or just don't fancy the Essilor price tag, Lite Range lenses remain a brilliant choice.
Why are Essilor lenses more expensive?
Essilor lenses cost more because of the technology, research, and expertise that go into making them. As one of the world’s leading optical companies, Essilor invests heavily in research and development, which results in some of the most advanced lens designs available. Their lenses are built for high performance, comfort, and clarity.
A key part of this is their premium coatings. Options like Crizal® Sapphire™ HR or Crizal® Prevencia don’t just reduce glare — they also protect against scratches, smudges, and harmful light frequencies such as ultraviolet light with the option for blue light protection. Collectively, these help your lenses last longer, stay clearer and perform better.
On top of this, Essilor’s strong reputation and decades of expertise in progressive lens technology add to the value. Every lens benefits from precise manufacturing and strict quality control, which is why they’re regarded as some of the best in the world.
In short, Essilor lenses are more expensive because you’re paying for advanced technology, durability, and superior visual comfort — making them a worthwhile investment if you rely on your glasses every day.
Are Lite Range lenses good?
Absolutely. Lite Range lenses are high-performing, resilient, and affordable. For single vision wearers, they’re often the most practical option, especially if you only wear glasses occasionally or have a mild prescription.
They’re a simple, reliable solution without unnecessary extras, giving you clear and comfortable vision at a fair price.
Summary
Lite Range lenses are affordable, durable, and a great choice for single vision or mild prescriptions. They come with complimentary HMC coatings and the option to upgrade to Satin Blue.
Essilor lenses are premium, research-driven, and designed for maximum comfort and performance. They offer advanced designs like Varilux and Eyezen, alongside Crizal® coatings for superior lens protection.
A relatable example? If you only wear glasses for reading a book in the evening, Lite Range lenses are a sensible choice. But if you rely on your glasses all day, especially for complex prescriptions or varifocals, Essilor lenses will give you the extra comfort and clarity you need.
Hopefully you found this article helpful.
Thanks for stopping by.