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What are Essilor Varilux® XR Lenses?

What are Essilor Varilux® XR Lenses?

Varilux® XR lenses are Essilor’s most advanced varifocal lenses to date. Designed using artificial intelligence and real-life wearer data, these lenses are engineered to deliver sharp, fluid vision at every distance — from up close to far away — without the usual compromises.

Unlike traditional varifocals, which only respond to your prescription, Varilux® XR lenses anticipate how your eyes move. That means instant focus, natural posture, and fewer interruptions to your visual flow, even when you're on the go.

 

 

Who are Varilux® XR Lenses For?

If you're over 40 and finding it harder to switch focus between reading, screen use, and seeing things across the room, you're likely experiencing presbyopia. Varilux® XR lenses are made specifically for this stage of vision.

Whether you’re working at a desk, walking through town, or driving at night, these lenses adapt to your everyday needs. They're ideal if you want a seamless, glasses-on experience — without having to ‘find the sweet spot’ in your lenses.

Futuristic explosion view of Essilor Varilux XR lenses on dark background

Features & Benefits of Varilux® XR lenses

Instant sharpness, even in motion
No delay, no blurring. Varilux® XR lenses provide immediate clarity, even while you're walking or switching your gaze quickly.

Natural posture in all circumstances
You won’t need to adjust your head position to see clearly. These lenses are designed to match the way you naturally move and look around.

Stabilised vision in demanding situations
Steep stairs, busy crowds, fast movement — Varilux® XR lenses are built to handle visually dynamic environments without distortion.

High visual acuity in low light
From dim offices to late-night driving, your vision remains crisp and reliable in reduced lighting conditions.

Panoramic field of vision
Enjoy a wide, natural field of view with minimal peripheral distortion — perfect for immersive visual comfort.

Long-lasting comfort in close-up vision
Whether you're reading a book, using your phone, or working on a laptop, the near-vision zone is optimised for long periods of use.

 

Mòr A Onyx Black glasses frame being worn by male model

What Makes Varilux® XR Different from Other Varifocals?

The major difference is prediction. Traditional varifocals react to where you're looking. Varilux® XR lenses go one step further — they predict how your eyes move based on real-world behavioural patterns.

This anticipatory design is powered by thousands of data points and cutting-edge lens calculation. The result? Visual transitions that feel smoother, more intuitive, and faster — making it easier to adapt and wear all day, right from day one.

 

Visual illustration comparison of Varilux XR vs Varilux Comfort Max varifocal lenses

Varilux® XR vs Varilux® Comfort Max

Both lenses are designed to support presbyopic vision, but they serve different needs — and expectations.

Varilux® XR, on the other hand, is Essilor’s most advanced varifocal lens. It uses AI-driven personalisation to predict how your eyes move — delivering faster focus, greater stability in motion, and clearer vision in low light. If you're looking for the smoothest, sharpest experience with next-to-no adjustment period, Varilux® XR is the superior choice.

Varilux® Comfort Max is a reliable, entry-level varifocal designed for everyday wear. It provides good visual clarity at multiple distances and helps maintain comfortable posture throughout the day. A solid all-rounder, it’s a great step into the world of varifocals.

 

Crizal® Coatings

To further enhance performance, your Varilux® XR lenses can be paired with one of Essilor’s premium Crizal® coatings.

Crizal® EasyPro is a practical everyday coating that resists smudging, repels dust and water, and makes your lenses easier to clean.

Crizal® Sapphire™ HR offers superior anti-reflective performance from all angles. Especially helpful for bright lighting, digital screens, and night driving.

Crizal® Prevencia is designed to reduce exposure to harmful blue-violet light while letting through beneficial light — ideal if you spend long hours on screens.

 

Interested in Varilux® XR lenses for your next pair of glasses?

You can now select Varilux® XR lenses from our lens menu, available across all of our handmade spectacle and sunglasses frames.

Hopefully you found this article helpful.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to get used to Varilux XR lenses?

Most  people get used very quickly but some take time. It’s all upon comfortable, some people get it from the first day while others take a few days but it’s easier to adapt compared to old verifocals.

2. Are Varilux XR lenses worth the higher price?

Yes, but not too high. They have higher prices because they provide clearer vision, less blur when you move, and better eyesight at night. If you want glasses that feel natural and comfortable all day, these lenses are a good choice.

3. Can I have Varilux XR lenses in sunglasses?

Yes. They can be made in both normal glasses and prescription sunglasses. You get sharp vision outdoors with sun protection at the same time.

4. Do Varilux XR lenses fit in all frames?

They work with almost all types of frames. If the frame is very small or narrow, an optician can guide you to choose the best option for comfort and vision.

5. How are Varilux XR lenses better than older designs?

Older lenses only responded to where you look. Varilux XR lenses are smarter. They can predict how your eyes move, so focusing feels quicker, smoother, and more natural.

6. Do I need a special eye test to get them?

No. A regular eye check-up and updated prescription are enough. Some opticians may also take extra measurements to make sure your lenses are fully customised.

7. Are these lenses good for computer and phone use?

Yes. They are designed for daily life. You can easily switch between your phone, computer, and distance vision without strain. If you use screens a lot, you can also add a blue-light filter for extra comfort.

8. Do Varilux XR lenses help with night driving?

Yes. They keep your vision clear even in low light. With an anti-glare coating, they can also reduce the glare from car headlights and streetlights, making driving at night easier.


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