Can I change contact lens brands?

Sometimes, you need a fresh haircut, a new wardrobe, or even a different car — those are the fun changes you look forward to. But then, there are the less thrilling updates, like swapping out your contact lenses. 

People switch contact lenses for various reasons: maybe they’re looking for a cheaper option or a new maintenance routine. They might have heard buzz about a brand with a stellar reputation. Whatever the reason, changing contact brands isn’t like changing shoes. It takes some thought. 

And most importantly, before making any switch, it’s always a smart move to consult with an eye care professional. 

Can I buy a different brand of contacts? 

Let’s say you’ve been with an affordable, reliable brand of contacts for years, but you’re ready to test out that shiny, innovative brand that has just entered the market. We get it most of us want to go for Coca-Cola instead of Walmart’s knock-off "Great Value” soda.  

Before you make your switch, here are a couple of things to keep in mind: 

Factors to consider when buying new brands 

  • Contact lens brands differ from each other. In particular, your new brand might have thinner, thicker, harder, or softer contacts than your old ones. 

  • Only purchase contacts from a reputable source. (We're not naming names, but you can check out how to order with us.) International sites may offer cheap pricing, but remember, your contacts go into your eyeballs. Sometimes you can justify shopping on sites like Temu and Alibaba, but this isn’t one of them.  

Are contact prescriptions the same for all brands? 

So, you’re ready to make the leap and plan to order that new, shiny brand of contacts. First, slow down, breathe, and know this switch takes a few steps.  

Understanding contact lens prescriptions 

You might remember that the last time you went to the eye care professional, they asked you what brand of contacts you wear. That’s because contact lens prescriptions are brand-specific. Theres no universal prescription that works on every brand although wouldn’t that be nice? Each brand has slightly different sizing and fit for the eye, so the prescription has to fit that specific brand.  

You can probably guess what we’re going to say next.  

You need to make a fitting appointment to ensure the new brand matches your specific prescription requirements (or to get an updated prescription).  

How to switch contact brands 

There are some steps to switching contact brands, but we promise it’s a lot easier than changing to a new bank or phone provider.  

Steps to safely change brands  

  • Do your research into the new brand. Are you picking it because it’s the “Tesla” of contact lens brands, or have you looked into what makes it a good choice for you? 

  • Book an eye care professional appointment for an updated prescription. 

  • Only order enough for a trial period. If you’re experiencing discomfort, it's probably a sign that this brand is not the right choice.  

Can you switch contact lens brands? 

Can you switch contact lens brands? Of course, you can. There’s no such thing as eye police that force you to stick to one brand for life.  

Pros and cons of switching 

Here are some pros and cons of switching brands: 

  • Pro: If you’re wearing an old brand that hasn’t innovated, making a switch can open you up to new contact lens improvements like UV blocking, overnight lenses, or improved breathability. 

  • Pro: Your new contact lens may improve your comfort or help resolve issues like dry eyes.  

  • Pro: If you’re switching to a more affordable brand, your decision can be budget-friendly. So, more money for fancy prescription sunglasses, right? 

  • Con: Theres a risk of adjustment issues with the new brand. 

  • Con: Trying a new brand takes some effort, as you need an updated prescription.  

Life is short, try that new brand 

By this point, we hope you see theres nothing stopping you from changing contact lens brands. Sure, you need to do some work and make the change under the guidance of an eye care professional, but it might be the best decision you make this month! You could end up with cheaper, more comfortable, or more innovative lenses! 

Don’t forget to book a consultation with an eye care professional before making the change.  

Browsing for that new brand to try? Check out the selection of hundreds of brands at 1800Contacts. 

FAQs 

Below, we answer some valuable questions about your upcoming switch. 

What should I do if my new contact lens brand causes irritation?  

There might be an adjustment period with a new contact lens brand. However, if you’re feeling discomfort or irritation, speak to your eye care professional because this brand might not be right for you.  

How often should I check in with my eye doctor when changing brands?  

You should speak to your eye doctor whenever you change brands to ensure your prescription fits your new needs.  

What are the risks of frequently changing contact lens brands?  

The biggest risk of frequently changing your contact lens brands is that you might spend a lot of time and money and experience some discomfort as you hop from one brand to the next. We suggest you follow the sage advice: When you find a good thing, stick to it.