Which high street optician is cheapest?

tiptoes27

Up until now I have had reading glasses only, but have got to the stage where I need varifocals. I have bought my last four pairs of reading glasses online from Glasses Direct and have been very happy with them, but after reading the advice on this site do not feel comfortable about ordering varifocals from them, especially my first pair. I am also going to try varifocal contact lenses. Have been to D & A and had an eye test (free!). They have said it will be cost me 27.50 for a contact lens assessment and then about 25.00 per month for 15 pairs of dailys and If I sign up to their monthly direct debit scheme for one year I will get 50% off a pair of varifocal glasses. I looked in the store and priced up a pair for 300.00 so I would get these for 150.00. I have calculated that for the year it will cost me 477.50. This seems very expensive to me. Just wanted to know if there is much difference in the cost between opticians or all they all much the same? Also, someone has told me that it would be worth joining HSA but would they pay out for this without any qualifying period. Many thanks

Lara

I have a pair of varifocals and they cost me £435 last year. Not sure if I would trust myself with contact lenses!! I wouldn't buy from glasses.direct in case they need adjusting - which is what happened to mine. HTH