I used to squint and struggle with small print, which is when I realized I needed reading glasses. My search began with the most affordable pair I could find, but that purchase didn't end well. After a few attempts, I finally discovered the perfect pair of folding reading glasses. This is the story of my upgrade.
My initial purchase was incredibly inexpensive. They lasted only a few weeks before the plastic frame snapped as I tried to fold them. The lenses scratched with minimal use. I suppose I got exactly what I paid for—they were so poorly made I wouldn't even consider giving them away.
Budget folding reading glasses often come with these common issues:
One online review captured it perfectly: "These broke after only a week! Total waste of money." That was my experience to a tee.
Verdict: Steer clear of ultra-cheap reading glasses. They simply aren't worth it. Always do your research and check reviews before buying.
My next step was an upgrade to a mid-range pair. They were... acceptable. They lasted longer than the cheap ones, and the lenses were clearer. However, the folding mechanism felt awkward and clunky, and the glasses themselves were somewhat heavy. I still wasn't fully satisfied.
These mid-range folding glasses were an improvement but still had noticeable flaws: