Trivex vs Polycarbonate: Understanding the Real Differences
When patients ask about lens materials, the conversation often comes down to two main options: polycarbonate and Trivex. Both are strong, lightweight, and far more durable than older materials like glass or CR-39. Although they serve similar purposes, they perform differently in ways that can affect clarity, comfort, and overall satisfaction.
At rxotulsa, we work with both materials every day and can finish them to the exact specifications your patient needs. The best choice depends on lifestyle, prescription, and personal preference. We are here to support whatever option you decide is right for your patient.
Optical Clarity
One of the most noticeable differences between the two materials is visual clarity.
- Trivex: Higher Abbe value, resulting in less color dispersion and fewer halos around lights
- Polycarbonate: Lower Abbe value, which can introduce more edge distortion, especially in larger frames or higher prescriptions
Most wearers do well with either material, but patients who are sensitive to distortion often prefer the clearer optics of Trivex.
Impact Resistance
Polycarbonate is known for exceptional impact resistance and is considered the strongest among commonly used lens materials. It was originally developed for astronaut visors and remains the top performer for safety applications.
Trivex is also impact resistant and is an excellent option for children, active wearers, and everyday eyewear.
- Both materials meet ANSI safety standards
- Polycarbonate holds a slight edge in pure impact strength
rxotulsa produces both materials in house, and we can help you determine which option best aligns with your patient’s needs.
Weight and Thickness
- Trivex: Extremely lightweight due to low density, offering excellent all-day comfort
- Polycarbonate: Higher refractive index allows lenses to be thinner, especially above ±3.00 prescriptions
At rxotulsa, we surface both materials with precision and can help you balance comfort, weight, and cosmetic thickness for each patient.
Scratch and Chemical Resistance
- Trivex: Naturally more resistant to scratches and chemical exposure
- Polycarbonate: Relies more on coatings to enhance durability
With modern coatings, both materials perform well, but Trivex tends to maintain clarity longer in rough or active use.
If a patient has a history of being tough on glasses, Trivex often leads to longer-lasting satisfaction.
Frame Compatibility
Drill-mount and semi-rimless frames place more stress on the lens, making tensile strength especially important.
- Trivex: Performs exceptionally well and is less likely to crack at drill holes
- Polycarbonate: Can be used successfully with careful handling but is slightly less forgiving
rxotulsa is fully equipped to fabricate both materials, and our finishing team is available to help you make the best match for your patient’s frame choice.
UV Protection
- Polycarbonate: Blocks approximately 97 percent of UV light
- Trivex: Blocks 100 percent of UV light
In everyday use, both materials offer excellent UV safety.
Cost and Availability
- Polycarbonate: More affordable, widely available, and offered in a broader range of designs
- Trivex: Higher price point with performance advantages in several categories
Availability varies by design and manufacturer, but rxotulsa stocks both materials so you can recommend either option confidently.
Side by Side Comparison
| Feature | Trivex | Polycarbonate |
|---|---|---|
| Optical Clarity | Higher Abbe value with sharper vision | More chromatic aberration |
| Impact Resistance | High | Very high |
| Weight | Lightest option | Lightweight |
| Thickness | Slightly thicker in high prescriptions | Thinner for stronger prescriptions |
| UV Protection | Blocks 100 percent of UV | Blocks approximately 97 percent of UV |
| Scratch Resistance | Naturally more resistant | Depends more on coatings |
| Drill Mount Durability | Excellent | Good with correct handling |
| Cost | Higher | More affordable |
| Availability | More limited | Very widely available |
Which One Should You Recommend
There is no universally better material. The right option depends entirely on what the patient values most. Trivex delivers superior optics and lightweight comfort, making it an excellent choice for sensitive wearers or rimless frames. Polycarbonate offers maximum impact protection, broad availability, and a thinner profile in higher prescriptions.
Whichever path you choose, rxotulsa can fabricate both materials with the accuracy, coatings, and finishing quality your patients expect. We are here to support your recommendations and help you deliver eyewear that feels good, looks good, and performs exactly the way it should.
