How to Choose Screen Glasses — The Complete Guide
Written by MODI
On average we spend 8-9 hours a day in front of screens — computer, phone, TV. By evening, our eyes feel heavy and concentration drops. In this article we'll explain how to choose screen glasses — and what you can realistically expect from them.
What are screen (computer) glasses
They're glasses with a special lens that filters the blue part of the spectrum. Barner's CR39 Blue-Cut lens blocks 100% of blue light up to 410 nm and reduces it by 45% in the 410-450 nm range — without distorting your color perception.
That's a measurable technical specification. But the promise that such a lens cures eye fatigue has not yet been proven by research — Cochrane's 2023 review states this directly. You'll find a detailed explanation in this article. So it's more honest to treat them as a comfort and style product, not a medical device.
How to choose
- Frame shape: a rectangular frame for a round face (Andy, Dalston); a round one for an angular face (Charles, Astoria).
- Weight: for 8 hours of daily wear, 15-20 grams is the comfortable limit. Barner frames are made of TR-90 and bio-acetate.
- Filtration figures: the brand should state a specific number and range. The phrase “blocks blue light” on its own means nothing.
- Diopters: if you need a reading lens, choose models from +1.0 to +3.0.
What actually reduces fatigue
The proven causes of screen fatigue are: we don't blink enough (the eye dries out), our focus stays at one distance for hours, poor lighting and glare on the screen, and often — uncorrected vision. For details, see Eye Fatigue at the Computer: 7 Simple Rules.
Frequently asked questions
Do screen glasses really reduce eye strain?
Not according to the evidence. Cochrane's 2023 review of 17 clinical trials found that a blue-light filter probably makes no meaningful difference to eye strain. Many wearers still report more comfort during long sessions, which is why we sell them as a comfort and style product rather than a medical device.
What exactly does the Barner Blue-Cut lens filter?
The CR39 Blue-Cut lens blocks 100% of blue light up to 410 nm and reduces it by 45% between 410 and 450 nm, without shifting your colour perception. A brand that only says it “blocks blue light”, with no figure and no range, is telling you nothing.
Can I wear screen glasses all day?
Yes. Without diopters the lens has no optical power, so there is nothing to adapt to. Over eight hours it is weight that decides comfort — 15-20 grams is the sensible limit, and Barner frames are made of TR-90 and bio-acetate.
Can screen glasses be made with reading power?
Yes. Models from +1.0 to +3.0 combine a reading lens with the blue-light filter, so you don't need a second pair for reading.
