Overview: What Are Blue Blocking Glasses?
If you spend a lot of time daily sitting in front of a screen, be it a tablet, computer, or phone, blue ligh- blocking glasses may help you mitigate some of the harmful effects of artificial blue light.
While natural blue light has positive benefits for health and helps balance the circadian rhythm, research indicates that excess exposure to artificial blue light could disrupt this natural cycle and cause sleep problems.
In addition, it may lead to eye strain, and research shows that too much blue light exposure over time could damage the retinal cells and increase your risk of long-term visual issues like cataracts or eye cancer.
There are multiple brands of blue-blocking glasses on the market that promise to block these damaging effects. Board-certified optometrist Jennifer Tsai, O.D. explains some of their benefits:
“Blue light-blocking glasses filter out a range of blue light wavelengths and can reduce light sensitivity and glare from digital devices to help alleviate eye strain.
They may be beneficial whenever you’re looking at a phone, computer screen, tablet, or TV for long periods of time, and there’s no harmful effect if you choose to wear them beyond that as part of your style!”
In this review, we’ll look at how these glasses work, answer all of your questions, and present you with our list of the best blue light-blocking glasses of the year, as selected by our team of experts.
Top Picks: Best Blue Light Blocking Glasses
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![Gunnar Glasses]()
Best for people who use screens a lotGunnar GlassesGo to Review - At Amazon
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![Oakley Blue Light Glasses]()
Best for stylish, functional prescription eyewearOakley Blue Light GlassesGo to Review - At Amazon
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![Caddis Blue Light glasses]()
Best for heavy digital screen usersCaddis Blue Light glassesGo to Review - At Amazon
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![Felix Gray Glasses]()
Best for relieving eye strain and fatigueFelix Gray GlassesGo to Review - At Amazon
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![Gunnar Optiks Glasses]()
Best for marathon gaming sessionsGunnar Optiks GlassesGo to Review - At Amazon
How we picked
Trusted Manufacturers
We only recommend brands that have highly reputable, trusted manufacturers known for their quality products and stellar safety practices.
Science and Evidence
The products we select as best have a wealth of scientific research supporting their benefits, efficacy, and safety.
Cost Benefit
Whether expensive or low cost, all of our recommended selections offer significant benefits and features making them well worth the price.
Expert Recommended
All of the products we have recommended are expert-approved by professionals in the field, as well as by our own team.
Our Choices For The Best Blue Blocking Glasses
1. Gunnar – Gaming and Computer Glasses
Best For: for gamers and anyone who spends a lot of time on screens
Price: $59.99
Features:
- Blocks 65-98% of blue light, reducing eye strain, headaches, and dry eyes
- Lightweight, comfy frames with clear lenses and special coatings
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Protects eyes
- Reduces eye strain
- Lightweight
- Anti-glare
Cons
- More expensive than regular glasses
Product details
User Says,
Love my Gunnars! I’m a gamer and used to get terrible headaches after long sessions. These glasses have completely fixed that. My eyes don’t feel tired or dry anymore. The lenses make everything look crisp too. Money well spent!
2. Oakley Men’s Ox8177 Ojector Rx Square Prescription Eyewear Frames
Best For: Those seeking clear vision and blend style with functionality
Price: Starting at $196.00
Features:
- Prescription-ready frames for customized lenses.
- Comes with a hard case and cleaning cloth for convenience.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Prescription-ready frames for personalized vision correction.
- Includes a protective case and cleaning cloth for easy maintenance.
- Wide range of color options to suit different preferences.
Cons
- Prescription lenses are not included in the price and require additional customization.
Product details
User Says,
The Oakley Men’s Ox8177 Ojector Rx Square Prescription Eyewear Frames exceeded my expectations. The frames are sturdy yet lightweight, and the fit is perfect. Pairing them with prescription lenses was seamless, and I couldn’t be happier with the clarity of vision they provide. Plus, the included case and cleaning cloth make maintenance a breeze. Highly recommended for anyone looking for stylish and functional eyewear.
3. Caddis Blue Light Blockers
Best For: Prolonged exposure to computers, tablets, and smartphones
Price: Starts at $95 for the Classic lenses. Blue Light Filtering (frq) lenses are an additional $30.
Features:
- Advanced blue light filtering lenses with anti-reflective coating and scratch resistance
- Stylish acetate frames with durable hinges, customizable in color and size
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Reduces digital eye strain
- Blocks blue light
- Anti-reflective coatings
- Stylish frames
Cons
- Added cost for blue light filter
- May not eliminate all eye issues
Product details
User Says,
I am so glad I got these Caddis blue light glasses! I stare at computer screens all day for work and my eyes were constantly dry, tired and strained by the end of the day. These have been a total game changer – my eyes feel refreshed even after long hours. The frames are also really nice quality and stylish. 100% recommend for anyone working long hours on digital devices.
4. Felix Gray Jemison Blue Light Glasses
Best For: Easing eye strain and fatigue from digital screens
Price: Starting at $98.00 for the Black option. Additional color options available at varying prices.
Features:
- Advanced blue light blocker lenses for eye protection
- Sleek design, available in multiple colors
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Effectively reduces eye strain and fatigue
- Blocks harmful blue light for improved visual comfort
- Stylish design suitable for various occasions
- Durable construction ensures longevity
Cons
- Higher price point compared to standard eyewear
- Limited availability in certain color options
Product details
User Says,
I’ve been using Felix Gray Jemison blue light glasses for a while now, and I must say, they’ve made a noticeable difference in my eye comfort during long hours in front of the screen. The sleek design adds a touch of style to my daily routine, and the quality construction gives me confidence in their durability. Overall, highly recommend these glasses for anyone looking to protect their eyes from the harmful effects of blue light exposure.
5. Gunner Optiks Razer Glasses
Best For: Gaming marathons, RPG Razer Edition eyewear shields your eyes from blue light for comfort and clarity
Price: $99.99 USD
Features:
- Aluminum-magnesium frame with hidden spring hinges for durability and comfort
- Lightweight design with adjustable silicone nose pads and soft thermoplastic rubber tipped temples for a comfortable fit
- Shipping: Calculated at checkout
- Performance Level: Pro-eSports
- Frame Color: Onyx
- Lens Tint: Amber
- Lens Power: GUNNAR-Focus
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Reduces digital eye strain
- Blocks blue light effectively
- Anti-reflective coatings for enhanced clarity
- Stylish and ergonomic design
Cons
- Blue light filter incurs additional cost
- May not completely eliminate all eye-related issues
Product details
User Says,
I’ve been using the RPG Razer Edition for marathon gaming sessions, and I’m impressed by how comfortable and effective they are. My eyes feel less strained, and I can focus better on the screen. Plus, the design is sleek and stylish, adding to the overall gaming experience. Highly recommended for any serious gamer!
6. Eyebuydirect Blue Light Glasses
Best For: visual comfort by filtering blue-violet light
Price: $25 – $125
Features:
- Multi-functional protective coating: Anti-scratch, anti-glare, blue light filter, UV protection
- Enhanced usability features: Easy-clean, anti-smudge, dust-repellent, water-resistant
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Reduces digital eye strain
- Blocks harmful blue-violet light
- Anti-reflective coatings for enhanced visual clarity
- Stylish frames for a fashionable look
Cons
- Additional cost for blue light filter
- May not alleviate all eye-related issues
Product details
User Says,
I’ve been using these blue light glasses for a while now, and I’m impressed by the difference they’ve made. My eyes feel less fatigued after long hours in front of screens, and the frames are both comfortable and stylish. Highly recommended for anyone looking to protect their eyes from digital strain
7. Warby Parker Blue Light Glasses
Best For: People who use digital screens frequently, such as for work or leisure activities
Price: Starting at $95 with prescription lenses
Features:
- Blue light filtering lenses for reduced eye strain
- Variety of frame styles and widths to choose from, with optional upgrades such as progressive or anti-fatigue lenses
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Filters blue light
- Reduces digital eye strain
- Versatile frame/lens options
- Affordable pricing
Cons
- May not eliminate all eye issues from screen time
Product details
User Says,
“I work long hours on the computer and my eyes were constantly dry and strained by the end of the day. These blue light filtering glasses from Warby Parker have been a game-changer! My eyes feel so much more rested now, and the frames are really stylish too. Definitely recommend for anyone struggling with digital eye fatigue.”
How Do Blue Blocking Glasses Work?
Excess exposure to the blue light emitted from digital devices like laptops, tablets, and phones disrupt our circadian clock. According to a scientific article published in Optometry and Vision Science by Gianluca Tosini, PhD, this is because it may significantly reduce the production of the hormone melatonin.
The pineal gland of the brain releases melatonin when it gets dark outside, making us drowsy so we fall asleep. A decline in its production could cause insomnia and other sleep difficulties.
Wearing blue-blocking glasses may help prevent the light from causing this melatonin disruption, keeping your circadian rhythm in balance.
A study of healthy volunteers published in the Journal of Pineal Research by Alexandre Sasseville, et al showed that blue light effectively prevented melatonin suppression during exposure to a bright light source.
Does this translate into less sleep difficulties? According to a review article published in The Journal of Biological and Medical Rhythm Research by Landon Hester, et al, studies show that blue-blocking glasses are an effective intervention for people with insomnia and delayed sleep phase.
Blue-blocking glasses also reduce glare from the screen and decrease eye strain, so you are less likely to develop headaches. The glasses may also reduce damage to the retina and other parts of the eye, possibly lowering your risk of developing eye disease later on from excess exposure to blue light.
A review in the International Journal of Ophthalmology examined the harmful effects of blue light on the eyes and stressed the need to take preventative measures.
Key Features to Look for in Blue Blocking Glasses
All blue-blocking glasses are not alike, and there are some key features you should consider when selecting them.
- UV Light Protection: Especially if you’re a fan of working in an outdoor environment, make sure that the glasses you select have UV protection. This helps prevent damage inflicted by the sun’s rays while also protecting them from digital blue light.
- Prescription: If you wear glasses, you’ll have to order a new pair to get blue light glasses prescription benefits. Optometrists can’t add the feature to an existing pair; however, you can wear contact lenses with blue light-blocking glasses.
- Anti-Reflective Surface: It’s a good idea to choose glasses that have an anti-glare coating added, for added protection against reflection from the screen. This can help prevent eye strain and reduce headaches caused by excess screen time.
- Day vs Night Glasses: If you do most of your work during the daylight hours, we recommend blue light glasses with clear lenses, so you don’t block out the natural blue light you need to regulate your circadian rhythm. At night, choose a darker model to block more of the light so you sleep peacefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When Should You Wear Blue Light Glasses?
Q: What Are The Benefits of Anti Blue Light Glasses?
A: Anti-blue light glasses may reduce eye strain, lessen screen glare, and help prevent issues like headaches caused by digital blue light.
In addition, they could help ensure that your circadian rhythm stays balanced, so you do not experience sleep disruptions. Blue glasses also block glare from the screen.
Q: Are Blue Light Glasses Safe?
A: Blue light glasses have no negative effects on the eyes according to the evidence, although you should not wear them outside as you may prevent the positive benefits of natural light.
As they may work better for some users than others, however, it’s still important to take other precautions to prevent the effects of digital blue light, like frequent screen breaks.
Q: Do Blue Light Glasses Help with Headaches?
A: Prolonged exposure to artificial blue light from screens can lead to eye strain and headaches in some people. Wearing blue-blocking light glasses could decrease some of these symptoms, helping to filter some of the damaging glare.
While the research results regarding their efficacy vary, they may reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches in some users.
Q: Can I Wear Blue Light Glasses While Driving?
A: You can wear blue light glasses while driving at night, and it’s a good idea as it could decrease eye strain and glare and improve your night vision. This could reduce distractions and improve your nighttime driving skills.
Q: Who Should Wear Blue Light Glasses?
A: Blue light glasses are a good idea for people who spend a lot of time in front of a screen or in an environment with a lot of LED light. In addition, they are useful for driving at night to reduce glare and improve your focus.
Conclusion
A high-quality pair of blue light-blocking glasses could offer protection against the damaging effects of digital blue light, helping to reduce eye strain, headaches, and glare, stop damage to the eyes, and prevent disruptions to your sleep-wake cycle that can cause sleep difficulties. If you spend a lot of time in front of a screen, we recommend that you wear them as a protective measure.
In this review, we have presented our list of the best blue light-blocking glasses on the market today, according to the expert assessment of our team of experts. The models selected are of the best quality, have excellent customer reviews, and all have highly reputable manufacturers.
Our team selected these brands based on a strict set of criteria, so you should be able to find blue-blocking glasses that work for you on the list. In addition, take other precautions against digital blue light by taking breaks and using a screen protector for your phone.
