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Lenses in Hanoi: what they cost and how to choose

Written by Alvin, Store Manager · Manh Long Optical, 147A Le Duan, Cua Nam, Hanoi · Updated 13 October 2026

Start with what you need

All five at a glance

Which index to choose

Index is the number that tells you how thin a lens is at a given prescription. Higher means thinner and lighter, and the difference becomes easier to see as the prescription gets stronger. The usual guidance in store:

That is a starting point, not a rule. A smaller frame hides thickness better than a large one, so a strong prescription in a small frame can sit fine on a lower index.

Photochromic lens prices

Per pair, lenses only, frame not included, from the in-store price board photographed on 2 September 2026. Every line below takes cylinder from 0.00 to 2.00. ZEISS PhotoFusion is also available with the DuraVision Gold coating, from 7,980,000₫ (1.50) to 16,380,000₫ (1.74). Prices are in Vietnamese đồng — your phone's currency converter will give you today's figure.

The photochromic lenses in the table above come from six brands: Blick, Chemi, Nikki, Elements, Essilor and ZEISS. Essilor and ZEISS prices are set side by side, index by index, in Essilor vs ZEISS prices. The shop is an authorized dealer of both ZEISS and Essilor. For what Transitions Gen S changes and what it costs, see Essilor Transitions prices.

Progressive lens prices, everyday range

Below is Essilor Essentials Everyday Plus, an Essilor progressive range outside the Varilux line. Per pair, frame not included. Like other Essilor progressives, it takes four to five days. For how progressive lenses work, see multifocal lenses explained.

If you want a wider field of view

Above the everyday range sit three Varilux tiers, which differ in field of view and how smoothly the lens moves from distance to near. Where a figure is given below, it is Essilor's own published claim, not a measurement made in store:

• Varilux Liberty 3.0: Essilor's entry Varilux design, made for people new to progressives. From 4,480,000₫ a pair.
• Varilux Comfort Max: Essilor states a field of view extended by up to 46%, aimed at all-day comfort across postures. From 6,780,000₫.
• Varilux Physio 3.0: Essilor describes transitions between distances as smoother than a standard progressive. From 11,780,000₫ a pair (index 1.5, clear lenses, MaxAz coating).

A Fit suffix means extra personalised fitting measurements are taken, at a higher price. Coating upgrades such as Crizal Prevencia, Sapphire and Drive, or Style Mirrors, are ordered from an overseas lab and quoted separately.

Varilux prices are for one pair of lenses, frame not included. Varilux is not part of the current free-frame offer; the lenses that are eligible are listed on the current offers page.

Progressives from four brands: ZINMY, Chemi, Essilor, ZEISS

Each range runs from the cheapest version (low index, clear lens) to the most expensive (high index, photochromic or Fit). Prices are per pair of lenses, frame not included. Open each table below for prices by index.

What about plain single-vision lenses

The more useful answer is the price of the finished pair: a complete pair of single-vision glasses, frame and lenses together, runs from 850,000₫ to 3,500,000₫. The 850,000₫ pair uses a standard lens, not a branded one. That is one all-in figure, not a lens price with a frame added afterwards. Where you land depends on the frame you pick, the index and the coating.

For one concrete comparison: Essilor blue-light filtering lenses are 1,298,000₫ a pair, lenses only.

You are given the full price before anything is cut. Nothing gets added afterwards.

Coatings: which earn their money

Anti-reflective is the one worth having. It cuts reflections off the lens surface, so screens and night driving are less glaring, and people looking at you see your eyes instead of two bright patches.

Scratch and water resistance extends the life of the lens, which matters if you clean your glasses on your shirt.

Blue-light filtering deserves a straight answer. A 2023 systematic review from Cochrane found no evidence that this filter reduces eye strain, and the American Academy of Ophthalmology puts screen-related strain down mainly to blinking less while concentrating. The real benefit left is the glare reduction from the anti-reflective coating that comes with it. It is not a medical measure and does not prevent eye disease.

How long it takes

If you are flying out soon, say the date at the start. The staff will then only suggest lenses that can be finished in time, instead of taking the order and hoping.

Common questions

Progressive lenses, or two separate pairs?

Progressives put distance and near in one pair with no visible line, but they need exact fitting and a few days to get used to. Two pairs cost less and need no adjustment, but you swap glasses every time the distance changes. People who move around and work at several distances usually get on better with progressives.

Can photochromic lenses replace sunglasses?

For most of daily life, yes. But they darken in response to UV, and a car windscreen filters much of the UV out, so inside a car they often stay lighter than you expect. Anyone who drives a lot in daylight is still better off with a separate prescription tint.

Do glasses reduce short-sightedness?

No. Glasses are a vision aid: they let you see clearly while you wear them, and they do not change the prescription itself. Anyone telling you otherwise is worth questioning.

How often should I have my eyes tested?

Adults, usually every 6 to 12 months, sooner if things look blurrier, if you find yourself squinting, or if reading gives you a headache. At Manh Long Optical re-testing is free for life, including when you buy nothing.

Should I bring my old prescription?

Bring it if you have it, it is a good starting point. If not, no problem, the eye test is free and the measurements are taken from scratch. A prescription older than 12 months is re-tested rather than copied, because eyes change.

Can I pay by card?

Yes. Cash, credit and debit cards are all accepted.

Sources

• Cochrane Library (2023) — Blue-light filtering spectacle lenses for visual performance, sleep, and macular health in adults. Systematic review of blue-light filtering lenses.
• American Academy of Ophthalmology — Are Blue Light-Blocking Glasses Worth It? Why screen-related eye strain comes mainly from blinking less.
• Transitions Optical — How Photochromic Lenses Work. The manufacturer's own description of how UV triggers the tint.