What Are Boosted Lenses? The Complete Guide to Anti-Fatigue & Digital Lenses (2026)

Unlike varifocals, boosted lenses look and feel like normal single vision lenses but provide extra support for close-up work.
If your eyes feel tired after using a computer, phone or tablet, boosted lenses could be the perfect solution. Also known as anti-fatigue lenses or digital lenses, they are designed to reduce eye strain while keeping clear distance vision.
What Are Boosted Lenses?
Boosted lenses (also known as anti-fatigue lenses, digital lenses or relax lenses) are single vision prescription lenses with a small amount of additional power in the lower part of the lens.
Unlike varifocal lenses, there is no visible reading section and no dramatic change in power.
Instead, the lower portion gently assists your eyes when looking at:
- Computer monitors
- Tablets
- Mobile phones
- Paperwork
- Books
- Dashboards
- Point-of-sale terminals
The aim is simple:
Reduce the amount of effort your eye muscles need to focus at close and intermediate distances.
Many people don’t even realise how much strain their eyes experience until they try boosted lenses.
How Do Boosted Lenses Work?
The upper part of the lens gives your normal distance vision, while the lower section provides a small boost for reading and screen work. This helps reduce the effort your eyes make throughout the day.
Premium boosted lenses, such as Hoya Sync III, offer excellent comfort and are designed specifically for today’s digital lifestyle.
Benefits of Boosted Lenses
- Reduced digital eye strain
- More comfortable computer use
- Clear distance vision
- Easy adaptation
- Ideal before moving to varifocals
Frequently Asked Questions
Are boosted lenses the same as anti-fatigue lenses?
Yes. The terms boosted lenses, anti-fatigue lenses and digital lenses all describe lenses that provide a small amount of additional support for near and intermediate vision.
Are they better than varifocals?
They serve a different purpose. Boosted lenses are ideal if you mainly need distance vision but want extra comfort for screens. If you already need different prescriptions for distance and reading, varifocals may be more suitable.
How much do boosted lenses cost?
Our boosted lenses start from £75.00, with optional thinner lenses and premium coatings available
Ready to Reduce Digital Eye Strain?
Whether you need new glasses or want to reglaze your existing frames, our Hoya boosted lenses provide comfortable vision for work, reading and everyday screen use.
Simply email in your prescription today or contact our optical team for expert advice on the best boosted lenses for your needs.
Whether you’re considering ZEISS Digital, Hoya Sync III, Essilor Eyezen, or you’ve seen Specsavers SuperBoost advertised, this guide will help you understand the differences.
Why Are More People Choosing Boosted Lenses?
Boosted lenses are specifically designed to reduce this continual strain.
No.
This is one of the biggest misconceptions.
| Standard Single Vision | Boosted Lens | Varifocal |
|---|---|---|
| One prescription | Distance plus gentle support | Multiple prescriptions |
| Ideal for distance | Ideal for distance and digital devices | Distance, intermediate and reading |
| No reading support | Small reading support | Full reading correction |
| Usually easiest to adapt to | Very easy adaptation | Longer adaptation period |
If you already require a full reading prescription, a varifocal may still be the better solution.
However, if you’re finding prolonged screen use tiring but don’t yet need reading glasses, boosted lenses can be an excellent option.
The Best Boosted Lenses Compared
All of the major lens manufacturers produce their own version of a boosted or anti-fatigue lens.
Each uses different technology, fitting methods and lens designs.
Below is our independent comparison.

Frequently Asked Questions
Are boosted lenses worth it?
For many people who spend long hours using computers or smartphones, yes. They can significantly reduce visual fatigue and improve overall comfort.
Will I notice the boost?
Most wearers adapt very quickly. Many simply notice that their eyes feel less tired at the end of the day.
Can I drive with boosted lenses?
Yes. They are designed for everyday wear, including driving, provided your prescription is suitable.
Are boosted lenses better than reading glasses?
They serve a different purpose. Reading glasses are intended for close work only, whereas boosted lenses are designed for everyday wear with additional support for digital tasks.
Do I need varifocals instead?
If you require separate distance and reading prescriptions, varifocals may be more appropriate. Your optician can advise which option best suits your prescription.
Final Thoughts
Boosted lenses are one of the biggest developments in modern single vision lens technology.
As our lives become increasingly digital, many people experience unnecessary eye strain without realising that a simple lens upgrade could make a significant difference.
Whether you choose ZEISS Digital, Hoya Sync III, or Essilor Eyezen, today’s premium anti-fatigue lenses offer a comfortable, natural viewing experience that can make everyday screen use considerably more relaxing.
If you’re unsure which boosted lens is right for you, our experienced optical team is happy to help.
Ready to Upgrade Your Lenses?
Need more details?
Please call or email us and speak to one of our optical advisers for more information and advice for your next pair of glasses & lenses.
Freephone: 0800 690 6220
Email: sales@onlineopticiansuk.com
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