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The LensCrafters vs. Pearle Vision comparison is about choice and competition. More options for the consumers and increased competition among these optical retail chains. When these chains compete to provide consumers with newer and better products and services, the consumers can directly benefit!
Based on recent information, LensCrafters and Pearle Vision are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Luxottica, the largest optical retailer globally. But these are two different companies and, as such, have differences in their vision and mission, product lines, and customer service, among other aspects.
Crafting Your Eyewear at LensCrafters
The LensCrafters chain’s best thing is an 850-strong and counting chain, so there’s likely one in every major city across the United States. For this reason, they’re one of the largest in the country. In addition, the chain has an official website to find reliable information about locations, products, services, and insurance plans accepted.
Every LensCrafters store accepts both online and walk-in clients. This perk is a great convenience, considering that booking an appointment online may not be possible for various reasons like an emergency replacement. We recommend making an appointment whenever possible because of the convenience, especially during busy days. Most, if not all, LensCrafters locations are open on weekends, so buying, replacing, and repairing eyeglasses shouldn’t be a problem.
The customer service at every LensCrafters store is almost always top-notch, manifested by positive feedback on review sites. The employees and managers value competence and courtesy as much as compassion for their customer’s needs – and it shows how they deal with their clients.
In addition, many customers say that LensCrafters employees are uncommonly dedicated to addressing their clients’ optical near-perfection.
The prices of eyewear and accessories at LensCrafters stores are in the midrange of the spectrum. So they aren’t exactly a discount retailer. However, they have promotions and discounts at different times of the year. Plus, customers can use their vision insurance plans to lessen their out-of-pocket expenses. Always ask your local LensCrafters store if your plan qualifies for a discount.
Bringing Back Your Good Vision at Pearle Vision
Like LensCrafters, the employees, from the optometrist to the receptionist at Pearle Vision stores, are friendly, helpful, and professional, even for people who only come once a year for their annual visit. Customers can book their appointments online or walk into an open store for their eyeglasses’ needs.
An in-house optometrist usually conducts eye exams. In some cases, independent optometrists near the store perform these tests. The fees vary between stores and exams, especially tests conducted before the doctor made the prescription. Still, the application of visual insurance coverage decreases out-of-pocket costs.
The prices of the Pearle Vision products are in the midrange, although designer glasses are available. Remember that you aren’t just paying for the frame and lens but, more importantly, the employees’ professional expertise. You want the best possible product and service for your money, so you must pay for it.
Most Pearle Vision stores have excellent turnaround times. You can get your prescription glasses within the day if the store has them in stock, while the standard turnaround time is 2-3 days. This perk is convenient when you consider that many of the chain’s competitors have longer turnaround times, sometimes seven days at least.
Lenscrafters vs. Pearle Vision – the verdict
The former will likely win only by a slight edge. After all, both optical retail chains are in friendly competition with each other, so you, the customer, will get the best deal for your eyewear.