All About Progressive Lenses

Get to know the different types of progressive lenses

guy with eyeglasses sitting at a desk with a laptop

Progressive lenses, often referred to as "no-line bifocals," are a popular choice for individuals experiencing presbyopia, a natural part of aging that affects near vision. Unlike traditional bifocals or trifocals, progressive lenses provide a smooth transition between multiple vision zones: distance, intermediate, and near. This design offers a more natural visual experience without the distinct lines seen in older lens styles. Within the category of progressive lenses, there are specific types designed to address different visual needs, including computer progressive lenses. Understanding the difference between computer progressive lenses and regular progressive lenses can help individuals choose the right eyewear for their lifestyle and work requirements.

Regular Progressive Lenses

Regular progressive lenses are designed to provide clear vision at all distances—far, intermediate, and near. The lens is divided into three zones:

1. Distance Zone: The top portion of the lens is optimized for distance vision, allowing wearers to see clearly when driving, watching TV, or engaging in other activities that require seeing things far away.

2. Intermediate Zone: The middle section of the lens helps with intermediate vision, which is useful for tasks such as working on a computer or viewing items at arm's length.

3. Near Zone: The bottom part of the lens is for near vision, ideal for reading or other close-up activities.

The transition between these zones is gradual, which allows for a natural shift in focus. Regular progressive lenses are ideal for general use and for those who need multifocal correction throughout their daily activities.

Computer Progressive Lenses

Computer progressive lenses, also known as "office lenses" or "occupational lenses," are specifically designed for those who spend a significant amount of time working on computers or engaging in tasks at intermediate and near distances. These lenses prioritize comfort and efficiency for close-up and computer-related activities. Here’s how they differ:

1. Optimized Intermediate Zone: The intermediate zone is larger and more prominently positioned than in regular progressive lenses. This is because computer work often involves looking at screens that are positioned at an intermediate distance, approximately 20 to 26 inches away from the eyes.

2. Enhanced Near Zone: While the near zone is also well-defined, it is typically less pronounced than the intermediate zone. This design helps with reading and other close-up tasks, which are common in office environments.

3. Reduced Distance Zone: The distance vision zone is either minimized or repositioned, reflecting the fact that computer work rarely involves focusing on distant objects. This feature helps reduce unnecessary head movements and neck strain, which can occur when the wearer frequently adjusts their head position to find the "sweet spot" of their lenses.

4. Blue Light Filtering Options: Many computer progressive lenses also offer blue light filtering technology to reduce eye strain and fatigue caused by prolonged exposure to digital screens.

Choosing the Right Lens

When deciding between regular progressive lenses and computer progressive lenses, consider the following factors:

Primary Activities: If you spend most of your day performing tasks at various distances, regular progressive lenses might be the best option. If your work involves prolonged periods at a desk or in front of a screen, computer progressive lenses can offer enhanced comfort and efficiency.

Lifestyle Needs: Consider your lifestyle needs outside of work. Regular progressive lenses provide versatility for a range of activities, while computer lenses are specialized for specific tasks.

Eye Strain and Comfort: For those experiencing digital eye strain, headaches, or neck discomfort related to screen use, computer lenses can help alleviate these symptoms by providing a more ergonomic visual experience.

Conclusion

Both regular and computer progressive lenses offer valuable benefits depending on individual needs. Consulting with an eye care professional can help determine the best lens type for your vision correction needs and lifestyle. Whether you require versatility for everyday activities or specialized support for prolonged screen use, there's a progressive lens solution designed to enhance your visual comfort and performance.

Don't forget to purchase a vision insurance plan that fits your needs before visiting your eye care professional to get the maximum savings. Having a plan can save you alot of money during your exam, and supply additional savings in or out of network for lenses, frames and even for contacts. Signing up is easy and takes only minutes. Both EyeMed and VSP network plans are available on our vision insurance page.

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Does My Policy Cover My Device?

September 18, 2025

Will Your Auto or Home Insurance Cover Your Mobile Device or Computer? Our phones and laptops aren’t just gadgets anymore, they’re lifelines. From handling business on the go to streaming that must-watch series at night, they’re practically extensions of ourselves. But what happens when the unexpected occurs? A drop, a theft, a spilled cup of coffee, will your auto or home insurance policy swoop in to save the day? Let’s break it down. Home Insurance & Your Tech Good news! Most homeowners and renters insurance policies can cover personal electronics like smartphones, tablets, and computers, at least up to policy limits. Theft or Fire : If your laptop is stolen from your home or damaged in a covered event like a house fire, your policy may reimburse you. Vandalism & Certain Storms : Same deal here. If your tech is damaged by something your policy specifically lists as covered, you’re in luck. But here’s the potential issue: coverage is usually subject to your deductible. If you have a $1,000 deductible and your device is worth $800, you might be out of pocket. 💡 Pro Tip: Ask your agent about scheduled personal property coverage or a rider, these can give your devices extra protection (and sometimes lower deductibles). Auto Insurance & Your Devices This one surprises people. If your phone or laptop is stolen from your car, your auto policy generally doesn’t cover it. Instead, it would fall back to your homeowners or renters insurance. However, your auto insurance can play a role if your car itself is damaged and your devices are harmed in the process. Example: a covered accident shatters your windshield and your laptop sitting in the passenger seat gets smashed. Some policies may extend limited coverage for items damaged inside the vehicle. Still, it’s not the main player here, think of your car insurance as handling the car first and foremost. What’s Not Typically Covered Accidental Damage (a.k.a. Clumsy Drops) : Most standard home or renters insurance won’t pay out if you drop your phone in the pool. Wear & Tear : If your laptop battery dies from age, that’s on you. Manufacturer Defects : That’s what warranties or protection plans are for. How to Make Sure You’re Protected Inventory Your Devices : Keep a running list (and receipts if you have them). Check Your Policy Limits : Electronics often have sub-limits that cap coverage. Consider Add-Ons : Riders or endorsements can provide stronger coverage for today’s high-ticket devices. Device Protection Beyond Your Plan While you’re safeguarding your tech, why not protect how you carry it? If you’re in the market for premium, durable, stylish leather accessories, check out our office favorites and get our exclusive 10% discount - Andar – Handcrafted Wallets & Tech Accessories These items don’t replace insurance, but they make sure your phone or computer travels in style and gets treated like the valuable gear it is. The Sonon Insurance Takeaway Insurance is about more than protecting the big stuff like your car or home, it’s also about safeguarding the tools that keep your everyday life running smoothly. If you rely on your devices (and who doesn’t?), make sure your coverage fits your lifestyle. At Sonon Insurance, we’ll walk you through what’s covered, what’s not, and how to fill in the gaps so your laptop or phone doesn’t leave you stranded in the digital stone age. ✅ Affiliate Disclosure & Legal Stuff We want to be transparent: some of the product links in this post are affiliate links—meaning Sonon Insurance may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. This comes at no extra cost to you, and we only promote products we genuinely believe will provide value. We’re not responsible for warranties, returns, or damage once the product is in your hands—any such policies come from the product brand itself.

What is Gap Insurance?

By Justin Sonon • September 10, 2025

Gap Insurance: Dealer Add-On vs. Auto Insurance Policy — Which Is the Smarter Choice? Buying a new car is exciting, but it also comes with financial risks. The moment you drive off the lot, your vehicle starts to depreciate in value. If your car is ever totaled or stolen, your standard auto insurance typically pays out the actual cash value, not the balance left on your loan or lease. That’s where Gap Insurance comes in. Short for Guaranteed Asset Protection, it covers the “gap” between what your vehicle is worth and what you still owe your lender. Why You’ll Hear About Gap Insurance at the Dealership When you’re finalizing your purchase, the finance manager often offers Gap Insurance as an add-on. Convenience : You can roll it right into your financing paperwork. Cost : This convenience comes at a price. Dealers typically charge $400– $900 as a one-time fee, and because it’s financed, you’ll also pay interest on it. Commitment : Once it’s bundled into your loan, you’re locked into that cost even if your balance drops faster than expected. For example: if you buy a $30,000 SUV and total it a year later when it’s worth only $24,000, but you still owe $28,000, the dealer’s Gap Insurance would cover the $4,000 difference. Useful—but not always cost-effective. Gap Insurance Through Your Auto Insurance Policy What many car buyers don’t realize is that they can add Gap Insurance directly to their auto insurance policy. Lower Cost : Most carriers charge just $20–$40 per year for the same protection. Flexibility : You can add or remove the coverage as your loan balance changes. Same Protection : It covers the same difference between your loan and your vehicle’s actual cash value. In the SUV example above, adding Gap Insurance through your policy would provide the same $4,000 protection—but at a fraction of the cost. Which Option Is Best? If you like convenience and don’t mind paying more, the dealership option works. If you want long-term savings, adding Gap Insurance to your auto policy is almost always the smarter financial choice. At Sonon Insurance , you can explore whether adding Gap Insurance to your auto policy makes more sense for your wallet. Because protecting your vehicle, and your finances, shouldn’t cost more than it has to.