Finding the perfect pair of eyeglasses can be a real challenge, especially when you're looking for quality and affordability. I recently went on a quest to find new glasses in Taipei, and I learned a lot along the way. I want to share my experiences and tips to help you navigate the world of optical shops in Taipei and get the best value for your money. It’s definitely possible to get stylish and affordable eyeglasses!
I've always been a bit of a glasses enthusiast. I love how a new pair can completely change your look. But finding the right optical shop that offers both great prices and quality lenses can be tough. During my time in Taipei, I was determined to find the best deals on eyeglasses. I started my search, exploring different options from department stores to small, local shops.
One thing I quickly realized is that optical shops in Taipei are generally excellent. I was particularly impressed with the pricing on Zeiss lenses and the variety of treatments available. It felt like I could customize my lenses exactly how I wanted them, without breaking the bank. However, I learned a valuable tip: buying frames and lenses from the same place might not always be the most cost-effective approach.
I discovered that purchasing frames separately from lenses can save you a significant amount of money. I started looking at online retailers for designer frames. I even considered buying frames from online stores when they had sales. I have heard of people getting amazing deals on Saint Laurent frames from SSENSE in Canada when they go on sale, sometimes up to 60% off retail. While I didn't go that route this time, it's definitely something to keep in mind for the future.
I also explored options within Taipei itself. I noticed that shops in department stores, like Owndays or Jins, tend to be more expensive, but they offer faster service. The price for a frame, lenses, and anti-blue light coating can be around 4,000 to 5,000 NTD. If you're in a hurry, this might be a good option. But if you have more time, exploring street-side stores like 中天 could lead to better deals. They often have cheaper lenses and can provide similar treatments.
After weighing all the options, I decided to try a different approach. I was looking for something stylish, lightweight, and comfortable. That's when I stumbled upon MERRYS DESIGN Men Alloy Glasses Frame. You can view on store. I liked the square half-frame design and the promise of an ultralight experience. Since I have myopia, I was also happy to see that they could accommodate my prescription. They are available at Cinily Net.
I decided to pair these frames with lenses from a local shop. This allowed me to get the specific lens treatments I wanted (anti-glare and blue light protection) at a reasonable price. The result? A pair of eyeglasses that looks great, feels comfortable, and didn't break the bank. I was really happy with my choice.
I also heard a recommendation for a particular shop where the owner is very skilled and speaks English. The shop is located at this location. While I didn't personally visit this shop, it's good to know that there are places where communication is easy and the expertise is high.
Another person shared their experience of getting glasses made in Taipei in just a few days. They found a small shop with unique frames that they hadn't seen anywhere else. They went in on a Sunday and had their new glasses by late afternoon on Thursday. This shows that you can find great options even in smaller, less well-known shops.
Finally, I came across a story about someone who buys their contacts from a shop in Shilin Night Market 士林夜市 and recently got new glasses there for just $1,800 NTD, including frames, lenses, an eye exam, and home delivery. It's a family-run business with an old-school eye exam, but it worked well for their glasses. This is a testament to the fact that you can find incredibly affordable options if you're willing to explore local markets and smaller shops. Cinily Net also has some great affordable options too.
Based on my experience, here are some practical tips to help you find the best eyeglasses in Taipei: