The ReturnPolicy score is calculated based on several factors including: convenience, customer service, speed of refund, flexibility and users’ ratings.
When Warby Parker burst onto the scene in 2010, it quickly became a disruptor in the eyewear industry. Founded by four friends in a Philadelphia apartment, Warby Parker's mission was to provide designer eyewear at a revolutionary price, while leading the way for socially-conscious businesses. By circumventing traditional channels, designing glasses in-house, and engaging with customers directly, Warby Parker was able to offer high-quality, beautifully designed eyewear at a fraction of the going price.
Fast forward to today, and Warby Parker has not only made a name for itself online but has also expanded into brick-and-mortar retail, setting up stylish shops across the U.S. and Canada. The brand's Home Try-On program, where customers can order five frames to test out for five days, free of charge, has been a hit, making it easier for glasses wearers to find their perfect pair without leaving home.
But as Warby Parker has grown, so has the competition. A myriad of online eyewear retailers have emerged, each offering their unique twist on glasses shopping. Let's see how Warby Parker stacks up against its competitors.
3.5 / 5
Zenni Optical is a popular online eyewear retailer known for its extremely affordable prices. Founded in 2003, Zenni has built a strong customer base by offering a wide variety of frame styles and lens options at low cost. They differ from Warby Parker with their direct-to-consumer model that cuts out the middleman, allowing them to keep prices down.
While Zenni might not have the same brand recognition or boutique-style service as Warby Parker, for budget-conscious consumers, Zenni Optical is a strong competitor due to its price point and extensive selection.
EyeBuyDirect follows a similar model to Zenni, offering a wide range of affordable eyewear online. With frequent promotions and a focus on trendy styles, EyeBuyDirect appeals to a younger demographic looking for fashion-forward glasses on a budget. Their competitive edge lies in their frequent collaborations and updated collections.
EyeBuyDirect also offers a Home Try-On equivalent with their 'Fit & Style Eyewear Quiz,' though it doesn't provide the same tactile experience as physically trying on multiple frames at home.
Coastal offers a blend of affordable and premium eyewear brands, featuring a vast selection that competes with Warby Parker's stylish options. Their customer service and return policy are points of pride, and they provide a unique offering with their 'Buy One, Give One' program, which donates a pair of glasses to someone in need for every pair purchased.
Coastal doesn't mimic Warby Parker's Home Try-On program, but they do have a virtual try-on feature that uses augmented reality to help customers find the right fit.
Firmoo.com is known for catering to a global audience with their affordable and fashionable eyewear. They offer a wide range of styles and frequent discounts, making them a go-to for budget shoppers. Firmoo's virtual try-on system helps customers find their perfect pair from anywhere in the world.
While they may not have the physical store presence of Warby Parker, Firmoo’s international shipping capabilities make them a formidable competitor in the online eyewear market.
GlassesUSA.com positions itself as a direct competitor to Warby Parker by offering a large assortment of eyewear brands, including premium names like Oakley and Ray-Ban, often at discounted prices. Their virtual try-on feature and 365-day warranty set them apart, along with a generous return policy.
The breadth of their selection and competitive pricing make GlassesUSA.com a significant player in the online eyewear landscape.
LensCrafters is a veteran in the eyewear industry with a robust online presence as well as numerous physical locations. They offer a wide selection of designer frames and are known for their in-store eye exams and personalized service.
While their price points are generally higher than Warby Parker's, LensCrafters' convenience and comprehensive eye care services appeal to customers who value a one-stop-shop for their vision needs.
Ray-Ban is an iconic brand in the eyewear industry, and their online store offers a mix of classic and contemporary styles. As a manufacturer of its line of eyewear, Ray-Ban provides a level of brand prestige that Warby Parker is still building towards.
While Ray-Ban doesn't offer an at-home try-on service, their well-established brand and loyal customer base continue to make them a top competitor in the eyewear market.
Specsavers is a prominent optical retailer in the UK and Ireland, offering a wide range of glasses and contact lenses. They are known for their affordable pricing and in-store optician services. With a strong emphasis on value and service, Specsavers competes with Warby Parker in the European market.
Specsavers also engages in community initiatives and charity work, aligning with Warby Parker's socially responsible ethos.
Vision Express is another significant UK-based competitor, offering an extensive range of eyewear and comprehensive eye tests. Their focus on eye health and professional service positions them as a more traditional alternative to Warby Parker's fashion-forward approach.
With a strong presence in physical retail, Vision Express caters to those who prefer the in-person experience when selecting their eyewear.
FramesDirect.com prides itself on offering a large selection of designer frames and sunglasses at competitive prices. Their offering of over 200 brands gives them an edge in variety over Warby Parker.
FramesDirect.com also provides expert advice from licensed opticians, catering to customers who want a more personalized online shopping experience.
Target Optical combines the convenience of online shopping with the option to visit Target stores for in-person service. Their competitive pricing and exclusive designer collections make them an attractive option for Warby Parker customers looking for variety and accessibility.
Target Optical also offers eye exams and accepts most vision insurance plans, which can be appealing for those seeking a comprehensive eyewear shopping experience.
4.6 / 5
4.6 / 5
Costco Optical capitalizes on the warehouse club's reputation for quality and value. While it requires a Costco membership, the retailer offers competitively priced eyewear and eye care services in its physical locations.
For Warby Parker customers who are also Costco members, the allure of combining eyewear purchases with regular shopping trips can be a strong draw.
Glasses.com is an online eyewear retailer that offers free in-home try-on, similar to Warby Parker. They provide a wide variety of frames and a user-friendly interface for selecting lenses and coatings.
Their 3D Virtual Try-On technology gives them a unique advantage, allowing customers to see how frames look on their face from different angles.
