Plastic vs. Metal Frame Glasses: Which Is Best for You?

Hundreds of thousands of options exist when it comes to frames for glasses. That’s understandably overwhelming. However, a great place to start narrowing down your choices is with the frame material, and this leaves you with two main selections: metal or plastic. These are hands down the most popular materials for glasses frames, but which is best for you?

A.J. Morgan Eyewear is here to help. In the guide below, we’ll discuss why choosing the right material matters, what plastic frames bring to the table, all about metal frames, and how to decide for yourself. Get ready to see this choice more clearly!

Why Choosing the Right Frame Material Matters

Whether you wear glasses all day long or for hours on end, you wear them a lot. Therefore, they must fit well and be compatible with your style. After all, you should feel comfortable and confident in this essential accessory.

Fit is the most important thing to consider when it comes to finding a comfortable frame, but material also plays an often overlooked role. Below are the factors that material can impact.

Comfort

Plastic and metal have different weights and feels, which can affect how comfortable they are on your face.

Durability

If you buy from a reputable manufacturer, both plastic and metal frames are long-lasting. However, the materials might respond differently to impacts, sunlight, bending, and other stress factors.

Style

Plastic and metal look different, plain and simple. Even when covered in paint and patterns, each material appears unique. Therefore, you have to consider your personal style and how the material will integrate.

Now that we know why frame materials are so important, let’s take our official deep dive into the two most popular options in the eyewear game.

A Breakdown of Plastic Frames

Acetate, propionate, nylon, and TR-90 are the most popular plastics for frames. Though each has unique properties, there are a few things that tend to be true of all plastic frames. We explore these below.

Benefits of Plastic Frames

When all is said and done, plastic is probably more popular than metal, and there are some good reasons for this.

For one, they don’t weigh much but provide a substantial amount of durability despite this. If you’re someone who finds metal frames too heavy or uncomfortable for long wear, plastic is a great option.

Secondly, plastic is more comfortable to wear in extreme climates. Whereas metal frames might scald or freeze your nose, plastic treats you more kindly.

Another of the best things about plastic is the variety of options it allows. Though metal can also come in cute colors and patterns, it’s harder to customize it. On the other hand, manufacturers can mix color and texture into plastic material before forming frames, embedding designs for the long haul. In short, you won’t have to worry about your frames’ aesthetic coating chipping off. Because of this, manufacturers tend to offer plastic frames in a much wider variety of designs.

Finally, generally speaking, plastic frames cost less than metal ones. If you’re looking for budget-friendly eyewear without compromising style, plastic is a reliable choice.

Limitations of Plastic Frames

Plastic isn’t all sunshine and roses. For one, it tends to be less durable than metal. Now, though a high-quality plastic will outlast a cheap metal, plastic is more prone to bending out of shape or cracking. Plastic’s color can also fade or yellow over time, which many people find unattractive.

Additionally, plastic frames are typically less adjustable. If they don’t fit your nose just right, they probably never will (unless there are adjustability mechanisms built into the frame).

An Overview of Metal Frames

Titanium, beryllium, Monel, stainless steel, and aluminum alloys are the top metals for frames. Again, each has unique properties, but we’re here to reveal the general benefits and drawbacks of this material.

Benefits of Metal Frames

Now, plastic has clear benefits, but metal was the top dog before plastic entered the scene. Even today, this material has notable advantages over plastic.

For one, while not unbreakable, metal frames tend to be more durable than plastic. Titanium is by far the best performer in this category.

Additionally, metal frames can usually bend at the temples and nose pads for a more customized fit. This can be helpful if you have very specific comfort needs.

Now let’s talk looks. If you prefer a subtle, polished style, metal frames are your best bet. They typically sport a thinner design, which works great if you want your glasses to be less noticeable.

Drawbacks of Metal Frames

As for the downsides to metal, the main one is probably the cost. If you want high-end frames, you’ll probably pay the most for a nice metal pair than you would a nice plastic pair.

Also, allergies are worth considering. Many metals are common allergens. Though the most popular frame metals are hypoallergenic (such as titanium), that’s not the case for every metal and alloy. If you have allergies, you’ll have to carefully review the frames’ composition.

Moreover, you have fewer color and pattern options with metal frames. The most popular style is plain metal with a shiny or matte finish. More unique options certainly exist, but not at the scale they do for plastic frames.

Which Should You Choose?

So which is best for you: plastic or metal frames for glasses?

We think you should go for plastic if these factors apply to you:

• You want a more budget-friendly option.
• Vibrant colors and bold styles are a must for you.
• Lightweight comfort is your top priority.

On the other hand, you’re probably better off with metal if these factors apply:

• Durability and adjustability are your top priorities.
• You prefer a low-key, minimalistic aesthetic.

Ultimately, the choice isn’t about which material is universally “better” but which one aligns with your specific lifestyle, preferences, and budget.

Why not try both? Having a plastic pair for casual use and a metal pair for work or formal events can give you the best of both worlds.

Find Your Fit at A.J. Morgan Eyewear

Whatever you decide, you can find your perfect fit at A.J. Morgan Eyewear! Our extensive collection features premium plastic and metal frames in a variety of cool designs. Whether you’re looking for men’s stylish readers glasses or women’s sunglasses, our selection delivers in spades. Browse our frames today to find your next favorite pair!