What are the disadvantages of anti-reflective coating?

Disadvantages of Anti-Reflective Coating

While anti-reflective (AR) coatings on glasses offer numerous benefits, including reduced glare, improved vision, and a decrease in eye strain, they also come with a set of disadvantages. Understanding these drawbacks is essential for making an informed decision about whether to opt for AR coatings on your eyewear.

Key Disadvantages

• Cost: AR coatings can significantly increase the overall cost of eyeglasses. This additional expense may not be covered by insurance, making it an out-of-pocket cost for the consumer.
• Maintenance: Glasses with AR coatings require more meticulous cleaning and care. They can easily get smudges and fingerprints, which are more noticeable and harder to clean without special cleaning solutions and cloths.
• Durability Issues: Although technology has improved the durability of AR coatings, they can still peel or scratch over time, especially if not properly maintained. This can necessitate more frequent replacements of the lenses.
• Reflections: While AR coatings are designed to reduce reflections, under certain lighting conditions, they can produce a residual color (often green or blue) that can be noticeable and potentially distracting.
• Sensitivity to Light: Some users may find that AR coatings, by allowing more light to pass through the lenses, increase their sensitivity to bright lights or cause discomfort in certain lighting conditions.

In conclusion, while anti-reflective coatings offer significant benefits for eyeglass wearers, it's important to weigh these against the potential disadvantages. Factors such as cost, maintenance requirements, durability, and personal sensitivity to light and reflections should be considered before making a decision.