Single PD vs Dual PD A Detailed Comparison | Vision Boutique (2024)

Single PD vs. Dual PD | A Detailed Comparison

Have you ever heard of a single or dual pupillary distance (PD) number? If not, it is the distance between the very middle of each of your pupils and the bridge of your nose. It is measured in millimeters in one of two ways, from each pupil individually or together between the center of both pupils.

You might be wondering why you would need to know this number at all. The PD measurement is crucial because it helps in making your glasses. You want to have the prescription power of your new lenses right in the center of your vision. If this measurement is wrong, your glasses will be off-center, and you won’t be able to see out of them. It sounds like a pretty important detail, right?

Why Does My Eye Prescription Have Two PD Numbers?

The prescription that your optometrist gives you may or may not have the PD numbers included on it. If it is included, it can be one or two numbers.

A single PD number (also called binocular PD) is the total distance between the middle of both your pupils added together. A dual or two PD numbers (called monocular PD) is the measurement of the center of each pupil to the bridge of your nose individually.

Single PD vs. Dual PD

So, is it better to have a single or dual PD number when purchasing your new glasses? Is one more accurate than the other?

Our eyes are not equally proportioned or symmetrical. One pupil could be a little further away from the bridge of your nose than the other pupil. Because of this, a dual PD is usually recommended. When you have each pupil-to-nose bridge measured individually, you’ll be sure to get your prescription right where you need them to be on your lenses. This can be especially important if you are considering progressive lenses or bifocals.

Does PD Have to Be Exact?

It is essential to be as exact as possible when measuring your pupillary distance for a new set of eyeglasses. If it isn’t precise as possible, your glasses will be made wrong by the lens maker, and you won’t be able to see out of them correctly.

If you are unsure about your single or dual PD measurement, make it a point to get a good reading before spending the money on new specs. You’ll be glad you got it right the first time!

For more information on your pupillary distance (PD) numbers, schedule an eye exam. To learn more about healthy vision habits, schedule an appointment today.

Single PD vs Dual PD A Detailed Comparison | Vision Boutique (2024)

FAQs

Single PD vs Dual PD A Detailed Comparison | Vision Boutique? ›

If it is included, it can be one or two numbers. A single PD number (also called binocular PD) is the total distance between the middle of both your pupils added together. A dual or two PD numbers (called monocular PD) is the measurement of the center of each pupil to the bridge of your nose individually.

Is dual PD better than single PD? ›

Single PD vs.

Some individuals may have a slightly different PD for each eye, and a dual PD can provide a more customized fit. Single PD: Typically used for standard single-vision lenses. Dual PD: Recommended for progressive or bifocal lenses for enhanced precision.

What is the difference between 1 and 2 pupillary distance? ›

What is the difference between 'single' and 'dual' pupillary distance? A 'single' pupillary distance number is the distance in millimeters between one eye's pupil to the other eye's pupil. A 'dual' pupillary distance number is the distance in millimeters from each eye's pupil to the center of your nose.

What is dual PD in vision? ›

DUAL PD, or monocular PD, consists of two numbers and is the distance between the centers of each pupil to the bridge of the nose. Dual PD is usually written in the following notation: 32/30. The first number is always the right eye (OD) measurement, and the second number is the left eye (OS).

Which PD to use for progressive lenses? ›

The combined measure of monocular pupillary distance of both eyes should give you your total binocular pupillary distance, or "single PD." The monocular PD is taken when you need progressive lenses.

What if PD is off by 2mm? ›

Pupillary Distance (PD) And The Importance Of Having An Accurate Measurement. Did you know that an error of only 2mm can lead to a loss of more than 40% of your clear vision field? PD, or pupillary distance, refers to the distance in millimeters between the center of one pupil to the center of the other.

What if PD is off by 4mm? ›

What Happens If Your Pupillary Distance Is Off? Pupillary distance makes your glasses prescription comfortable and clear. If you have the wrong measurement, it might cause blurriness, headaches, or eye strain. Mistakes can happen whether you measure it manually or your optician does it with a PD meter.

What if PD is off by 1mm? ›

Does pupillary distance have to be exact? The pupillary distance measurement does not have to be 100% precise to be applicable, as it can tolerate a small error range. A PD difference of 1mm is not going to cause too much discomfort, and would not be noticeable.

What is the average PD for glasses for a woman? ›

The average PD measurements for women is 62mm and for men 64mm. Between 58 and 68 is quite normal though.

How to tell if PD is wrong on glasses? ›

If you're wearing glasses made using an incorrect PD measurement, you'll probably notice symptoms related to the misalignment. Those include eyestrain, headaches and distortions in your vision. These symptoms aren't dangerous, but they also aren't pleasant.

Can wrong PD cause double vision? ›

Humans have binocular vision, meaning our eyes work together to perceive depth and 3D space. An incorrect PD measurement can lead to visual discomfort, double vision, and issues with depth perception.

Why is my PD not on my prescription? ›

Where is my PD on my prescription? PD may or may not be included on your prescription. It's often measured separately by your eye care provider and can be provided upon request (sometimes with an additional fee).

How important is PD in eyeglass prescription? ›

Your eyeglass lenses have an “optical center,” which is the ideal spot for your pupil to look through in order to have optimal vision. Having an accurate PD measurement is the key to getting your lenses to line up with your pupils and provide the best possible results from your eyewear.

Is single PD or dual PD more accurate? ›

Dual PD measurements offer greater accuracy because most of us don't have symmetrical faces where your left and right pupils are equidistant from your nose.

What is the best lens size for progressive lenses? ›

The ideal lens height is between 28 – 34mm. So, if the frame style is too wide, too narrow, or an irregular shape, you will be uncomfortable trying to look through the correct part of the lens. Ignoring the technicalities, frame style can also be influenced by your face shape.

Who is not a good candidate for progressive lenses? ›

Individuals with strong prescriptions, a high degree of astigmatism, or specific visual needs may not find progressive lenses suitable.

What is the most accurate pupillary distance? ›

Your optician or eye doctor can measure your PD at your eye exam with an instrument called a pupillometer. Sometimes your PD is included on your prescription, but not always. A PD measurement from a pupillometer will always be the most accurate.

How important is correct PD for glasses? ›

Your prescription lenses are designed to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. An accurate PD measurement ensures the corrective power is placed where it's needed, maximizing the effectiveness of your eyeglasses.

Which PD number do I use? ›

Most adults have a PD between 53 and 70, and children will be between 41-55. You might be given two numbers such as 63/60. This would mean that you use 63 as your PD for distance vision. The smaller number would be used only when converting the prescription to single vision reading glasses and multifocal lenses.

Is it normal to have different pupillary distance? ›

Average pupillary distance for an adult is between 54-68mm, with acceptable measurement deviations generally falling in between 48mm and 73mm. The range for children is approximately 41-55mm.

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