What is the difference between an online eye exam and an in-person eye exam?

If your peepers are in need of a little TLC, your best bet is to schedule an eye exam. Thanks to the wonders of telemedicine, some eye care professionals now offer two options:

• Online vision test: Also known as a visual acuity test, an online vision test helps determine how well you see. These tests are typically used to renew an existing prescription. 

• Eye exam: An in-person eye exam combines visual acuity testing with additional assessments to evaluate your overall eye health.

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Online eye exams and in-person eye exams aren't the same, but they can both help you get a handle on your vision. We compared an online vs. in-person eye exam to help you understand what to expect.

Stay tuned for details on the advantages of each one, along with a list of states where you can get an online eye exam at your convenience.

Find out more on the difference between an online eye exam and an in-person exam

What to expect from an online eye exam

This type of exam uses the miracle of modern technology to assess your vision via the internet. You won't have to leave home, but you will need a computer or mobile device. It's also critical to sit in a well-lit room. After all, you wouldn't want your device to mistake you for Dracula.

Keep in mind: Online vision tests are designed to check vision and are not a replacement for a comprehensive eye health exam.

An online vision test typically includes:

• Visual acuity test: This test measures how clearly you can see at a specific distance. Have you ever seen a chart with a few big letters at the top and a bunch of tiny letters at the bottom? That’s similar to how visual clarity is measured during an online vision test.

Once you complete the test, a licensed eye care professional reviews your results. If appropriate, they may issue an updated prescription to help ensure your vision is properly corrected.

How does an ExpressExam compare to an online eye exam?

ExpressExam is a 1-800 Contacts online vision test designed for prescription renewal and is like other online vision tests. It can be completed from home using an internet-connected device.

After answering a few eligibility questions, you'll complete a short vision test. Your results are then reviewed by a licensed ophthalmologist in your state, who determines if you qualify for a renewed prescription.

ExpressExam vs. in-person exam: Which is right for you?

ExpressExam may be a good option if you:

• Already wear contacts or glasses
  
  

• Need to renew your prescription
  
  

• Haven’t experienced major vision changes

It’s not the right fit if you:

• Have eye health concerns (like glaucoma or eye pain)
  
  

• Need a comprehensive eye exam

Learn more about ExpressExam:

What are the advantages of online eye exams?

One of the main advantages of an online vs. in-person eye exam is convenience. You don't have to make an appointment, and you don't have to go anywhere. Hey, if you want to do the exam with bedhead and a pair of flannel PJs, we won't judge.

Online eye exams also save you money. Since they have fewer components, they typically cost less than in-person eye exams. As an added bonus, many providers have your new lens prescription ready in under 24 hours.

How accurate is an online eye exam?

So, how reliable are online eye exams? If you follow the instructions to a T, they're highly accurate.

What states allow online eye exams?

Online vision tests for contact lens prescription renewal are available in many U.S. states, though availability can vary based on state regulations and individual eligibility.

Right now, you can typically take an online vision test in:

• Alabama

• Alaska

• Arizona

• Arkansas

• California

• Colorado

• Connecticut

• Florida

• Georgia

• Idaho

• Illinois

• Indiana

• Iowa

• Kentucky

• Maine

• Maryland

• Massachusetts

• Minnesota

• Mississippi

• Missouri

• Montana

• Nebraska

• Nevada

• New Hampshire

• New York

• North Carolina

• North Dakota

• Ohio

• Oklahoma

• Oregon

• Pennsylvania

• Rhode Island

• Tennessee

• Texas

• Utah

• Vermont

• Virginia

• Washington

• Washington D.C.

• Wisconsin

• Wyoming

Availability can change, and not everyone will qualify, but you’ll find out in just a few quick steps when you start the ExpressExam.

What to expect from an in-person eye exam

In-person eye exams include a variety of tests to evaluate both your vision and your overall eye health. Your eye care professional will check your visual acuity and perform a refraction to determine your exact prescription, while also looking for signs of conditions like astigmatism.

Your eye care professional may also do the following:

• Visual field test: Checks for blind spots and other issues in your field of vision.

• Conjunctival exam: Examines the thin membrane covering the white part of your eye for redness, irritation, or other concerns.

• Pupillary reflex test: Ensures your pupils respond properly to light.

• Intraocular pressure check: Measures the pressure inside your eyes, often using a quick puff of air, to screen for conditions like glaucoma.

These additional tests are what make in-person exams an important part of maintaining your overall eye health.

What are the advantages of in-person eye exams?

The main advantage of an in-person eye exam is that it includes tests you can't do at home. For example, scientists haven't come up with a way to send a puff of air through your computer screen.

In-person exams are also ideal if you have a chronic health condition that could put your eye health at risk. Here are a few examples:

• Diabetes
  
  

• High blood pressure
  
  

• Coronary artery disease
  
  

• Kidney disease
  
  

Autoimmune disorders

Learn more information on pros and cons of an online vision exam:

Is a digital eye exam better than a regular eye exam?

It depends on what you need. A digital eye exam can be a good option if you're in good health and just want to check your vision or renew an existing prescription. If it’s your first time getting an eye exam, an in-person visit is usually the better choice so an eye care professional can fully evaluate your eye health.

If you're concerned about glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic eye damage, or other eye problems, an in-person eye exam may also be a better fit for your needs.

Did you know you can order contacts online? 

Say goodbye to trips to the eye doctor and hello to convenience! With 1-800 Contacts, you can easily order your contact lenses online and have them delivered straight to your door. Plus, our online vision exam makes it simple to renew your prescription without leaving home. And the best part? You’ll save money on your first order with 1-800 Contacts. It’s never been easier to get your contacts!

Original publish date: 3/25/2022

Updated date: 3/23/2026