Selectspecs.com Review

Based on checking the website, Selectspecs.com appears to be a legitimate online retailer specializing in prescription glasses and sunglasses.

The site emphasizes its 20 years of experience, a UK base, and boasts a high volume of positive Trustpilot reviews, suggesting a well-established operation in the eyewear market.

However, a strict ethical review requires a deeper look into the transparency of all business practices and the alignment with consumer expectations, particularly concerning hidden fees or complex return policies.

While the initial impression is positive, the true value lies in the details often found beyond the homepage.

Here’s an overall review summary:

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• Website Legitimacy: Appears legitimate with clear contact information, physical address, and a long operational history since 2005.
• Product Offering: Extensive range of prescription glasses and sunglasses, including designer brands and budget-friendly options starting from £6.00.
• Pricing Transparency: Advertises free single vision basic lenses with many products and clear pricing for upgrades.
• Customer Service: Claims “Friendly & Helpful Customer Services” with a direct phone number and operating hours.
• Delivery & Returns: Offers FREE UK & Worldwide Delivery on Orders over £49.00 and FREE Returns & Exchanges, which are positive indicators.
• Customer Feedback: Boasts over 75,000+ reviews on Trustpilot with a 5-star rating, indicating strong customer satisfaction.
• Ethical Considerations: The core business of selling eyewear is permissible. The website does not promote any forbidden categories. However, for a fully ethical business, one would look for transparent supply chains, fair labor practices, and environmentally conscious operations, which are not immediately evident from the homepage text alone.

Selectspecs.com presents itself as a robust option for purchasing eyewear online, aiming to provide significant savings compared to traditional high street opticians.

The “Summer of Savings” promotion and the advertised £6.00 prescription glasses are clear draws for cost-conscious consumers.

The emphasis on being a UK-based business with its own cutting-edge laboratory adds a layer of credibility, suggesting quality control.

The high volume of positive Trustpilot reviews is a strong social proof, often indicative of a reliable service.

However, like any online purchase, consumers should delve into the specific terms and conditions, especially regarding prescription accuracy, warranty, and the exact process for returns and exchanges, to ensure a smooth transaction.

While the business model itself is sound, a comprehensive ethical review would necessitate examining their broader corporate responsibility, which is typically beyond the scope of a homepage review.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Best Alternatives for Ethical Eyewear

When seeking ethical alternatives for eyewear, it’s crucial to look beyond just the price tag and consider companies that prioritize sustainable practices, fair labor, and transparent operations.

The following alternatives focus on offering quality eyewear while maintaining a commitment to responsible business.

• Warby Parker
  • Key Features: Offers stylish prescription glasses and sunglasses, home try-on program, and a “Buy a Pair, Give a Pair” program.
  • Price or Average Price: Mid-range, typically $95-$195 including prescription lenses.
  • Pros: Strong social mission, high-quality frames, convenient home try-on, excellent customer service.
  • Cons: Limited physical store locations outside major cities, some styles may be pricier than budget options.
• Zenni Optical
  • Key Features: Extremely affordable prescription glasses, wide variety of styles, virtual try-on, blue light blocking options.
  • Price or Average Price: Very budget-friendly, starting from around $6.95 for basic frames.
  • Pros: Unbeatable prices, huge selection, good for trying out trendy styles without breaking the bank.
  • Cons: Frame quality can vary, customer service is primarily online, returns might have restocking fees.
• EyeBuyDirect
  • Key Features: Wide range of frames, frequent sales and discounts, virtual try-on, customizable lens options.
  • Price or Average Price: Budget to mid-range, often with significant discounts.
  • Pros: Good balance of price and quality, regular promotions make it very affordable, easy-to-navigate website.
  • Cons: Shipping can sometimes be slow, some users report variations in lens coatings.
• GlassesUSA
  • Key Features: Large selection of designer brands and in-house frames, virtual try-on, free shipping and returns, comprehensive lens options.
  • Price or Average Price: Mid to high-range, depending on brand and lens upgrades.
  • Pros: Extensive brand variety, often runs competitive sales, good customer support.
  • Cons: Prices can climb quickly with add-ons, some customers experience longer processing times for complex prescriptions.
• Felix Gray
  • Key Features: Specializes in blue light filtering glasses with or without prescription, anti-glare, and anti-scratch coatings.
  • Price or Average Price: Higher mid-range, typically $95-$145.
  • Pros: Excellent blue light filtering technology, stylish frames, good for digital eye strain.
  • Cons: More niche focus on blue light, fewer general prescription options, higher price point for some.
• Liingo Eyewear
  • Key Features: Home try-on program, free prescription lenses, free shipping and returns, fashionable frame styles.
  • Price or Average Price: Mid-range, typically around $79-$129.
  • Pros: Convenient home try-on, straightforward pricing includes lenses, good quality frames.
  • Cons: Smaller selection of frames compared to larger retailers, less frequent sales.
• Coastal
  • Key Features: Wide selection of frames, contact lenses available, virtual try-on, occasional “first pair free” promotions for basic lenses.
  • Price or Average Price: Budget to mid-range.
  • Pros: Good variety, often has promotions, comprehensive offerings including contact lenses.
  • Cons: Customer service experiences can be inconsistent, some promotions have strict terms.

Selectspecs.com Review & First Look

Based on a thorough examination of its homepage, Selectspecs.com presents itself as a robust and experienced player in the online eyewear retail sector.

This long-standing presence suggests a mature operation capable of weathering market changes and building a substantial customer base.

Initial Impressions on Selectspecs.com

The homepage is well-organized, clean, and provides essential information upfront.

The use of a large, clear banner for “Summer of Savings.

Up to 25% OFF Your Order” immediately grabs attention, alongside a prominent call to action with a promo code. Myfittedbedroom.com Review

This suggests a consumer-friendly approach focused on value propositions.

The integration of Trustpilot reviews, displaying “★★★★★ 75,000+ Reviews on Trustpilot,” serves as strong social proof, directly addressing potential customer hesitations about online purchases.

Selectspecs.com’s Value Proposition

One of the key selling points, reiterated multiple times, is the affordability, with “Cheap prescription glasses online from only £6.00.” This competitive pricing strategy is clearly designed to attract a wide audience.

The offer of “FREE Single Vision Basic lenses” with many products further enhances this value, claiming savings “up to 70% when compared with the high street.” For a consumer looking to manage costs, this is a compelling offer.

Trust Indicators and Credibility

The site explicitly states it’s a “UK based business with our own on site cutting edge laboratory,” which adds a layer of trust. Premiasolutions.com Review

Knowing that prescription glasses are made with “the same materials as used by high street opticians” from an internal lab can reassure customers about quality.

The mention of a “high street store and offices are based in Westgate on Sea, Kent, UK,” provides a tangible, physical presence, which is often a strong trust signal for online businesses.

Contact information, including a phone number and customer service hours, is also prominently displayed, fostering a sense of accessibility and accountability.

Understanding Selectspecs.com’s Service Model

Selectspecs.com operates on a model that aims to bridge the gap between affordable online pricing and the perceived quality of high street opticians. Focusedfashion1.com Review

By leveraging its own laboratory and a direct-to-consumer approach, the company seeks to reduce overheads and pass those savings onto the customer.

In-House Laboratory and Quality Control

The emphasis on having an “on site cutting edge laboratory using the best equipment available in the optics industry today” is a critical aspect of their service model.

This suggests that they have direct control over the manufacturing process of their prescription lenses, which can lead to:

• Faster Dispatch: As highlighted by “fast UK dispatch and Next Day Express delivery available.”
• Consistent Quality: Maintaining standards by controlling the production environment and materials.
• Cost Efficiency: Eliminating intermediaries in the lens production process, contributing to the “cheap prescription glasses” offering.

It is important to note that while they claim “same materials as used by high street opticians,” the precise specifications of these materials are not detailed on the homepage, which would be a deeper dive for a consumer.

Customer Support and Accessibility

The mention of a “Friendly & Helpful Customer Services team available from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday excluding UK public holidays” along with a direct phone number +44 01843 264 715 indicates a commitment to customer support. Topchefmeals.com Review

In the online retail space, accessible customer service is paramount for addressing prescription queries, order issues, or returns.

The option to “take your order over the phone” also caters to customers who may prefer human interaction over online ordering.

Brand Portfolio and Variety

Selectspecs.com prides itself on offering “Over 400 Brands,” positioning itself as an authorized retailer for well-known names like Ray-Ban, Oakley, Calvin Klein, and Tom Ford.

This vast selection caters to a wide array of preferences and budgets, from “Essential” and “£6.00 Glasses” to “Designer” and “Boutique” collections.

This breadth ensures that customers can find frames that align with their style, budget, and brand loyalty. Camelbak.com Review

The ability to shop by frame style Aviator, Wayfarer, Rectangular, Round, Cat Eye, Clubmaster further enhances user experience and navigability.

Selectspecs.com’s Customer Experience & Promises

The Selectspecs.com homepage goes to great lengths to build confidence and outline what customers can expect, focusing on value, convenience, and satisfaction.

Delivery and Returns Policy

A significant promise is “FREE UK & Worldwide Delivery on Orders over £49.00” and “FREE Returns & Exchanges.” These are crucial benefits for online shoppers, mitigating the risk associated with purchasing eyewear without a physical try-on.

• Free Delivery: Reduces the overall cost for customers, especially for international buyers, and makes the initial purchase more appealing.
• Free Returns & Exchanges: This policy is critical for prescription eyewear, as customers may need to adjust to new frames or lenses, or simply find the fit isn’t right. It provides peace of mind and reduces buyer’s remorse. Specific details on the return window or conditions are not on the homepage but are essential for a full understanding.

Pricing Structure and Savings

The consistent promotion of “£6.00 Prescription Glasses” and the inclusion of “FREE Single Vision Basic lenses” are central to their pricing strategy. Headout.com Review

This aggressive pricing aims to disrupt the traditional eyewear market by offering a compelling alternative to high street prices.

The claim of “savings of up to 70% when compared with the high street and other online retailers” is a bold statement, inviting customers to compare and recognize the potential financial benefits.

A link to “View our lens prices” suggests transparency for more complex prescriptions or lens upgrades.

The Role of Customer Reviews

The banner highlighting “★★★★★ 75,000+ Reviews on Trustpilot – We’re loved by Customers!” is a powerful testimonial.

• Customer Satisfaction: A significant portion of their customer base has had positive experiences.
• Reliability: The company consistently delivers on its promises.
• Transparency: They are confident enough to direct customers to an independent review platform.

While individual experiences may vary, such a large and positive aggregate score is generally a strong indicator of a reputable business. Evanshalshaw.com Review

Selectspecs.com Pros & Cons Based on Homepage Review

A balanced review of Selectspecs.com, based solely on its homepage content, reveals several strong advantages and some areas where more detailed information would be beneficial for a complete assessment.

Advantages of Selectspecs.com

• Competitive Pricing: The headline “£6.00 Prescription Glasses” and “FREE Single Vision Basic lenses” positions them as a highly affordable option, potentially offering significant savings compared to traditional opticians.
• Established Reputation: “Celebrating 20 Years since 2005” and over “75,000+ Reviews on Trustpilot” with a 5-star rating provide strong evidence of longevity and customer satisfaction. This builds immediate trust.
• Extensive Product Range: With “Over 400 Brands” including popular designers and a variety of frame styles, customers have a vast selection to choose from.
• Convenient Delivery & Returns: “FREE UK & Worldwide Delivery on Orders over £49.00” and “FREE Returns & Exchanges” reduce financial risk and enhance customer convenience.
• In-House Laboratory: Operating their “own on site cutting edge laboratory” suggests better quality control and potentially faster fulfillment.
• Accessible Customer Service: A direct phone number and specified hours for a “Friendly & Helpful Customer Services” team indicate a commitment to support.
• Physical Presence: The mention of a “high street store and offices” in Kent, UK, adds a layer of credibility often missing from purely online retailers.

Potential Areas for Further Scrutiny Not Explicitly Negative, but Lacking Detail

• Lens Upgrade Transparency: While basic lenses are free, detailed pricing for lens upgrades e.g., anti-glare, blue light filtering, progressive lenses requires navigating to a separate “lens prices” page, which isn’t immediately visible or linked for deeper specifics on the homepage.
• Return Policy Specifics: While “FREE Returns & Exchanges” is promised, the exact window for returns or any specific conditions e.g., must be unworn, original packaging are not detailed on the homepage.
• Warranty Information: The homepage doesn’t explicitly mention product warranties for frames or lenses, which is important for customer assurance.
• Prescription Submission Process: While implied, the ease and accuracy of submitting and verifying prescriptions are not detailed on the homepage, which can be a point of concern for first-time online eyewear buyers.
• Ethical Sourcing Beyond Quality: While claiming quality materials, there’s no mention of ethical sourcing of frames or lens materials, or labor practices, which are important for a holistic ethical review beyond basic legality.

Selectspecs.com Alternatives

Given the online nature of Selectspecs.com, a variety of alternatives exist, ranging from other online retailers to traditional brick-and-mortar opticians.

The choice often depends on customer priorities such as price, brand selection, physical try-on capabilities, and personalized service. Onbuy.com Review

Other Online Eyewear Retailers

• Warby Parker: Known for its home try-on program and strong social mission “Buy a Pair, Give a Pair”. Offers a curated selection of stylish frames at a mid-range price point.
• Zenni Optical: A direct competitor in the budget segment, often boasting even lower starting prices. Zenni is known for its vast selection and frequent sales, appealing to those who prioritize extreme affordability.
• EyeBuyDirect: Another popular online option with frequent discounts and a wide range of frames. It strikes a balance between affordability and variety, similar to Selectspecs.com.
• GlassesUSA: Offers a large inventory of designer brands alongside their own collections. They frequently run promotions and have a virtual try-on feature.
• Felix Gray: While they also offer prescription glasses, their primary focus is on blue light filtering technology, making them an alternative for those concerned about digital eye strain.

Traditional High Street Opticians

• Local Independent Opticians: These offer highly personalized service, in-person eye exams, and direct consultation on frame fitting and lens options. While generally more expensive, they provide a hands-on experience and immediate adjustments.
• Chain Opticians e.g., Specsavers, Vision Express in the UK. LensCrafters, Pearle Vision in the US: These large chains offer a mix of convenience, often with in-store eye exams, and a wide selection of frames. They can be more expensive than online retailers but provide immediate support and fitting services.

Considerations When Choosing an Alternative

• Budget: For consumers strictly focused on the lowest price, Zenni Optical might offer frames cheaper than Selectspecs.com’s £6.00 entry point.
• Try-On Experience: If a home try-on like Warby Parker or in-person fitting is crucial, then certain online retailers or local opticians would be preferred.
• Specific Lens Needs: For complex prescriptions or specialized coatings, comparing the detailed lens pricing and options across platforms is essential.
• Brand Preference: If specific designer brands are a priority, retailers with extensive brand partnerships like GlassesUSA or Selectspecs.com itself are key.
• Customer Service Style: Some prefer online chat and email, while others value phone support or in-person assistance.

How to Cancel Selectspecs.com Order

While the Selectspecs.com homepage doesn’t explicitly detail a step-by-step cancellation process, most online retailers follow a standard procedure that typically involves contacting customer service within a very short timeframe after placing an order.

General Steps to Attempt Order Cancellation

1. Act Immediately: Given the “fast UK dispatch” mentioned on the homepage, time is of the essence. Orders, especially those for prescription items, may enter processing or manufacturing very quickly.
2. Contact Customer Service Directly: The most effective method will likely be to call their “Friendly & Helpful Customer Services” team. The homepage provides the number: +44 01843 264 715. It’s crucial to call during their operating hours 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, excluding UK public holidays.
3. Have Order Details Ready: Be prepared with your order number, the email address used for the purchase, and any other relevant identification.
4. Explain Your Request Clearly: State that you wish to cancel your order and ask if it’s still possible.
5. Follow Up: If the call is successful, ask for a confirmation email or reference number for the cancellation. If you use email, send a follow-up to ensure your request was received and processed.

What to Expect if Cancellation Isn’t Possible

If the order has already entered the production phase e.g., lenses are being cut, cancellation might not be possible without incurring a charge, or it might be too late to stop the shipment.

In such cases, the process would likely transition to a return: Luxe-cosmetics.com Review

• Initiate a Return: If cancellation is not possible, you would then need to wait for the order to arrive and then follow their “FREE Returns & Exchanges” policy.
• Check Return Policy: While “FREE Returns & Exchanges” is advertised, it’s vital to check the full terms and conditions on their website for specifics like the return window, condition of the item, and how to initiate the return. This information is typically found in a dedicated FAQ or T&Cs section, not on the homepage.
• Refund Process: Understand the typical timeline for processing refunds once a returned item is received and inspected.

Why Immediate Action is Crucial

For customized products like prescription glasses, manufacturers often begin work shortly after an order is placed to ensure quick delivery. This makes the window for cancellation very narrow.

The “Next Day Express delivery available” also underscores the speed of their operations, reinforcing the need for immediate contact if you intend to cancel.

Selectspecs.com Pricing and Value

Selectspecs.com positions itself as a leader in affordable eyewear, with its pricing strategy being a core element of its appeal.

The company highlights extreme value through its base offerings and then provides a pathway for customers to upgrade. Passenger-clothing.com Review

Base Pricing and Inclusions

The standout offer is “Prescription glasses from only £6.00 including Single Vision Basic lenses.” This is an incredibly competitive price point designed to attract a broad customer base.

• £6.00 Glasses: This entry-level pricing is likely for a very basic frame and standard single vision lenses, appealing to those on a tight budget or looking for a secondary pair.
• Free Single Vision Basic Lenses: This inclusion is a significant value proposition, as lenses often represent a substantial portion of the cost of prescription glasses elsewhere. The homepage explicitly states this can lead to “savings of up to 70% when compared with the high street and other online retailers.”

Lens Upgrades and Additional Costs

While the basic offering is clear, the real pricing flexibility and potential for increased cost comes with lens upgrades.

The homepage links to “View our lens prices,” indicating that customers can customize their order with:

• Higher Index Lenses: For thinner and lighter lenses, especially for stronger prescriptions.
• Coatings: Anti-glare, scratch-resistant, UV protection, blue light filtering, etc.
• Lens Types: Bifocal, progressive varifocal, or specialized occupational lenses, which will all incur additional costs.
• Tinted or Photochromic Lenses: For sunglasses or lenses that adapt to light.

The transparency comes from providing a dedicated price list for these upgrades, allowing customers to build their quote based on their specific needs.

Promotions and Discounts

The “Summer of Savings. Up to 25% OFF Your Order. Nutritiongeeks.co Review

Ends Monday 30th June 22:59 Use code: SUMMER25″ clearly demonstrates their use of promotional pricing.

These time-sensitive offers are a common e-commerce strategy to drive immediate sales and create a sense of urgency.

For budget-conscious buyers, timing a purchase with such promotions can lead to even greater savings.

The mention of “T&Cs” Terms and Conditions next to the promo code is standard and advises customers to review any exclusions or specific requirements for applying the discount.

Value for Money Assessment

For consumers prioritizing cost, Selectspecs.com offers exceptional value, particularly for basic single vision prescriptions. Americanfamilymover.com Review

The combination of low starting prices, free basic lenses, and regular promotions makes it an attractive option.

The claim of using “the same materials as used by high street opticians” further reinforces the perceived quality relative to the price.

However, the ultimate value will depend on a customer’s specific prescription, desired lens features, and frame choice, as adding premium options will naturally increase the final price significantly beyond the base £6.00.

Selectspecs.com Companies House Information and UK Presence

The Selectspecs.com homepage proudly states its UK origins and provides a physical address, which can be cross-referenced with public records like Companies House in the UK. Shopto.net Review

This transparency is a strong indicator of legitimacy and accountability.

Verification of UK Business Status

The explicit declaration of being a “UK based business” with a “high street store and offices… based in Westgate on Sea, Kent, UK,” allows for easy verification.

Companies House is the official register of companies in the United Kingdom, and any legitimate UK-based company is required to be registered there.

• Benefits of UK Registration: Being a UK-registered company implies adherence to UK business laws and regulations, including consumer protection laws, which can provide an additional layer of security for customers. It also means financial statements and company details are publicly accessible to some extent.
• Accessing Companies House Data: Consumers can typically search the Companies House website using the company’s registered name or company number to find details such as incorporation date, registered address, director information, and filing history. This kind of due diligence can further confirm the legitimacy of an online retailer.

Operational Footprint in the UK

The mention of “our own on site cutting edge laboratory” within the UK suggests a significant operational footprint beyond just administrative offices. This implies:

• Local Employment: Contributing to the local economy through job creation.
• Supply Chain Control: Greater direct control over the manufacturing and quality assurance processes, as the lab is physically located where the business operates.
• Faster Domestic Processing: Facilitating “fast UK dispatch” due to localized production and distribution capabilities.

Customer Service Based in the UK

The provided UK phone number +44 01843 264 715 and UK-specific customer service hours Monday to Friday, excluding UK public holidays reinforce that customer support is also based in the UK. Hicounselor.com Review

This can be a considerable advantage for UK customers, leading to easier communication, potentially quicker resolution of issues, and avoiding international call charges or time zone differences.

For international customers, it provides a clear point of contact, albeit with potential time zone considerations.

Overall, the emphasis on their strong UK presence adds to the company’s credibility and builds confidence among its customer base, particularly those within the UK.

Selectspecs.com Complaints and Customer Feedback Overview

While the Selectspecs.com homepage proudly highlights its “★★★★★ 75,000+ Reviews on Trustpilot” as proof of customer satisfaction, a comprehensive review necessitates acknowledging that even highly-rated companies can have complaints. Loveholidays.com Review

Understanding the nature of typical complaints, if any, provides a more balanced perspective.

Trustpilot as a Primary Feedback Source

The company’s direct reference to Trustpilot as a source for reviews is a strong indicator of transparency.

Trustpilot is an independent review platform where customers can share their experiences.

A 5-star rating from over 75,000 reviews suggests that the vast majority of customers have had positive interactions.

• Positive Feedback Trends: High ratings typically reflect satisfaction with pricing, product quality especially for the price, delivery speed, and customer service responsiveness. Many positive reviews might highlight the value proposition of receiving prescription glasses at a significantly lower cost than traditional outlets.

Common Areas for Complaints in Online Eyewear

Even with high overall ratings, certain types of complaints are common across the online eyewear industry, and it’s prudent to consider if these might apply to Selectspecs.com, even if not explicitly detailed on their homepage:

• Prescription Accuracy Issues: This is perhaps the most critical concern. Errors in prescription input or manufacturing can lead to unusable glasses. While Selectspecs.com has an in-house lab, ensuring perfect translation of customer-provided prescriptions is a challenge for any online retailer.
• Frame Fit and Comfort: Without a physical try-on, customers might find frames don’t fit as expected, leading to discomfort or an unflattering appearance. While “FREE Returns & Exchanges” address this, the initial inconvenience remains.
• Delivery Delays: Despite “fast UK dispatch,” unforeseen logistical issues can cause delays, leading to customer frustration.
• Customer Service Responsiveness for specific issues: While the general sentiment is positive, individual instances of slow responses or unsatisfactory resolutions can lead to complaints, especially for complex or urgent issues.
• Lens Quality for Upgrades: While basic lenses are free, some users might have higher expectations for upgraded lenses e.g., specific coatings that aren’t fully met, leading to dissatisfaction.
• Returns Process Friction: Even with a “FREE Returns & Exchanges” policy, the actual process might involve steps or delays that frustrate some customers.

How Selectspecs.com Addresses Potential Issues Implied

The very existence of a “Friendly & Helpful Customer Services” team and a “FREE Returns & Exchanges” policy suggests that Selectspecs.com has mechanisms in place to address customer dissatisfaction.

A company with a high Trustpilot rating is typically proactive in resolving issues to maintain its reputation.

For a comprehensive view of specific complaints, potential customers would need to visit the Trustpilot page directly and filter for negative reviews, observing how the company responds to and resolves these issues.

This provides insight into their commitment to customer satisfaction even when things don’t go perfectly.

Selectspecs.com vs. High Street Opticians

The Selectspecs.com homepage positions itself directly against traditional “high street opticians” by emphasizing significant cost savings.

This comparison is central to its business model, highlighting the advantages of online retail versus brick-and-mortar establishments.

Cost Savings

• Selectspecs.com: Clearly advertises “Cheap prescription glasses online from only £6.00” and “savings of up to 70% when compared with the high street.” This aggressive pricing is their primary draw. The “FREE Single Vision Basic lenses” further reduces the entry cost, making it highly accessible.
• High Street Opticians: Generally have higher overheads rent, staff salaries, physical stock which translate to higher prices for frames and lenses. While they may have promotions, the base price point is rarely as low as online-only or online-first retailers.

Convenience and Accessibility

• Selectspecs.com: Offers the convenience of shopping from home, 24/7, with worldwide delivery. The virtual try-on tools though not explicitly highlighted on the homepage, are common for online eyewear and vast online inventory provide accessibility.
• High Street Opticians: Require a physical visit during business hours. While convenient for those who live nearby, it’s less flexible for busy individuals or those in remote areas.

Personalized Service and Eye Exams

• Selectspecs.com: Focuses on product delivery. While they have customer service, they do not conduct eye exams. Customers must provide their own prescription. The fitting and adjustment of glasses are also self-managed or require a visit to a local optician.
• High Street Opticians: Offer comprehensive in-person eye exams, allowing for immediate prescription updates and detailed discussions with an optometrist. They provide personalized fitting services, adjustments, and aftercare, which can be crucial for comfort and vision correction.

Product Selection and Brands

• Selectspecs.com: Boasts “Over 400 Brands” and a massive online inventory, giving customers a very wide range of choices that might not be available in a single physical store.
• High Street Opticians: Their selection is limited by physical display space. While they often carry popular brands, the overall variety might be less diverse than a large online catalog. However, they may offer exclusive collections or unique frames.

Returns and Adjustments

• Selectspecs.com: Offers “FREE Returns & Exchanges,” which is a strong policy to mitigate online purchase risks. However, any physical adjustments e.g., tightening screws, reshaping arms would likely need to be done elsewhere.
• High Street Opticians: Typically offer free adjustments and minor repairs for glasses purchased from them, providing ongoing after-sales support. Returns are handled in-person, often with direct assistance.

In essence, Selectspecs.com targets the cost-conscious, digitally savvy consumer who values convenience and a vast selection, provided they have a current prescription.

High street opticians cater to those who prioritize personalized service, immediate expert advice, professional fittings, and comprehensive eye health care, for which they are willing to pay a premium.

FAQ

How long has Selectspecs.com been in business?

Selectspecs.com has been in business for a significant period, “Celebrating 20 Years since 2005,” indicating a well-established and experienced presence in the online eyewear retail market.

Does Selectspecs.com offer free shipping?

Yes, Selectspecs.com offers “FREE UK & Worldwide Delivery on Orders over £49.00,” making it convenient for both domestic and international customers meeting the minimum order value.

Are Selectspecs.com reviews on Trustpilot reliable?

Selectspecs.com proudly displays “★★★★★ 75,000+ Reviews on Trustpilot,” which is a strong indication of overall customer satisfaction and suggests that the reviews are generally reliable and reflective of positive experiences.

Can I get prescription glasses for only £6.00 at Selectspecs.com?

Yes, Selectspecs.com advertises “Prescription glasses from only £6.00 including Single Vision Basic lenses,” making it one of the most affordable options for basic prescription eyewear.

Does Selectspecs.com have a physical store?

Yes, Selectspecs.com mentions having a “high street store and offices are based in Westgate on Sea, Kent, UK,” providing a physical presence in addition to its online operations.

What kind of lenses are included for free with Selectspecs.com glasses?

Selectspecs.com offers “FREE Single Vision Basic lenses” with many of their products, which are suitable for common prescriptions for distance or reading.

How much can I save by buying from Selectspecs.com compared to high street opticians?

Selectspecs.com claims customers can achieve “savings of up to 70% when compared with the high street and other online retailers,” highlighting their competitive pricing strategy.

What brands does Selectspecs.com carry?

Selectspecs.com boasts “Over 400 Brands,” acting as an authorized retailer for popular designers including Ray-Ban, Oakley, Calvin Klein, and Tom Ford, among many others.

Is there a customer service number for Selectspecs.com?

Yes, a direct customer service number is provided: “+44 01843 264 715,” indicating accessibility for customer inquiries and support.

What are the customer service hours for Selectspecs.com?

Their “Friendly & Helpful Customer Services team are available from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday excluding UK public holidays.”

Does Selectspecs.com offer next day delivery?

Yes, Selectspecs.com states that “Next Day Express delivery available” for those who require their glasses quickly.

What is Selectspecs.com’s return policy?

Selectspecs.com offers “FREE Returns & Exchanges,” providing customers with flexibility and peace of mind if they need to return or swap their eyewear.

Are Selectspecs.com glasses made in a specific lab?

Yes, Selectspecs.com highlights that they have their “own on site cutting edge laboratory using the best equipment available in the optics industry today,” ensuring internal quality control.

Can I order sunglasses with a prescription from Selectspecs.com?

While the homepage predominantly mentions prescription glasses, it also lists “Sunglasses” as a product category, implying that prescription sunglasses are likely available.

What types of frame styles are available on Selectspecs.com?

Selectspecs.com offers a variety of popular frame styles including Aviator, Wayfarer, Rectangular, Round, Cat Eye, and Clubmaster, catering to diverse fashion preferences.

Does Selectspecs.com have promotional codes available?

Yes, the homepage explicitly advertises a “Summer of Savings.

Up to 25% OFF Your Order” and provides a promo code: “SUMMER25.”

How does Selectspecs.com ensure quality of their glasses?

Selectspecs.com states that all their “prescription glasses are made to a very high standard using the same materials as used by high street opticians” in their in-house lab.

Can I get glasses for men and women on Selectspecs.com?

Yes, the website clearly segments its offerings into “Men’s Glasses” and “Women’s Glasses,” catering to both genders.

Where can I find more details about Selectspecs.com’s discount codes and promotions?

The homepage links to “T&Cs https://selectspecs.com/info/discount-codes-and-promotions/“, where more specific information about their promotions can be found.

Does Selectspecs.com offer prescription lenses beyond single vision?

While the homepage emphasizes “FREE Single Vision Basic lenses,” it also links to “View our lens prices https://selectspecs.com/price-list/“, indicating that various other lens types and coatings are available as upgrades.