A recent survey from international research firm YouGov reveals that most Americans prefer wearing glasses to contact lenses, with clear trends emerging around convenience, comfort, and personal style. The findings, published in YouGov’s business blog under the title “Why Most Americans Prefer Glasses Over Contact Lenses,” provide insight into how U.S. adults approach vision correction options.

The survey reveals that 48% of U.S. adults rely solely on prescription glasses, 12% alternate between glasses and contact lenses, and 3% report using only contacts. The findings also highlight subtle differences between genders, with women slightly more likely than men to use both glasses and contacts (14% versus 10%) and to wear glasses exclusively (49% versus 46%).

Generational preferences also emerge in the data. Baby Boomers lead in exclusive glasses use at 67%, followed by Gen X (55%), Millennials (39%), and Gen Z (37%). Meanwhile, younger adults show greater openness to contact lenses. About 6% of Gen Z and 4% of Millennials use only contacts, compared to just 2% of Gen X and Baby Boomers. Additionally, Millennials (15%) and Gen Z (13%) are the most likely to switch between the two forms of vision correction.

The results suggest that convenience remains a key factor behind Americans’ preference for glasses, YouGov shares. Among those who wear only glasses, 45% say they don’t believe they could adjust to contact lenses, whereas 36% cite the ease of maintenance, and 34% value glasses for their lower risk of eye infections or injuries. Cost considerations also influence choices, with 21% viewing glasses as a less expensive option and 15% noting that contact lenses aren’t suitable for their specific vision needs. Also, 17% of wearers say they feel stylish and comfortable in glasses.

In contrast, only about 4% of U.S. adults use contact lenses exclusively. Younger adults are the most likely to do so, with 7% of those aged 18 to 24 reporting contact lens-only use, compared to 5% among those 25 to 34, and declining percentages with each older age group.