Zeelool Vs. Zenni Optical: How Do These Online Prescription Eyewear Retailers Compare?

Online eyewear retailers like Zeelool and Zenni Optical provide affordable and convenient ways to purchase prescription glasses and sunglasses.

But how do you decide between these two popular options? This comprehensive guide examines the pros, cons, costs, and key distinctions between Zeelool and Zenni Optical.

A Brief Comparison Table

Category	Zeelool	Zenni Optical
Headquarters	China	California, USA
Year Founded	2016	2003
Frame Selection	1000+ styles	2000+ styles
Lens Options	Basic	Extensive add-ons
Try-On Technology	Basic virtual	Advanced virtual
Order Fulfillment Time	1-2 weeks	1-2 weeks
Return Policy	14 days	45 days
Starting Single Vision Price	$6.95	$6.95
Bifocal and Progressive Price	$16.95+	$12.95+
Premium Frame Price Range	$30-$60	$30-$75

Overview of Zeelool

Zeelool is a China-based online retailer selling prescription eyewear and sunglasses directly to consumers. Here are some notable features about Zeelool:

• Affordable Pricing – Glasses start at $6.95 with single vision lenses. Most frames with features like blue light blocking or transitions lenses cost $30-$60.
• Prescription Lenses – Zeelool offers single vision, bifocal, and progressive lens options. You input your prescription when ordering.
• Frame Selection – Zeelool has over 1000 frame styles including classic, vintage, geometric, rimless, and cat eye options.
• Coatings & Add-Ons – Blue light blocking, UV protection, transitions lenses, and other coatings or add-ons are available.
• Virtual Try-On – Upload a photo to virtually try on frames using Zeelool’s online try-on tool.
• Fast Shipping – Orders ship worldwide direct from their lab in China in 7-12 business days on average.
• Returns Accepted – There is a 14 day return window for unworn glasses, with a 10% restocking fee.

Overview of Zenni Optical

Zenni Optical, founded in 2003, is a pioneer in online prescription eyewear based in California. Here are some key facts about Zenni:

• Budget Options – Glasses start at $6.95 for single vision prescriptions. Most are in the $30 to $50 range.
• Prescription Lenses – Like Zeelool, Zenni offers single vision, bifocal, progressive, and specialty lenses.
• Huge Selection – Zenni has over 2000 frame styles ranging from classic to modern to eccentric.
• Lens Add-Ons – Zenni provides various lens coatings and treatments like blue light blocking, transitions, and more.
• Virtual Try-On – An online try-on tool lets you upload images and visualize frames on your face.
• Quick Processing – Orders ship 1-2 days after completed lab work, taking 1-2 weeks total on average.
• Return Policy – Zenni accepts returns within 45 days in resalable condition for a 50% refund.

Also Read: Comparison Between GlassesUSA And FramesDirect.

Key Differences Between Zeelool and Zenni

1. Headquarters:

Zeelool’s main operations are rooted in China, which can influence its manufacturing, shipping, and customer service processes. Being in China could mean potential savings due to lower production costs, which they may pass on to customers.

On the other hand, Zenni Optical has its base in California, USA. This suggests that they might have better proximity to their North American customers, potentially offering more responsive customer service and understanding of western market preferences.

2. Frame Styles:

When it comes to fashion and style, diversity matters. Zeelool offers a curated selection of frames that, while limited in variety, focuses on affordability without compromising on quality. They cater to those looking for trendy yet pocket-friendly options.

In contrast, Zenni boasts a vast array of frame styles, giving customers a broader spectrum of choices. From classic designs to contemporary looks, Zenni covers a wider audience in terms of preferences.

3. Add-Ons:

Lens treatments and specialties can be pivotal for many eyeglass wearers. Zeelool provides the basics, ensuring customers receive quality lenses but with fewer customization options.

Zenni, with its larger operations, offers a plethora of advanced treatments, from anti-glare to blue light blocking and beyond, catering to more specific optical needs.

4. Try-on Technology:

Virtual try-on capabilities can significantly enhance the online eyewear shopping experience. Zenni has invested in newer face mapping technology, which means when customers virtually try frames, they get a more accurate and realistic preview.

This reduces the guesswork and can lead to higher satisfaction rates upon receiving the actual product.

5. Order Processing:

The location of operations and manufacturing hubs play a role in delivery timelines. Since Zeelool ships from overseas, customers might experience a waiting period of 1-2 weeks before their orders arrive.

Zenni, while processing orders within a similar timeframe of 1-2 weeks, may offer quicker delivery times, especially to U.S. customers, due to their closer geographical proximity.

6. Returns:

The return policy can be a deciding factor for online shoppers. Zenni Optical provides a more generous return window, allowing refunds for up to 45 days post-purchase. This gives customers ample time to try and decide if the product meets their expectations.

Zeelool, in comparison, has a shorter return window of 14 days, meaning customers need to make quicker decisions about keeping their purchases.

Also Read: Comparison Between Zeelool And Voogueme.

Pros and Cons of Zeelool

Here are some benefits and drawbacks of using Zeelool:

Pros

• Very affordable pricing, glasses under $30
• Smooth ordering process
• Swift shipping from China
• Modern selection of men’s and women’s frames
• Lenses are accurately made from your prescription

Cons

• Smaller frame selection than some competitors
• Fewer lens coating upgrades available
• No option to try frames physically before buying
• Shorter return window (14 days)
• Longer fulfillment times (1-2 weeks from China)

Pros and Cons of Zenni Optical

Zenni Optical has its own set of advantages and disadvantages, including:

Pros

• Extensive selection of affordable frames
• Quick order processing and lab fulfillment
• Advanced virtual try-on technology
• Wider range of specialty lens options
• Longer 45 day returns window

Cons

• No physical locations to browse frames
• Not all frame styles shown are in stock
• Higher prices than ultra-budget retailers
• Can’t try on frames before buying
• Small restocking fee for returns

Watch This Review Video:

Cost Comparison

Both Zeelool and Zenni provide very low prices on prescription eyewear. Here is an approximate cost comparison:

Frame Type	Zeelool Price	Zenni Price
Single Vision	$6.95+	$6.95+
Bifocal	$16.95+	$12.95+
Progressive	$30.95+	$26.95+
Premium Frames	$30-$60	$30-$75
Add-Ons	$5-$20	$4.95-$25

While base options have similar pricing, Zenni tends to have lower prices for upgrades like bifocal or progressive lenses. But Zeelool offers ultra-cheap options especially when limiting add-ons.

The Verdict: Zeelool or Zenni?

There is no universal winner – the best online eyewear retailer for you depends on your priorities:

• If style selection is most important, Zenni has more frame choices.
• If you want the absolute lowest prices, Zeelool has rock-bottom options.
• If fast fulfillment is critical, Zenni ships faster domestically.
• If you value convenient returns, Zenni offers 45 days instead of 14.
• If you have an uncomplicated prescription, both are great budget choices.

For most buyers looking for the best value, either Zeelool or Zenni will provide quality prescription glasses or sunglasses at prices way below traditional retailers. It makes sense to browse both sites to make the optimal decision based on your eyewear needs and style preferences. And their virtual try-on tools make it easy to visualize the frames on your face!

Also Read: Differences Between Warby Parker And LensCrafters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Bottom Line

For affordable and fashionable prescription eyewear delivered to your door, both Zeelool and Zenni Optical check all the boxes. They make finding the perfect prescription glasses and sunglasses at budget prices quick and convenient. Browse the selections and utilize the virtual try-on tools to find your favorite frames.