Updated on  January 20, 2025
2 min read

What Does 20/25 Vision Mean?

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Having 20/25 vision means your eyesight is slightly outside the range of normal vision (20/20). Although it’s not bad vision, it isn’t as good as 20/20 vision or normal visual acuity. Let’s discuss what corrective options are available for you.

Is 20/25 Vision Bad?

20/25 vision isn’t bad. However, if you have 20/25 vision, you may have trouble seeing things at a farther distance than the average person.

For example, objects that are clear to someone from 25 feet are clear to you at 20 feet instead. This vision problem can be easily solved with prescription glasses. 

Additionally, most states require a 20/40 vision or better to hold an unrestricted license. So, you can still drive.

Is 20/25 Vision Worse Than 20/20 Vision?

Although 20/25 vision is only one line away from 20/20 vision on the eye chart, it's still worse. Having 20/25 vision means you have to move closer to see clearly at certain distances.

But visual acuity isn’t the only component that defines overall vision ability. 20/20 vision reflects the sharpness of vision at a specific distance.

Eye doctors also consider other vision skills, such as peripheral vision (side vision), eye coordination, and depth perception.

Where to Buy Glasses + Contacts

Best Overall: Warby Parker

Fastest Delivery: EyeBuyDirect

Also Great: Liingo

Best Place to Buy Contacts: Discount Contacts

Do I Need Glasses to Correct 20/25 Vision?

If you have 20/25 vision, glasses may be a simple yet affordable solution to improve your sight. Eye doctors may also prescribe contact lenses or a vision therapy program.

Although 20/25 vision is still manageable, there are instances where you may need to correct your vision. These include:

  • Occupational reasons
  • Underlying health conditions
  • Old age

Your eye doctor may also recommend LASIK surgery. LASIK corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia.

Is LASIK better than glasses for 20/25 Vision?

LASIK surgery may be ideal for you if you want a long-term solution. There are multiple benefits of LASIK surgery, including:

  • Safety. If your eye makes any sudden movement, the machine has an automatic shut-down function to ensure safety. 
  • Speed. LASIK is an outpatient procedure that takes less than 25 minutes.
  • Quicker results. Many people who have opted for LASIK report a positive difference within a few hours post-surgery. 
  • Long-term vision improvement. LASIK can provide excellent vision for a long time and eliminate the need for glasses or contacts.

Best Places to Buy Glasses

Best Overall

Warby Parker has stylish, high-quality frames at affordable prices.

Also Great

Liingo Eyewear is another great option to buy glasses online.

Best on a Budget

EyeBuyDirect has a wide variety of budget frames starting at $6.

Best Places to Buy Contacts

Best Overall

Discount Contacts is our #1 recommendation to buy contacts online.

glasses usa logo
Also Great

GlassesUSA has a huge selection of contacts, glasses, & sunglasses.

Updated on  January 20, 2025
6 sources cited
Updated on  January 20, 2025
  1. Vimont, C. “All About the Eye Chart.” American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2024.
  2. Rauch, K. “Perfect Vision? 20 Tips to Keep It That Way.” American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2020.
  3. Types of Refractive Errors.” National Eye Institute, 2024.
  4. Visual Acuity.” American Optometric Association.
  5. Vimont, C. “What Does 20/20 Vision Mean?” American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2022.
  6. Caltrider et al. “Evaluation of Visual Acuity.” Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing, 2024.
The information provided on VisionCenter.org should not be used in place of actual information provided by a doctor or a specialist.