Biofinity Multifocal and Air Optix Aqua Multifocal are 2 popular multifocal contact lenses. Both are monthly replaceable, silicone hydrogel-based contacts. They are similarly priced as well, however this will vary based on rebates and offers. Let’s go beyond price to understand the differences between these two popular contacts.
In this guide, we’ll provide a comparison between Biofinity Multifocal and Air Optix Aqua Multifocal, including differences in features, wearing schedule, and more. After reading this guide, along with the recommendations from your eye care professional, you’ll be better equipped to decide which contact lens is right for you.
| Brand | Biofinity Multifocal | Air Optix Aqua Multifocal |
| Manufacturer | CooperVision, Inc. | Alcon Inc. |
| Replacement schedule | Monthly | Monthly |
| Material | Silicone hydrogel (comfilcon A) | Silicone hydrogel (Lotrafilcon B) |
| Water content | 48% water | 33% water |
| Vision problems corrected | – Presbyopia | – Presbyopia |
| Key features | -Permanent plasma treatment for a smooth surface -Can be worn for an extended period of time |
-Excellent oxygen transmissibility -Can be worn for an extended period of time |
| Lenses per box | 6 contact lenses per box | 6 contact lenses per box |
Multifocal lenses correct for presbyopia, which is the inability to clearly focus on close-up objects. They are lenses with multiple prescriptions in one, with gradual transitions between the prescription for reading and seeing things at a distance. They are made for people with presbyopia who want the freedom and convenience that contact lenses offer.
Air Optix Aqua Multifocal inherits the brand’s Tri-Comfort Technology, aimed at providing eye health and comfort. The technology targets 3 areas: breathability, moisture retention, and deposit resistance. The attention to resisting deposits is unique and is accomplished by using an ultra-smooth surface that naturally resists deposits for comfortable wear even for up to one month, which is sometimes a challenge for this replacement schedule.
Biofinty Multifocals inherits the brand’s Aquaform® Technology. Aquaform is a group of design features intended to retain moisture and generally to enable eye comfort throughout the wearers’ experience. Through their patented formulation of silicone hydrogel lens material, Biofinty contact lenses offer superior smoothness and the ability to lock in moisture to prevent dryness. Aquaform also offers a high degree of oxygen permeability and a softer, more flexible lens. Aquaform specifies an optimal lens shape. Lens shape has as much to do with the quality of the lens-wearing experience as lens material. Aquaform features an optimized rounded-edge design that keeps the lens from rubbing excessively on the inside of the eyelid, thereby providing an increased level of comfort.
Biofinity Multifocal contact lenses have an average rating of 9.3/10 on Lens.com.
Here are some of our customer’s reviews for Biofinity Multifocal and Air Optix Aqua Multifocal:
“I’ve been wearing the Biofinity lenses for about 8 years. They are very comfortable and effective. The multi-focal characteristic has allowed me to do away with my reading glasses for many of my daily reading needs–most computer work, memos, articles, restaurant menus, etc. (I continue to wear my reading glasses (+1.50 power) for longer reading sessions.)” – Anonymous
“I have worn these contacts for the past ten years and they are the only ones I have been able to wear, they make everything much clearer and brighter. I can see really good with them and they are very comfortable to wear. I don’t have anything bad to say about them . With the Multifocal you don’t have to worry about seeing up close, these contacts take care of that. Then you don’t have to worry about bifocal in glasses.” – Anonymous
Air Optix Aqua Multifocal contact lenses also have an average rating of 9.3/10.
“Contacts are easy to put in and take out. No issues with irritation.” – Anonymous
“I like them because they have a full field of view.” – Anonymous
Conclusion: which contact lens is right for you?
Air Optix Aqua Multifocal, produced by Alcon, and Biofinity Multifocal, produced by CooperVision, are both popular choices, made by respected manufacturers. Air Optix Aqua Multifocal lenses offer a full suite of comfort features, with a feature that targets the resisting deposits on the eye that can be problematic over the duration of a monthly wearing schedule. Biofinity Multifocal features the brand’s Aquaform Technology that focuses on lens material, in addition to optimal lens design, to promote eye health and comfort.
This information is provided as a resource only (i.e., not medical advice), and a consultation with your eye care professional to determine your specific needs will help you make the right choice.
