Looking glamorous needn't cost a fortune. For proof, check out the best cheap sunglasses, all under $50.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.Learn more.
6 Best Cheap Sunglasses That Only Look Expensive
Updated on Oct. 05, 2024
Like your everyday eyeglasses, sunglasses can reveal a lot about your personality and add spice to an outfit. They’re also necessary for UV protection. The sun’s harsh rays can damage eyes, increasing your risk of developing vision problems and even cancer, as well as harm the delicate skin around them, causing wrinkles.
Unfortunately, sunglasses are also really easy to lose! We’ve all misplaced or accidentally left behind our favorite pair at some point. Luckily, you don’t have to drop a pretty penny on designer or polarized sunglasses to get adequate protection. The best cheap sunglasses make you look like a million bucks—without blowing your budget.
1
/
6
On Sale
via merchant
Best overall cheap sunglasses
Sojos Classic Square Sunglasses
When it comes to the very best cheap sunglasses, go for these Sojos Classics. With over 27,000 ratings on Amazon and an average 4.5-star rating, they offer great quality at a can’t-be-beat price. The dark lenses block harsh light and harmful UV rays, and the polarization reduces glare during any outdoor activity. The plastic frames, which come in a dozen colors, feature metal end pieces that make them look more expensive, too.
“I’m weird and very picky about sunglasses shape because there are styles that look really terrible with my face shape, but I think these look great on everyone,” raves Lynnae Anne in her 5-star review. “Love that the piece that sits on the ears is thinner, makes it so much more comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Will be purchasing again and again.”
Pros
- Classic design with protective benefits
- Metal legs lend a luxury appearance
- Polarized lenses
- Come with a box, microfiber pouch and lens cloth
- A dozen colors to choose from
Cons
- Only available in one size that may run large
2
/
6
via merchant
Best value sunglasses
Kuguoak Retro Sunglasses
With all of the sunglasses on our list being so affordable, this two-pack of fashion sunglasses is an extra-good deal. For less than $10, you get two trendy pairs that each offer 100% UV protection on lenses coated to resist scratches. Choose among 17 color combinations, with options for a single pair and four-pack. They’re great for traveling on a budget or everyday use.
Five-star reviewer Samantha Leigh writes, “The frame is not flimsy at all, and they are super comfortable to wear (sometimes sunnies can be heavy or uncomfortable on the ears, not these).”
Pros
- Two pairs of sunglasses for an affordable price
- Anti-scratch lenses
- Durable plastic frame
- Lots of color combinations
Cons
- Heavy frame may block peripheral vision
- No case or cleaning cloth included
3
/
6
via merchant
Best cheap prescription sunglasses
Zenni Browline Sunglasses
Popular online glasses retailer Zenni comes through with a fashionable and functional choice for those who like to stretch a dollar. These mixed-material glasses have a retro browline shape that you can customize according to your prescription—even bifocals—for far less than you’d pay at the local optical shop. The frames come in six color variations, all with the option to choose from 20 tints, mirror finishes and polarized lenses. You can even buy the glasses using an FSA.
Pros
- Inexpensive prescription sunglasses
- Bifocal option available
- Anti-scratch coating
- Numerous color and customizing options
- Virtual try-on feature
Cons
- Sizing and prescription can be tricky when ordering online
- Some reviewers say the finish rubs off after a few wears
4
/
6
via merchant
Best cheap aviator sunglasses
J+S Premium Classic Aviators
Everybody needs a classic pair of aviators, and these J+S Premium Classic sunglasses might just be what your wardrobe is missing, for far less cash than that designer pair. They offer full UV protection, are polarized to block glare and look amazing on any face shape. Choose from three sizes and more than a dozen frame and lens colors to customize your look. Go ahead, have a Top Gun moment.
With more than 15,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, reviewers say they can’t be beat. “From the time I opened the package, the presentation, protection and packaging were immediately impressive,” writes Eric Walters. “The sunglasses are very well designed, comfortable and fit my face perfectly. I will definitely be buying a spare pair. Highly, highly recommended!”
Pros
- Classic aviator style for a budget price
- Polarized lenses block glare
- Lightweight frame
- Available in three sizes
- Comes with a case and lens cloth
Cons
- Reviewers report they aren’t the most durable
5
/
6
via merchant
Best cheap sunglasses for athletes
Knockaround Campeones Sunglasses
During outdoor activities, athletes need a pair of sunnies that will stay put no matter how much they move. The budget-friendly Knockaround Campeones sunglasses feature a wraparound frame, adjustable nose pads and nonslip arms for ultimate security. Their anti-fog lenses minimize visual distortion, so you can keep your eyes on the ball. The sunglasses are also treated with a water- and oil-resistant coating, so sweat, rain and fingerprints won’t affect their performance. Take them to the beach for a friendly game of volleyball or to the courts for pickleball—they might just be your secret weapon.
Pros
- Full coverage, wraparound frames and lenses
- Adjustable rubber nose pads and nonslip arms
- Anti-fog lenses
- Frame and lenses are water- and oil-resistant
- Six colors to choose from
Cons
- Purposely non-polarized lenses
6
/
6
via merchant
Best cheap polarized sunglasses
Huckberry Weekenders Polarized Sunglasses
For an everyday, no-fuss pair of polarized sunnies, try the Huckberry Weekenders. They offer a fresh take on the classic Wayfarer style made with lightweight, durable frames in seven color options. The polarized lenses offer 100% UV protection and reduce glare during the brightest of sunny days at the beach or on the water.
Pros
- Polarized lenses reduce eye strain and glare
- Classic Wayfarer style
- Seven frame and lens colors
- Comes with a carrying case and lens cloth
Cons
- Only come in one size
FAQ
Is it good to buy cheap sunglasses?
Absolutely! As long as the label touts 100% UV protection, the sunglasses will do their job. Features like polarization, anti-scratch or oil-resistant coatings may increase the price, but often its the designer label that causes costs to really rise. But the more cheap sunglasses you stock up on, the more likely you’ll have a pair on hand in a bag or in the car to wear any time you head outdoors.
How much do good quality sunglasses cost?
High-end designers and add-ons may ratchet up the price, but that doesn’t always mean they’re any better quality than pairs that cost much less. You can easily find a solid pair of sunglasses that protects your eyes and your wallet. All of the cheap sunglasses on this list are under $50!
How long should sunglasses last?
It’s a little known fact that sunglasses eventually expire—the UV protection weakens the more you wear them. If you wear a pair outdoors for two hours everyday, the two-year mark is usually a good time to swap out for a new pair.
