Polarized sunglasses are widely used because, in addition to reducing glare, they protect the eyes from the sun. However, they are more expensive than traditional models, so make sure you are getting your money's worth. You can test the anti-glare technology of polarized glasses by looking at a reflective surface, comparing two pairs of glasses, or using a computer screen.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Try a Reflective Surface
Step 1. Find a surface that produces reflections when illuminated
You can use a reflective table, mirror, or other flat, shiny surface. Make sure the reflection is visible already 50-100cm away.
If you want to create a reflection, you can turn on the light in the room or point a flashlight at the reflective surface
Step 2. Hold the sunglasses 6 to 8 inches in front of your eyes
You should only be able to see through one lens at a time. Depending on the size of the lenses, bring them closer to your face if necessary.
Step 3. Rotate the glasses upwards by 60 °
Keep them at an angle, with one lens slightly higher than the other. Since the sunglasses are polarized in a specific direction, turning them can increase the effectiveness of the effect.
Depending on the direction of the reflection, if you don't notice a significant difference right away, try varying the angle of the glasses slightly
Step 4. Look through the lenses and check the reflection
If the glasses are polarized, the reflection will disappear. When you look through a lens you should see very dark and hardly any reflections, but you will still notice that the light reflects off the surface.
Move your glasses a couple of times to compare normal vision versus wearing glasses if you're not sure how effective polarization is
Method 2 of 3: Compare Two Pairs of Glasses
Step 1. Find a pair of glasses that are definitely polarized
If you already have a similar model, or if you are in a store that sells them, you can make a direct comparison. The test is only effective with a pair of polarized glasses.
Step 2. Keep polarized sunglasses and the others on top of each other
Line up the lenses with your gaze, making sure they are 3-5cm apart. Keep the glasses you want to test closer and the polarized ones further away.
Make sure the lenses don't come into contact with each other or you could scratch the coating
Step 3. Put your sunglasses in front of bright light for more noticeable results
The test will get easier, especially if it's your first time comparing sunglasses this way. The light makes it easier to distinguish the effect.
You can use natural light coming in through the window or artificial lighting
Step 4. Rotate the glasses you want to test by 60 °
One of the lenses should be at an angle to the other, while you have to hold the polarized sunglasses steady. Only one of the lenses will be aligned with the second pair.
It doesn't matter which direction you rotate your sunglasses, but make sure you don't move them when trying on
Step 5. Look at the overlapping section of the lenses and notice if it is darker
If both sunglasses are polarized, the overlapping lenses will appear darker when you look directly at them. If the model you are testing is not polarized, you will not notice this color difference.
You can compare the overlapping lenses with those that are not aligned
Method 3 of 3: Using the Computer Screen
Step 1. Set your computer monitor to maximum brightness
Almost all electronic screens have the same anti-glare technology as polarized glasses. By looking at the screen you can test the model you have doubts about.
Open a white screen, so that the brightness makes the test more effective
Step 2. Put on your sunglasses
When in front of the computer, put on your glasses as you normally do to wear them. Make sure you are directly in front of the screen.
You may find it helpful to raise your computer screen to eye level if it is currently lower
Step 3. Tilt your head 60 degrees to the right or left
When in front of the screen, tilt your head to one side. If the sunglasses are polarized, the screen will turn black due to the antireflective shields interacting with each other.
