MetLife Vision vs Guardian Vision
MetLife Vision vs. Guardian Vision: Affordable Vision Insurance Comparison
If you’re looking for affordable and reliable vision insurance, MetLife and Guardian are two trusted providers worth considering. Both offer comprehensive benefits with broad networks, but their differences could influence which one fits your needs best.
Cheap Dental Vision Insurance Quote - Buy Online
Select an insurance provider to get a quote:
By clicking on the links above, you will be redirected to the insurance provider's website to obtain a quote and purchase a plan.
Vision Insurance Cost Calculator
Overview of Each Provider
MetLife Vision
MetLife is a leading national insurance provider offering vision coverage as part of its employee benefits and through individual and family plans. Its vision coverage is powered by the VSP and EyeMed networks, providing access to thousands of providers nationwide.
Guardian Vision
Guardian Life Insurance Company of America offers vision plans through its Davis Vision and VSP networks, making it another strong contender in the vision benefits space. Guardian emphasizes flexibility, employer-sponsored access, and cost-effective coverage.
Plan Types & Coverage
MetLife Vision Offers:
Employer-sponsored and individual plans
Eye exams (once per 12 months)
Frames and lenses
Contact lenses (elective or medically necessary)
Lens enhancements (anti-reflective, progressive, photochromic)
Guardian Vision Offers:
Mainly employer-based coverage (some individual options via partners)
Eye exams, lenses, frames, and contact lenses
Lens upgrades at fixed or discounted rates
Coverage through either VSP or Davis Vision networks
Provider Network & Retail Partners
MetLife Vision Network:
Access to VSP or EyeMed networks (based on employer plan)
Over 100,000 vision access points
Major retailers: LensCrafters, Target Optical, Pearle Vision, Costco (depending on network), Visionworks
Guardian Vision Network:
Powered by Davis Vision or VSP networks
More than 100,000 provider locations
Includes both independent optometrists and national retail chains
Retailers: Visionworks, Walmart, Sam’s Club, and some Target/Costco (based on plan)
Pricing & Premiums
MetLife Vision:
Individual plans start around $11–$15/month
Copays: ~$10 for exams, ~$25 for lenses
Frame allowance: $130–$150 every 12 or 24 months
Additional discounts for out-of-network purchases
Guardian Vision:
Premiums vary by employer but typically $12–$20/month
Exam copays: ~$10
Frame allowance: $130–$150 (with Davis Vision, Exclusive Collection frames may be covered 100%)
Competitive pricing on lens upgrades
Ease of Use & Enrollment
MetLife Vision:
Easy online enrollment for individual plans via MetLife or partner platforms
Digital ID cards and benefit tracking available
Member portal for claims, provider lookup, and coverage info
Guardian Vision:
Typically accessed through employer benefit portals
Member services available through Guardian’s site
Digital tools vary depending on network (VSP or Davis)
Extras & Discounts
MetLife Vision:
LASIK and PRK discounts
Discounts on additional glasses and contact lenses
Optional vision wellness reminders and checkup incentives
Guardian Vision:
LASIK discounts via QualSight
Hearing care savings through Amplifon (if bundled)
Exclusive $0 copay frame options with Davis Vision’s Exclusive Collection
Breakage protection on eyewear (with some plans)
Best For…
MetLife Vision: Great for individuals or families who want retail convenience, national access, and online enrollment options.
Guardian Vision: Best for employees who want low-cost coverage with strong frame allowances and bundled benefits through work.
Pros and Cons
MetLife Vision Pros:
Access to either VSP or EyeMed networks
Affordable individual plan options
Easy enrollment and digital tools
Strong retail partner availability
Cons:
Coverage and networks may vary by plan/employer
Some lens upgrades may not be fully covered
Guardian Vision Pros:
Coverage through two of the largest networks (Davis/VSP)
Exclusive Collection frames reduce out-of-pocket costs
Strong employer-subsidized plan options
Additional benefits like hearing care and eyewear warranties
Cons:
Limited individual plan access
Digital experience depends on the network (may be less streamlined)
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?
Choose MetLife Vision if you’re looking for individual or family coverage with the flexibility of choosing between VSP or EyeMed networks, and prefer direct, online enrollment.
Choose Guardian Vision if you have access through your employer, want a comprehensive benefits package, and value options like $0 copay frames and LASIK savings.
Both providers offer strong, affordable vision insurance—it comes down to how you access your benefits and which network your provider accepts.
How to Get a Quote or Enroll
MetLife Vision: Visit metlife.com to compare individual plans or talk to your HR representative for employer plan options.
Guardian Vision: Go to guardianlife.com to explore options or check availability through your workplace benefits.
Customer Reviews
Share This
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
MetLife Vision often offers slightly lower individual plan premiums, especially for those purchasing coverage directly. Guardian Vision may be more cost-effective when offered through employer-sponsored plans.
Yes, MetLife Vision offers individual and family plans that you can purchase online. Guardian Vision is primarily available through employers, though limited individual plans may be available through select marketplaces.
Yes. Both MetLife and Guardian cover annual eye exams, prescription lenses, and frames. Contact lenses are also covered, usually as an alternative to glasses during each benefit period.
MetLife Vision uses the VSP or EyeMed network, depending on the plan. Guardian Vision uses VSP or Davis Vision, allowing for broad access to eye care professionals and retailers.
MetLife offers strong access to retail chains like LensCrafters, Target Optical, Pearle Vision, and more. Guardian Vision also offers retail access, including Visionworks, Walmart Vision Center, and Sam’s Club, depending on the network selected.
Yes. Both providers typically offer frame allowances ranging from $130 to $150. Guardian may offer $0 copays for select frames through the Davis Vision Exclusive Collection.
Yes. Both MetLife and Guardian provide discounts on LASIK and other corrective procedures through affiliated providers like QualSight or the US Laser Network.
MetLife Vision is generally easier for individual enrollment online. Guardian Vision is often accessed through employer portals, which can be more convenient if you already have benefits through work.
Yes. Both providers offer digital portals where members can find providers, view coverage, access ID cards, and track usage.
No. You can only use one vision insurance provider per service or product during a benefit period.
Blake Insurance Group
Phone: (888) 387-3687
Email: [email protected]
Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
Sat-Sun: Closed
Blake Nwosu
Owner & Principal Agent