Spectera Vision vs. EyeMed: Which Affordable Vision Plan Is Right for You?

Overview of Each Provider

Spectera Vision (UnitedHealthcare Vision)

Spectera is a vision insurance product administered by UnitedHealthcare. It’s widely used in employer-sponsored plans and increasingly available to individuals. It emphasizes cost control and broad national coverage, often offered as “UHC Vision” or “Spectera” depending on the plan.

EyeMed Vision

EyeMed is one of the most recognized vision benefits companies in the U.S., known for flexible network access and easy-to-understand individual plans. It’s particularly popular for its strong relationships with major retail optical chains and direct-to-consumer plans.

Plan Types & Coverage

Spectera Vision:

• Primarily employer-sponsored, but individual plans available in some states

• Covers:

  • Annual eye exams

  • Frames and lenses

  • Contact lenses (elective or medically necessary)

  • Lens enhancements (with fixed copays or discounts)

  • LASIK discounts

EyeMed Vision:

• Offers individual, family, and employer plans

• Covers:

  • Annual comprehensive eye exams

  • Frames and lenses

  • Contact lenses

  • Lens enhancements (anti-reflective, photochromic, etc.)

  • LASIK discounts via U.S. Laser Network

Provider Network & Retail Partners

Spectera:

• Network includes private optometrists and select retailers

• Common retail access:

  • Walmart Vision Center

  • Sam’s Club

  • Pearle Vision

  • America’s Best (some locations)

• Over 100,000 access points nationwide

EyeMed:

• Over 155,000 vision providers nationwide

• Very retail-heavy network with:

  • LensCrafters

  • Target Optical

  • Pearle Vision

  • Walmart

  • Sam’s Club

  • ContactsDirect.com & Glasses.com

• Includes independent optometrists as well

Pricing & Premiums

Spectera Vision:

• Typically offered through employer groups

• Individual monthly premiums (if available): $11–$18

• Copays:

  • Eye exam: ~$10–$15

  • Lenses: ~$25

• Frame allowance: ~$130–$150 (varies by plan)

EyeMed:

• Individual monthly premiums: $5–$15/month

• Eye exam copays: ~$10

• Frame allowance: $130–$150+

• Special discounts at EyeMed-affiliated retailers

Ease of Use & Enrollment

Spectera:

• Enrollment typically via employer or healthcare.gov

• UnitedHealthcare’s online portal provides:

  • ID cards

  • Provider directories

  • Claims history

  • Benefits tracking

EyeMed:

• Easy direct-to-consumer enrollment at eyemed.com

• Fully online with:

  • Instant plan comparisons

  • Mobile app

  • Digital ID cards

  • Integrated retail offers

Extras & Discounts

Spectera:

• LASIK discounts via QualSight

• Fixed pricing on lens upgrades (e.g. progressive, polycarbonate, anti-scratch)

• Some plans may include additional wellness discounts

EyeMed:

• LASIK savings through U.S. Laser Network

• Exclusive frame collections

• Second pair discounts at retail partners

• Enhanced member perks for online purchases (e.g. free shipping or rebates)

Best For…

• Spectera Vision: Great for those with UnitedHealthcare medical or employer coverage, or those who want reliable, straightforward vision insurance.

• EyeMed Vision: Best for retail shoppers, tech-savvy users, or anyone wanting affordable individual plans and maximum flexibility.

Pros and Cons

Spectera Vision Pros:

• Strong integration with UnitedHealthcare

• Competitive pricing through employer plans

• LASIK and lens enhancement discounts

• Broad provider network including Walmart

Cons:

• Individual plans not widely available

• Fewer online tools than EyeMed

• Less retail flexibility

EyeMed Pros:

• Top-tier retail network (LensCrafters, Target Optical, etc.)

• Affordable standalone plans

• Easy online enrollment

• Strong LASIK and eyewear perks

Cons:

• Slightly higher costs for lens upgrades in some plans

• Retail focus may not suit those who prefer independent optometrists

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Choose Spectera Vision if:

• You already have UnitedHealthcare insurance

• Your employer offers it at a discount

• You value simplicity and cost-efficiency over retail perks

Choose EyeMed if:

• You want flexibility and access to major retail chains

• You’re purchasing an individual plan

• You value digital convenience and discounts

How to Get a Quote or Enroll

• Spectera (UHC Vision): Visit uhc.com or check with your HR department to see if Spectera is available under your group plan. Individual coverage may be available through healthcare.gov in certain states.

• EyeMed Vision: Visit eyemed.com and click “Find a Plan” to compare and enroll directly in an individual or family vision plan.