Rimless frames are the least noticeable type, and they are lightweight because the nosepiece and temples are attached directly to the lenses, eliminating the weight of the rims. They tend to not be as sturdy as frames with rims, so they are not a good choice for people who frequently remove their glasses and put them on again. They are also not very suitable for lenses that correct a high degree of farsightedness, because such lenses are thin at the edges.Metal frames are less noticeable than plastic, and they are lightweight. They are available in solid gold, gold-filled, anodized aluminum, nickel, silver, stainless steel, and now titanium and titanium alloy. Until the late 1980s, when titanium-nickel alloy and titanium frames were introduced, metal frames were, in general, more fragile than plastic frames. The titanium frames, however, are very strong and lightweight. An alloy of titanium and nickel, called Flexon, is not only strong and lightweight, but returns to its original shape after being twisted or dented. It is not perfect for everyone, though, because some people are sensitive to its nickel. Flexon frames are also relatively expensive.

Preschool and school-age childrencontact are a significant improvement over lenseses for children and adolescents who participate in sports or outdoor activities.contact are recommended for most athletes who need corrective eyewear. Often, a single pair of lenses is less expensive than the combined cost of glasses and prescription goggles. Swimmers especially can benefit from being able to see underwater while wearing regular goggles over their contact. Because contact tend to dry the eye, swimmers and all athletes should take care to blink several times before and after an activity session in order to assure natural cleansing. If any pool water enters a swimmer''s eyes, the lenses should be thoroughly disinfected as soon as possible to remove pool contaminants. Children who like spending time looking into a telescope, microscope, or binoculars may also prefer contacts over lenseses.

The primary drawback to wearing contact, especially for children, is the requirement that they be cleaned and disinfected daily in order to prevent an infection, which could result in permanent damage to the eye. Careful choice of lenses and consistent lens care will minimize the risk of infection. Wearers of best lenses are the least prone to infection but the lenses are much less comfortable, more expensive, and can pop out of the eye more easily than lenses. Daily wear lenses put the wearer at a slightly higher risk of infection because they absorb more external liquids and airborne contaminants.