Acuvue Oasys vs. Biofinity

If you wear contact lenses, you’ve probably heard the names Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity. They’re two of the most widely prescribed lenses in the world.

Still, they aren’t interchangeable. Even though both lenses are designed to do the same basic job, their materials and replacement schedules are very different.

Your eye doctor will ultimately determine which lens is right for you. During an exam, they look closely at things like the shape of your cornea and the quality of your tear film before recommending a specific lens. That said, going into your appointment with extra context on each lens can help.

This guide walks through the main differences between Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity, including how they retain moisture, how often they need to be replaced, and what those differences may mean in day-to-day wear.

Before putting the two lenses side by side, let’s look at each one on its own.

Acuvue Oasys

Acuvue Oasys is one of the most commonly prescribed bi-weekly contact lenses today. Bi-weekly means after fourteen days, the lenses are replaced with a new pair. They also need to be removed and cleaned in contact lens solution every night. 

The material used in Acuvue Oasys is called Senofilcon A, which belongs to a category known as silicone hydrogel. Lenses made from silicone hydrogel tend to allow more oxygen to reach the eye than older lens materials. Contact lenses that allow oxygen to pass through more easily are generally better for long-term eye health.

Key Features of Acuvue Oasys

• Replacement schedule: Bi-weekly (every 2 weeks)
• Material: Senofilcon A silicone hydrogel 
• Water content: 38%
• UV protection: Yes, built-in UV blocking
• Technology: Hydraclear Plus moisture technology

One of the main design features of Acuvue Oasys is Hydraclear Plus technology, which helps the lens retain moisture throughout the day. This can be particularly helpful for people who spend long hours looking at screens. When we focus on screens, blinking naturally slows down, and that can lead to dryness for some wearers.

Another detail worth mentioning is the built-in UV protection. Acuvue Oasys lenses block a portion of ultraviolet radiation before it reaches the eye. This doesn’t replace sunglasses, of course, but it does provide an additional layer of protection when you’re outdoors.

What Is Biofinity?

Instead of a two-week replacement cycle, Biofinity lenses are typically worn for one month before being replaced. They also need to be removed and cleaned in contact lens solution every night. 

Like Acuvue Oasys, Biofinity lenses are also made from silicone hydrogel. The specific material used here is called Comfilcon A.

Biofinity lenses rely on something called Aquaform Technology, which allows the material itself to retain moisture. In other words, the hydration comes from the structure of the lens rather than from a surface coating.

Because Biofinity lenses last for an entire month, they are better for people who prefer fewer lens changes throughout the year.

Key Features of Biofinity

• Replacement schedule: Monthly (every 30 days)
• Material: Comfilcon A silicone hydrogel
• Water content: 48%
• UV protection: No built-in UV filter
• Technology: Aquaform Technology for natural moisture retention

Replacement Schedule

One of the clearest differences between Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity comes down to how often the lenses are replaced.

Acuvue Oasys

Acuvue Oasys lenses are replaced every two weeks. For some people, that shorter replacement cycle is appealing because a new pair of lenses can feel fresher.

The trade-off is that it requires a bit more attention to timing. You have to keep track of when the two-week window is up and switch to a new pair accordingly.

Biofinity

Biofinity lenses, by contrast, follow a monthly schedule. You wear the same pair for about thirty days before replacing them.

For many wearers, that simplicity is part of the appeal. Fewer replacements mean fewer dates to remember. At the same time, monthly lenses still require careful cleaning and storage each night.

Neither option is inherently better. Some people prefer the routine of switching lenses more often, while others like the simplicity of a monthly cycle.

Comfort

Acuvue Oasys

Acuvue Oasys lenses are designed with moisture retention in mind. The Hydraclear Plus technology helps maintain hydration throughout the day, which can be especially helpful during long periods of screen use.

Biofinity

Biofinity lenses have a slightly higher water content at 48 percent, and the Aquaform material helps hold moisture naturally.

Many wearers describe Biofinity lenses as breathable and comfortable throughout the full monthly wear cycle.

UV Protection

Another difference between the two lenses is UV protection.

Acuvue Oasys lenses include built-in UV blocking, which helps reduce the amount of ultraviolet radiation reaching the eye.

Biofinity lenses do not include UV protection.

That said, contact lenses should never replace sunglasses. Sunglasses that block 100 percent of UV rays are still the best protection outdoors.

Cost

Acuvue Oasys lenses sometimes cost a bit more per box, though they are replaced more frequently.

Biofinity lenses often have a lower price per box and require fewer replacements each year.

At Blue Planet Optics, both Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity ship free with no hidden fees, and discounts are available when purchasing larger quantities. When you buy 3 boxes of either lens, you automatically get 40% off a 4th box!

In many cases, Biofinity ends up being slightly more budget-friendly overall, though prices can vary depending on prescription and pack size.

Which Lens Should You Choose?

Both Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity are fantastic lenses.

Acuvue Oasys may be a better choice if you prefer bi-weekly replacements, built-in UV protection, and lenses designed to maintain moisture during long days.

Biofinity may be a better fit if you prefer monthly lenses and fewer replacements throughout the year.

Ultimately, your eye doctor will determine which lens works best based on factors like corneal shape, tear film, and prescription details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I switch between Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity?

You cannot switch lenses without consulting your eye doctor. 

Do both lenses come in versions for astigmatism or multifocal prescriptions?

Yes. Both Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity offer toric lenses for astigmatism and multifocal lenses for presbyopia.

Which lens is better for long-wear days?

Many people who work long hours on screens or outdoors prefer Acuvue Oasys. Biofinity lenses are also a dependable choice for monthly wear, even with long-wear days.