DAILIES Total 1 vs. DAILIES Aquacomfort Plus
DAILIES TOTAL1 and DAILIES AquaComfort Plus are both extremely popular lenses in the DAILIES family. Both are designed to be worn for a single day and then thrown away at night, but they use very different technologies to keep your eyes comfortable throughout the day.
So, is there a "better" lens? Let's find out.
DAILIES TOTAL1 is Alcon's premium daily contact lens and features Water Gradient Technology, which creates an extremely high water content at the surface of the lens while maintaining a breathable silicone hydrogel core. DAILIES AquaComfort Plus is a hydrogel daily lens that uses Blink-Activated Moisture Technology to release lubricating agents with every blink, helping refresh the lens throughout the day.
What DAILIES TOTAL1 and DAILIES AquaComfort Plus Have In Common
Both DAILIES TOTAL1 and DAILIES AquaComfort Plus are daily disposable contact lenses. You wear a fresh pair each morning and throw them away before bed, so there's no cleaning solution, no lens case, and no need to worry about protein deposits building up over multiple days of wear.
Both lenses are available for people with nearsightedness and farsightedness, and both are manufactured by Alcon. Since they're replaced every day, they're also a great option for people who prefer a low-maintenance contact lens routine.
How DAILIES TOTAL1 and DAILIES AquaComfort Plus Differ
The biggest difference between these lenses comes down to the material they're made from and how they maintain moisture.
DAILIES TOTAL1 is made from Delefilcon A, a silicone hydrogel material that allows significantly more oxygen to reach your eyes than traditional hydrogel lenses. It also uses Water Gradient Technology, which means the water content gradually increases from the center of the lens to the surface. While the core contains about 33% water for breathability, the outer surface approaches nearly 100% water, creating a very soft, cushion-like feel against the eye.
DAILIES AquaComfort Plus takes a different approach. It's made from Nelfilcon A, a hydrogel material with a 69% water content throughout the lens. Rather than using a water gradient, it features Blink-Activated Moisture Technology, which releases moisture every time you blink. This system includes lubricating ingredients that help keep the lens feeling fresh as the day goes on.
In practice, people who wear DAILIES TOTAL1 often choose it because it's one of the most comfortable daily contact lenses available, especially for those with dry eyes or people who wear contacts for long hours. Wearers of DAILIES AquaComfort Plus often appreciate that it provides reliable comfort at a more affordable price point while still delivering the convenience of a fresh lens every day.
Neither lens is objectively better. DAILIES TOTAL1 offers more advanced materials and higher oxygen transmissibility, while DAILIES AquaComfort Plus remains an excellent option for many wearers looking for a dependable daily disposable lens at a lower cost.
DAILIES TOTAL1 vs. DAILIES AquaComfort Plus: Price Comparison (Per Box)
| Lens | Blue Planet Optics | Target Optical | America's Best |
|---|---|---|---|
| DAILIES TOTAL1 90 Pack | $127.55 | $141.99 | $151.99 |
| DAILIES AquaComfort Plus 90 Pack | $96.85 | $106.99 | $135.49 |
While we aim for accurate information at all times, prices are subject to change across all retailers. We recommend checking each retailer's product page for the most up-to-date pricing.
DAILIES AquaComfort Plus is generally the more affordable option. If you wear contacts every day, even a small price difference per box can add up over the course of a year. Most DAILIES wearers buy up to 8 boxes per year, so that can mean hundreds of dollars in savings depending on which lens you choose and where you buy them from.
At Blue Planet Optics, every order ships free with no hidden fees, and the price shown on the product page is exactly what you'll pay at checkout. Ordering three boxes also unlocks 40% off a fourth box automatically, bringing your cost per box down even further.
Which Daily Contact Lens Should You Choose?
DAILIES TOTAL1 may be the better choice if you have dry eyes, wear your contacts for long hours, or simply want one of the most advanced daily contact lenses available. Its silicone hydrogel material and Water Gradient Technology are designed to maximize both comfort and oxygen flow.
DAILIES AquaComfort Plus may be the better fit if you're looking for a dependable daily disposable lens at a lower price point or if you've worn hydrogel lenses comfortably in the past. Its Blink-Activated Moisture Technology helps keep the lenses feeling comfortable throughout the day while remaining more budget-friendly.
Ultimately, your eye doctor will determine which lens is best for your eyes and prescription. You should never switch contact lenses without consulting your eye doctor first.
Why Shop at Blue Planet Optics?
Whether you choose DAILIES TOTAL1 or DAILIES AquaComfort Plus, Blue Planet Optics offers one of the best all-in prices online. Shipping is always free, there are no hidden fees, and the checkout total always matches the price you see on the product page. After your first order, your prescription stays on file so reordering only takes a few clicks. Plus, every box sold donates $1 to Sightsavers to help provide eye care for people in need around the world.
Uploading Your Prescription
At Blue Planet Optics, you can upload your prescription during checkout, and it will remain securely stored on your account for future orders. When it's time to reorder, simply select "prescription on file" during checkout. If your prescription has expired, you'll need to provide an updated one before your order can be shipped.
FAQ
Are DAILIES TOTAL1 and DAILIES AquaComfort Plus both daily disposable contact lenses?
Yes. Both lenses are daily disposables, which means you wear a fresh pair each day and throw them away at night. No cleaning or storage is required.
What's the biggest difference between DAILIES TOTAL1 and DAILIES AquaComfort Plus?
The biggest difference is the lens material and moisture technology. DAILIES TOTAL1 is a silicone hydrogel lens with Water Gradient Technology, while DAILIES AquaComfort Plus is a hydrogel lens that uses Blink-Activated Moisture Technology.
Is DAILIES TOTAL1 more breathable?
Yes. Because it's made from silicone hydrogel, DAILIES TOTAL1 allows significantly more oxygen to reach your eyes than DAILIES AquaComfort Plus, which is made from hydrogel.
Why is DAILIES TOTAL1 more expensive?
DAILIES TOTAL1 uses premium lens materials and advanced Water Gradient Technology, which contribute to its higher price. Many wearers find the additional comfort and breathability worth the added cost.
Do either of these lenses have UV protection?
No. Neither DAILIES TOTAL1 nor DAILIES AquaComfort Plus includes UV blockers. Sunglasses with UV protection are still recommended whenever you're outdoors.
How many boxes do I need for a year?
Most people need eight 90-pack boxes for a full year, four boxes per eye. Your exact supply depends on your prescription and whether both eyes require the same correction.