A recent study led by Scott A. Read and colleagues has revealed that toric contact lenses significantly improve near visual performance during digital tasks in individuals who had low to moderate astigmatism. The randomized, double-masked crossover trial involved 35 participants aged 20 to 38 years, who were fitted with both spherical and toric contact lenses over a 10-day period. The study assessed visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, reading speed, and subjective comfort using iPad-based tasks and questionnaires.

Results indicated that toric lenses enhanced near high- and low-contrast visual acuity by 0.5 to 1 line, improved reading speed, and reduced reading errors compared to spherical lenses. Participants also reported better overall visual satisfaction and comfort with toric lenses. Interestingly, the authors found that while participants adjusted zoom and contrast settings more frequently with spherical lenses, they maintained a consistent reading distance with both lens types.

These findings suggest that toric contact lenses offer tangible benefits for digital device users who have astigmatism, enhancing both objective visual performance and subjective comfort. The study underscores the importance of personalized vision correction in the digital age.

Read SA, Vincent SJ, Colorado LH, Wood JM, Collins MJ. The impact of toric contact lens correction upon functional near visual performance with digital devices. Cont Lens Anterior Eye. 2025 Apr 10:102415. [Online ahead of print] doi: 10.1016/j.clae.2025.102415