About Us: Independent Research & Verification Methods
We are an independent eyewear research platform. We don't sell glasses, take commissions, or accept paid rankings. This page explains our mission, how we conduct field research in eyewear markets, and how we verify our data. All prices, store statuses, and quality records are updated monthly.
Independent. Verified. Unbiased.
Getting Glasses in China was founded to solve one problem: international visitors were paying 3–10 times too much for glasses because there was no reliable, impartial information about China's eyewear market.
Our Commitments
- ✅ No affiliate commissions. We earn nothing from any eyewear store or brand.
- ✅ No paid rankings. Stores cannot pay to be listed or to rank higher.
- ✅ No eyewear brand advertising. We do not accept ads from lens or frame manufacturers.
- ✅ Independent testing. Our researchers visit stores undercover as ordinary customers, not as media.
- ✅ Full transparency. We publish our testing methods, data sources, and verification process.
- ✅ Regular updates. Prices, store statuses, and quality records are updated monthly.
We believe every visitor deserves the same quality and prices as local residents. China's eyewear market offers exceptional value — but only if you know where to go, what to pay, and how to avoid the traps. That's why this site exists.
How We Research Eyewear Markets
Every recommended eyewear market or shopping district is researched in person by our team. We evaluate the entire market or district, not individual merchants. Here is our method.
In-Person Visits
Our researchers visit eyewear markets and districts in person as ordinary customers, without revealing any media or research affiliation. This ensures we experience the same market environment and service as any tourist.
Optometry Standards Assessment
We randomly select multiple stores in each market for eye exam evaluations: exam completeness (autorefractor + phoropter + PD measurement), optometrist qualifications, equipment quality, and whether a written prescription is provided. This lets us grade the optometry standard of the whole market.
Market Price Research
We ask for all-inclusive prices (frame + lenses + coatings + fitting) at multiple stores in each market. We check for hidden fees, "foreigner pricing," and quote differences between stores to establish a fair market price range.
Authenticity Spot Checks
We randomly check products in the market: verifying brand authorization (by calling brand headquarters), inspecting lens packaging and anti-counterfeit codes, and using a lensmeter to confirm the lens parameters match the order. This lets us estimate the market's overall rate of genuine products.
Service Quality Assessment
We assess service across the whole market: staff English proficiency, frame selection, room for bargaining, clarity of after-sales policies, and the overall shopping experience.
How We Verify Our Data
Every price, market listing, and quality record goes through a multi-step verification process before publication.
Market Existence Verification
Every listed eyewear market or district is confirmed by an in-person visit or a phone call. We confirm the market is still operating, the address is accurate, and opening hours are normal.
Price Accuracy
Prices are collected through anonymous inquiries or direct quotes. At least 3 data points are verified for every configuration in every city. Prices are updated monthly.
Brand Authorization Verification
We confirm the names and authorization numbers of authorized brand dealers in each market by calling the brand's official customer service line.
Quality Records
Blacklist information is cross-checked against official government inspection reports (market regulation bureau), court records, and verified consumer complaints. We require at least 2 independent sources.
Regular Re-Verification
All data is re-verified on a regular basis. Market closures, ownership changes, or media exposure trigger immediate updates.
Still Have Questions?
Contact details, response times, and partnership inquiries have moved to a separate page: Contact Us.