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An Ultimate Guide to Metal Eyeglass Frames: How to Wholesale Metal Eyeglasses from China?

Introduction

Sourcing quality metal eyeglass frames can be harder than it looks.

On one hand, metal frames are a staple in the eyewear industry — lightweight, sleek, and highly durable. On the other hand, with so many suppliers in China claiming to offer “high-quality” products, it’s tough to separate real craftsmanship from mass-produced mediocrity. The risks? Flimsy materials, rust-prone finishes, poor hinge installations, and ultimately, unhappy customers.

If you’re a wholesaler, brand owner, or optical retailer, you can’t afford to gamble on eyewear that doesn’t deliver.

That’s where EyewearBeyond comes in.

As a dedicated manufacturer based in China, EyewearBeyond specializes in precision-crafted metal eyeglass frames that combine durability, aesthetics, and comfort — all built for scale. Whether you’re launching a minimalist optical line or stocking a classic titanium collection, we help you source products that match your market and meet your quality expectations.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about metal eyewear — from materials and manufacturing, to how to choose the right styles, avoid quality traps, and work with the right supplier.

Let’s dive in.

2. What Are Metal Eyeglass Frames?

Metal eyeglass frames are frames primarily constructed from metals such as stainless steel, titanium, aluminum, and various metal alloys. Known for their sleek, minimalist look and structural durability, metal frames are widely used across both optical and sunglass categories — from entry-level collections to high-end designer lines.

Unlike acetate or plastic frames, metal frames are typically thinner, lighter, and offer a more precise fit, which makes them especially popular in professional settings, rimless styles, and ultra-lightweight designs.

A typical metal frame consists of:

  • Metal Front Frame – which holds the lenses in place; it can be full-rim, semi-rimless (nylon wire supported), or rimless.
  • Bridge – the connecting piece that sits over the nose.
  • Temples – the arms of the glasses, often with adjustable ends or spring hinges.
  • Nose Pads – usually made from silicone or acetate, and mounted on metal pad arms; adjustable for comfort.
  • Hinges – fixed or spring-loaded, connecting the frame front and temples.

Depending on the design and target market, metal frames can range from basic stainless-steel constructions to premium, ultra-light beta titanium frames with flexible temples and hypoallergenic coatings.


Why Buyers Love Metal Frames:

  • Precision: Easier to manufacture with tight tolerances for high lens accuracy.
  • Comfort: Especially in thin or lightweight designs like titanium or memory metal.
  • Durability: Stronger than most plastics and resistant to deformation.
  • Professional Appeal: Clean, minimal designs that appeal to corporate and mature markets.
  • Global Market Versatility: Suitable for men’s, women’s, and unisex collections across all regions.

At EyewearBeyond, we manufacture a wide range of metal eyeglass frames — from classic stainless steel to flexible memory metal, with surface treatments like IP plating, brushed matte, or mirror polishing. Our frames are designed for long-lasting performance and customizable for various branding needs.


3. Why Choose Metal Frames for Your Eyewear Collection?

Metal eyeglass frames have earned their place as a core category in the global eyewear market. Whether you’re targeting office professionals, tech-savvy minimalists, or high-end fashion users, metal frames offer a unique combination of aesthetics, functionality, and longevity.

Here are the top reasons why wholesalers and eyewear brands consistently choose metal frames for their product lines:


3.1. Lightweight and Durable

Metal frames — especially those made from titanium or stainless steel — are significantly lighter than acetate or injection plastic, yet far more resistant to deformation or breakage. This makes them ideal for everyday use, especially for customers who wear glasses all day.

A well-designed metal frame can retain its shape and strength for years with minimal adjustment.


3.2. Sleek and Minimalist Aesthetic

Metal allows for thinner frame designs, clean lines, and rimless or semi-rimless constructions that plastic materials simply can’t achieve.

This makes metal frames the go-to choice for:

  • Business professionals
  • Fashion-forward minimalists
  • Customers looking for lightweight comfort with understated style

Full-rim, semi-rimless, and rimless variations give designers incredible creative flexibility while maintaining a polished, modern look.


3.3. Hypoallergenic and Skin-Friendly Options

High-quality metals like titanium and nickel-free stainless steel are hypoallergenic, making them suitable for people with sensitive skin or metal allergies.

Compared to plastic frames, which may cause skin irritation over time, premium metal eyewear offers better long-term comfort — especially in humid or hot environments.


3.4. Structural Stability for Prescription Lenses

Metal frames provide excellent dimensional stability, which is essential for fitting high-precision prescription lenses.

They hold their shape better than plastic during lens edging and mounting, reducing the risk of distortion or lens cracking. This also makes them ideal for:

  • Progressive or multifocal lenses
  • High-index lenses
  • Thin-rim or rimless lens designs

3.5. Other Advantages of Metal Frames

  • Adjustability: Metal temples and nose pads can be fine-tuned for personalized comfort.
  • Better Weight Distribution: Reduces pressure on the nose and ears.
  • High-End Finish Options: Through IP plating, anodizing, or brushing, metal frames can be finished in gold, silver, gunmetal, matte black, and more.
  • Longer Product Life Cycle: Lower return rates and longer shelf life for retailers.

At EyewearBeyond, we help eyewear businesses around the world take full advantage of these benefits. Our metal frames are engineered for long-term use, and designed to match different market preferences — whether you’re sourcing styles for optical boutiques or building a branded wholesale collection.


4. How Are Metal Eyeglass Frames Manufactured in China?

Producing high-quality metal eyeglass frames requires precision engineering, specialized machinery, and expert craftsmanship. Unlike plastic or acetate frames, metal frames involve metalworking techniques such as bending, welding, and plating — all of which demand strict process control.

At EyewearBeyond, each metal frame goes through over 60 individual steps, from raw material to final assembly. Here’s a look at how our metal eyewear is made:


4.1. Raw Material Selection

Everything starts with the right material. The most common metals used in eyewear manufacturing are:

  • Stainless Steel – Affordable, corrosion-resistant, strong
  • Titanium – Ultra-lightweight, hypoallergenic, flexible
  • Memory Metal (β-Titanium alloy) – Highly flexible and returns to shape
  • Aluminum – Lightweight and sleek, but less flexible
  • Monel / Nickel Alloy – Cost-effective but less skin-friendly

We select materials based on the design, durability expectations, and target market of the client.


4.2. Cutting and CNC Machining

Once materials are chosen, the front frame and temples are shaped using CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines. This step ensures high dimensional accuracy, especially for thin-rim or complex designs.

For semi-rimless or rimless styles, lens grooves and drill points are also precisely machined at this stage.


4.3. Bending and Forming

After cutting, the frame components are bent and curved into ergonomic shapes using hydraulic or pneumatic forming machines. This includes:

  • Contouring of the front frame
  • Shaping temples to the desired length and curve
  • Forming bridge and end-piece angles for facial comfort

4.4. Welding and Assembly of Frame Components

The next step is precision welding — where small parts like hinges, nose pad arms, and rim connections are spot-welded or laser-welded together.

This step is critical for:

  • Maintaining frame symmetry
  • Ensuring mechanical strength
  • Allowing future adjustability during use

At EyewearBeyond, we use automated welding equipment combined with manual touch-up to ensure clean, durable joints.


4.5. Polishing and Surface Finishing

After welding, each component is carefully polished to smooth out welding marks, scratches, or rough edges. Depending on the desired final finish, we apply:

  • Mirror polish (high gloss)
  • Matte finish (brushed or sandblasted)
  • Satin or pearl textures

This stage dramatically affects the final look and touch feel of the frame.


4.6. Electroplating and Coating

One of the most important steps for metal frames is surface treatment.

EyewearBeyond uses advanced electroplating and IP (Ion Plating) techniques to ensure:

  • Long-lasting color stability
  • Anti-corrosion resistance
  • Hypoallergenic surfaces for skin contact

Common finishes include gold, silver, gunmetal, rose gold, black nickel, and more — in both glossy and matte versions.


4.7. Nose Pad and Hinge Installation

Once plated, the frames are ready for assembly:

  • Nose pad arms are mounted (screw-in or push-in types)
  • Hinges are installed (standard or spring hinges)
  • Temple tips are inserted (usually acetate or silicone for comfort)

All components are fitted using precision jigs to ensure perfect alignment.


4.8. Final Quality Inspection

Before packaging, each frame goes through:

  • Visual inspection (scratches, plating consistency, logo clarity)
  • Function testing (hinge movement, lens fitting accuracy)
  • Stress tests (temple flexibility, nose pad tension, symmetry check)

Only after passing all checks is the frame approved for shipment.


Metal eyewear manufacturing isn’t just about bending wires — it’s a precision craft that balances mechanical engineering with user-focused design. This is why choosing the right factory partner is so important.

At EyewearBeyond, we combine technical expertise, advanced equipment, and hands-on quality control to ensure every frame we deliver meets international quality standards and brand-level expectations.


5. How to Handle and Assemble Metal Frames in Wholesale Operations?

Even the most precisely manufactured metal frames can lose their quality appeal if they’re not properly handled during transport, warehousing, or final adjustments. In wholesale operations — especially when dealing with international shipments — it’s essential to know how to protect, store, and prepare metal frames for retail or distribution.

Here’s what you need to know:


5.1. How to Keep Metal Frames Scratch-Free During Shipping

Metal frames are more scratch-prone than acetate, especially when finished with polished, brushed, or IP-plated coatings. The smallest abrasion can ruin the surface and affect the customer’s perception of quality.

To prevent this:

  • Each frame should be packed in an individual polybag or soft pouch.
  • Use protective sleeves for temples to avoid metal-on-metal contact.
  • Avoid stacking unboxed frames tightly in bulk cartons — use multi-slot inner trays.
  • Include anti-corrosion paper or silica gel packs to prevent humidity-related tarnish.
  • For rimless or semi-rimless frames, extra foam protection around lens grooves is recommended.

At EyewearBeyond, all frames are shipped with individual protection, and export cartons are reinforced for international freight to minimize risk during handling.


5.2. Common Adjustments for Fit and Comfort

Metal frames offer excellent adjustability, but improper adjustments at the retail or warehouse level can cause damage or discomfort to end users.

Here are the most common adjustments wholesalers and opticians need to perform — and how to do them properly:

1. Nose Pad Alignment

  • Use nylon pliers to gently move the nose pad arms into the correct position.
  • Always adjust both pads evenly to maintain bridge balance.

2. Temple Adjustment

  • For stainless steel: use gentle pressure to bend temples for fit.
  • For titanium or memory metal: heat is not required, but adjustments must be made slowly to avoid cracking.
  • Avoid sharp bending near hinges, which may weaken the solder joints.

3. Temple Length and Curve

  • Ends of metal temples can be shaped using temple-adjusting pliers.
  • Acetate temple tips can be heated and bent for a customized behind-the-ear fit.

4. Hinge Tightness

  • Use the correct screwdrivers and torque — over-tightening can strip the thread, while under-tightening may loosen the temple during wear.
  • For spring hinges, avoid full extension during testing, as this can damage internal springs.

Additional Handling Tips for Wholesale Distributors:

  • Store metal frames in dry, climate-controlled rooms to prevent oxidation.
  • Rotate older inventory first (FIFO method), especially for IP-plated models.
  • Avoid excessive exposure to UV light during storage, which can fade certain coated finishes.
  • Train sales reps or resellers on proper frame adjustment to reduce post-sale complaints.

At EyewearBeyond, we not only focus on production — we also guide our wholesale clients on how to manage frames after delivery. From shipping tips to adjustment guides, our team ensures your metal eyewear arrives in perfect condition and stays that way until it reaches the final customer.


6. How to Choose the Right Metal Frames for Your Market?

Not all metal frames are created equal — and more importantly, not all of them sell equally well in every market. Choosing the right metal eyewear frames depends on your target audience, price point, brand positioning, and even climatic or cultural preferences.

At EyewearBeyond, we work closely with wholesalers, brand owners, and optical stores to curate product lines that match real-world consumer demand.

Let’s explore how to select the best metal frames for your market.


6.1. 5 Popular Types of Metal Frame Designs

Here are the most commonly requested metal eyewear types in the global B2B market:

  1. Full-Rim Metal Frames
    • Most stable and durable
    • Suitable for prescription lenses
    • Offers more design space for colors, shapes, and branding
  2. Semi-Rimless (Half-Rim) Frames
    • Lightweight and minimal
    • Popular among business professionals and older users
    • Nylon wire supports bottom half of the lens
  3. Rimless Frames
    • Ultra-light and invisible design
    • Appeals to mature or conservative customers
    • Requires precision lens cutting and mounting
  4. Combination (Metal + Acetate)
    • Metal front + acetate temples, or vice versa
    • Bridges the gap between fashion and function
    • Works well for both optical and sunwear collections
  5. Aviator & Double-Bridge Styles
    • Classic metal sunglasses shape, now revived for optical frames
    • Popular with younger demographics and urban fashion markets

6.2. How to Choose by Style and Material

6.2.1. Choice by Frame Style

  • Full-Rim: Offers structure and safety; great for multifocal or high-index lenses
  • Semi-Rimless: Reduces weight but keeps strength
  • Rimless: Lightweight, discreet, and elegant — but requires professional mounting
  • Geometric / Oversized Shapes: Trendy, best for youth-oriented or fashion-forward markets

6.2.2. Choice by Metal Type

Metal TypePropertiesMarket Fit
Stainless SteelStrong, corrosion-resistant, affordableEntry-level to mid-market
TitaniumHypoallergenic, ultra-light, flexiblePremium segment
Beta TitaniumMemory-flex, shape retentionHigh-performance or sports
AluminumLight and stylish, less flexibleTrend-driven collections
Nickel Alloy (Monel)Cost-effective, but may cause allergiesBudget-friendly, short-term use

The choice of metal impacts not only comfort and durability, but also retail positioning and profit margin.


6.3. Key Points to Consider When Selecting Metal Frames

  • Target Demographic: Younger audiences prefer bold shapes; professionals prefer minimal or rimless
  • Lens Compatibility: High-index lenses need sturdy frames (full-rim or metal core)
  • Climate Factors: Humid markets may require better anti-corrosion finishes
  • Brand Identity: Tech brands may favor titanium; fashion brands may go for mixed-material designs
  • Retail Pricing: Choose materials and constructions that match your price tier (e.g. $30 vs. $130 retail)

At EyewearBeyond, we don’t just offer ready-made frames — we provide curated solutions. Our team helps you analyze your market and guides you in building a collection that’s functional, stylish, and commercially viable.

Whether you’re targeting Europe, Southeast Asia, North America, or the Middle East, we’ll help you choose the right designs, colors, and materials that move faster and build brand loyalty.


7. Which Markets or Consumers Are Best for Metal Eyewear?

Metal eyeglass frames are versatile, timeless, and adaptable — but some markets and customer segments are especially suited for this category. Whether you’re planning a regional product launch or expanding your B2B wholesale portfolio, understanding where and to whom metal frames sell best is essential for success.

Here’s a detailed breakdown:


7.1. Demographics That Prefer Metal Frames

1. Professionals and Business Wearers

  • Metal frames are favored by white-collar workers, executives, and office professionals due to their sleek and minimal appearance.
  • Rimless or semi-rimless designs in silver, black, or gunmetal are top sellers in this segment.

2. Seniors and Older Adults

  • Metal frames are lightweight and adjustable, making them ideal for older customers who prioritize comfort.
  • Rimless and half-rim styles with spring hinges are particularly popular.

3. Students and Minimalist Consumers

  • Young adults looking for affordable, lightweight options often gravitate toward thin stainless steel or titanium frames in neutral tones.
  • The “barely-there” look is trending, especially in East Asian markets.

4. High-End Customers Seeking Quality

  • Titanium and memory metal frames attract customers who are willing to pay more for comfort, durability, and hypoallergenic features.
  • Ideal for boutique optical stores and premium brand collections.

7.2. Regional Markets Where Metal Eyewear Performs Well

1. East Asia (Japan, Korea, China)

  • High preference for minimalist, lightweight, and precision-fit frames
  • Titanium and beta titanium frames dominate the premium market
  • Adjustable nose pads and narrow bridge widths are must-haves

2. Europe

  • A mix of full-rim and half-rim metal frames, often with a fashion-forward edge
  • Matte finishes and brushed metal textures are popular
  • High demand for eyewear that combines style with function

3. North America

  • Professionals, seniors, and budget-conscious consumers all buy metal frames
  • Stainless steel is common in the mid-range, while titanium is strong in the high-end market
  • Optical chains often include metal frames in every collection

4. Middle East & Gulf Region

  • Strong interest in premium-looking frames with gold or rose gold plating
  • Lightweight is key due to hot climate
  • High demand for sunwear and optical metal hybrids

5. Africa & Southeast Asia

  • Cost-effective stainless-steel frames are widely used in entry-level markets
  • Needs include durable construction and humidity-resistant coatings
  • Packaging and logistics are key concerns for importers in these regions

7.3. Sales Channels Where Metal Eyewear Performs Best

  • Optical Chains and Clinics: Metal frames are the default for prescription eyewear lines
  • Online Retail / DTC Brands: Minimalist designs in stainless or titanium sell well online due to ease of shipping and fitting
  • Corporate Gifting Programs: Rimless metal frames are popular for executive and employee gifting
  • B2B Distributors / Importers: Often prioritize all-metal SKUs for simplicity and flexibility in lens fitting

At EyewearBeyond, we support clients across more than 30 countries with region-specific product recommendations. Whether you’re launching in Japan, scaling in Europe, or supplying to government programs in the Middle East, we can help you build a metal eyewear portfolio that aligns with your market’s buying behavior.

We understand that success in wholesale eyewear isn’t just about making frames — it’s about making the right frames for the right people.


8. Where to Buy High-Quality Metal Eyeglasses in Bulk from China?

China remains the global center for eyewear manufacturing — especially when it comes to high-volume, customizable metal frames. But finding a reliable, consistent, and brand-ready supplier isn’t as simple as doing a Google search or browsing Alibaba.

If you’re looking to wholesale metal eyeglass frames from China, here’s what you should look for — and why EyewearBeyond is trusted by eyewear brands, wholesalers, and distributors worldwide.


8.1. What to Look for in a Metal Eyewear Supplier

Before placing your first order, make sure the supplier can provide:

  • In-house production capabilities (not just trading or outsourcing)
  • Experience with multiple metals (stainless steel, titanium, etc.)
  • Electroplating and surface finish control
  • Custom options (logo, frame size, color, hinge type)
  • Strict QC standards
  • Export experience (labeling, CE/FDA certifications, logistics support)

Beware of small-scale or “middlemen” suppliers who may lack control over quality and timelines.


8.2. Why EyewearBeyond Is Your Ideal Metal Eyewear Partner

At EyewearBeyond, we specialize in precision-manufactured metal eyeglasses built for scale, customization, and long-term brand value. With 5 production lines and a dedicated export team, we offer:

  • Wide Material Options
    Stainless steel, titanium, memory metal, aluminum — all sourced from verified suppliers
  • Full Customization Service
    Logo engraving, nose pad styles, temple design, custom sizing, and packaging
  • Finishing Excellence
    IP plating, brushed matte, sandblasted, dual-tone — all done in-house
  • Global Export Support
    We provide CE/FDA/ISO certifications and handle all labeling & shipping logistics
  • Flexible MOQ
    Small-batch orders for new brands, and large-volume capacity for chain distributors
  • Consistent Lead Time
    15–30 days for repeat orders; 45 days for fully custom designs

We serve clients across the USA, Europe, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and more. Whether you’re an optical chain, a growing DTC brand, or a regional distributor — EyewearBeyond helps you build a metal eyewear line that sells and scales.


8.3. How to Start Your Order

Here’s how easy it is to begin working with us:

  1. Browse our metal frame catalog or send your custom design
  2. Request a quote and sample for testing quality and fit
  3. Confirm materials, specs, and order quantity
  4. Production begins upon deposit, with real-time progress updates
  5. Final QC + shipping to your door, via air or sea

Need design help? No problem — our in-house team can work with your sketches, reference samples, or brand concept to create custom metal eyewear that aligns with your market goals.


Whether you’re just getting started or scaling your eyewear operation, EyewearBeyond is here to make sure your metal frame supply is as strong as the material itself.


9. FAQ

Q1: What is the best metal for eyeglass frames?

It depends on your target market and price range.

  • Titanium is ideal for premium eyewear: lightweight, hypoallergenic, and extremely durable.
  • Stainless steel offers a strong balance of quality and affordability for most mid-range collections.
  • Memory metal (β-Titanium) is best for flexible or high-performance frames.
  • Aluminum is sleek and modern but less adjustable.

At EyewearBeyond, we offer all of the above and can help you select the right material based on your market needs.


Q2: Do metal eyeglass frames rust or tarnish?

High-quality metal frames, like those made from stainless steel or titanium, do not rust under normal conditions. However, low-grade alloys or poorly plated frames may corrode over time, especially in humid climates.

EyewearBeyond uses advanced electroplating and IP coating technologies to ensure long-term resistance to tarnish, oxidation, and discoloration.


Q3: Are titanium and stainless steel the same?

No. While both are used in eyewear, they differ in several key ways:

FeatureStainless SteelTitanium
WeightHeavierMuch lighter
AllergiesMay contain nickelHypoallergenic
FlexibilityModerateHigh (especially beta titanium)
CostLowerHigher

Titanium is considered the more premium material, often used in high-end or medical-grade frames.


Q4: Can I customize nose pads, hinges, or temples?

Absolutely. EyewearBeyond offers full customization options, including:

  • Nose pads: silicone, acetate, adjustable arms, or built-in
  • Hinges: standard or spring hinges
  • Temples: thickness, length, tips, and materials (metal or acetate ends)
  • Logo: laser engraving, printed, or metal inlay

We also support private label packaging and labeling — perfect for eyewear brands or retailers building their own identity.

Q5: How to Evaluate the Quality of Metal Eyeglass Frames?

Assessing the quality of metal eyeglass frames goes far beyond surface shine. A frame may look good in photos, but true quality is found in the details of construction, materials, finish, and durability. Here are the key indicators to look for when evaluating metal eyewear:


1. Material Purity and Type

High-quality frames use pure materials like stainless steel, titanium, or memory metal — not low-grade alloys that may bend, corrode, or cause skin irritation.

Ask your supplier:

  • What metal is used?
  • Is it nickel-free (important for hypoallergenic use)?
  • Is the titanium 100% or a blend?

At EyewearBeyond, we provide full transparency about material sourcing and composition.


2. Surface Finish and Coating

A premium metal frame will have a uniform surface finish, with no visible streaks, blotches, or inconsistent shine. Look for:

  • Even color tone (especially for IP-plated or brushed finishes)
  • No sharp edges or burrs around temples, bridge, or hinges
  • Smooth, well-polished temples and tip ends

Low-cost frames often have thin, easily scratched coatings or plating that fades after a few months.


3. Hinge Strength and Alignment

Open and close the temples several times — hinges should:

  • Move smoothly, without friction or wobbling
  • Be tightly fixed to the temple and frame front
  • Return to position naturally without over-flexing

Spring hinges, if included, should be responsive without feeling loose. Poor-quality hinges are one of the most common failure points in low-end metal frames.


4. Welding and Joint Quality

For semi-rimless and full-rim designs, examine the welded areas:

  • Are the weld points clean and consistent?
  • Is the bridge or rim joint reinforced?
  • Any visible cracks or discoloration?

At EyewearBeyond, we use laser welding for critical joints to ensure both strength and aesthetics.


5. Frame Symmetry and Fit

Place the frame on a flat surface:

  • Both temples should rest evenly
  • No visible twist or imbalance in the bridge
  • Lens grooves should be clean and accurately aligned

Symmetry is especially important for rimless or minimal designs where small flaws are easily noticed.


6. Comfort and Adjustability

High-quality metal frames:

  • Have adjustable nose pads (preferably mounted with smooth, flexible arms)
  • Allow gentle temple bending without creaking or breakage
  • Feel balanced in hand — not front- or back-heavy

If the frame feels too rigid or brittle during minor adjustments, that’s a red flag.


Bonus Tip:

Always request a physical sample before placing a bulk order. Even high-resolution photos can’t show plating thickness, hinge smoothness, or weld quality.

EyewearBeyond offers sampling support, along with video QC previews, so you can inspect your frames before production begins.

Q6: What’s the Difference Between Metal Eyeglass Frames and Other Materials?

Choosing the right material is one of the most important decisions when building your eyewear collection. Each material — metal, acetate, TR90, and injected plastic — has its own characteristics in terms of appearance, durability, cost, and market appeal.

Here’s how metal eyeglass frames compare to other common frame materials:


1. Metal vs. Acetate (板材)

FeatureMetalAcetate
StructureThinner, more minimalThicker, bolder presence
WeightLighter (especially titanium)Slightly heavier
AdjustabilityHighly adjustable (temples, nose pads)Adjustable with heat
StyleProfessional, sleekFashion-forward, artistic
FinishMatte, shiny, brushedGlossy, layered patterns
HypoallergenicYes (if nickel-free or titanium)Yes

Summary:
Metal frames are ideal for minimalists and professionals, while acetate frames are preferred for fashion statements and bold collections.


2. Metal vs. TR90

FeatureMetalTR90
Material TypeMetal alloy or titaniumThermoplastic
WeightLight to ultra-lightExtremely lightweight
DurabilityVery durableHighly flexible, impact-resistant
AdjustabilityHigh (with tools)Low (returns to shape)
AestheticClassic, preciseSporty, casual
PriceMedium to highBudget to mid-range

Summary:
TR90 is great for sports or youth eyewear; metal offers more structure, elegance, and custom fitting.


3. Metal vs. Injection Plastic

FeatureMetalInjection Plastic
StrengthHigher structural integrityProne to cracking under stress
DesignSlim, clean linesThicker, molded shapes
Visual AppealPremium finishOften looks basic or flat
CostMid to highLow
LifespanLong-lastingShorter wear cycle

Summary:
Injection plastic frames are often used in fast-fashion or low-cost eyewear. Metal frames offer better durability, comfort, and long-term value.


Final Thoughts

Each material has its purpose — but metal frames stand out when your customers prioritize:

  • Lightweight daily wear
  • Adjustable, comfortable fit
  • Minimalist or professional styling
  • Higher-end perception and long-term durability

At EyewearBeyond, we offer not only premium metal frames, but also mixed-material designs — such as metal fronts with acetate temples — to help you build a versatile, high-performing eyewear collection.

Conclusion

Metal eyeglass frames are a cornerstone of any well-rounded eyewear collection — blending structural precision, long-term durability, and timeless design. From classic full-rim styles to ultra-light titanium frames, metal eyewear offers unmatched flexibility for brands, wholesalers, and retailers across the globe.

But the real key to success isn’t just choosing the right material — it’s choosing the right manufacturer.

At EyewearBeyond, we combine technical expertise, customizable production, and end-to-end export support to help you build metal eyewear collections that perform in your market. Whether you’re launching a boutique line or scaling your wholesale supply chain, our team is ready to deliver frames that match your standards — and exceed your expectations.

Ready to take your eyewear business to the next level with quality metal frames?
Let’s start building your next collection together.

Laurel Zhang

After earning my bachelor’s degree in industrial design ,english ,international market from Zhejiang Normal University in 2008, I was fortunate enough to begin my career with leading eyewear companies like Luxottica, Marcolin, and Warby Parker, focusing on optical frame design and production. Over the past dozen years, I’ve poured my heart and energy into mastering the intricacies of eyewear technology and design solutions.

Now, as the marketing director for EyewearBeyond, a trusted name in the global eyewear manufacturing industry, I can’t help but feel proud of how far we’ve come. Our expertise isn’t just reaching professionals like eyewear designers and distributors; it’s also inspiring the next generation of optical design students.

I genuinely hope you’re enjoying our articles and finding them helpful. Your thoughts, questions, and feedback mean the world to me, so please don’t hesitate to reach out t. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just curious about the field, I’m here to connect, share, and learn together.

I am the author of this article, and  marketing director of Eyewearbeyond, with 15 years of experience in the eyewear industry. If you have any questions, you can contact me at any time.

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