So happy with my new glasses purchase. Buying glasses was as easy as can be. And, I got glasses I love, with super awesome Seiko, Zeiss studio lens. Plus, 2 pair, progressive and a pair of sunglasses for nearly half the price that I paid for my last glasses. Try it and you will love it. Easy parking too, right outside of Harvard square. read more

History: I've been going to Lenscrafters for my entire life until today. I decided to try a new place that was cheaper and had a more stylish selection that appealed to me. I read all the reviews for Boston area eyeglasses stores and I decided to check out the shops around Harvard Square. 241 was in my top three places in the Harvard area to visit based on the great reviews. 241 was my last stop. Goals: I wasn't completely satisfied with the other nearby stores because of the prices, the styles, and the fit. I am very picky about my glasses. They have to look good, fit comfortably, and be cheap. Price: ALL OF THEIR GLASSES/SUNGLASSES ARE 2 FOR THE PRICE OF 1!!!!! And the price tag includes the cost of the prescription lenses. The average price of glasses is ~$200. Anti-glare/UV coating I think costs about $40 per pair. Transition lenses cost $100 per pair. I ordered one pair of regular glasses ($199) and one pair of transition glasses ($100 for transition) so my total came out to $299. I actually got FREE anti-glare coating on the first pair because the man at the store felt bad that my prescription lenses were out of stock. So I basically got a $40 discount. Experience: I walked into 241 not expecting to like anything and boy, was I surprised! I liked so many of the frames that I had trouble picking out just two. The store is small, but the selection is very well selected. The man working there was so nice for giving me that discount and I liked how he didn't hover over my shoulder. If I had a question I could just ask him instead, which I prefer when I go to a store. My only and very tiny complaint is that 241 only has one big mirror for customers to try on glasses. read more

I got 2 pairs of glasses here last Thanksgiving. I was 2-4-1's biggest fan for a while, but a few months ago one of the frames simply fell apart. I treat them well and they had never fell or anything like that, so there was no reason it should have broke. So I was wearing my other pair for a few months when just now, I picked up that second pair and one of the sides was completely unscrewed. It wasn't even loose and happened out of the blue. If just one pair had broken with a year, I could have written it off as a weird defect, but two pairs? Next time I'll spend a little more and make sure they aren't going to fall apart before their first birthday. On the plus side, they do have good customer service. But make sure the glasses you get are very sturdy. read more

The dog we were sitting for ate my glasses. I was pretty upset because I have a super strong prescription and need special expensive thin lenses. I couldn't remember how much I had paid for them, but guessed they were a few hundred dollars. But Michael at 241 was terrific and helped me out. They normally offer two glasses for the price of one, but he said if I really needed just one pair, he could take half off the frames. He also helped me decide which frames were best for me without being pushy at all. I got a sharp pair of designer glasses and a cool case for just $175. And Michael emailed me when they were ready, which was so convenient I wonder why every store can't do that. read more

My wife and I just picked up her glasses yesterday, and we couldn't be happier. After going to a bunch of other glasses shops around Harvard, I don't think you can beat this place. They have a cozy store, stylish selection of Japanese-brand frames, and patient and low key staff. And they have a perpetual 2 for 1 price deal, so we walked out with a free extra pair of glasses. I was pleasantly surprised that there wasn't any sleazy upsell on the lenses (you know, the whole "I think the best lens for you is this super diamond laser-emitting lens technology that happens to be 3x pricier") We dealt with 3 different salespeople on our visits, and each was extraordinarily helpful. One salesman helped adjust 3 pairs of glasses about 10 different times until each was perfect. We'll definitely go back the next time we need glasses. read more

241 Optical is awesome. Their prices and deals are good, but their service is even better and is second to none. I can't tell you how many times we've brought our glasses (more specifically our kids' glasses) there and they've adjusted them free of charge. I totally recommend 241 Optical. read more

I work in an optical store but wasn't seeing anything I was especially into, so on my trip to Cambridge today I decided to stop in and see what they had to offer- my original plan being to simply buy the frames alone and have lenses put in at work, as I assumed it would be cheaper. I finally found what I was looking for, and the gentleman working was able to set me up with 2 pairs of complete frames and lenses with anti-reflective coating for just under $200. What an incredible price! And the best part, is they were ready in less than 45min. I love them! I live in New Hampshire but absolutely would come back, such a cute shop. read more

I am from out of town! Stopped in to check out the glasses! Loved the selection, a selection I don't see back home. I got two pairs! Michael was very helpful,professional and patient. I would recommend this place to anyone near or far! read more

I bought three pairs of glasses for what I expected would be the price of one pair, and Michael prepared the first pair in under an hour! The other two pairs were ready a few days later, despite a blizzard that dumped 2' of snow and shut down the city. On the Friday in mid-February when schools were closed and the T was shutting down for that snow storm, I trekked to Harvard Square to purchase glasses. I had lost my glasses, so figured that I had to get a new pair on order for a long drive the following week. The first place I checked out said that they'd "do their best" to prepare new glasses in one week's time. I avoided two eyewear stores where I'd paid hundreds for glasses in the past (only to lose them within a year). 241 had a great selection and the service was helpful, but not pushy. The store is very cute -- well located near Oona's and Harvard Bookstore. The prices, however, were unbelievably low -- just over $300 for three pairs (including sunglasses). My family will definitely return! read more

I did lots of shopping around and couldn't be happier with 241. They have the best selection, service, and prices in the area!!

I have had an extremely difficult time shopping around for glasses in the Harvard area - rushing to places that close by 6pm, finding frames that I liked, and trying to figure out the pricing schemes. 241 Optical instantly made the shopping experience much easier. First, they're open until 7 on weekdays, which makes coming by after work a lot more relaxing. Michael was helpful yet unobtrusive - a balance that I've had a hard time finding in other shops - and very pleasant. I forgot to bring my prescription slip, but generally knew my numbers, so he offered to either call my optometrist or take an official copy of the prescription over email. Second, they had a great selection of frames all available out in the open. No waiting for someone to unlock a case. Third, the prices. Every time I picked out a frame somewhere else they quoted me a $400-600 price on glasses and lenses. The frames I liked at 241 were $200 and they had an easy pricing for lenses: the options cost free, $30, $60, and $100. Can't understate how nice it is to deal with up-front pricing and round numbers. I walked away with two pairs at this shop for the price of one at a different shop. The staff notified me by email when my glasses were ready - just two days after I ordered them. All in all, everything I could ask for in a shopping experience - affordable, fast, technology-savvy, and great customer service. Will come here again. read more

I was looking for really light-weighted eye glasses for high prescription. And 241 Optical has one brand that suits my request perfectly. I got the glasses after 15 minutes....which is awesome. They also have student discount. read more

I've been wearing glasses for about 15 years and this is easily the best place i've ever been to when buying a new pair. They are honest with you about what looks good, and are also willing to work with you on special cases. Michael and Yulia (spelling?) were very helpful, and I think they deserve a ton of business. There are so many glasses shops on the same street, but this one was by far the best when I walked in. read more

All time best place to get glasses. It takes away all hassles usually associated with getting glasses, this place is easy to navigate with a small but exquisite collection, knowledgeable staff, quick turnaround, reasonable prices, warm and friendly. Highly recommended! read more

Great value and outstanding service. I've never gotten so many awesome compliments on both of my glasses. Plus, they quickly resolved the issue when I had a problem with one of my glasses--I was really impressed. I highly recommend 241 Optical. read more

Michael was great. I needed glasses when I lost a contact and he fixed me up within the hour when I took in my prescription. I had called around and couldn't find anyone who could do it that fast. The 2 for 1 price enabled me to get Stylin' sunglasses too which I came back for another time. Michael seems like someone with a lot of integrity, very helpful. I'm posting because I'd like to see them get the good business they deserve. read more

A couple of weeks ago it was recommended to me that 241 Optical would be able help me get prescription lens into a pair of vintage frames. I finally got over there today and amazing! Michael helped me -- he looked over the frames and said they looked sound, but, of course, with vintage there is no guarantee. I left the frames with him and, in about an hour, he had them cleaned and ready for me with high index lens in my prescription. I've never been happier with an eyeglass purchase. Thank you so much! read more

I'm thrilled to have found 2 for 1. They are extremely professional, helpful, knowledgeable and prompt. Glasses I've had made elsewhere take weeks and still aren't right, while 2 4 1 makes them correctly, in half the time. Prices for glasses can be exorbitant, though always reasonable at 2 4 1. I'm always confident that what they say, they do. read more

As an eyeglass addict, I love shopping here! I now have 14+ pairs since I can't wear contacts...why not! (mind you...I only have one handbag!) I am always looking for shops that offer a) unique frames and b) affordable packages. This is my second purchase at 241. The frame selection is unique and the two owners give honest opinions about how you look (and make great suggestions). Turnaround time was great and I like the fact that the service was very personal. I paid about $350 and got two pairs of glasses WITH the anti-reflective coatings. That beats many deals you see at larger chains. read more

Great service! friendly, professional, fashionable and 2 for 1. could not ask for more and I usually find a parking spot close by!

I went here for non-prescription glasses to wear with my existing contacts. Everyone I dealt with was pleasant, friendly, competent and did not try to force me to spend unnecessary money. If your needs are more complex I could see this perhaps not being the place for you -- it has more of a "come here to get glasses" feel, as opposed to "full-service optometry" -- but for what they are, I was very pleased. My very spiffy glasses have held up great since I've gotten them, too. read more

Great selection of frames with nose pads.... needed for those low-nose bridge faces! Great prices and very helpful staff. I recommend this place to everyone I know. read more

Bought a pair of glasses about 6 months ago. We thought the 2-for-1 deal was really good. The shop buys directly from large frame manufacturers that produce frames for brand-name vendors. Friendly, helpful service. The frames have continued to look & perform like high-quality frames. I returned yesterday after a screw fell out of the frame, and they replaced it on-site for free. read more

Selection of glasses - great and not too overwhelming. Prices of glasses - excellent and you get two pair (some exceptions like progressive lenses but still a great value). Customer service - outstanding the Owners are courteous, professional and very helpful. I work just down the street and recommend 241 to everyone I know. They are an excellent business to work with. read more

I love my new glasses! I broke my old frames, and took my lenses over there this afternoon. Not only were they able to read my prescription off of the old frames, my new glasses were ready within two hours. Doesn't get much better than that....oh, and even though I'm on a tight budget I was able to find a great pair of glasses. read more

Brother-sister team are very pleasant to deal with and very patient. I was looking for frames in a specific color and the sales woman was very helpful - even going out back to pick additional options from the stock not yet on display. I settled on a pair of glasses and sunglasses and they are both perfect. Can't beat the price and selection. I will be back. read more

The best eye glass store I've ever used (and I've used a bunch)! Their prices are unbeatable, getting 2 glasses for the price of one. One time I got sunglasses as a second pair. Their customer service is incomparable. They are a pleasure. The styles are so cute, hip and comfortable!! I constantly get compliments on my glasses!! Wish I could give them 6 stars. read more

Purchased glasses recently. Great service, great service, great service. Price and 2-for-1 was naturally appealing, but for me it comes down to the product. As one of the other reviewers mentions, the owner is extremely knowledgable and he made the sale an easy and laid back experience. You can run in and out of 15 different shops in and around Harvard Sq and see the same 4 frames at 4 different prices or just save a lot of time and $$$ and go here. Japanses frames I was told. Styles ranged from smart stylish - conservative. Need to bring prescription with you and if your employer offers a Health Savings Accounts you can use it here. read more

I've gotten 5 pairs of glasses and 3 pairs of sunglasses for me and my family from 241 optical, and I've been a loyal customer since 2008. Michael and Yulia are always very kind and helpful, they get your glasses ready incredibly quickly, and their prices are AMAZING! I literally bought the exact same pair of glasses (plus another pair free) at 241 that I got at Lens Crafters, but at 241, the 2 pairs cost $200 compared to one pair at Lens Crafters for $450! I recommend 241 to everyone, and in fact, 3 of my friends have gone there for glasses as well and loved it. Everything I bought back in 2008 is still in great condition (and I wear my glasses all day every day), and I recently went back to check out some new frames and change it up. My 2 new pairs of glasses were ready in 40 minutes - unbelievable!!! Overall, I highly recommend 241 Optical to anyone and everyone who crosses my path that needs glasses! read more

To start, the owners impressed me by allowing me to try many different frames on my own with no pressure at all...it was so easy to shop there. Once I chose a few pairs, they helped me narrow down my choices to the two that really looked best, and yet they were kind enough not to push too hard in any certain direction, so I could make up my mind at my own pace. The selection of frames is maybe not as wide as some other places, but I had no trouble finding great designs. Most of them are very modern yet not overstated. I ended up with four pairs of glasses with AR lenses, including a pair of prescription sunglasses, for a total price that I feel would be comparable to getting just a single pair made at some-other-local-eyewear-establishment-if-you-did-not-know-about-241. And you know what? I think they were even less expensive than going the online route. Hard to believe. But I'm pretty sure that's true in my case, however I'm sure this depends on what options you choose. read more

Superb. Value, frames, and customer service are the best of any eyeglass store I have been to.

I got my first-ever glasses today and was really impressed. The owner pointed out where the different styles were and then left me alone while I tried on dozens of pairs - I really appreciated not being rushed and not being overly "helped." The selection wasn't large and overwhelming, but the frames were beautiful and it was easy to find several pairs I liked. My glasses were ready within two hours and with the two-for-one deal, I walked out with two pairs that I really liked for only $200 (I also met the other owner while I was paying and she was helpful and nice as well). The whole experience was quick, painless, and even enjoyable and I will definitely go back in the future (as well as recommend it to all my friends!). It's also just a few blocks from the T in Harvard Square and could not be easier to find. read more

If you need glasses and live, work, go to school or spend time in Cambridge, this is the place to go. An excellent and well-edited selection of glasses, great customer service, amazingly fast service and two pairs of beautiful glasses for less than what you'd pay for a single pair elsewhere. I appreciated Michael's unobtrusive, but friendly and helpful service. When I walked in, he immediately asked if he could help. I said no, I just wanted to see what was available. For me shopping for glasses is a major & annoying project: go through the whole place, try on every pair that catches my eye, reject most, then compare the remaining ones and ask opinions on those that made the second cut. It's a long, slow process. Yet Michael didn't bug me once. He was always available, but never annoying or pushy, as I've found in too many optical shops. It was a hard choice because 241 has very nice, fun yet still practical designs. This time I didn't have anyone with me (and needed to choose right away or risk losing FSA money) so I asked Michael to advise, which he did very well---not steering me to the most expensive, but the ones that looked best. And both pairs were ready later the same day!! Also, you get a third pair for half-off! Sounds gluttonous, but at these prices why not? read more

241 Optical is excellent. They really have the best of both worlds: Michael is meticulous and experienced, and did a perfect job with my prescription (for an astigmatism), and yet also, amazingly, he had it done in an hour. I really needed the frames, fast. I was completely behind on all my work -- I'm an academic -- and so to have him immediately attend to this prescription was a life saver. They have a great selection of frames. I also felt I could browse as long as I needed to. When I asked, Michael gave me advice about which frames fit my face, and also honest advice about which frames would really hold up for reading glasses (you take them on and off a lot, so the frame you choose needs to be sturdy). When I was trying to decide between two pairs, he found a pair that was pretty much the combination of both. The frames I chose are great, the prescription is perfect and I can read and do my work again! I'm so happy I happened to come here, because there seem to be a lot of places in Harvard Square that are overpriced (hundreds of dollars just to get the prescription filled?? without even the frames??), or slow (another place told me getting the prescription filled would take a week!). All around, 241 Optical is an excellent place to get glasses if you want an experienced optician who is super professional and seriously dedicated to his craft. read more

Everything about 241 Optical was a positive experience for me and my girlfriend, and it was so different (in a GOOD way) from anything I had previously experienced purchasing eyeglasses. We bought our glasses about a month ago, and just yesterday it hit me that it would be a nice thing to write a strong Yelp review to express my appreciation and spread the word. Let me just start listing what was so impressive about the 241 Optical experience: -The woman who worked there (I am assuming she is the owner) and sold us the glasses was not pushy at all. No high pressure sales whatsoever. I like that a lot. -The frames were high-quality and stylish. They are so lightweight to wear too! -There was no drama about hidden charges. There is an extra charge for anti-glare, but that is everywhere. -The value is truly astounding for what you get. The two-for-one pricing is not a bait-and-switch. -Glasses were made very quickly. I believe some prescriptions can be made on premises the same day, but mine had to be sent away because of my prescription. They were ready maybe 4 days later, and that included a weekend if I recall correctly. One more note, and I would say this was also a big "X-factor" for wanting to make our purchases at 241 Optical . . . when my girlfriend and I were originally shopping around, I had with me my prescription computer glasses that were not properly aligned anymore. I asked if it would be possible to have them straightened, and I figured the owner would probably say no because the typical rule is shops will not adjust glasses they didn't sell. To my surprise, the owner made the adjustment and my computer glasses were no longer misaligned. My girlfriend and I returned within a week of that kind act of generosity and purchased our glasses from her. So if you need glasses and you are in the Harvard Square area, I strongly suggest you check this place out! read more

This was the only shop open in all of Boston one very snowy day last winter. I had come to Harvard for a conference...and I was so disappointed, at first, at all the shuttered stores, as I live in a remote rural community and was looking forward to some conspicuous consumption in the big city. This shop was the shopping highlight of my trip - great service, and two pairs of fashionable glasses shipped to my door a week later. Also, this shop stands behind their products - when one pair broke less than six months after purchase, 241 offered to replace it free of charge. Excellent service! I love supporting independent businesses, especially when they stand behind their products. I hope that you will too. read more

Amazing service, good selection, and great prices. Probably the best Costumer service experience I've ever had.

Very helpful! Excellent selection and good policy (you get two pairs of glasses).

Really horrible, unfriendly service. Walked in twice and the woman working there could barely be bothered to answer my questions (and I was the only one in the store). I forgot my prescription the first time, and asked if she could tell me the price for progressive lenses. She said she couldn't without the prescription (although though obviously she could have), and so I came back the next day. No wonder she was being so coy, because the price she quoted was $250 per pair, just for the lenses. No wonder they can offer 2 for 1, if you want anything other than their cheap lenses, you're going to pay out the nose. read more

My girlfriend and I finally settled on 241 after an extensive search for decent glasses. 241 had both a good selection of nice frames and decent prices, particularly given the 2-for-1 deal. They weren't pushy at all, and they were easy to deal with. They were a blessed relief after some of the other stores around Harvard Square that either had stupid-looking frames (rhinestones? really?) or unjustifiably high prices. Would use them again. read more