Ever had sunglasses that were too dark in the evening and not dark enough at noon? Adjustable tint sunglasses fix that. Instead of one fixed shade, you choose how dark your lenses are with a simple twist. Here's how they work, how they differ from photochromic lenses, and who should get them.
The quick answer: adjustable tint sunglasses have two layered lens filters. Rotate the front lens and the tint gets lighter or darker. Augen's versions, the Carnaby, Halo and Citrine, go from light grey to dark grey across nine levels, with polarized UV400 protection.
How adjustable tint works
Each lens is made of two filters stacked together. When you turn the outer filter, the two layers line up differently and let through more or less light. It's the same idea photographers use with variable ND (neutral density) filters on a camera.
- Levels 1–3: early morning, cloudy days and evening light.
- Levels 4–6: everyday daylight in the city.
- Levels 7–9: harsh midday sun, beaches, snow and high altitude.
Adjustable tint vs photochromic: what's the difference?
| Adjustable tint | Photochromic | |
|---|---|---|
| How it changes | You twist the lens by hand | Darkens on its own under UV light |
| Speed | Instant | Takes a little while to darken and lighten |
| Works in a car? | Yes, you control it | Often less, because windscreens block much of the UV |
| Best for | Drivers, riders, trekkers, photographers | Office-to-outdoors commuters |
| Augen pick | Halo | Shift Elio |
Who needs adjustable tint sunglasses?
Drivers and riders. Light changes constantly on the road — tunnels, tree cover, the setting sun. A quick twist is safer than swapping pairs. (As with any sunglasses, don't wear them for night driving.)
Trekkers and travellers. Mountain light goes from shaded forest to blinding snow in minutes. One pair that adjusts saves you carrying two.
Gadget lovers. Honestly, they're just fun. Turning the lens and watching the world dim is oddly satisfying.
Augen's adjustable tint range
All three styles are round metal frames with the same tech: 1–9 gear adjustable tint, polarized UV400 lenses, a metal frame and adjustable nose pads. Pick the frame finish you like best:
- Carnaby (Rs. 3,049) — a steampunk-inspired round metal frame with six colour options.
- Halo (Rs. 3,049) — another round metal style, pictured above with one lens turned darker.
- Citrine (Rs. 3,049) — a third round metal option with its own set of colourways.
How to use and care for adjustable tint lenses
- Start at the lightest setting, then turn the front lens slowly until it feels comfortable.
- Adjust both lenses to the same level so your eyes see evenly.
- Clean the lenses gently with a microfibre cloth. Avoid getting dust trapped between the layers.
- Store them in a case. The rotating parts are precise, so don't toss them loose in a bag.
FAQs
Are adjustable tint sunglasses polarized?
Augen's are. The Carnaby, Halo and Citrine all have polarized UV400 lenses.
Do adjustable tint lenses protect against UV at every setting?
Yes. UV400 protection is built into the lens, so it works at every tint level.
Are they worth the higher price?
If you drive, ride, trek or move between bright and shaded places a lot, yes. One adjustable pair can replace two or three regular ones.
Control the light. Shop adjustable tint sunglasses →
Lifestyle photos: Damian Markutt, Manu Mateo, Red Shuheart, David Gavi and Kevin Arne on Unsplash.