Illustrative single double-convex lens
optical-lenses

Double Convex (Biconvex) Lenses

A lens with two convex surfaces, chosen over a plano-convex shape when the conjugate ratio calls for it, to reduce spherical aberration.

Share requirements, quantities and a drawing if available. Specifications and supply terms require confirmation.

Overview

A double convex (biconvex, or DCX) lens has convex curvature on both surfaces rather than one flat and one convex side. At conjugate ratios closer to 1:1 (roughly between 5:1 and 1:5), splitting the optical power between two curved surfaces reduces spherical aberration compared with a plano-convex lens of the same power — a real, documented optical-design reason to choose this shape rather than a plano-convex substitute, not simply a different name for the same product. Procurement review should center on focusing with two convex surfaces when conjugates or packaging favor a symmetric positive element.

Key Selection Points

  • Reduces spherical aberration compared to plano-convex at balanced conjugate ratios (roughly 5:1 to 1:5)
  • Symmetric shape simplifies some mounting and alignment scenarios

Applications

Double convex lenses are used in imaging and relay optics where the object-to-image conjugate ratio is close to balanced, and the resulting lower spherical aberration compared to a plano-convex lens improves image quality without adding a second element.

Technical Reference

Lens Geometry & Selection Guide

This module explains how lens geometry changes the selection path and the information required from the optical design. For Double Convex (Biconvex) Lenses, the module focuses on focusing with two convex surfaces when conjugates or packaging favor a symmetric positive element.

  • Show surface orientation, optical axis and conjugate or beam condition in the drawing.
  • Include focal length, prescription and aberration targets with the enquiry for feasibility review.
  • State tolerance and manufacturable-range requirements on the drawing for review.
  • Product-specific review: connect surface radii relationship with object and image conjugates and document the trade-off against a plano-convex lens.
RFQ Specification

Prepare a product-specific enquiry

Include the requirements you know and identify any points that need confirmation.

RFQ inputWhat to provide
Input 1Define the buyer objective for Double Convex (Biconvex) Lenses: focusing with two convex surfaces when conjugates or packaging favor a symmetric positive element.
Input 2Optical inputs: surface radii relationship; focal requirement.
Input 3Geometry and interface: object and image conjugates; material, coating and mount.
Input 4Special review note: provide object/image distances or optical prescription so symmetry is not assumed incorrectly.
Input 5State quantity and project stage without assuming MOQ, inventory or delivery timing.
Input 6Name the drawing revision and acceptance evidence required for review.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use a double convex lens instead of a plano-convex lens?

When your conjugate ratio (object distance to image distance) is close to balanced, roughly between 5:1 and 1:5 — splitting curvature across both surfaces reduces spherical aberration in that range.

Can you supply a custom diameter or coating for Double Convex (Biconvex) Lenses?

Double Convex (Biconvex) Lenses requires this decision to be tied to surface radii relationship and focal requirement. Share your drawing or exact specification through the RFQ form and we will confirm feasibility.

Which specification should be fixed first for Double Convex (Biconvex) Lenses?

Begin with surface radii relationship. It determines how focal requirement and object and image conjugates should be evaluated before the mechanical details are finalized.

When is Double Convex (Biconvex) Lenses a better fit than a plano-convex lens?

Choose between them by testing the requirement for focusing with two convex surfaces when conjugates or packaging favor a symmetric positive element. If that requirement is absent, the comparison product may provide a simpler procurement path.

What should an RFQ for Double Convex (Biconvex) Lenses include?

Provide object/image distances or optical prescription so symmetry is not assumed incorrectly. Also include quantity, drawing revision and the required acceptance evidence. Final availability is confirmed during quotation.

Tell us what you are sourcing.

A product name, a specification or an application is a starting point.

Request a Quote