Equivalent viewing power (EVP) and equivalent viewing distance (EVD) are measures used to characterize low vision aids that provide magnification. EVP is a measure of the optical power needed to view an object at a set distance, while EVD is the distance from the eye at which an object subtends the same visual angle as with optimal vision. There are multiple methods to calculate EVP and EVD, including using a patient's best corrected acuity and desired print size. EVP and EVD are more reliable specifications than magnification alone because magnification depends on the reference viewing distance used.