To compare the visual outcome following cataract surgery in diabetics and non-diabetics.A comparative study of 58 eyes in the diabetic and 58 eyes in the non-diabetic group that underwent small incision cataract surgery with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation. Age, sex, surgical technique, follow up, pre- and postoperative best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and post-op complications were evaluated.Out of 116 patients, 58 were diabetic and 58 were non diabetics. Small incision cataract surgery with posterior chamber intraocular lens implantation was done in all patients. Follow up duration was 4 weeks. The mean preoperative best corrected visual acuity in the diabetic group was 1.60±0.81 and in non-diabetic group was 1.62±0.87. The mean post-operative best corrected visual acuity in log MAR units in the diabetic group was 0.39±0.32 and in the non-diabetic group was 0.32±0.27. The difference in pre and post op visual outcome was statistically significant (p=0.001). Post-operative visual acuity of 6/12 or better was achieved in 62.1% eyes in diabetic patients and 69% among non-diabetic patients. Post-operative complications included: posterior capsular opacification, corneal edema, anterior chamber reaction, striate keratopathy, pigment dispersion, cystoid macular edema and vitreous loss. The incidence was higher in the diabetic group.Small incision cataract surgery in diabetics without diabetic retinopathy yields similar visual outcomes as non-diabetics. There is a higher incidence of post-operative complications among diabetics, which can be managed conservatively. So extra care should be taken intra-operatively and during post-op follow up.