Universal Web · 2005 Archive

1.5 Font Width

How font width affects legibility: regular to slightly condensed widths are the most legible.

1 min read

Regular to slightly condensed widths are the most legible.

Legibility Issues by Width

  • Extended widths — Letterforms become more difficult to perceive as width increases
  • Highly condensed widths — Counter space (negative space within letters) decreases, making letters harder to distinguish
The ideal font width provides enough room for open counters while keeping letterforms compact enough for easy recognition.