Serif and sans serif are the two broadest categories of type. The difference is simple to see once you know what to look for, and it shapes the feel of everything you set.
Serif fonts
Serif fonts have small strokes, called serifs, at the ends of their letters. They carry a traditional, established and trustworthy feel. They are a classic choice for long reading, editorial work and brands that want to feel timeless.
Sans serif fonts
Sans serif fonts drop those end strokes for clean, simple shapes. They read as modern, neutral and efficient, which makes them popular for interfaces, technology brands and signage where clarity matters.
Choosing between them
- Want tradition, warmth or editorial polish? Lean serif.
- Want a modern, clean and neutral voice? Lean sans serif.
- Pairing both can work well: one for headlines, the other for body text.
License terms vary from one font to another. Always review the license included with a specific font before using it, especially for commercial work.