An important distinction in typography is the difference between text type and display type. Although both serve specific purposes in the design world, they are crafted with distinct goals in mind, making it crucial for designers to understand their roles and use them appropriately.
First off, let's talk about text type.
Text Type:
Text typefaces are specifically designed for longer passages of text, where legibility and comfort over extended reading periods are crucial. For example: the bulk of the text in any book, newspaper, or magazine is text type, and if you're reading a lengthy passage on an e-reader, or a tablet or mobile device, that's text type too (see image).
Why Text Type Works:
- Easy to Read: The best text typefaces are easy to read in long blocks of copy. Their design focuses on delivering content in a clear and accessible way, without drawing unnecessary attention to themselves (see image).
- Classical Design Principles: The human eye can easily follow these fonts due to their adherence to classical design principles. This means they often stick to traditional design principles, like familiar serif or sans serif letterforms, making it easier for the eye to move effortlessly from one line to the next.
Display Type
On the other hand, display typeface is the opposite of text typeface. Display typefaces are designed for use in large sizes, where the primary goal is to grab attention, convey a mood, or make a bold statement. These fonts are perfect for headlines, titles, banners, posters, logos, and other visual elements where the primary goal is to create impact rather than ensure readability in long passages (see image).
Why Display Type Works:
- Designed for Visual Impact: Display fonts prioritize visual flair and creativity over legibility. That’s why they often come in bold, exaggerated, or decorative styles. For instance, when you look at a billboard or a magazine cover, the eye-catching headline is a classic example of display type (see image).
- Ideal for Large Formats: While great for large formats, display fonts can become difficult to read at smaller sizes, as their intricate details or heavy weights can make them appear cluttered or overwhelming in body text.
The Key to Using Typography Effectively
However, it’s important to note that just because a font looks cool at large sizes doesn’t mean it will work well in body text. Display typefaces are like flashy clothing—great for a big party but uncomfortable for daily wear!
Just remember: The key is to maintain harmony between text and display type so that one doesn’t overshadow the other. By understanding the differences and using each type appropriately, designers can create visually appealing and highly readable designs.
Nurnobi Islam