Five Fantastic Web Font Services

Peter Devereaux
by Peter Devereaux 06 Dec, 2012
Five Fantastic Web Font Services

The evolution of the Internet has taught developers that the key to creating a successful website is to build for better usability.

 

This means that a website should be optimized so that visitors can easily navigate it without having to hunt for what they need. This is why simplicity has become one of the hottest design trends during the last year, because a site without a lot of clutter helps ease navigational issues. While there are many technologies available that can assist developers in making navigational elements more user-friendly, one of the best ways to improve navigation is with typography.

 

In fact, an innovative use of typography can help developers highlight specific areas of a site. This is because variations of font, such as colors, placement and size, help developers showcase the hierarchy of content on a Web page. And luckily, developers aren't restricted to using a limited amount of fonts for online projects anymore because the Web is full of resources offering a plethora of fonts that are available for online use, including the five services that can be found below:

 

Google Web Fonts

Since there is rarely ever an industry that Google doesn't dabble in, it is no surprise that Google offers typography options. In fact, Google's service makes customizable open source fonts available to developers. Users have the ability to browse font families and add their favorites into their own Collection. Then, users can refine their collection and have the option to view their favorite styles in a sample layout. The service is free and fonts are easy to implement onto a website.

 

 

Typekit

This platform provides developers with a subscription-based library of Web fonts. Currently, the company has more than 250,000 customers, including The New York Times and Twitter. Typekit gives users the ability to preview fonts on numerous browsers and operating systems. Furthermore, users have the option of extending their Typekit account to gain access to additional fonts from participating foundries. Although a trial of the service is free, subscription plans start at $24.99 a year.

 

 

Fontdeck

This Web typeface provider offers developers a catalogue that contains thousands of fonts that are enhanced for on-screen use. Fontdeck hosts all font files so that the company can handle browser complications to ensure fonts are reliable. Developers simply need to add a few lines of CSS to implement the fonts, and they only pay for fonts that are live. While each font is priced individually and users pay annually per website, the company states that the typical price is $7.50 a year for each font.

 

 

Webtype

This typography service offers high-quality, Web-optimized fonts. Implementation of fonts is easy because users simply need to copy and paste a chunk of code into their site's HTML. The service hosts all fonts to ensure that all typefaces are automatically upgraded and display correctly on every browser. Webtype offers 30-day free trials for all fonts, with plans starting at $40 per year for sites that receive less than 250,000 page views.

 

 

Fontspring

Unlike the aforementioned services, Fontspring offers downloadable fonts for self-hosting. Users simply need to purchase a font type and then they can use the fonts on as many projects as desired with no annual fee. Moreover, this service also offers app fonts, which can be used within mobile applications.

 

 

What is your favorite Web font service? Let us know in the comment section below.

 
Peter Devereaux
Peter Devereaux
As the Editor-in-Chief of Website Magazine and President of Website Services, Peter has established himself as a prominent figure in the digital marketing industry. With a wealth of experience and knowledge, Peter has been a driving force in shaping the landscape of digital marketing. His leadership in creating innovative and targeted marketing campaigns has helped numerous businesses achieve their revenue growth goals. Under his direction, Website Magazine has become a trusted source of information and insights for digital marketers worldwide. As President of Website Services, Peter oversees a team of talented professionals who specialize in SEO/SEM, email marketing, social media, and digital advertising. Through his hands-on approach, he ensures that his team delivers exceptional results to their clients. With a passion for digital marketing, Peter is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies, making him a sought-after thought leader in the field.