The 5 main types of fonts (and the best way to use them)

Fonts are more than just letters on a screen — they set the tone, communicate personality, and influence how your brand is perceived. Whether you’re designing a logo, a website, or packaging, choosing the right font can make or break your visual identity.

But with so many font styles out there, where do you start?

Let’s break down the five main types of fonts and look at when (and why) to use each.

1. Serif Fonts

Best for: Modern, clean, digital-first brands

“Sans” means “without,” so sans serif fonts don’t have the little feet. They offer a minimalist, uncluttered look, making them the go-to for websites and mobile apps.

Common examples: Helvetica, Arial, Open Sans

Used by: Google, Spotify, Airbnb

Sans serifs are versatile and easy to read on screens. They're perfect for tech companies, startups, and brands with a modern edge.

3. Script Fonts

Best for: Elegant, creative, personal branding

Script fonts mimic handwriting and calligraphy. Some are formal and flowing; others are playful and casual. They’re great for adding personality—but should be used sparingly.

Common examples: Pacifico, Allura, Great Vibes

Used by: Coca-Cola, Instagram, Cadillac

Script fonts are ideal for wedding invites, boutique branding, or anything that needs a human, personal touch. Just be careful with readability.

4. Display Fonts

Best for: Eye-catching headlines and logos

Display fonts are designed to stand out. They're bold, decorative, and often unique. You wouldn’t use them for body text, but they’re perfect for grabbing attention.

Common examples: Lobster, Impact, Bebas Neue

Used by: Disney, Lego, Netflix (for logos and headlines)

Use display fonts when you want to create a strong visual identity or make a statement — especially in logos, posters, or ad headlines.

5. Monospace Fonts

Best for: Coding, techy or retro aesthetics

In monospace fonts, each letter takes up the same amount of horizontal space. Originally used in typewriters and coding, they now lend a clean, structured look to design.

Common examples: Courier New, Roboto Mono, Consolas

Used by: GitHub, tech blogs, retro brands

They’re a great choice for developer tools, technical documentation, or designs with a nostalgic or minimalist vibe.

Final Thoughts

Every font style tells a story. The key is choosing one that matches your brand’s tone and message. Whether you want to look classic, modern, playful, or bold—there’s a font for that.

Want help choosing the perfect font for your brand? Let’s talk →