The 25 best fonts for websites and web design in 2025

Serif vs. Sans-Serif: The basis of font choice

In the world of typography, fonts are generally divided into two main categories: serif and sans-serif. Understanding this difference is essential for making well-informed font decisions.

• Serif fonts are characterised by small decorative lines at the end of each letter stroke. Examples include Times New Roman, Georgia and Garamond. Serifs usually indicate a sense of heritage, grace and sophistication. They are usually used for the main content in printed materials and can also be effective on websites for brands looking for a traditional and respectable look;
• Sans-serif fonts: The name is self-explanatory - ‘sans’ means ‘without’. These typefaces have no decorative serifs, resulting in a sleek, modern look. Examples such as Arial, Helvetica and Open Sans are widely used. Sans-serif fonts are recognised for their great legibility, especially on screens, which makes them a flexible option for websites in different sectors.

When should you decide which option to choose?

There is no one-size-fits-all solution! Take these variables into account:

• On digital platforms, sans-serif fonts are usually favoured for smaller texts due to their legibility;
• Brand personality: Serif fonts convey an air of sophistication, while sans-serif fonts are seen as more friendly and modern;
• The combination of serif and sans serif fonts in website design can be effective if done purposefully (we'll talk about this later!).

Above the basics: Contemporary, decorative and script typefaces

Let's broaden our knowledge of typefaces.

• Contemporary typography: This classification includes various designs that were developed in the 20th century, typically with geometric shapes, sharp edges and an emphasis on utility. Some well-known examples are Montserrat, Raleway and Lato. They are effective for technology-orientated websites or brands looking for a modern, innovative look;
• Presentation fonts: These fonts are bold and meaningful! They were created for titles and large text, focusing on flashy design rather than the legibility of smaller fonts. Playfair Display and Merriweather are examples of this. Use them sparingly to get the best effect;
• Fonts that imitate handwriting give a personal and informal touch. They are much appreciated on artistic websites or blogs. Pacifico and Dancing Script are some examples. Be careful when using them for body text, as they can become difficult to read.

Did you know that the fonts you select have a subtle impact on the way people see your website and your brand? That's right! Here's the method:

• Different emotions can be triggered by various font styles in relation to mood. Curvy, whimsical fonts have a cosy, friendly vibe, while bold, angular fonts project strength and creativity. Take into account the general atmosphere you want your website to convey;
• Trust and credibility: Traditional serif fonts can create a sense of trust and reliability, making them ideal for sectors such as finance or law. Contemporary sans-serif fonts can exude a sleek, technological aesthetic;
• Is the focus of your website a young, trendy demographic or an older, well-established group of people? Make sure the fonts you choose match the target audience.

Select fonts with intent

Before exploring the various font options, pause to identify the essential characteristics you want your brand to represent. You're striving for:

• What is professionalism?
• What about creativity?
• Ease of access?
• Is luxury living important to you?
• What about innovation?

Remember these keywords when we look at certain font selections later in the manual.

Web-safe fonts: Ensuring consistency

Although there are countless visually appealing fonts, not all of them have the same impact on websites. Web-safe fonts refer to an essential collection of fonts that come with the default setting on most devices and browsers. Using them ensures that your site will display consistently across multiple computers and screens.

Some popular fonts that are considered safe for use on the web are:

• Times New Roman and Georgia are examples of typefaces with a serif;
• Fonts without decorative elements: Arial, Helvetica, Verdana.

Fortunately, thanks to modern web technology and tools such as Google Fonts, it's now easier than ever to incorporate a wider variety of fonts into your website without any problems.

The Google Fonts collection is a fantastic tool for web designers and users. It provides a large selection of top-quality open source fonts, available for free use on your site. Here's why it's an excellent choice:

• Diversity: Google Fonts offers over 1400 different typefaces, covering a wide range of categories, such as serif, sans-serif, screen, handwriting and others. You're sure to find several fonts that meet your requirements;
• Google Fonts are designed to be easily accessible on the Internet, with fast loading times and a perfect display on all devices.

Tips for navigating Google Fonts:

You can use the Google Fonts website to sort fonts by style, popularity and features such as thickness and slant. You have the option of testing text previews and discovering certain font combinations.

Premium fonts: When is it worth spending money?

Although free font libraries are a good starting point and work for most websites, there are situations where premium fonts have clear advantages.

• Original Exclusivity: Premium fonts, often designed by independent type foundries, can help you stand out from the crowd and establish a highly distinctive brand identity;
• Paraphrased: Standing out from the crowd and creating a unique brand identity can be achieved by using premium quality typefaces, often designed by independent type foundries;
• Unique features: Some high-quality typefaces have specialised features, such as extended language compatibility, alternative glyphs and ligatures to enhance complex typography;
• The purchase of a high-quality typeface includes the acquisition of a specific usage licence, which offers guarantees for commercial ventures.

Where can you find high-quality fonts?

• Well-known online platforms: Websites such as Creative Market, MyFonts and FontSpring offer a wide range of high-quality font options;
• Independent type foundations: Many type designers distribute their typefaces directly on their personal websites.

It is crucial to always check a font's licence terms before using it to ensure compliance with usage restrictions.

1. Open Sans

Type: Sans-serif

Why it's a great choice: Open Sans is a reliable and versatile typeface for website design. Its simple, unpretentious layout and excellent legibility make it suitable for both headlines and main content. It comes in a variety of weights (light, regular, bold, etc.), providing numerous options in a single font family.

Perfect scenarios: Open Sans is highly effective for a variety of websites, from corporate websites to creative blogs. It complements eloquent typefaces very well.

2. Montserrat

Type: sans-serif

Why it stands out: Montserrat is influenced by city signs, creating a typeface with solid geometric shapes and a striking look. Its popularity makes its style familiar, but it remains a reliable option for unique designs.

Recommended scenarios: Consider using Montserrat for websites looking for a modern, striking look. It's effective for titles, brand labels or creative company websites.

3. Roboto

Type: Sans-serif

Why it's a great choice: Created by Google specifically for the Android operating system, Roboto has become a common choice in web design. It is characterised by its curved, welcoming shapes and a somewhat compact design that conserves page space.

Optimal settings: Use the Roboto font for technology websites, mobile app, landing pages or any design that demands a contemporary, friendly vibe.

4. Lato

Type: Sans-serif

Reasons to choose Lato: It combines warmth and professionalism in an excellent way. Its discreet character maintains legibility, making it an excellent overall choice.

Optimal scenarios: Websites in the fields of education, healthcare or non-profit organisations can benefit from Lato's versatile look, suitable for a variety of sectors.

5. Georgia

Type: Serif

Reasons to choose Georgia: It is a serif typeface suitable for use on the web, with the aim of being easy to read on screens. Its larger dimensions and wide spacing make it a reliable choice for body text, especially on compact screens.

Ideal scenarios: Consider using Georgia for classic websites, legal practices, academic websites or any brand looking for a timeless, respectable vibe.

6. Raleway

Type: Sans-serif

Why it's an excellent choice: The Raleway exudes elegance through its slender lines and graceful proportions. Originally created for titles, it now offers a wider range of weights, making it unexpectedly adaptable.

Ideal scenarios: Raleway is usually used on fashion, lifestyle or design websites that want a touch of elegance.

7. Oswald

Type: Sans-serif

Reasons to consider Oswald: It's a compact typeface created specifically to maximise the use of small screen areas. It has a contemporary and confident vibe due to its bold vertical lines.

Perfect settings: Oswald is suitable for technology-focused websites, online news platforms or anywhere a concise presentation of information is required without compromising readability.

8. Garamond

Type: Sans-serif

Reasons why it's a great choice: Garamond is an exquisite classic typeface, with sophisticated nuances and soft strokes. Websites are elevated by a touch of sophistication and refinement.

Perfect settings: It's perfect for luxury brands, art galleries or websites aimed at an older audience.

9. Playfair Display

Type: Display, Serif

What makes it a great choice: Playfair Display has a timeless sophistication with its bold variation in stroke thickness and fine serif details. Inspired by 18th century typography, it gives it a touch of drama and vintage appeal.

Recommended scenarios: Use occasionally for impactful titles, fashion or luxury websites, or projects related to history and literature.

10. Merriweather

Type: Screen, Serif

Why Merriweather is an excellent choice: It combines aesthetics and practicality effectively. Created with the aim of being easily readable on screens, it exudes a cosy, approachable vibe while retaining a unique touch.

Perfect backdrops: Suitable for titles in blog posts, art collections or websites that prioritise narrative.

11. Poppins

Type: Screen, Sans-serif

Reasons to choose Poppins: It has a modern, geometric design with a touch of fun. Its curved contours and wide spacing create a cosy and legible design.

Perfect backdrops: Poppins is suitable for technology websites, innovative agencies or any brand looking for a modern look without being too formal.

12. Nunito

Type: Screen, Sans-serif

Why it's a great choice: Nunito's rounded edges and subtle uniqueness create a cosy, friendly atmosphere. It shows warmth while maintaining clarity, which makes it flexible.

Perfect backdrops: Nunito is suitable for websites aimed at a younger demographic, non-profit groups or brands that focus on simplicity and friendliness.

13. Lora

Type: Serif

Reasons why it's a great choice: Lora has a calligraphic style characterised by elegant curves and soft lines. It's a great choice for websites that want a touch of feminine sophistication or a romantic look.

Recommended scenarios: Consider implementing Lora on lifestyle blogs, fashion brands or websites dedicated to art or literature.

14. Pacific

Type: Calligraphy

What makes it a great choice: Pacifico's fun and relaxed style in brush lettering gives it a light and relaxed feel. The lively baseline gives it a feeling of energy and enthusiasm.

Best scenarios for using Pacific: Consider using it on art blogs, craft product websites or endeavours with a fun or DIY style.

15. Dancing Script

Type: Calligraphy

Why it's a great choice: Dancing Script imitates a smooth, cursive calligraphy style with an old-fashioned appeal. It adds a sense of warmth and individuality to websites.

Ideal scenarios for using Dancing Script include wedding invitations, personal blogs or brands specialising in nostalgia or handmade products.

16. Yellowtail

Type: Calligraphy

Reasons why it's a great choice: Yellowtail has a vintage vibe similar to signage from the mid-20th century. Its sloping lines and unique look make it ideal for adding a touch of retro style.

Perfect backdrops: Use Yellowtail font for websites with a retro theme, restaurant or café layouts, or projects looking to evoke a sense of American nostalgia.

17. Source Sans Pro

Type: Sans-serif

Why Source Sans Pro is a great choice: It's the first open source font family created by Adobe. Its elegant design and variety of weights make it suitable for both titles and main content. It's a reliable and sophisticated option.

Perfect settings: This typeface is a great choice for institutional sites, news platforms or anywhere that requires a neutral, easily legible typeface.

18. Crimson Text

Type: Serif

Reasons to choose it: Crimson Text is a great choice for websites because it evokes the elegance and sophistication of traditional book typography. Its elegant serifs and slight intricacies make it a sophisticated choice.

Perfect scenarios where Crimson Text is suitable include academic sites, literary endeavours or brands that want a sophisticated and respectable image.

19. PT Sans

Type: Sans-serif

Why it's a great choice: PT Sans is a great choice because of its slightly condensed shape, which makes it ideal for situations where space is important. Its elegant design and versatile look are suitable for many different projects.

We recommend using PT Sans for technology websites, multilingual projects (especially with Cyrillic characters) or any designs that require a clean, condensed typeface.

20. Ubuntu

Type: Sans-serif

Why it's a great choice: Ubuntu adds a touch of cosiness and eccentricity with its slightly curved shapes. It has a friendly and approachable vibe, setting it apart from other conventional sans-serif typefaces.

Perfect settings: Ubuntu is suitable for educational platforms, technology-focused blogs or brands that want a contemporary yet cosy style.

21. Exo

Type: Sans-serif

Why it's a great choice: Exo features a modern, angular design that emanates an avant-garde vibe. Its range of weights allows for versatility when designing eye-catching titles or compact text.

Perfect backdrops: Exo is an excellent choice for technology companies, gaming platforms or any company looking for a modern, forward-thinking look.

22. Muli

Type: Sans-serif

The reasons for choosing Muli include its concern for making text easy to read, especially when the typeface is used in smaller sizes. Its easily legible letters and wide spacing make it a reliable choice for text on different screens.

Ideal situations: Muli is suitable for websites with a lot of content, news agencies or any place where legibility is crucial.

23. Work Sans

Type: Sans-serif

Why it's a great choice: Work Sans combines legibility with a touch of character. Its slightly rounded letterforms and subtle differences in stroke thickness result in a warmer vibe compared to strictly geometric sans-serif fonts.

Ideal scenarios: Suitable for corporate websites, professional blog sites and e-commerce platforms that require functionality and a defined visual hierarchy.

24. Quicksand

Type: Sans-serif

Why it's a great choice: Quicksand features a soft, curved design influenced by geometric sans-serifs, but with a more accessible feel. It complements stronger typefaces and adds a touch of friendliness to a design.

Perfect settings: Ideal for websites centred on health and artistic expression, or for individuals who want to reach a young, contemporary audience.

25. Anton

Type: Sans-serif

Why it's a great choice: Anton has a strong, confident design with bold, capitalised text. Its geometric shapes demand concentration and make a strong impact.

The best scenarios for using Anton include using it minimally in short headlines, call-outs or logos for maximum impact.

Although Google Fonts has a large collection, you may need something truly unique.
Main factors to consider:

• Legal: It's important to check the licensing terms of all custom fonts to ensure they comply with web usage rights;
• Improve performance: Reduce the amount of custom fonts and use optimised file formats to lessen the impact on site loading speed.

Where personalised fonts can be used
Personalised fonts are fantastic for:

• Branding: Reinforce your brand identity by using a unique typeface that represents your individual style;
• Headlines: Create a strong message with a personalised font for powerful headlines;
• Special projects: If you're creating a specialised website or one with a specific theme, using a distinctive font can enhance the look.

Fonts are crucial for design purposes, but they can significantly increase the loading time of your website. This is why optimisation is important:

• Faster page loading: Users get frustrated with slow-loading fonts, which can result in an increase in bounce rates;
• SEO benefits: Google favours sites that provide a fast user interface, which results in better search rankings for your site;
• Favourable user feedback: A website that is fast and responsive conveys a memorable feeling.

Methods for optimising font presentation

• Original: The new building will be completed in three months;
• Paraphrased: The construction of the new building will be completed in three months. Select the best file formats: Favour the WOFF2 format due to its high compression and use WOFF as an alternative for better browser compatibility;
• Font subsetting: When using a large font with many characters, create subsets that include only the characters you need. This feature is available in many online font tools;
• Font-Display property: Manage how a font is displayed when it is not readily accessible. Choices such as swapping or fallback can help avoid a sudden ‘flash of unstyled text’.

Additional tips

• Restrict the amount of fonts: It is advisable to load fewer fonts on your website for optimum performance. Respect the main components of your design;
• Use system fonts effectively: Opt for web-safe fonts where appropriate for faster loading times, as they are pre-installed on users' devices.

Accessibility: Selecting fonts that are inclusive

The goal of accessibility is to develop a website that can be accessed and used by all individuals, regardless of their abilities or limitations. The way you choose fonts has an impact on the result.

• Choose fonts for dyslexic individuals that have easily legible shapes and avoid overly extravagant or artistic ones. Some examples are OpenDyslexic, Arial and Verdana;
• Adequate size: Make sure your text, especially body text, is large enough to make it easy to read. This is even more crucial for visually impaired users;
• Colour contrast: Make sure there is enough colour difference between the text and the background to make the text easy to read. Tools available online, such as WebAIM's contrast checker, can be useful.

Avoid using all capital letters extensively, as this can make reading difficult, especially for individuals with dyslexia or related disorders.

Other considerations to bear in mind:

• Use screen magnifiers to check your website and make sure the text remains legible when enlarged;
• User feedback: Take into account feedback from disabled users to discover potential areas for improvement.

Designing for just one screen size is outdated in today's multi-device world. Responsive font scaling ensures that your typography easily adjusts to a variety of screen sizes, from smartphones to large desktop monitors.

Key ideas

• Display window units, such as vw and vh, are based on the size of the browser window. Using them for font sizing results in a flexible design that grows or shrinks proportionally;
• Media Queries breakpoints in CSS allow you to set various font sizes and other typographic modifications depending on screen size;
• Font size in REM units is relative to root size, allowing for adaptability in a design framework.

Expert advice: Give priority to designing for mobile devices.

Start by creating your design for mobile devices before expanding it to larger screens. This ensures that your typography is improved for smaller screens, where readability is extremely important.

Beyond font size
Responsive typography involves more than just resizing text! Take into account:

• Line height: Improve line height on smaller screens to improve line spacing and readability;
• Boldness of the typeface: Thicker fonts may be more readable on smaller screens. Try it out!

Combining fonts for visual cohesion

Becoming proficient at combining typefaces can take your designs to a professional level. It's essential to find combinations that look good together without clashing. Below are some guiding rules:

• Embrace contrast: Combine typefaces with different characteristics, such as a serif with a sans-serif or a modern typeface with a traditional one;
• Similar proportions: Select typefaces with comparable x-heights (the height of lowercase letters) to achieve a cohesive look;
• Hierarchy is achieved by using various font sizes and weights to direct the viewer's attention. A strong title together with a more discreet body of content creates a distinctive organisation;
• Limit your options: Concentrate on using no more than 2-3 fonts per design to avoid visual clutter.

Useful tools:

• Google Fonts pairings: Many of Google Fonts' popular typefaces come with combination suggestions;
• Websites dedicated to font combinations present a variety of inspiring combinations for different styles.

Examples of font combinations:

• Open Sans (sans-serif) combined with Merriweather (serif);
• Raleway (sans-serif) combined with Lato (sans-serif);
• Combination of Montserrat (sans-serif) with Lora (serif).

Structure: Directing the reader's eye

Typographic hierarchy involves organising content based on its visual meaning. Think of it as adjusting the ‘volume levels’ of your website. Fonts have a vital role to play.

• Size: Larger text is usually noticed first, which makes it perfect for headlines and important messages;
• Weight: Bold or heavier font weights can emphasise specific words or sections;
• To make a title or subtitle stand out from the body text, you can adjust the spacing around it;
• Colour, although not considered typography, can enhance the meaning of important content. Use it strategically!

Use hierarchy effectively

• Specify your layout: Which elements are most important on the page and how should they be organised to facilitate reading?
• Maintain consistency by using font size, weight and spacing to clearly distinguish between headings (H1, H2, H3, etc.) and body text;
• Negative space: Use empty areas around key elements to give them breathing space and improve their visual appeal.

These typographic characteristics allow for fine adjustments that improve the readability and style of your site.

• Line height: This is the vertical distance between lines of text. A generous line height improves reading flow, while a tighter line height results in a more condensed look. Strive for a balance between readability and visual compactness;
• Letter spacing: Regulates the overall space between the letters in a word. Increase the letter spacing for a lighter, more contemporary style in headlines or reduce it for a more compact look. Make sure you don't overuse it, as excessive spacing can slow down reading;
• Kerning is even more precise, adjusting the spacing between specific pairs of letters. Fonts are usually pre-optimised, but sometimes manual kerning adjustments are necessary to get the ideal spacing, especially in logos or large titles.

Tips for small adjustments

• Start with the default settings: Most fonts come with reasonable presets for line height and letter spacing. Make changes slowly to get a more uniform look;
• Small adjustments can have a significant impact: Less is more.

Innovative lettering: Push the boundaries

While legibility is important, there is room for creative and powerful typeface choices that go beyond just being practical. This is the intersection between design and art.

• Oversized typography can make a bold impact or be a fundamental feature of your design. Experiment with different styles of typography, such as bold fonts and non-traditional designs;
• Typography as texture: Consider using duplicate text as a background or stacking text of various sizes to achieve a visually luxurious result;
• Kinetic typography: When using video or animation, consider using kinetic typography to make the text more dynamic in the design;
• Text shading and overlays: Incorporating shadows, gradients or light textures into text can produce a sense of depth and dimension;
• Personalised lettering: To create something truly unique, you may want to collaborate with a typographer or try hand-drawing.

Typeface trends for 2025 are expected to mirror broader design themes, combining playful experimentation with timeless sophistication. Here are some trends to watch closely:

• While sans-serifs remain popular, expressive serifs with distinctive features, bold strokes and a touch of vintage appeal are becoming more fashionable;
• Anticipate fun retro fonts inspired by the aesthetics of the 70s and 80s in nostalgic revivals. Consider soft, curved shapes and strong, prominent margins;
• Variable fonts: These versatile fonts offer extensive customization options in a single font file, providing unparalleled flexibility. Look for variable fonts available in both sans-serif and serif designs;
• Brutalism with a twist: The unrefined and unfinished look of brutalism in web design is still changing. Anticipate fonts with a severe and practical look, but which are softened by slight curves or rounded elements;
• Inclusive design: The emphasis will continue to be on accessibility, resulting in greater use of typefaces designed for clear and easy reading.

Staying ahead of the trend
Here are some tools for monitoring new typeface trends:

• Design-focused blogs and publications;
• Type designers and online platforms often feature newly launched and in-vogue typefaces.

Remember to stay true to your brand identity and prioritize legibility when incorporating new fonts, as trends come and go.

1. How important are fonts on a website?
Fonts are essential to the design of a website, as they affect legibility, aesthetics and the user experience. A well-chosen font makes the content easier to read and makes the site more attractive.

2. What are the best fonts for websites?
The best fonts for websites should be legible and responsive. Some popular examples include Arial, Roboto, Open Sans, Lato and Montserrat. The choice depends on the style and target audience of the site.

3. How do I choose the right font for my site?
When choosing a typeface, consider the content, audience and tone of your brand. Sans-serif typefaces (such as Arial) are great for long texts, while serif typefaces (such as Times New Roman) are more formal.

4. Can I use more than one typeface on my site?
Yes, you can use more than one typeface, but it's important to maintain harmony. The ideal is to combine up to 2 or 3 fonts, one for headlines and one for body text, creating a balanced look.

5. How do you ensure that the font is legible on mobile devices?
Use simple, easy-to-read fonts and adjust the font size for different screen sizes. Test your site on several devices to ensure that the text is readable in all resolutions.

6. What are web-safe fonts?
Web-safe fonts are those that are available on different operating systems and browsers, ensuring that the site has a consistent appearance for all users. Examples include Arial, Helvetica and Times New Roman.

7. Should I use personalised fonts on my site?
Custom fonts can add a unique touch to your site, but it's crucial to optimise performance. Make sure the fonts load quickly so as not to hinder page speed.

8. How can I add personalised fonts to my site?
You can add customised fonts to your site using services such as Google Fonts or Adobe Fonts, or by uploading the font files directly to the server and applying them via CSS.

9. Do fonts affect my site's SEO?
Although fonts don't directly influence SEO, good readability and a pleasant user experience can reduce the bounce rate and increase the time spent on the site, which can indirectly benefit SEO.

10. Should I use free or paid fonts on my site?
Free fonts can be great, but paid fonts often offer more unique options and better support. If budget allows, premium fonts can give your site a more professional look.

In this guide, we've delved into the field of web typography, covering basic principles and more advanced methods. Keep these essential factors in mind when designing attractive and functional websites:

• Brand alignment is essential, with the typefaces selected playing a crucial role in communicating your site's intended personality and message;
• User first: Prioritise legibility, especially on smaller screens and for people with visual impairments;
• Context is crucial: A strong title font can be difficult to read as text. Take into account the specific purposes for which each typeface will be used.

The road to great typography

Learning and experimenting are essential parts of the web typography journey. Start by mastering the basics, experiment with innovative applications and consistently evaluate your design decisions across multiple devices.

Our Studio.351 team creates websites with special attention to typography. Contact us and we'll offer you the best solution.

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