Variable fonts are not a style family but a technology, which brings a whole range of weights, widths or slants together in a single file. They can therefore belong to any classification, from Didone to sans serif.
Where to see it
Variable fonts can be seen on websites and in interfaces, where the same font can adjust continuously to the screen size. Roboto Flex, Bahnschrift shipped with Windows and many Google Fonts are examples, and some designers use them to animate typography itself.
Why this detail matters
Placing variable fonts within classifications avoids a common confusion:
- A variable font is first classified by its design, like any other font;
- Variable technology is added to that design and makes it possible to vary its weight, width or slant;
- It opens up new possibilities for adapting typography to each screen or animating it.
Related term
Sans serif typefaces now include many variable fonts, such as Roboto Flex.