Width refers to how narrow or expanded the design of a typeface is. Within a single family, it comes in variants named condensed, narrow, normal, wide or extended.
Where to see it
Width can be compared by setting the same word in a condensed and then an extended version, in families such as Univers, Helvetica Neue or Roboto Flex. Condensed versions are common in newspaper headlines and on posters, where they make it possible to fit a lot of text at a large point size.
Why this detail matters
The width of a typeface affects both the space it takes up and the impression it gives:
- A condensed version saves space without reducing the point size, which makes it a great ally for headlines, posters and narrow interfaces;
- An extended version takes up more space but gives an ample, composed and assertive look, often sought after for logotypes and large headlines;
- A true variant drawn by the type designer is always preferable to a font that has been artificially stretched or squeezed, which distorts the strokes.
Related term
Weight refers to the thickness of a typeface's stroke; together with width, it defines the variants of a family.