Verdana

Verdana is a linear sans font that was created by the font designer Matthew Carter for Microsoft and released in 1996.

Dissemination

Since 1996, the Verdana was delivered with the following versions of Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office and Internet Explorer for Windows and Mac OS, since at least Mac OS 10.4 there., As part of the system The font is also available as part of the Core fonts for the Web free for other systems.

Benefits

On average, comparable to other sans serif typefaces such as Frutiger, Verdana has been developed especially with regard to optimum screen display at small sizes. A large x-height, wide proportions, generous letter spacing and pronounced differences between similarly shaped letters contribute to a good readability. Because of these properties it is often preferred by web designers for body text on web pages.

Error

This font has a design error: The quotes used in German and many other European languages ​​above - Unicode U 201 C ( " ) and U 2018 (') - is inclined to the left instead of right. This disrupts the flow of reading and leads to a stylistically ugly typeface. The error stems from the fact that the same character is used in English as opening quotation mark and was designed mirror image of the closing.

Like it

The screen display also for optimized and comparable with the Verdana font Tahoma has a lower pitch, but also has the top quotes with unsightly slope. Other comparable and better for use in print publications are suitable, for example, Frutiger, the DejaVu Sans and Bitstream Vera Sans.