15 Best Web Safe Fonts to Use in 2024

Web-safe fonts are crucial to ensure your website looks great across all devices and browsers. These fonts are pre-installed on most operating systems, eliminating the need for font embedding and reducing loading times.

Studies have shown that effective typography can even increase conversion rates. Whether you’re building a sleek portfolio, a dynamic e-commerce platform, or a content-rich blog, clear and appealing fonts can nudge users toward desired conversions.

Are you ready to elevate your website’s typography, one of the top website designing trends in 2024 and 2025? Here is Vinova’s 15 best web-safe fonts list to use in 2024 and ensure your text shines as brightly as your content.

What Are Web Safe Fonts?

Web-safe fonts are typefaces that are pre-installed on most operating systems and devices. This ensures that your text appears consistently across different browsers and platforms, providing a seamless user experience.

Using web-safe fonts is crucial for several reasons:

• Consistency: Ensures your website’s text appears the same for all users.
• Readability: Enhances user experience with easily readable text.
• Accessibility: Adheres to accessibility standards for inclusive designs.
• Performance: Improves page load times by avoiding additional downloads.

Why Are Web Safe Fonts Important?

By using web-safe fonts, you can create a better user experience and enhance your website’s overall effectiveness.

• Consistency: These fonts ensure your text appears the same for all users.
• Accessibility: They are designed for readability and inclusivity.
• Performance: These fonts for the web improve page load times by avoiding additional downloads.

Some of the Most Popular Web Fonts

Web-safe fonts can be categorized into several types:

• Serif: Fonts with small decorative strokes protruding from the letter’s main body. Examples include Times New Roman, Georgia, and Garamond.
• Sans-Serif: Fonts without serifs. Examples include Arial, Helvetica, and Verdana.
• Monospace: Fonts with equal spacing between characters. Examples include Courier, Courier New, and Lucida Console.
• Cursive: Fonts that resemble handwriting. Examples include Brush Script MT and Comic Sans MS.
• Fantasy: Fonts that resemble handwriting. Examples include Brush Script MT and Comic Sans MS.
• MS: Fonts created by Microsoft, often indicated by the “MS” prefix. Examples include Trebuchet MS and Comic Sans MS.

Top 15 Web Safe Fonts to Use Today

Below is a html font-family list, commonly used in web design and development. These 15 web-safe fonts can be specified in your CSS using the font-family property.

1. Arial

Arial is a classic sans-serif font designed for both screen and print use. This makes it one of the best default fonts you can use when designing websites. Created in 1982 by Robin Nicholas and Patricia Saunders, it features clean lines and a modern appearance, making it suitable for various applications.

Compatibility: Win: 99.84% | Mac: 98.74%

Why Use Arial?

• Legibility: Arial’s softer appearance compared to other sans-serif fonts makes it approachable and easy to read.
• Versatility: Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of documents, from reports to presentations.
• Availability: Widely available across multiple platforms, ensuring compatibility.

Popularity:

• Widespread Use: Over 604,000 websites currently use Arial, including major platforms like Amazon, Facebook, and Google.
• Default Font: Frequently used as a default font in many applications.

2. Helvetica

Helvetica is a widely used sans-serif typeface originally designed in 1957 by Swiss typedesigners Max Miedinger and Eduard Hoffmann. Known for its clean lines and modern appearance, this web font HTML has become one of the most recognizable fonts globally.

Compatibility: Win: 7.34% | Mac: 100%

Why Use Helvetica?

• High X-Height: Enhances readability even at a distance.
• Versatility: Suitable for various applications, from corporate branding to signage.
• Modern Aesthetic: Clean lines and a contemporary appearance.

Popularity:

• Widespread Use: Estimated to be used on over 1 million websites worldwide.
• Major Brands: Adopted by BMW, American Airlines, and Microsoft.
• Public Institutions: Used by the U.S. government and NASA.

3. Verdana

Verdana is a sans-serif typeface designed specifically for on-screen use. Created by Matthew Carter in 1996 for Microsoft, it features generous spacing, large x-heights, and distinct character shapes, making it one of the most recognizable and best default fonts to use.

Compatibility: Win: 99.84% | Mac: 99.1%

Why Use Verdana?

• Exceptional Readability: Its design minimizes confusion between similar characters, ensuring clarity in text-heavy applications.
• Large X-Height and Generous Spacing: Distinguishes characters like “i,” “j,” “l,” and the numeral “1.”
• Digital Optimization: Ideal for websites, software applications, and mobile devices.

Popularity:

• Widespread Usage: Estimated to be used on over 400,000 websites globally.
• Default Font: Included in Microsoft products, contributing to its popularity.

4. Tahoma

Tahoma is a humanist sans-serif typeface designed by Matthew Carter for Microsoft in 1994. Created specifically for screen use, it features narrower letters compared to Verdana, making it suitable for tighter layouts.

Compatibility: Win: 99.84% | Mac: 99.1%

Why Use Tahoma?

• Legibility: Its design minimizes confusion between similar characters, making it ideal for technical and scientific publications.
• Clean and Modern Look: Suits various applications, from websites to software interfaces.

Standout Feature:

• Narrow Letterforms and Tighter Spacing: Fits more text in a given space while maintaining readability.

Popularity:

• Widespread Usage: Estimated to be used on over 300,000 websites globally.
• Bundled with Microsoft Products: Included in various versions of Windows and Office.

5. Trebuchet MS

Trebuchet MS is a humanist sans-serif typeface designed by Vincent Connare for Microsoft in 1996. Its name is inspired by the medieval siege engine, reflecting its goal of “launching words across the Internet.”

Compatibility: Win: 99.67% | Mac: 97.12%

Why Use Trebuchet MS?

• Large X-Height and Open Counters: Enhances legibility at smaller sizes.
• Distinct and Friendly Appearance: Suitable for marketing materials, websites, and user interfaces.
• Legibility: Combines modern aesthetics with readability for effective communication.

Popularity:

• Widespread Usage: Estimated to be used on over 200,000 websites globally.
• Included in Microsoft Products: Contributes to its recognition and adoption.

6. Impact

Impact is a sans-serif typeface designed by Geoffrey Lee in 1965, known for its bold weight and condensed style. Created for advertising and display purposes, it has become synonymous with attention-grabbing text.

Compatibility: Win: 0% | Mac: 95.14%

Why Use Impact?

• Bold Weight and Condensed Structure: Fits more text in a smaller space while remaining readable.
• Attention-Grabbing: Ideal for headlines, posters, and content that needs immediate visual impact.
• Strong Presence: Stands out against various backgrounds, making it effective for marketing materials and social media posts.

Popularity:

• Widespread Usage: Estimated to be used on over 300,000 websites globally.
• Core Web Font: Included as one of the core fonts for the web by Microsoft.
• Meme Culture: Associated with popular meme culture, solidifying its status as a go-to choice for eye-catching text.

7. Times New Roman

Times New Roman is a serif typeface designed for legibility in print. Commissioned by The Times of London in 1931, it features a traditional design with sharp serifs and a balanced structure. Until now, it is still used as a font for web content.

Compatibility: Win: 99.67% | Mac: 97.48%

Why Use Times New Roman?

• Readability: Designed for legibility in print, making it suitable for academic papers, reports, and formal documents.
• Space Efficiency: Narrow design allows for more text per line, making it ideal for print media.

Popularity:

• Widespread Usage: Estimated to be used on over 1 million websites globally.
• Pre-Installed on Most Operating Systems: Contributes to its ongoing relevance.

8. Georgia

Georgia is a serif typeface designed by Matthew Carter in 1996 for on-screen readability. Its traditional serif design and high x-height make it a versatile choice for various applications.

Compatibility: Win: 99.4% | Mac: 97.48%

Why Use Georgia?

• Legibility: Suitable for web content, print media, and formal documents.
• Modern Functionality: Combines classic elegance with contemporary design.
• Approachable Aesthetic: Offers a friendly and inviting appearance.

Standout Feature:

• High X-Height and Thicker Strokes: Enhances legibility at smaller sizes and creates a visually pleasing rhythm.

Popularity:

• Widespread Usage: Estimated to be used on over 500,000 websites globally.
• Web-Safe Font: Available across multiple platforms and devices.

9. Garamond

Garamond is a classic serif typeface designed by Claude Garamond in the 16th century. Known for its elegant and timeless style, it has become synonymous with high-quality print.

Compatibility: Win: 86.47% | Mac: 49.91%

Why Use Garamond?

• Organic Letterforms: Resemble handwriting for a warm and inviting feel.
• Readability and Aesthetic Appeal: Offers a classic and sophisticated look.
• Historical Significance: Convey a sense of tradition and craftsmanship.

Popularity:

• Widespread Usage: Estimated to be used on over 500,000 websites.
• Historical Significance: Remains a popular choice among typographers and designers.

10. Palatino

Palatino is a classic serif typeface designed by Hermann Zapf, inspired by the humanist letterforms of the Italian Renaissance. This web font HTML is widely known for its elegance and timeless style, featuring open counters and a moderate contrast between thick and thin strokes, making it highly readable.

Compatibility: Win: 99.29% | Mac: 86.13%

Why Use Palatino?

• Aesthetic Appeal: Adds a touch of sophistication to any document.
• Humanist Design: Enhances readability with open letterforms and well-balanced proportions.

Standout Feature:

• Humanist Design: Open letterforms and well-balanced proportions for enhanced readability.

Popularity:

• Widespread Usage: Estimated to be used on over 500,000 websites globally.
• Historical Significance: A staple in book printing and digital platforms.

11. Courier New

Courier New is a monospaced serif typeface designed by Howard “Bud” Kettler in 1955. Originally created for IBM typewriters, it has become a standard font for various applications, including as a font for web development.

Compatibility: Win: 99.73% | Mac: 95.68%

Why Use Courier New?

• Monospaced Design: Ensures precise alignment of text for coding and technical applications.
• Clear and Legible Appearance: Ideal for programming and scriptwriting.
• Monospaced Design: Ensures precise alignment of text for coding and technical documentation.
• Traditional Aesthetic: Adds a sense of nostalgia and formality.

Popularity:

• Widespread Usage: Estimated to be used on over 1 million websites globally.
• Default Font: Included in many operating systems, including Microsoft Windows.

12. Brush Script MT

Brush Script MT is a casual script typeface designed by Robert E. Smith in 1942. It mimics the appearance of handwritten text with flowing, connected lowercase letters.

Compatibility: Win: 59.64% | Mac: 90.99%

Why Use Brush Script MT?

• Nostalgic and Friendly Appearance: Conveys a personal connection and artistic flair.
• Decorative Purposes: Suitable for invitations, announcements, and other informal designs.

Popularity:

• Widespread Usage: Appears on numerous websites and in various design projects.
• Included in Microsoft Office: Contributes to its widespread availability.

13. Comic Sans MS

Comic Sans MS is a casual script typeface designed by Vincent Connare, inspired by comic book lettering. Its rounded, non-connecting letters create a playful and approachable appearance.

Compatibility: Win: 90% | Mac: 70%

Why Use Comic Sans MS?

• Playful and Approachable Design: Rounded letterforms create a friendly appearance.
• Legibility and Casual Appearance: Suitable for children’s products, informal documents, and websites targeting younger audiences.
• Humorous and Light-Hearted Tone: Conveys a less serious and more approachable vibe.

Popularity:

• Widespread Usage: Estimated to be used on over 1 million websites globally.
• Default Font: Included in Microsoft products, contributing to its ubiquity.
• Cultural Stigma: While popular, it has faced criticism for overuse in formal contexts.

14. Lucida Console

Lucida Console is a monospaced typeface designed by Charles Bigelow and Kris Holmes, known for its clear and modern appearance. Its fixed-width design makes it ideal for applications where precise alignment and readability are essential.

Why Use Lucida Console?

• Large X-Height: Enhances readability and distinguishes similar characters like “0” and “O” or “1” and “l.”
• Legibility and Functionality: Suitable for coding environments and technical documentation.
• Monospaced Design: Ensures precise alignment of text for programming and technical applications.
• Clean Appearance: Less mechanical than other monospaced fonts.

Compatibility: Win: 99.18% | Mac: 0%

Popularity:

• Widespread Usage: Estimated to be used on over 300,000 websites globally.
• Default Font: Included in Windows operating systems.

15. Garamond

Garamond is a classic serif typeface named after the 16th-century French engraver Claude Garamond. Known for its elegant and timeless style, it features organic letterforms that resemble handwriting, making it particularly suitable for book printing and body text.

Compatibility: Win: 86.47% | Mac: 49.91%

Why Use Garamond?

• Humanist Design: Open letterforms and well-balanced proportions for enhanced readability.
• Historical Significance: Convey a sense of tradition and craftsmanship.

Popularity:

• Widespread Usage: Estimated to be used on over 500,000 websites globally.
• Historical Significance: A staple in book printing and contemporary design.

How to Add Web Safe Fonts to Your Website

Adding web-safe fonts to your website using CSS allows you to control the look and feel of your text, enhancing user experience. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:

1. Declaring the Font in Your CSS:

Use the CSS font-family property in your CSS to specify the web-safe font you want to use. Remember to include a fallback font (like sans-serif) in case the primary font isn’t available on the user’s system:

2. Using the @font-face Rule (Optional):

If you’re using a custom font that isn’t commonly installed, you can host the font files yourself and use the @font-face rule to define the font for your website:

3. Optimizing Font Loading:

For faster loading times, consider these tips:

• Use modern font formats: WOFF2 offers better compression compared to older formats like WOFF.
• Limit font variants: Avoid using too many variations (bold, italic) of a single font as it increases file size and HTTP requests.

4. Using Free Font Delivery Services:

Popular services like Google Fonts offer a vast library of fonts you can easily integrate into your website:

5. Self-Hosting Google Fonts (Optional):

For better performance and privacy compliance, consider downloading and hosting the font files yourself. Include them using the @font-face rule as explained earlier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are web safe fonts?

Web-safe fonts are fonts that are pre-installed on most computer systems and devices, ensuring that your website’s text appears consistently across different browsers and platforms. 

What is the most popular web safe font?

Arial is generally considered the most widely used sans-serif font on the web. However, the popularity of fonts can fluctuate over time, and different sources may have slightly varying rankings.

Other popular web-safe sans-serif fonts include:

• Helvetica
• Calibri
• Verdana
• Tahoma

What font is site safe?

Some popular web-safe fonts include:

• Sans-Serif: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif
• Serif: Times New Roman, Times, serif

To ensure compatibility across different browsers and devices, it’s recommended to use a fallback list of fonts in your CSS

What is the most trustworthy font for websites?

Popular Font Resources:

• Google Fonts: Vast collection of free fonts, easy integration, and customization options.
• Font Squirrel: Free commercial fonts, font previewer, and pairing suggestions.
• Fontspace: Large library, categorization, and font previewer.
• Befonts: User-friendly interface, font previewer, and download options.
• DaFont: Diverse collection, customization, and community-driven features.