OHSU's Software Forum

Susan Conrad · Joined: 02 Nov 2007 Posts: 31

The Calibri font is part of Microsoft's new family of fonts using ClearType technology.

What is ClearType?
ClearType is a software technology developed by Microsoft that improves the readability of text on existing LCDs (Liquid Crystal Displays), such as laptop screens, Pocket PC screens and flat panel monitors. With ClearType font technology, the words on your computer screen look almost as sharp and clear as those printed on a piece of paper.

How do I turn ClearType on?
On Windows XP:
1. Right click on the desktop and select Properties
2. Select the Appearance tab and press the Effects… button
3. Check the box for 'Use the following method to smooth edges of screen fonts', and then select ClearType in the dropdown list
4. Close the Effects dialog by clicking OK and click Apply to complete the process

Description of New ClearType Fonts available in Office 2007

Calibri (Word 2007 default)
Calibri is a sans serif with soft rounded corners. It has a warm, friendly personality that isn't found in fonts like Arial and Helvetica. It is also the one typeface in the collection that is appropriate for use both in text sizes and larger headline sizes.

In Microsoft's promotional booklet, "Now Read This," Calibri's designer Lucas de Groot says, "Its proportions allow high impact in tightly set lines of big and small type alike."
He adds, "This font is suitable for documents, e-mail, Web design, and magazines."

Calibri set in regular, bold, or italic is a pleasure to read. The rounded corners create a smooth reading experience. As de Groot says, "The family has a generous width that makes reading easier by emphasizing the reading direction."

Cambria
Cambria is one of the two serif typefaces in the collection. Designer Jelle Bosma describes the typeface as a "robust, all-purpose workhorse text face."

This "sturdy" typeface was created to be used for business documents, e-mail, and Web design.

I think the descriptions of this typeface as "sturdy," and "workhorse" are an accurate reflection of the personality of Cambria. Unlike the casual feel of Calibri, Cambria is formal and solid. These two characteristics make Cambria appropriate for business applications.

Candara
Candara is my least favorite of the six typefaces. One feature of this "informal sans serif" is a "slight flare" of the stems, or vertical strokes. The stroke is reminiscent of calligraphic forms, which I find to be less reader friendly. In addition, the unique curves of Candara create a distinct personality that has the feel of historic letterforms. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but it might not be as flexible or versatile as the other typefaces in the collection.

Consolas
Consolas is a monospaced typeface, like Courier, that is used mostly in programming environments. The main characteristic of a monospaced face is that all the letters are the same width, as they were on old typewriters.

Consolas is an important typeface because lengthy on-screen reading while programming can quickly tire the eyes. But I'll focus less on it because of its limited application.

Constantia
If Candara is my least favorite, then Constantia is my favorite. It's a beautiful typeface that is very clean and readable. The italic isn't fussy and the numerals are strong and sophisticated.

Constantia was designed with function and flexibility in mind. Created for use in print or on the screen, its versatility would enable a publication to use it for both print and Web operations. It creates a consistent look or brand in both mediums.

Designer John Hudson says, "I would be thrilled to see Constantia being used for both the print and electronic media versions of a publication. Until recently, it has not been possible to use the same typefaces in print and electronic media without compromising either the readability or the attractiveness of one or the other."

Corbel
Designer Jeremy Tankard describes Corbel as "less cuddly, more assertive." This sans serif would be a nice alternative to Arial, Trebuchet or Verdana. It is very clean but has personality. A few of the characteristics that make it attractive are its geometric shape, and its contrasting gentle curves. I would describe Corbel's personality as crisp and refreshing.