Fontself vs FontForge: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Fontself and FontForge comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Fontself
The easiest way to create custom fonts directly from your design software or iPad.
Best for you if:
- • Create custom OpenType fonts from your designs.
- • Available as an iPad app and desktop extension for Illustrator/Photoshop.
FontForge
An outline font editor that lets you create and modify PostScript, TrueType, and OpenType fonts.
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • Free and open-source font editor.
- • Supports creation and modification of various font formats (PostScript, TrueType, OpenType).
| At a Glance |  Fontself | |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Font Tools | Font Tools |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Fontself | FontForge |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | — | — |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Font ToolsGraphic Design | Font ToolsGraphic Design |
Understanding the Differences
Both Fontself and FontForge solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Fontself positions itself as "the easiest way to create custom fonts directly from your design software or ipad." while FontForgefocuses on "an outline font editor that lets you create and modify postscript, truetype, and opentype fonts.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Fontself
Fontself makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution.
When to Choose FontForge
FontForge is worth considering if you need a flexible option with both free and paid tiers tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
FontForge won't cost you anything to start, which is exactly what early-stage teams need.
We'd pick: FontForge
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. FontForge is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: FontForge
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Fontself is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: Fontself
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Want to test first? FontForge has a free tier to get you started.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Fontself higher (/100). But the community has upvoted FontForge more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Fontself Does Better
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider FontForge If
- You want to start free and scale later
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Fontself. But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Fontself scores higher in our analysis, but FontForge might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fontself or FontForge better?
Based on our analysis, Fontself scores higher with high/100. Fontself ispaid while FontForge is freemium. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Fontself to FontForge easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do Fontself and FontForge offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Fontself is paid with potential trial.FontForge is freemium with a free tier. Visit their websites for current trial offers.