Glyphs vs Fontself: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Glyphs and Fontself 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:
Glyphs
A powerful Mac font editor for creating, producing, and managing typefaces, icons, and variable fonts.
Best for you if:
- • Mac font editor for professional type design, lettering, and icon creation.
- • Features high-precision vector tools, variable font creation, and smart shape reuse.
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.
| At a Glance |  Glyphs |  Fontself |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Font Tools | Font Tools |
Rating | —/100 | —/100 |
| Feature | Glyphs | Fontself |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| 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 Glyphs and Fontself solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.Glyphs positions itself as "a powerful mac font editor for creating, producing, and managing typefaces, icons, and variable fonts." while Fontselffocuses on "the easiest way to create custom fonts directly from your design software or ipad.". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose Glyphs
Glyphs makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution.
When to Choose Fontself
Fontself is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Neither is free, but both have their value. Test them both and see which clicks.
We'd pick: Fontself
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Fontself is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Fontself
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. Glyphs is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: Glyphs
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Both are paid tools. If money isn't the issue, go with Glyphs—it scored higher.
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 Glyphs higher (/100). But the community has upvoted Fontself more (0 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Glyphs Does Better
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider Fontself If
- 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 Glyphs. But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Glyphs scores higher in our analysis, but Fontself 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 Glyphs or Fontself better?
Based on our analysis, Glyphs scores higher with high/100. Glyphs ispaid while Fontself is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from Glyphs to Fontself 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 Glyphs and Fontself offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. Glyphs is paid with potential trial.Fontself is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.