FontForge vs Prototypo

FontForge is a free, open-source font editor for Windows, macOS and GNU/Linux. It creates and modifies PostScript, TrueType and OpenType fonts, saves fonts in outline formats and can generate bitmaps. Users can draw letter outlines, set glyph metrics and ligatures, and manage related metadata. FontForge supports OpenType and Apple Advanced Typography tables, including GPOS and GSUB features. Its font, bitmap and metrics views offer ways to inspect and edit typefaces. For automation, it includes Python and a legacy native scripting interpreter; Python-package plugins can add tools to the Font View or Char View menus. The command line accepts PostScript, TrueType, OpenType, Mac resource, bitmap and SVG files, among others listed. The project makes source code available under a libre license and permits redistribution with or without a fee. Releases are available for Windows, Mac and GNU+Linux, with developer builds also offered. The Mac installation requires OS X 10.15 or later. The Windows page warns that the launcher may upset some antivirus and firewall applications. For questions, the homepage directs users to consult documentation and web searches before using its mailing list.

Prototypo is an online app for designing typefaces from four parametric starting points: Prototypo Fell, Prototypo Grotesk, Prototypo Elzevir, and Spectral. Its controls cover more than thirty characteristics, including thickness, aperture, and roundness, with separate adjustments for serif details. Users can change individual letters or groups of letters, then export fonts in OTF format for installation on macOS, Windows, or Linux, or display them in a browser. A Chrome extension previews font changes on websites, and fonts can be sent to Glyphr Studio for further editing. Prototypo supports the Latin Extended 3 glyph set, but has no cursive templates and does not let users import their own fonts to modify. The maker says exported fonts use a CC0 license, permitting commercial use without permission. The free plan has limited parameter range and one week of support; Pro is $8.25 per month and Team is $49.96 per month. The FAQ lists a free trial and requires an up-to-date Chrome, Firefox, or Opera browser.