FontStruct vs Type Light

FontStruct is an online tool for building fonts from geometric shapes arranged on a grid. Its web-based FontStructor editor lets users assemble designs called FontStructions, with controls for bricks, rotation, flipping, filters, spacing, kerning, keyboard shortcuts, and interface customization. Advanced editing includes Expert Mode, brick stacking, composite bricks, and commands. Finished designs can be downloaded as TrueType fonts for use in Mac or Windows applications; color fonts and webfont export are supported. Users can keep creations private or share them in a gallery, download other users’ fonts, and copy designs to make variations. A widget can display FontStructions on a website or blog. The site presents the service as a type-design community and as a grid-based way to teach type-design basics. It is a free service funded by advertising and sponsors. The FAQ says existing fonts cannot be uploaded, and OpenType layout tools are not included. A quick start guide and FAQ are offered, but the maker does not provide general instructions for installing fonts on specific systems.

Type Light is a free TrueType font editor for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It creates and modifies TTF fonts, including custom symbol and barcode fonts. Drawing tools make glyphs from straight lines and quadratic Bézier curves, with operations for combining or subtracting shapes. You can assign Unicode values or custom encodings to glyph slots and set horizontal metrics. Basic kerning tables and pair adjustments are supported. Metadata controls cover family name, style flags, copyright strings, and embedding permissions. The editor exports Windows-compatible TTF files that the product page says work in Office applications, Adobe products, and web browsers. No registration is required, and the free plan has no feature restrictions or trial period. Created fonts may be used commercially. Type Light does not provide OpenType features, variable fonts, or PostScript Type 1 support, and its undo history is limited.