Typeface and reading speed
Jakob Nielsen reviewed Adobe's study of how typeface choice affects reading speed. The takeaway: we're not that close to parsing out all of the potential factors in font legibility, which likely include age, reading level, and context. After reading this, I have some questions about how typefaces can impact user and business value.
- Do users get more value from reading a typeface they enjoy versus one that helps them read the fastest?
- Is it more valuable to use a typeface that helps users remember a site's content or one that reinforces a unique brand identity?
Like most design decisions, it essentially comes down to trade-offs.