What is AFM?

Adobe Font Metrics (AFM) is a text file describing Type 1 font metrics including character widths, kerning pairs, and bounding boxes.

What is CFF2?

CFF2 (Compact Font Format v2) is optimized for OpenType variable fonts with efficient data structures and support for font variations.

When Should You Use AFM vs CFF2?

AFM vs CFF2: Key Differences

• •The core technical difference: AFM relies on lossless compression whereas CFF2 uses lossless compression.
• •Both formats share lossless compression, so quality behavior is similar across the two — file size differences come from algorithm efficiency rather than compression philosophy.
• •How transparency is handled: CFF2 supports transparency, so alpha information is preserved during conversion.
• •File sizes: AFM files typically range Very small, text-based metrics and CFF2 files 15-100KB per font.
• •AFM is optimized for postscript font metrics, pdf font embedding while CFF2 is designed for variable fonts, opentype font production, advanced typesetting — choose based on your specific workflow needs

Advantages of AFM

• ✓AFM compresses data using lossless methods, keeping file sizes manageable for PostScript font metrics, PDF font embedding.
• ✓Industry-wide support means AFM files open anywhere — from legacy systems to the latest devices.
• ✓Lossless quality makes AFM the gold standard for archival and master copies.
• ✓From professional software to open-source alternatives, AFM works out of the box.

Advantages of CFF2

• ✓CFF2 applies lossless compression specifically calibrated for Variable fonts, OpenType font production, advanced typesetting.
• ✓CFF2 enjoys broad native support across operating systems, browsers, and creative tools alike.
• ✓CFF2 guarantees every bit of the original data survives — no approximations, no shortcuts.
• ✓You will find CFF2 support built into virtually every tool that handles Variable fonts, OpenType font production, advanced typesetting — no plugins or converters needed.

Common Use Cases for AFM to CFF2 Conversion

• Data visualization
• Presentation design
• Video subtitles
• Game UI typography
• Website typography
• Brand identity

Industry Applications

Best Practices for AFM to CFF2 Conversion

• →Converting AFM to CFF2: check that glyph coverage is preserved — some formats have character limitations
• →Use CFF2 for cross-platform compatibility
• →Test fonts across different browsers and operating systems after conversion
• →Always keep a backup of your original files before converting
• →Choose the appropriate quality settings for your specific use case

Troubleshooting AFM to CFF2 Conversion

• !CFF2 font doesn't render correctly → check if CFF2 supports all glyphs present in AFM
• !Licensing restrictions after AFM to CFF2 conversion → verify the font license allows format conversion
• !Hinting data lost converting AFM to CFF2 → some font formats like CFF2 may not preserve TrueType hinting
• !Special characters missing from converted CFF2 → font subsetting may have removed unused glyphs

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