What is CFF2?

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

What is AFM?

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

When Should You Use CFF2 vs AFM?

CFF2 vs AFM: Key Differences

• •CFF2 uses lossless compression while AFM uses lossless compression — both take the same approach to file size management.
• •Since both CFF2 and AFM use lossless compression, the quality characteristics are comparable — differences in file size come down to how efficiently each format implements compression.
• •How transparency is handled: AFM supports transparency, so alpha information is preserved during conversion.
• •Storage footprint: 15-100KB per font for CFF2 vs Very small, text-based metrics for AFM.
• •CFF2 is optimized for variable fonts, opentype font production, advanced typesetting while AFM is designed for postscript font metrics, pdf font embedding — choose based on your specific workflow needs

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.

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.

Common Use Cases for CFF2 to AFM Conversion

• User interfaces
• Marketing materials
• Packaging design
• Signage systems
• Icon sets
• Logo design

Industry Applications

Best Practices for CFF2 to AFM Conversion

• →Converting CFF2 to AFM: check that glyph coverage is preserved — some formats have character limitations
• →Use AFM for websites where file size matters
• →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 CFF2 to AFM Conversion

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

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