Sans-serif fonts are a popular typeface style used widely across digital and print design. Unlike serif fonts, which have small decorative strokes (or “serifs”) at the ends of letters, sans-serif fonts are clean and simple. The word “sans” literally means “without,” so sans-serif fonts are—quite literally—fonts without serifs. These typefaces are favored in modern web design for their clarity, simplicity, and ability to scale well on screens of all sizes.

They’re often the go-to for websites, mobile apps, and user interfaces because they make content more readable, especially on digital devices. Whether you're designing a minimalist portfolio site or revamping your company’s branding, understanding sans-serif fonts can make a major difference in how your content is perceived.

Why sans-serif fonts are so popular in web design

Sans-serif fonts are commonly used in web design because they’re easy to read on screens. With the rise of responsive design and mobile-first websites, legibility is key, and sans-serif fonts help deliver a seamless experience across different devices.

These fonts also have a modern, approachable vibe. Brands that want to appear clean, tech-forward, or user-friendly tend to use sans-serif typography. Think Google, Spotify, or Airbnb—they all use sans-serif fonts for a reason. When used properly, these fonts make websites feel more current, professional, and uncluttered.

Key characteristics of sans-serif fonts

There are a few traits that distinguish sans-serif fonts from others:

• No strokes or decorative endings – They lack the small tails that you see in serif fonts.
• Modern appearance – They often feel sleek, minimal, and contemporary.
• Geometric or humanist styles – Some are based on clean geometric shapes, while others have softer curves and variation.
• Optimized for screen readability – Especially at small sizes or on low-resolution displays.

These fonts also tend to feel neutral or objective, which is why they work so well for tech companies, startups, and SEO-optimized content where clarity is key.

Examples of common sans-serif fonts

You’ve probably seen dozens of sans-serif fonts already today, even if you didn’t notice. Here are a few popular ones:

• Helvetica – A classic font used in everything from logos to subway signage.
• Arial – One of the most recognizable system fonts, often used as a fallback.
• Roboto – Designed by Google, it’s used in Android interfaces and many web projects.
• Open Sans – A favorite for blogging platforms and content-heavy sites due to its readability.
• Futura – Known for its geometric structure and sleek aesthetic.

Each of these fonts brings a slightly different tone, but they all have that signature sans-serif clarity.

Sans-serif vs. serif fonts: What’s the difference?

Serif fonts have little “feet” or strokes at the ends of each character, giving them a more traditional or formal vibe. They’re often used in print media like newspapers, books, and formal publications. Sans-serif fonts ditch those strokes for a cleaner look.

On screens, sans-serif fonts tend to outperform serif fonts because they remain sharp and legible even at small sizes. While serif fonts can evoke trust or elegance, sans-serif fonts are more aligned with modern design trends, simplicity, and accessibility—making them ideal for use in a website builder or drag-and-drop design platform.

FAQs about sans-serif fonts

What does “sans-serif” literally mean?

“Sans-serif” comes from French, where “sans” means “without.” So it translates to “without serif,” referring to fonts that don’t have the small decorative strokes at the ends of letters.

Are sans-serif fonts better for web design than serif fonts?

Generally, yes—especially for digital screens. Sans-serif fonts are cleaner and easier to read on screens, especially mobile devices. That’s why they’re used so often in modern websites and apps.

Can I combine sans-serif and serif fonts on the same website?

Absolutely. Many designers pair a serif font for headings with a sans-serif font for body text (or vice versa) to create contrast and hierarchy. Just make sure they complement each other in tone and weight.

What’s the most popular sans-serif font for websites?

Roboto and Open Sans are both incredibly popular for web design. They’re free to use via Google Fonts, easy to read, and pair well with many other fonts.

How do I choose the right sans-serif font for my brand?

Consider your brand’s personality. Do you want to come off as modern and techy? Try something geometric like Futura. Looking for a more casual, friendly tone? Go with something like Open Sans or Lato. A great website will often combine visual style and font tone for a cohesive look.

Should you use sans-serif fonts on your website?

If you're building or redesigning a site, sans-serif fonts are a safe and stylish bet. They're readable, modern, and highly adaptable to all types of devices and screen sizes. Whether you're writing blog content or creating a sleek homepage, sans-serif fonts help your content look polished and user-friendly.

To simplify your design process, try B12’s AI website builder—it automatically selects fonts, layouts, and styles that make your brand look professional from day one. Get started today and make your site stand out with clean, readable design.