What is .otf?
OTF (OpenType Font) is a scalable computer font format built on its predecessor TrueType, retaining TrueType's basic structure and adding many intricate data structures for prescribing typographic behavior. It was developed jointly by Adobe and Microsoft.
This quick guide explains when to use .otf files, how to open them on any device, and how to share them instantly with FileXhost.
When to use .otf files
- You need advanced typographic features like small caps, ligatures, and alternate characters.
- You are working on professional print design or high-end graphic work.
- You want a single font file that works cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux).
How to open .otf files
Double-click an .otf file to preview it in your operating system's font viewer. You can then install it to make it available to all applications.
Algorithm details
OpenType fonts can use either PostScript (CFF) outlines (cubic Bézier curves) or TrueType outlines (quadratic Bézier curves). The CFF variety is common in professional design as it allows for more precise and smoother curves with fewer points.
Browser & platform support
- Direct: Supported by all modern browsers.
- Usage: Can be used in CSS via `@font-face`, though WOFF2 is preferred for file size.
Format comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Features | Supports up to 65,535 glyphs and advanced features like ligatures, swashes, and stylistic sets. |
| Precision | CFF-based OTF fonts use cubic Bézier curves, which are mathematically superior for design compared to TTF's quadratic curves. |
| Size | Often smaller than TTF for complex shapes due to more efficient curve definitions, but larger than compressed web fonts (WOFF2). |
How to create otf files
- Font Editors: FontLab, Glyphs, FontForge.
- Conversion: Convert from TTF or WOFF using tools.
How to convert otf files
- Web: Convert to WOFF2 for web usage.
- FileXhost: Upload to share with designers.
Advantages & disadvantages
Advantages
- Industry standard for professional design
- Rich typographic features (ligatures, fractions, etc.)
- Cross-platform compatibility
- Superior curve precision (for CFF flavors)
Disadvantages
- Larger file size than web-optimized formats
- Overkill for simple text documents
Tools & software
Design
Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop
System
macOS Font Book, Windows Font Viewer
Editors
FontForge, Glyphs
Frequently asked questions
Is OTF better than TTF?
For professional design and typography, yes, because it supports more advanced features. For general office use, both are fine.
Can I use OTF on the web?
Yes, all modern browsers support it. However, converting it to WOFF2 is recommended to save bandwidth.
Who created OpenType?
It was a joint effort by Adobe and Microsoft to create a universal font format.
Technical specs
- File type
- Web
- Extension
- .otf
- MIME type
- font/otf, application/x-font-opentype, font/sfnt
- Compression
- Uncompressed
- Max file size on FileXhost
- Typically 50KB - 500KB. Up to 25 MB per file on free plans.
Share .otf files instantly
Upload your .otf file to FileXhost to get a clean, shareable URL in seconds. View the file in a modern browser, protect access with optional settings, and let others download it without any confusing ads or cluttered file pages.
Upload .otf file