If I had to choose just ten typefaces to cover every conceivable design need—software, print, industrial products, and branding—these would be the ones. Each is an absolute workhorse in its category, with historical significance, versatility, and timeless design.

01. Futura (1927, Paul Renner) – Geometric Sans

A pinnacle of Bauhaus-era modernism, perfect for everything from corporate branding to avant-garde design. Used on the moon, in film, and across high-end product design.

02. Baskerville (1757, John Baskerville) – Transitional Serif

A high-contrast, highly readable serif that balances elegance with precision. Timeless for book design and editorial work.

03. Garamond (Adobe Garamond Pro) (16th century, Claude Garamond) – Old-Style Serif

A warm, humanist serif that remains a staple in book publishing and classic typographic layouts. Adobe's revival is considered definitive.

04. Univers (1957, Adrian Frutiger) – Grotesque Sans

Teenage Engineering's choice, a modular and systematic typeface that works beautifully across industrial, corporate, and tech design. Learn more about Univers.

05. DIN 1451 (1931, German Institute for Standardization) – Engineered Sans

Originally for road signage and industrial use, its compressed forms and clean structure make it essential for UI, transportation, and systematic design. Read about its history.

06. IBM Plex Mono (2017, IBM) – Monospace

A modern monospaced typeface that feels contemporary, clean, and highly readable for technical applications. Available open source.

07. Fraktur (Typographic Revival: Unifraktur Maguntia) – Blackletter

The quintessential blackletter, striking the right balance between historical weight and legibility. Learn about Fraktur.

08. Akzidenz-Grotesk (1896, Berthold Type Foundry) – Grotesque Sans

Predecessor to Helvetica, but warmer and more characterful. The true workhorse grotesque.

09. Eurostile (1962, Aldo Novarese) – Techno/Sci-Fi Sans

A modular, futuristic typeface synonymous with space-age aesthetics and industrial design. Available from Linotype.

10. Cooper Black (1922, Oswald Bruce Cooper) – Rounded/Soft Serif

A friendly, bold, and versatile typeface that adds warmth and personality, often used in playful and informal branding. Read its story.