A counter is the enclosed negative space inside a letterform. In letters such as A, R, d, and g, a larger counter usually makes text easier to read on small screens. section 20.3
When auditioning typefaces, check the counter alongside a few nearby clues:
- Pair counter size with aperture size, x-height, and stroke contrast when judging screen readability. section 20.3
- Remember that a and e can contain both a counter and an aperture; a larger counter can mean a smaller aperture. section 20.3
- Look for an x-height greater than half the font size to help common lowercase characters render clearly. section 20.3
Figure 20.2 When deciding on a typeface that will render well even on small displays, look for larger counters and apertures, good x-height, and low stroke contrast.
Compare the figure’s typeface examples by inspecting counters, apertures, x-height, and stroke contrast for small-display readability. section 20.3
