What is X-height?

X-height refers to the height of lowercase letters in a font, specifically those without ascenders (like 'b', 'd', 'h') or descenders (like 'g', 'p', 'y'). It's literally the height of the letter 'x', which represents the standard height of the main body of lowercase letters.

When is X-height important?

X-height is crucial when selecting fonts for readability, especially at small sizes. Fonts with larger x-heights tend to appear more legible at smaller sizes because the main body of the letters is larger relative to the overall font size.

When not to prioritize X-height?

X-height considerations are less critical for display text or large headlines where legibility at small sizes isn't a concern. In these cases, other factors like character and style may take precedence.

What is the importance of X-height in Typography?

X-height affects the perceived size and readability of text. Fonts with larger x-heights appear bigger and more readable at the same point size compared to fonts with smaller x-heights. This measurement is essential for font selection, especially for body text and user interface design.