Case Study: Typeface Evaluation for a Global Tech Company in Japan

Client: Anonymous (Global Tech Company)

Sofie Beier

Problem
A global tech company was preparing to roll out a new Japanese typeface across its digital products. Before implementation, they needed to know whether the design was legible at small screen sizes, comfortable for continuous reading, and culturally well-received by native Japanese readers.

Solution
Typ conducted a two-part research study in Tokyo with native Japanese participants across age groups:

Legibility Study – Tested multiple font variants at decreasing sizes to identify how well each performed in demanding screen-based contexts.

Reading & Preference Study – Compared the same variants in continuous reading tasks, measuring speed, comprehension, and user perception of comfort and preference.

The methodology ensured that both objective performance and subjective user experience were considered, providing the client with a comprehensive picture.

Outcome for the Client
The client received evidence-based guidance on which typeface styles were most suitable for:

UI and small-size text

Continuous reading environments

Headlines and display use