A Figma design I was reviewing for a project in Bricks uses a Neue Helvetica font. I noticed the font Helvetica Neue in Bricks. Are these the same fonts?
Helvetica Neue and Neue Helvetica are two fonts that are often confused with each other because their names are very similar. Here are the main differences between the two:
development: Helvetica Neue was developed in 1983 by Max Miedinger and Edouard Hoffmann. It is a revised version of the original Helvetica, which was created in 1957. Helvetica Neue is characterized by an improved typeface structure and a more consistent design. Neue Helvetica is basically a rebranding or update of Helvetica, which was predominantly used in the 1980s and beyond, and ensures that the typeface is optimized for digital applications.
typefaces: Helvetica Neue has an extensive family with many weights and weights ranging from Ultra Light to Black, including italics. This offers more flexibility and options compared to Helvetica.
Neue Helvetica aims to modernize the original Helvetica and also offers different weights, but may not offer as many options as Helvetica Neue, depending on the version and licensing.
3 Typographic features: Helvetica Neue has slightly different proportions and spacing, specifically designed for better legibility in different applications, especially digital. Neue Helvetica may have more original features of classic Helvetica, while Helvetica Neue has been improved and updated.
use: Both fonts are widely used in modern typography. Helvetica Neue is often preferred when a modern, clean font is needed, while Neue Helvetica is sometimes used in contexts where classic Helvetica is desired, but with a contemporary lightness.
To summarize, Helvetica Neue is a completely redesigned version with more weights and adapted typographic features, while Neue Helvetica is an updated version of classic Helvetica.
The primary question is whether the client (or designer) would notice (probably not, since it’s basically the same font with subtle differences) and if so, whether he is prepared to license Neue Helvetica (Pro) from myfonts, for example:
You can simply check whether you see a significant difference between the two fonts. As I said, I don’t think so.
Helvetica Neue was developed in 1983 by Max Miedinger and Edouard Hoffmann. It is a revised version of the original Helvetica, which was created in 1957. Helvetica Neue is characterized by an improved typeface structure and a more consistent design.