Serif fonts
Serifs come from letters carved in stone and printed in books. They feel traditional, trustworthy and editorial. Use them for books, magazines, law firms, luxury brands and elegant headings.
Sans serif fonts
Sans serifs are cleaner and more modern. They read well on screens at small sizes, which is why most apps and websites use them. They feel friendly, simple and contemporary.
Which is easier to read?
Research shows little difference when both are well made and set at a comfortable size. Choose by mood and context: a sans serif for interfaces and short text, either for long reading, a serif when you want a classic tone.
Use both together
Pairing a serif heading with a sans serif body (or the reverse) is one of the most reliable combinations in design.