Sans Superellipse Ubkem 4 is a bold, narrow, medium contrast, upright, normal x-height font visually similar to 'ATF Alternate Gothic' by ATF Collection, 'Kuunari' and 'Kuunari Rounded' by Melvastype, 'Otoiwo Grotesk' by Pepper Type, and 'Ordax' by The Northern Block (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: posters, packaging, headlines, signage, branding, industrial, posterlike, hand-hewn, retro, impact, compact fit, ruggedness, vintage print, condensed, blunt, inky, rounded corners, soft terminals.
A condensed sans with sturdy, rectangular construction and generously rounded corners that push many curves toward squarish superellipse shapes. Strokes are heavy with slight modulation and occasional irregularities that read like ink gain or lightly distressed edges rather than perfectly machined outlines. Counters tend to be compact, apertures are relatively closed, and the overall rhythm is vertical and tight, with tall ascenders and short-looking cross elements. The numerals and lowercase maintain the same blocky, softened geometry, creating a consistent, compact texture in lines of text.
Best suited to display settings where a compact, forceful voice is needed—posters, packaging panels, labels, and signage. It also works for short headlines and subheads in editorial or web layouts when you want dense line breaks and a bold, industrial texture; for long body text, the tight counters and heavy color may feel intense.
The font feels utilitarian and industrial, like bold labeling or stamped signage, but softened by rounded corners and subtly rough edges. It conveys a confident, workmanlike tone with a hint of vintage printing and handmade grit, making it assertive without feeling sharp or technical.
The design appears intended to deliver a condensed, high-impact sans that combines rounded-rectangle geometry with a slightly rough, printed finish. It aims for strong legibility at display sizes while projecting a rugged, vintage-leaning character appropriate for bold statements and utilitarian branding.
Round forms (such as O/Q and 0/8/9) lean toward rounded-rectangle silhouettes, while straight-sided letters keep flat faces and softened terminals for a cohesive, sturdy silhouette. The slightly uneven edge behavior becomes more noticeable at larger sizes, adding character and warmth compared to a purely geometric condensed sans.