Sans Normal Orbay 18 is a bold, normal width, low contrast, upright, normal x-height font visually similar to 'Plusquam Sans' by Typolis and 'Schnebel Sans ME' and 'Schnebel Sans Pro' by URW Type Foundry (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: headlines, posters, branding, packaging, signage, friendly, retro, playful, punchy, approachable, impact, approachability, display clarity, brand voice, retro cue, rounded, soft corners, chunky, compact, high impact.
A heavy, geometric sans with round, open bowls and softly squared terminals. Strokes are consistently thick with minimal modulation, giving a solid, poster-like color on the page. Curves tend toward circular/elliptical construction while joins and ends show subtle rounding or slight angles, creating a sturdy but not rigid feel. Uppercase proportions read compact and blocky; lowercase forms are simple and wide-set, with single-storey shapes and generous counters that stay clear at display sizes.
Best suited to headlines, branding marks, packaging, and signage where strong presence and friendly clarity are needed. It performs especially well in short-to-medium display text, promotional copy, and bold typographic layouts where a rounded, contemporary-retro voice is desirable.
The overall tone is upbeat and approachable, with a mild retro flavor. Its rounded geometry and chunky weight feel informal and welcoming, while the steady rhythm keeps it confident and straightforward. The personality leans toward playful practicality rather than sleek minimalism.
The design appears intended to deliver maximum readability and impact at display sizes while maintaining an inviting, non-technical tone. Its geometric, rounded construction suggests a goal of versatility for modern branding and editorial display, with enough character to stand out without relying on ornament.
Letterforms show a mix of circular construction and slight wedge-like cutoffs that add energy without becoming decorative. Numerals match the same robust, rounded logic and maintain strong presence in text. Spacing appears designed for display clarity, producing a dense, impactful texture in headlines and short lines.