Sans Normal Orkem 5 is a very bold, normal width, low contrast, upright, normal x-height font visually similar to 'Mensa' by AVP; 'Zin Sans' by CarnokyType; 'Morandi' by Monotype; 'Belle Sans' by Park Street Studio; and 'Core Sans N', 'Core Sans N SC', and 'Core Sans NR' by S-Core (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: headlines, posters, signage, branding, packaging, bold, confident, friendly, compact, utilitarian, impact, clarity, emphasis, readability, simplicity, heavy, rounded, blocky, clean, solid.
A heavy, rounded sans with compact proportions and a strong, even color. Strokes are broadly uniform with minimal contrast, and curves are smooth and full, producing generous counters in round letters like O and Q. Terminals are mostly straight and blunt, with simple joins and little to no tapering, giving the design a sturdy, poster-like presence. The overall rhythm is tight and efficient, with slightly condensed-looking capitals and sturdy lowercase forms that stay clear at large sizes.
This font performs best where strong emphasis is needed: headlines, posters, storefront or wayfinding-style signage, and bold brand wordmarks. Its solid shapes and ample counters also make it suitable for short UI labels, badges, and packaging callouts where clarity and impact matter more than typographic nuance.
The tone is direct and assertive while remaining approachable thanks to the soft, rounded curve work. It feels modern and no-nonsense, with a friendly practicality that suits straightforward messaging and bold emphasis. The overall impression is confident and dependable rather than delicate or formal.
The design appears intended to deliver maximum impact with minimal stylistic distraction: a clean, heavy sans that prioritizes readability, consistency, and strong visual presence. Rounded forms temper the weight, aiming for a bold voice that still feels accessible and contemporary.
The figures are chunky and highly legible, with simple, easily distinguished silhouettes. The ampersand in the sample text appears compact and bold, matching the rest of the set’s solid, unadorned construction.