Sans Normal Edref 3 is a regular weight, narrow, low contrast, italic, normal x-height font visually similar to 'Swiss 721' by Bitstream, 'Newhouse DT' by DTP Types, 'Helen Bg' by HS Fonts, 'CG Triumvirate' and 'Helvetica Now' by Monotype, 'Europa Grotesk SB' and 'Europa Grotesk SH' by Scangraphic Digital Type Collection, and 'Nimbus Sans Novus' by URW Type Foundry (names referenced only for comparison).
Keywords: ui labels, navigation, dashboards, posters, headlines, modern, efficient, technical, clean, understated, space saving, modernization, forward motion, clarity, oblique, condensed, monolinear, open counters, rounded forms.
A condensed, oblique sans with monolinear strokes and smoothly rounded curves. Letterforms are compact with tight, economical proportions, relying on clean diagonals and open apertures for clarity at slanted angles. Curves in characters like C, G, O, and e are broadly elliptical, while straight-sided forms (H, N, M) keep a firm, linear rhythm. Numerals follow the same streamlined construction, with simple, open shapes and minimal detailing.
It suits space-conscious settings where a modern slanted voice helps emphasize hierarchy, such as UI labels, navigation elements, data dashboards, and product or tech branding. The condensed proportions also make it effective for headlines, subheads, and poster typography where horizontal space is limited but a dynamic tone is desired.
The overall tone is contemporary and utilitarian, projecting speed and forward motion through its consistent slant. Its restraint and lack of ornament give it a pragmatic, technical voice that reads as efficient rather than expressive.
The design appears intended to deliver a compact, modern italicized sans for contemporary communication, balancing tight width with clear shapes and steady rhythm. Its consistent slant and simplified detailing suggest a focus on efficient, high-contrast-in-layout applications like interface and display typography.
The oblique angle is applied consistently across caps, lowercase, and figures, producing a unified texture in text. Counters remain relatively open for a condensed design, and terminals are clean and unadorned, supporting a crisp, engineered feel.