Some fonts that I'm interested in using have both TrueType .ttf and OpenType .otf versions available. The fonts are commercial and high quality (there won't be any TTF simply renamed or re-wrapped as OTF) .
This Windows 7 support page indicates there are some distinct advantages with OTF such as "greater extension of the basic character set, including small capitalization, old-style numerals, and more detailed shapes, such as glyphs and ligatures. OpenType fonts can also be scaled to any size, are clear and readable in in all sizes, and can be sent to any printer or other output device that is supported by Windows." but also has language indicating that on-screen display might be poorer, "If you want a font that … is easy to read on the screen, then consider using a TrueType font."
Naturally I want both: extended character sets and advanced rendering options along with good on screen display.
Which version do I install? How much "easier to read on screen" is TTF, if at all? Does it make sense to install both, or does that cause issues? If I choose only OTF, will it work universally for all programs or does the software need to be programmed specifically to take advantage of OTF?
Best Answer
Please see the following articles to familiarize yourself with the differences between the two:
Accordingly, it appears that most people would recommend using Open Type over True Type.