Reference

PFB (PostScript font)

PFB (Printer Font Binary) is the binary container for a PostScript Type 1 font’s outline data. It holds the actual glyph shapes and usually travels with a separate metrics file before being installed.

Files & formatsGeneral

PFB (PostScript font)

Also known as: .pfb file, Printer Font Binary, Type 1 PFB

Binary container for PostScript Type 1 outlines
Usually paired with a PFM metrics file
Type 1 is deprecated; convert to OTF or TTF

PFB in the Type 1 system

A classic PostScript Type 1 font on Windows shipped as a pair: a PFB with the encrypted glyph outlines and a PFM with the spacing and metrics. On the Mac the equivalents were carried differently, but the outline data is the same kind.

PFB is the Windows binary form; a related PFA stores the same data as ASCII text.

PFB today

Type 1 fonts are deprecated in current design software, which now expects OTF or TTF. Font tools can convert a PFB (with its metrics) into OpenType for modern use.

Related terms

Keep reading the reference.

Files & formatsPostScript Type 1 fontPostScript Type 1 is an early scalable font format from Adobe that defined professional digital type for desktop publishing. It uses outline glyphs but has been deprecated in modern software in favor of OpenType.General Files & formatsPFM (font metrics)PFM (Printer Font Metrics) is the companion file to a PostScript Type 1 font on Windows. It stores spacing, kerning, and character-width data, while the matching PFB file holds the actual glyph outlines.General Files & formatsOTF (OpenType font)OTF (OpenType) is a modern, cross-platform font format from Adobe and Microsoft. It stores scalable outlines like TrueType but adds advanced typography — ligatures, alternates, and small caps — making it the common choice for professional type.General