Convert FNT to WOFF

Understanding FNT and WOFF file formats

FNT files are bitmap font files commonly used in older software and games to store font glyphs as raster images. They are simple and lightweight but lack scalability and advanced typographic features. WOFF (Web Open Font Format) files, on the other hand, are modern, compressed font containers designed for use on the web. WOFF supports scalable vector fonts (like TrueType or OpenType) and is widely supported by web browsers, making it ideal for web typography.

Why convert FNT to WOFF?

Converting FNT to WOFF allows you to use legacy bitmap fonts on modern websites. Since WOFF is optimized for web delivery and supports advanced font features, this conversion is essential for web developers who want to preserve the look of classic bitmap fonts in a web-friendly format.

How to convert FNT to WOFF

Direct conversion from FNT to WOFF is not straightforward because FNT is a bitmap format and WOFF is a vector-based web font format. The process typically involves two steps:

1. Convert FNT to a vector font format (such as TTF or OTF):
   Use a tool like FontForge to import the FNT file and manually trace or map the bitmap glyphs to vector outlines. This step may require some manual editing to ensure quality.
2. Export the vector font to WOFF:
   In FontForge, use File → Export → Web Open Font (*.woff) to save your font in the WOFF format.

Recommended software for FNT to WOFF conversion

• FontForge (Windows, macOS, Linux): A free, open-source font editor that supports importing bitmap fonts and exporting to WOFF. It is the most flexible tool for this conversion, though it may require manual intervention.
• BitFonter (macOS, Windows): Specialized in bitmap font editing, BitFonter can help convert FNT to a format compatible with FontForge for further export to WOFF.

Summary

While there is no one-click solution for converting FNT to WOFF, using FontForge in combination with bitmap font editors like BitFonter provides a reliable workflow. This process enables you to bring classic bitmap fonts to the modern web in a scalable, browser-friendly format.