TikTok has made waves in the design world by making its own font, TikTok Sans, completely free to use – even for commercial projects.
That means you can now use TikTok Sans in your own branding, packaging, apps, websites and more without needing permission or paying a licensing fee. You can even modify it. But if you’re thinking that TikTok may have ulterior motives rather than pure goodwill, then you may just be right.
Read on as we answer the burning questions about why TikTok has done this – and what could be in it for the global social giant. Plus, we’ll dive into some of our design team’s favourite free fonts, ready for you to use in your next project.
Why make TikTok Sans free?
Rather than just being a generous move, we think there’s a little more strategy behind TikTok’s decision – not least because your font is a key part of your branding. Here are just a few reasons why we think it’s a genius move:
Instant brand recognition
By making the font free to use, TikTok extends its visual identity beyond its own app – reaching beyond its current users and subtly embedding its brand style into other projects. You can now expect TikTok’s brand to bleed into different cultural spheres. Plus, because trademarks still apply, no one can use the TikTok name or logo in a misleading way.
Building bridges with creators and developers
This release builds trust and loyalty with creators, designers and developers. TikTok is showing that it supports creators not just on the platform – but through tools they can use off-platform too. Consider it an olive branch to those creatives who tend to be suspicious of such a giant.
Easier integration across the ecosystem
Whether it’s influencers designing promo materials or developers building TikTok-adjacent apps, this freely available font makes it easier to stay on-brand – or close to it. TikTok can now integrate seamlessly – albeit visually – with other projects out there. This will make the colossal business seem even bigger and more omnipotent than it does now.
Growth and flexibility
Not only is the font free to use, but it’s open-source – which means the online creative community can help it evolve. Expect new weights, character support and refinements as time goes on. If anything, it takes some of that work off TikTok’s plate.
What you can and can’t do with TikTok Sans
Just as with any other free font, there are limitations to what you can and can’t do with TikTok Sans – and before you even consider clicking that download button, we’d recommend getting to know these guidelines. It could save you a headache in the long run.
You can use TikTok Sans for:
- Logos
- Websites
- Product interfaces
- Packaging
- Print and digital branding
You can’t:
- Use the name “TikTok” or its logos in a way that suggests endorsement or affiliation
- Do anything that breaks the SIL Open Font License 1.1 – which is worth checking
Download TikTok Sans now
Available from: Google Fonts
License: SIL Open Font License 1.1
Free for commercial and personal use
Our favourite free fonts for commercial use
With even the simplest of typographical tools costing a pretty penny, a free font can be a lifeline for any small ecommerce business. So, inspired by TikTok’s release, we asked our designers – Andy and Dan – to share their go-to free fonts that are stylish, versatile and safe to use in commercial projects.
Each font below is free to download, licensed for commercial use and open-source or permissively licensed. Let’s dive in.
1. Inter
Available from: https://fonts.google.com/specimen/Inter
Andy says: “Inter is our digital workhorse. It’s clean, readable and optimised for screens. Perfect for interfaces, dashboards and product design.”
2. Clash display
Available from: https://www.fontshare.com/fonts/clash-display
Dan says: “Bold, modern and a little editorial — Clash Display makes headlines stand out. We’ve used it for social content, campaigns and anywhere that needs some energy.”
3. Manrope
Available from: https://manropefont.com
Andy says: “A solid all-rounder. Manrope feels modern but friendly and it plays nicely in everything from websites to brand systems.”
4. General Sans
Available from: https://www.fontshare.com/fonts/general-sans
Dan says: “Clean and neutral in the best way – this font doesn’t get in the way, but it still feels intentional. We reach for it when clarity is key.”
5. Spline Sans
Available from: https://fonts.google.com/specimen/Spline+Sans
Andy says: “A bit more playful and soft, Spline Sans adds personality without being loud – great for brands with a human touch.”
6. Space Grotesk
Available from: https://fonts.google.com/specimen/Space+Grotesk
Dan says: “Space Grotesk brings a little edge. It feels unique but not overly styled – we love it for tech and creative projects that want to stand out.”
Your font, your brand
TikTok’s release of TikTok Sans shows how open-source fonts can benefit everyone – from independent creators to massive platforms. If you’re building a brand, designing a product or just refreshing your font collection, free fonts can form the backbone of any design toolkit.
But what’s the real takeaway from TikTok’s unexpected move? Well, your font forms a key part of your branding. It’s something you’ll use every day – something your clients and customers will interact with. If there’s anything you should get right, it’s your font. If you need a hand solidifying your brand and making it sing, just get in touch today.
