Uppercases, too safe to be generalised?

This article has no intention to judge or establish a code of typographic conduct; instead, we will simply reflect upon the choice of using full uppercase in typography.

The choice to use fonts in full capitals is a matter of design on the one hand and readability on the other. Design-wise, blocs of capital letters work in a more systematic system than lowercase. Indeed, if you look at the common elements in letters — such as the vertical stem in B, D, E, F, H, I J, K, L, M, N, P R, T — there is a more self-evident rhythm. In addition, uppercase letters in most typefaces tend to maintain a more standard proportion ratio than lowercase. Of course, this might vary between typefaces, but it’s more of a global observation than a universal truth.

Aesthetically speaking, this consistency among uppercase letters creates blocs that are easier to set up alongside other typographic elements or visuals. In a world immersed in the so-called Swiss typography and its grids, the usage of all uppercase words helps reinforce the grid and the alignment between various elements.

When it comes to the relationship with other typographic pieces above and below, blocs of uppercase letters help align things more easily. The major difference between lowercase letters is the invisible line created by the consistent height of uppercase letters. Having this ongoing line helps create a seamless space between an element’s upper and lower neighbours.

But what about readability? In this world of all caps, the ease of reading decreases quite rapidly after only a few words. There is a saying, “We read best what we read most”. Historically, most documents have been written or printed in lowercase letters, which creates a more memorable image as the variation between the ascender and the descender can help to fix the visual in our brains. Uppercase letters, however, have stronger consistency which requires more decoding rather than a quick scan of lowercase.

Using all uppercase offers interesting design value but should be used with care to not damage the readability of the message.