There are a few different letter styles used on readerboard signs. Apart from some minor style differences they are all pretty readable with the exception of one, Condensed lettering.

You are only making an already crowded message that much more difficult to read.

Condensed Lettering is sold claiming that you can put 30% more information on your Readerboard. This is true because the letters are designed to be 30% narrower than other styles of letter. This also makes them 30% harder to read at a distance or when traveling at 40 MPH, in traffic, while talking on your cell phone. Plus, as we have pointed out before, LESS is MORE. So what if you can put 30% more information on your sign? You are only making an already crowded message that much more difficult to read.

If you already have Condensed lettering on your readerboard, you should stay with it for consistency. If you are buying letters for the first time or already have a different style of letter, I strongly recommend you DO NOT use condensed lettering. Simply put, they’re harder to read. Remember, make your message as easy to read as possible. The easier it is to read it, more people will read it. The more people that read it, the more likely a few will respond by stopping by your business and spend money.