A type font that is created in the required point size as needed for display or printing. The dot patterns (bitmaps) of scalable fonts are generated from a set of outlines that contain a mathematical representation of the typeface. The two major scalable fonts are Adobe's Type 1 PostScript and Apple/Microsoft's TrueType.
Scalable vs. Bitmaps
Although a bitmapped font designed for a specific size of type will always look crisp and the best, scalable fonts eliminate storing thousands of bitmaps. However, in most cases, only the trained eye can tell the difference. Contrast with
bitmapped font.