What it does
FontBase manages font collections on Windows, Mac and Linux. You can preview fonts, organise collections, watch folders and activate fonts without installing them permanently. The core application is free, while Awesome adds automatic activation, more detailed search and other paid features.
A watched folder lets FontBase display fonts where you already keep them. Collections organise a shortlist, and the preview controls change text, size, colour and line spacing. The Playground can show heading and paragraph combinations and export CSS for a web project.
What Awesome adds
The free version continues without a time limit. Awesome adds tools such as automatic activation of missing fonts in supported Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign documents, detailed glyph access and searches by contrast, proportion, x-height and weight.
The pricing page shows USD 3 per month and also offers Yearly and Forever payment choices. Awesome needs an account: after subscribing, set a password from the email and choose Become Awesome, then Login, in the app. One personal subscription covers two computers at the same time; organisations need a subscription per user or a multi-seat arrangement.
Strengths
- Supports Windows, Mac and Linux.
- Can watch existing folders without relocating them.
Watch out for
- Some advanced search and automation features require Awesome.
Best for
- Designers sorting large local font folders.
- Comparing fonts before activation.
Sources
- FontBase font manager (Oct 27, 2026)
- FontBase Awesome pricing (Oct 27, 2026)