PFB is Type 1 PostScript in binary segments — length-prefixed blocks instead of printable hex, the form X11 and printer drivers actually want on disk.
Typical use: Convert PFB to PFA when a tool needs to read the font as text.
About the PFB format
PFB packages the same Type 1 font as length-prefixed binary segments — ASCII header, encrypted binary body, ASCII trailer — marked with 0x80 sentinel bytes. This is the on-disk form X11 font servers, printer drivers and Ghostscript expect, and it is about 30% smaller than the ASCII PFA.
Converting PFB to PFA turns every segment back into printable text — handy for diffing fonts, patching hinting by hand or feeding interpreters that only accept ASCII.
Strengths
- ✓ Compact binary form of Type 1
- ✓ The form X11/drivers actually install
- ✓ Lossless round-trip with PFA
Limitations
- ✗ Not human-readable
- ✗ Type 1 is end-of-life at Adobe
- ✗ Segment size cap of 64KB per block
- Structure
- 0x80-segmented binary (ASCII/binary/ASCII)
- Types / schema
- Binary (Type 1)
- Compatibility
- X11, Ghostscript, fontforge
- Best for
- Installed Type 1 fonts
Convert PFB to…
1 direct directions, sorted A–Z; 🔥 marks popular targets.
Convert other files to PFB…
Frequently asked questions
What is a PFB file?
PFB is Type 1 PostScript in binary segments — length-prefixed blocks instead of printable hex, the form X11 and printer drivers actually want on disk.
How do I convert PFB files online?
Pick a target format from the "Convert PFB to…" list below, drop your file and hit convert. Everything runs in your browser — no install, no upload, no watermark, no limits.
Is it safe to convert PFB files here?
Yes. Every conversion is performed by your own device inside the browser — files never leave for a server, and the page keeps working even offline.
Which formats can PFB convert to?
This page lists all 1 directions across documents, images, audio, video, spreadsheets and archives — each one is its own free converter page.