Using custom fonts can provide apps with a unique identity, and in React Native, this guide explores adding custom fonts, including Google Fonts integration.
For React Native CLI projects, steps include creating an assets/fonts folder, adding font files, creating react-native.config.js to specify font assets path, and using fontFamily in styles.
For Expo projects, installation of required packages like expo-font is needed, or for Google Fonts, use @expo-google-fonts/[font-name], then utilize useFonts Hook to load fonts.
The article covers integrating Google Fonts like Quicksand and Raleway, downloading font files, creating assets/fonts folder, and linking fonts for React Native CLI projects.
In Expo projects, custom fonts are demonstrated using the useFonts Hook, Google Fonts installation, and integrating custom Google Fonts in the project.
Best practices for React Native fonts are explained, including using system fonts, dynamic font loading, adapting to accessibility preferences, and validating font rendering across devices.
Common pitfalls when working with custom fonts are discussed, such as font loading time, font family names consistency, font path errors, performance impact, and font weight/style issues.
Issues with production builds and assets linking errors like react-native-asset problems are outlined, and recommendations for resolving them are provided.
Integrating custom fonts in React Native enhances user experience strategically, and following best practices ensures optimal performance in applications.
Key takeaways include using the useFonts Hook for Expo projects, react-native.config.js and npx react-native-asset for React Native CLI projects, handling font loading states, considering system fonts, and managing font file sizes.
By implementing these practices, custom fonts can be seamlessly integrated into React Native apps, improving user experience and performance.