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When is the noun type (meaning typeface or text set in type) used in singular form and when is it used in plural form?

Is it referred to as a singulare tantum?

In which case is it an uncountable noun and in which case is it countable?

For example which one is correct and why?

Serif type is based on the formal principles of letterforms of the fifteenth century.

Serif types are based on the formal principles of letterforms of the fifteenth century.

Thanks

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    What do you mean by "the letters for printing"? Do you mean the little blocks of metal (or wood) which are composed in a galley? Do you mean a typeface (a particular collection of letterforms)? Or something else?
    – Andrew Leach ♦
    Oct 8, 2020 at 15:54
  • I mean a collection of letterforms. For example a group of typefaces with specific features such as sans serif typefaces, or decorative typefaces.
    – rkeller
    Oct 8, 2020 at 16:16
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    They are called fonts. Please see font².
    – Weather Vane
    Oct 8, 2020 at 16:20
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    See typography-- the art and study of the anatomy of written letters. --> en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Typography
    – Tom O' Bedlam
    Oct 8, 2020 at 16:20
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    The first: type, but here you have some context.
    – Weather Vane
    Oct 8, 2020 at 18:47

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