Apple, Nike, Coca-Cola, and BMW are the top-known brands worldwide. Most people can name these brands through their logos because the best logos are memorable.
Creating the right logo is a critical step in establishing a brand identity. The logo should reflect the essence of your business and the products or services you offer. It should communicate a message or feeling that aligns with your brand identity.
If you plan to build a logo that resonates with your brand and stands the test of time, you must consider many things.
One crucial aspect of logo design is choosing the right type of logo for your business. Let us look at the different types of Logos.
Before designing the logo, a clear picture of what message you want to convey is crucial. It helps you create a logo that appeals to your target audience and stands the test of time.
What is Logo?
A logo is any emblem a company has designed to represent its brand visually. From a business perspective, it is a graphic symbol companies create to represent their brands. It makes users and customers understand what you do.
Different types of logos to consider, including:
- Wordmark logos
- Monogram logos
- Combination logos
- Brandmark logos
- Emblem logos
- Mascot logos
Each logotype serves a different purpose, as different logos work for different business types. However, a few types of logos are more prevalent recently.
8 Types of Logos
MONOGRAMS
Monograms, also known as acronyms, are a type of logo known for their simplicity and minimalism. Examples such as IBM, CNN, HP, and HBO elegantly shorten lengthy company names into 2–4 letters.
These letters are generally the initial letters of a company. Initials are easier to remember and eye-catching as well. They, thus, become memorable symbols of an organization.
NASA is a prime example, where the acronym looks cool and sounds unique. However, Initials don’t work for each company, such as “Music Media Manufacturing” (MMM), which is not cool. The key is to balance shortness and pleasing arrangement to ensure the monogram stands out and leaves a lasting impression.
LETTERFORMS
We all are well aware of the G of Google, M of McDonalds and N of Netflix. These are examples of letterform logos.
Monograms use two or more letters, while letterforms are centered around a single letter. This single letter can be presented in a formal and easily recognizable manner or be stylized.
Letter-based logos are evergreen and are effective for personal branding. They are simple yet stylish and are a prime example of minimalism.
One of the key advantages of letterform logos is their scalability. They can be easily resized with minimal elements, making them versatile for various applications, including app icons and social media profiles.
Lettermarks and monograms rely on text alone. Thus, designers need to choose the typeface very carefully. The logo should be easy to read yet engaging. These logos are also used for smaller spaces like website favicons, apps, and social media profile images.
SYMBOLS
The next is Symbols logo, which features images or recognizable shapes. Symbol logos do not include a company name. A symbol can imitate or represent a real object or take a completely abstract form. Thus, such trademark logos are best for brands already gaining recognition.
Symbol logos make the image they rely on to be the only reference to the brand. Most successful brands use the combined type of logo and only switch to symbols once they’ve earned enough recognition.
Examples of Symbol Logos are Twitter with a twitting blue bird (now changed to X), Apple with an iconic bitten apple, Mercedes-Benz with a three-pointed star symbol, and more.
COMBINATION LOGO
As the name suggests, the combination logo uses a wordmark or lettermark with symbols. It is the most preferred logotype as it offers the flexibility to use words and symbols. Companies can use the logo in different arrangements, like a symbol beside, on top, below, or inside the text. They can also use just the symbol or the wordmark for platforms like favicon or social media.
Companies also prefer combination logos as they help convey a message easily. A visual representation with text makes the message crystal clear.
ABSTRACT LOGO
Abstract logos rely on visual elements to convey ideas, often using imagery, symbolism, or metaphor. The intention is to capture and convey a brand’s core principles or essence. However, the abstract logos should be simple enough for people to understand.
Abstract logos can easily convey a wrong message and, thus, are hard to create. If the logo is too symbolic, it will disconnect from the brand.
Abstract logos can do wonders when combined with right branding and marketing campaigns. Abstract logos give designers a canvas to communicate a brand’s identity and values creatively. Examples of Abstract Logos are Nike Swoosh, Pepsi Globe, Adidas, BP Helios, etc.
One advantage of abstract logos is that it will be unique for your organization, helping you stand out in the market. The footwear and apparel brand Nike logo is an excellent example of an abstract symbol.
MASCOT LOGOS
Mascot logos include an illustrated character that serves as the brand’s ambassador. It can be a real person or a fictional character. The illustrations add fun and friendliness for a deeper connection with the audience.
Mascot logos are ideal for fast food, sports, or consumer goods. Mascots instantly connect consumers, like Colonel Sanders from KFC or the Pillsbury Doughboy. Sports businesses use mascots to show camaraderie. They also use animal mascots to convey courage or vitality.
Examples of mascot logos include the Kool-Aid Man, the KFC Colonel, and Mr. Peanut.
WORDMARK
Wordmark logos, or “logotypes,” represent a classic and pure logo design form. This type of logo is particularly suitable for companies with short names. Even if the company name consists of two words, they can be stacked to create an eye-catching wordmark logo, optimizing space and visual impact. Wordmark logos rely solely on typography, showcasing the company’s name in a visually appealing and unique manner.
A wordmark logo is ideal if you are new in the industry as you can quickly spread your name. Ensure to keep the name short and the design appealing.
Examples include Google’s wordmark logo which uses playful lettering, showcasing the brand’s friendly and innovative nature. Another example is The New York Times, with a bold and traditional serif font, reflecting a sense of authority.
DYNAMIC LOGO
Dynamic logos are a combination of various logotypes like abstracts, symbols, or letterforms. Dynamic logos are ideal for brands in the digital space.
Companies can use dynamic logos differently on websites or other digital platforms for different occasions.
They adapt to different contexts and make it easier to convey the message. Dynamic logos can communicate a holiday spirit, sports, or sounds. Dynamic logos maintain the audience’s interest as they might wait to see how you use the logo next.
Conclusion
When selecting a logotype, it’s crucial to consider its flexibility and practicality. The logo should scale effectively to different sizes, ensuring it looks impressive on printed materials and social media profiles.
The design elements, including fonts, images, and colors, convey your brand’s spirit and philosophy. Creating a unique logo that distinguishes your company is essential, making it more visible and recognizable than similar ones. Do not copy ideas, as uniqueness enhances brand visibility and memorability.
Do you want to design a logo for your business? Graypple Studio can help you create a logo that communicates the values and essence of your brand. Visual appeal is just a part of the logo design; we invest time in crafting logos that tell your brand story. Contact us to create an exceptional logo for your brand.
