Different Types of Logo Design and Which One to Choose. Have you ever considered what makes a brand unforgettable? 

Legendary graphic designer Paul Rand once said, 

“Logo is the silent ambassador of your brand.”

A logo is your brand’s signature look. It’s a visual sign that shares your story and sticks in the minds of your customers. A unique logo can help people remember you in a world where they see tons of ads and logos daily. 

Yet, for business startups, the question remains:

with so many logo designs available, how do you choose the right one for your brand? 

This article will explore the most popular logo design styles to help you choose the perfect match for your business identity.

But First… What is a Logo? – And Why does it MUST Stand Out?

A logo serves as a critical branding tool, encapsulating a company’s identity and distinguishing it from competitors in the market. It represents a business visually and aids in fostering brand recognition. There are two main types of logos: 

• Logos containing Company name or initials
• Logos containing Text and symbol

Branding data indicates that a well-known logo can enhance customer engagement, with approximately 60% of customers more inclined to engage with or buy from a brand they recognize.

Moreover, evidence suggests that a consistent brand appearance across all mediums can uplift revenue by nearly 23%. Therefore, a standout and memorable logo is essential, as it significantly impacts a company’s visibility and earnings in a competitive landscape.

7 Different Types of Logo Designs You Can Choose From

Creating a logo is a detailed process that requires knowing a brand’s main values, who it’s for, and what it wants to say. The kind of logo chosen is very important for the brand’s image. 

Take a look at seven kinds of logo designs and when to pick the specific design.

1. Monogram Logos (or Lettermarks)

Monogram logos or lettermarks use the initials of the company, making the logo succinct and easily recognizable. This type of logo is particularly suitable for companies with lengthy names, as it simplifies their brand identity. 

Take HBO (Home Box Office) as an example; they use a lettermark logo, which provides a clean, recognizable representation of their brand.

In designing a lettermark, selecting the right font is essential because it needs to capture the brand’s essence with just a few letters. This type of logo is perfect for brands aiming to simplify their identity using a minimalist style.

2. Wordmarks (or Logotypes)

Wordmarks are typographic logos that focus on the business name alone. This style is all about keeping it simple and clean, with the font choice carrying the weight of the logo’s impact. 

Google’s logo is a prime example, utilizing simple, bold letters in an array of colors, mirroring its playful, accessible brand identity. 

Wordmarks are perfect for new companies aiming to boost name recognition, but the brand name itself needs to be catchy and concise for maximum effect.

3. Pictorial Marks (or Logo Symbols)

Logo symbols called pictorial marks use a single picture to symbolize a brand.

The tough part of creating a pictorial mark is to pick or create a symbol that matches the brand’s values.

The apple for Apple and the bird for Twitter are clear symbols that quickly show what these brands stand for, using a simple and stylish look. Such logos are great for brands that are already well-known or those that have strong potential for visual representation.

4. Abstract Logo Marks

Unlike pictorial marks that use recognizable images, abstract logo marks are geometric forms that represent your company in a more conceptual manner. These logos encapsulate the brand in a unique way, free from cultural implications. The Pepsi divided circle, for instance, while abstract, conveys youthful energy and a global appeal. Abstract logos are great for brands aiming for a universal presence without relying on specific imagery.

5. Mascots

Mascot logos involve an illustrated character that acts as the brand ambassador. These characters are often colorful and fun, bringing a human element to the brand. 

Tony the Tiger for Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes is a notable example. It creates a family-friendly image and emotional connection with the audience. Mascots are particularly effective for brands targeting families and children or those looking to create a vibrant, engaging brand persona.

6. Combination Mark

Combination marks blend a symbol with a wordmark, offering the versatility to use them together or separately. This type of logo can be highly effective in embedding a brand’s identity through both text and symbol. 

The Burger King logo, with both text and the emblematic burger icon, is an exemplar of a combination mark that is versatile and recognizable. Brands opting for a combination mark enjoy the benefits of both pictorial symbolism and name recognition.

7. Emblem

Emblems are logos that incorporate text inside a symbol, such as a badge, seal, or crest – think of traditional, often vintage, designs. Starbucks’ round coffee emblem is a modern take on this classic style, suggesting a sense of heritage and quality. 

Emblems are beneficial for brands wishing to project a traditional, enduring image, and they’re especially popular among schools, organizations, or food and beverage brands aiming for a stamp of authenticity.

Key Takeaway 7 ways to design a logo

The appropriate logo type is crucial for your brand’s identity. Whether it’s a monogram, wordmark, pictorial mark, abstract, mascot, combination, or emblem, the choice hinges on your brand’s message, audience, and industry. Consider factors like scalability, versatility, and relevance, ensuring the logo not only stands out but evolves with your business. The right logo fosters recognition, embodies brand values and connects with the audience, which is essential for success.