Seven Different Types of Logos
When building your brand, your logo is often the first thing people notice. A well-crafted logo creates an immediate connection, tells your brand's story, and leaves a lasting impression. However, did you know there are seven main types of logos, each offering its own unique advantages? One logo might not work for every platform, depending on where your logo will be used—whether it's your website, social media, or business cards. That's why having more than one version of your logo is essential.
I'll break down the different types of logos to help you decide which style best suits your brand. After all, no one-size-fits-all solution exists, and the goal is to ensure your logo is recognizable wherever it appears.
Mascot Logos
A mascot logo is when a fun character is born to represent your brand. Think of famous mascots like the Kool-Aid Man or Tony the Tiger! These logos are playful, approachable, and ideal for brands focusing on family, kids, or entertainment; a mascot logo might be a perfect fit.
2. Abstract Logos
Abstract logos use shapes, forms, and colors that don't directly represent anything recognizable but still convey a unique brand identity. These designs allow for a lot of creativity and flexibility. Think of brands like Nike's swoosh or Pepsi's circular, wave-like logo. They can evoke specific emotions or ideas without being tied to a literal image.
3. Wordmark Logos
A wordmark is a logo made entirely of your brand's name in a distinct style or font. No symbols or icons—just your name, front and center. Famous examples include Coca-Cola and Google. These logos are clean, memorable, and great for businesses with unique or catchy names that are easy to recognize on their own.
4. Monogram Logos
Monogram logos are made up of initials or letterforms, typically from your business name. These logos are all about simplicity and elegance. Think of brands like HBO, CNN, or Louis Vuitton. A monogram can help shorten a long business name and still keep your brand easily identifiable.
5. Combination Logos
As the name suggests, a combination logo merges a wordmark with a symbol or icon. The flexibility of these logos allows you to create something truly unique that can be used in multiple contexts. Think of PayPal, Target or Rolex. A combination logo gives you the best of both worlds: you can use the wordmark alone, the symbol alone, or together as a unit
6. Pictorial Logos
Pictorial logos are icon or image-based logos. These are instantly recognizable symbols like Apple's apple or Twitter's bird. These logos rely heavily on strong visual storytelling and are great for businesses looking to create an immediate, recognizable brand identity. If you choose this style, the image or symbol must be directly related to what your brand represents.
7. Emblem Logos
An emblem logo is made up of text inside a symbol or icon. Think of a badge, seal, or crest. Harley-Davidson and Starbucks use emblem logos. This style often feels traditional or official, making it a popular choice for institutions like schools or government organizations. However, modern businesses can also use emblem logos to add a sense of heritage and authority
Which Logo Style is Right for You?
When choosing a logo for your brand, consider the message you want to send and how your brand will be perceived. Do you want something fun and lighthearted, or are you looking for a logo that conveys professionalism and trust?
At Digital Planets Media, we help brands like yours create logos that resonate with their audience and
capture the essence of their business.
Let’s bring your brand to life with the perfect logo design!
