A logo is as essential as the business or website that it represents. And quite frankly, they’re becoming a part of our daily lives. They’re everywhere around us, in the car, computer, fridge, mobile phone, etc.
The truth is, we might not give so much attention to logos as it’s everywhere around us. However, it’s more sophisticated than the ‘simple’ things that we see.
There are seven different types of logos. And every one of them has its features and advantages that are unique to it. So, if you want to design a logo for your website, you have to consider this. From understanding the individual logotypes, you’ll know which one is the most suited for your website.
A logo is as essential as the business or website that it represents. And quite frankly, they’re becoming a part of our daily lives. They’re everywhere around us, in the car, computer, fridge, mobile phone, etc.
The truth is, we might not give so much attention to logos as it’s everywhere around us. However, it’s more sophisticated than the ‘simple’ things that we see.
There are seven different types of logos. And every one of them has its features and advantages that are unique to it. So, if you want to design a logo for your website, you have to consider this. From understanding the individual logotypes, you’ll know which one is the most suited for your website.
1. Emblems
These are also called crests or seals, and the oldest logo form. It has been in existence from the Middle Ages at least.
This type of logo usually has a text in a symbol. It’s very classic and gives you that traditional logo quality. That’s why government agencies and schools commonly use it. It’s pretty, and yet official.
Emblems also carry more details than other logotypes, with small detailed imagery and fine line work.
Why choose an emblem?
- It carries a sense of longevity and tradition.
- You want your logo to have a sense of gravitas.
Why stay away?
- If you need to scale your logo regularly, then stay away from emblems. They don’t look great when shrunk to small sizes and are usually unreadable.
2. Pictorial mark
A pictorial mark, also called a brand mark, is a common logotype. Here, you have to choose an iconic image that makes it easy to recognize and identify as yours. So, it’s not advisable for new companies. However, it’s a fun logo to use.
Why choose a pictorial mark?
- You have a brand name that you can draw literally, e.g., Apple Pictorial mark just makes sense for that.
- You want an image that gives a sense of brand identity that your name alone can’t do.
Why stay away?
- If you want to be seen as serious and traditional.
- You’re still trying to nail down your services/products. A wrong image can constrain your brand.
3. Abstract logo marks
You use an abstract logo when you want an image, but you also don’t want a literal representation constraining you. This type of logo evokes feelings more than thoughts. This might be difficult because people tend to interpret an image differently.
One of the unique features of this logo is its uniqueness. The moment you put your logo out, you are the only one with that particular logo. So, very much like those trendy IT firms logos, it’s easy to differentiate your brand or website from the rest. It gives you a distinct recognition.
Why choose an abstract mark?
- You want a unique and distinct logo.
- When you want a pictorial element but with a more serious tone than pictorial logos offer.
Why stay away?
- You don’t already have a strong brand identity.
4. Wordmark
This logo type is built from words only, especially those of the company’s name. It is mainly typographic and ties the visual identity of a brand to the company’s name. This means that you have to be careful when choosing or creating your fonts.
The colour, shape, and style of the word carry as much weight as the word itself. You have to pay more attention to this, especially if your brand name is a meaningless word – Google. You’ll notice that the colour, shape, and style of the word make it makes sense.
Why choose a Wordmark?
- Your company is new, and you want your name out.
- Your brand name is short and won’t overwhelm if it’s everywhere.
- Your brand is your name.
Why stay away?
- Fonts follow trends, and you aren’t ready to regularly update your logo.
- Your brand name is long.
5. Lettermark
There are many reasons for your company to opt for an acronym or initials in the name. But if this is how you’re naming your brand, then your logo should follow the same pattern. In this case, lettermark is the best for you.
Lettermark focuses on the name and makes it more memorable. For instance, you don’t call HBO, Home Box Office; instead, you refer to it as HBO. This is what the lettermark logo does.
The fonts and typography also play a crucial role here. You can style the letters creatively as they’re more legible.
Why choose a Lettermark?
- You want to tie your visual identity and your name, but your name is long.
- It’s common to use initials for names in your industry – law firms.
Why stay away?
- Your company is new and isn’t established yet.
6. Mascots
This is an entirely different logotype. A mascot is the drawing of an anthropomorphized character. Humans are visually attracted to characters like this. That’s why a mascot brings positive feelings to your brand and logo.
They are commonly used by food brands like KFC, service brands, and sporty brands like Michelin looking to get familiar with customers and supporters.
The problem here is, your brand might appear too friendly and unserious. If you want your brand to give serious vibes, choose other logotypes.
Why choose a mascot?
- You’re appealing to children or families.
- You want your brand to be upbeat, fun, and friendly.
- You need flexibility in your logo, so it grows with your company and can be used differently.
Why stay away?
- You want to be serious or seen as serious.
7. Combination mark
The world is obviously not black or white. Why choose one type of logo when you can combine any or all of them. For instance, you can use a mascot and include a wordmark. You can as well put a letter mark with an abstract logo. It works in different ways. A wordmark logo can also be added to a brandmark. And there are many examples of brands with these combination logos.
These combination marks are fun and flexible and can adapt over the years.
Why choose a combination mark?
- You want an adaptable, changeable, and future-proof logo.
- You want to combine the best of different worlds.
Why stay away?
- You want your brand to be simple; combination marks can become complicated and busy to use.
Conclusion
Choosing the right logo for your website or brand can be tricky. It’s the same for everybody. There are many things that you have to consider. These include the features and compatibility of these logos for your brand use, and what you plan to achieve with your brand.
Author Bio
Lucas Smith is a content strategist and freelance blogger who likes to write on topics related to small business, social media and brand design. He would love to hear your ideas, connect with him!
