How Many Types of Logos Are There in Graphic Design?
A logo is more than just a visual symbol—it’s the face of a brand. From iconic corporate marks like Apple to playful startup logos, design choices influence how customers recognize and trust a business. If you’re building a brand or learning graphic design, one of the most common questions is: How many types of logos are there in graphic design?
In this guide, we’ll explore the main types of logos, explain what makes each one unique, and help you understand which logo style might work best for your brand.
Why Understanding Logo Types Matters
Before diving into the types, it’s important to understand why logo styles matter in the first place.
A well-designed logo:
- Produces a good initial impression.
- Builds brand recognition
- Delivers your brand personality.
- Assists you to get noticed in a competitive market.
There are various types of logos that are used. The right one can help your brand feel trustworthy, modern, creative or authoritative- depending on your goals.
How Many Types of Logos Are There?
In graphic design, logos are commonly grouped into seven main types. While some designers may categorize them slightly differently, these seven styles are widely accepted and used across industries.
Let’s break them down one by one.
Wordmark Logos (Logotypes)
What Is a Wordmark Logo?
Wordmark logo consists of text and the logo is usually the name of the brand in a special font or typography.
Key Features
- Focuses on brand name
- Uses custom typography
- Clean and simple design.
Popular Examples
- Coca-Cola
When to Use a Wordmark Logo
Wordmark logos are effective when:
- You have a short and memorable brand name.
- You desire a good brand name.
- You like a neat work appearance.
Wordmark logos are particularly effective to tech companies, retail brands, and service providers in case of businesses.
Lettermark Logos (Monogram Logos)
What Is a Lettermark Logo?
In Lettermark logos, the initials are used instead of the brand name. It is the best style in companies whose names are long or complicated.
Key Features
- Presents initials (typically 2-4 letters).
- Minimalist and compact
- Easy to recognize
Popular Examples
- IBM
- HBO
- CNN
When to Use a Lettermark Logo
Choose a lettermark logo if:
- Your business name is long
- You desire a slick, contemporary identity.
- You should have a logo that is effective on small screens.
- Corporations and media companies are very fond of this type.
Brandmark Logos (Symbol or Icon Logos)
What Is a Brandmark Logo?
A brandmark logo consists of a textless icon. This symbol over the years is closely related with the brand.
Key Features
- No text required
- Highly visual
- Strong emotional impact
Popular Examples
- Apple
- Nike
- Twitter (X bird icon)
When to Use a Brandmark Logo
Brandmark logos are most effective when:
- Your brand is already a popular one.
- You want global recognition
- You would prefer a striking and striking design.
In the case of new companies, the brandmark logos usually are effective when they are used with text at the initial stages of branding.
Combination Logos
What Is a Combination Logo?
A combination logo is the one that combines text and symbols into a single design. It is one of the most widespread and multi-purpose logos.
Key Features
- Uses wordmark or lettermark in combination with an icon
- Flexible for different uses
- Easy brand recognition
Popular Examples
- Adidas
- Burger King
- Pepsi
When to Use a Combination Logo
This logo type is ideal if:
- You need fame and mark reputation.
- You require flexibilityin marketing platforms.
- You’re building a new brand
Most of the startups and small businesses are opting to use combination logos since they are sustainable in terms of clarity and creativity.
Emblem Logos
What Is an Emblem Logo?
Emblem logos have text that is contained within a symbol, badge or seal. They also tend to be traditional or official.
Key Features
- Text enclosed in a shape
- Authoritative and classic style
- Strong visual presence.
Popular Examples
- Starbucks
- Harley-Davidson
When to Use an Emblem Logo
Emblem logos are best for:
- Schools and universities
- Government organizations
- Car mobile or traditional brands.
In the United States, emblem logos are usually connected with credibility, time-tested, and genuineness.
Mascot Logos
What Is a Mascot Logo?
Mascot logos consist of pictorial characters that are used to represent the brand. These logos are easy to approach, entertaining and very attractive.
Key Features
- Plays with a character or cartoon character.
- Connection with the audience
- Great for storytelling.
Popular Examples
- KFC (Colonel Sanders)
- Pringles
- Wendy’s
When to Use a Mascot Logo
Mascot logos work well if:
- Your brand is aimed at families or children.
- You desire a likeable brand personality.
- You are so dependent on social media marketing.
Sports teams and food brands are particular users of them.
Abstract Logos
What Is an Abstract Logo?
Abstract logos are geometric or conceptual forms, which do not depict a certain object but express a thought or feeling.
Key Features
- Unique and creative
- Symbolic meaning
- Highly customizable
Popular Examples
- Pepsi
- Airbnb
- Chase
When to Use an Abstract Logo
Choose an abstract logo if:
- You desire something new and different.
- Your brand concept is broad.
- Your business is going to be scaled.
Brands prefer abstract logos and would like to have a modern and innovative image.
How to Choose the Right Logo Type for Your Brand
In choosing a type of a logo, take into consideration the following:
- Brand personality (professional, playful, modern, classic)
- Target audience (age, location, preferences)
- Industry standards
- The place of the logo (website, packaging, social media)
No universal answer exists. Most of the successful American brands even change their logos with time as the business expands.
Bill Yeager, Co-Owner of High Point SEO & Marketing in CT
