The Logo Factory home Contact The Logo Factory Search our site Design Client Login What's new at The Logo Factory Order New Project Design top
Logo 2
Types of logos Logo 3
The Logo Factory contact information Logo 4
About Us Logo Design Information Design Portfolio Logo design pricing and ordering Other design services
Logo Design Frequently Asked Questions Logo Design Tips Our Design Process Working with TLF - Step by Step Design Glossary Technical Information Logo Design Articles Design Podcasts

Logotypes - Types of Logos

Logo Design ArticlesWhile there are an infinite number of variables that are possible with any corporate identity design project, and many business logos may 'straddle' the various types, our designers have found that most design 'treatments' will fall into four distinct categories; Text, Iconic, Graphical and Illustrative. While these categories are certainly not to be viewed as absolutes, and many logos have the features of several types, this is a fairly basic, yet accurate, overview for those new to the design process. Each logo type has it's merits, while others have disadvantages. Some types are more appropriate for certain market segments than others. By being familiar with the different versions, and their strengths and weaknesses, you can make an educated decision on which logo type is more suited to your requirements. Let's take a closer look at the various logo types, using designs pulled from our graphic design portfolios as examples...

Types of logos - Text based
Text Logos Logo Fonts

Text logos are visually the simplest logos (and often favored by Fortune 500 corporations). Paradoxically, their simplicity can be misleading as these logos can be enormously difficult to design. Your designer is limited in the 'tricks of the trade' that are available, so the font driven design requires someone with a 'mature' level of design experience . In terms of marketing your new company, text logos also have the bonus feature of promoting your company name extensively without being cluttered with heavy visuals and graphics.. [more].
Types of logos - Iconic
Iconic Logos icon Design

Iconic logos generally feature highly simplified graphics (symbols) that reflect an aspect of the company and/or product portrayed. They can be used solo, or with text. This form of logo is perhaps the most common (a slim margin over graphical), yet often the most difficult to design and requires the services of an experienced designer. These logos are most effective when your design is to be featured at a small size, or in low-resolution reproduction.. [more]
Types of logos - Graphical
Graphical Logos Graphic Design Logo

Graphical logos are, in the practical sense, somewhere between an iconic and illustrative logotype. These logotypes are very visually appealing - detailed enough to be recognizable, yet linear and technically simple enough to translate into most media usages. It's a 'toss up' between graphical and iconic logos as to which is the most popular and/or common.. [more].
Types of logos - Illustrative
Illustrative Logos Illustrations

Illustrative logos are usually more detailed and complex than graphical, and are a pictorial (illustration) representation of some aspect of the company or product portrayed. This can be the name, the business concept or a character/mascot. While sometimes frowned upon by graphic design purists, if handled correctly an illustrative logotype can become a unique marketing and promotional tool and works well on many types of marketing materials including wearables.. [more].

Note about logotypes listed.

The logo type categories presented in this section are meant as an overview and generalization of the infinite possibilities. As in all manners of creative design, there are no absolutes and this area is meant for reference only. Should you require assistance in selecting the right type of logo for your business, company or service, contact our client support.

Know what kind of logotype you want? Work with our designers to make it happen!

You'll be in capable hands when you order a new project via our project submission forms. For further information on how to buy a logo or for a project that is outside the scope of options that are presented on our web site, please contact us via our website, or call us TOLL-FREE (USA & Canada) at 1.866.891.9704. Outside North America? Call us at 905.LOGO.747 (905.564.6747).



Next: Logo Fonts. Pros and Cons.

The Logo Factory Contact Info
Logo Design FAQFAQ 2Logo Design TipsLogo Design ProcessGlossary
TechnicalDesign Articles
Company LogosLogo InformationThings to AvoidBusiness LogosLogo DesignCase Studies

The Logo Factory

Unless noted otherwise, all material featured on The Logo Factory® website are Copyright 2001 - 2007 The Logo Factory® Inc. All Rights Reserved. Certain photography used on our site is copyright iStock, Photos.com or Comstock. Used by permission under license. Design examples are the property of the respective Copyright and/or Logo Trademark holder. Unless where noted, Logos, Graphic Design and Illustration artwork may not be reproduced without prior, written permission. Information and how-to articles are offered on an 'as is' basis and as such, no warranty is offered or implied.
Order New Logo

Featured Articles:

Who Needs a Logo - Can a small business succeed without one? As a matter of fact, yes.
What Makes a Great Logo - The ingredients to a great brand and a look at some that aren't.
Types of Logos - The various types of designs that can represent your company.
Choosing a Graphic Designer - Things to look for in your new design firm.
Discount Logo Design - The perils and drawbacks of budget , discount and even free logos?
Logo Design Contest - A fun exercise, but a method of pro brand development?
Logo Templates - Logo templates are made purely for profit. Alas, not yours.
Online Logo Design - A look at the McLogo effect, and its curious effect on the industry.
Changing Your Logo - the risks and rewards of a corporate image makeover.


Software Picks

Want software do we use at the 'shop'? Check out our staff Logo Design Software Picks

Studio Blog
Industry news, designer opinion and design articles for clients and designers alike. Read our Studio Blog.