7 Different Types of Logos: Which One is Right for Your Brand

Different types of logos shape how audiences perceive a brand from the very first interaction. In a crowded market filled with constant visual exposure, a logo serves as an instant identifier that helps brands stand out, communicate their values, and build recognition.

Understanding how each logo style works is essential for businesses that want to create a clear, consistent, and memorable brand presence.

Key Takeaways:

• Different logo types communicate brands in different ways, so choosing the right one depends on your goals and audience.
• Logo style affects how people see your brand, including its personality and credibility.
• The right logo type helps keep your brand clear and consistent across all platforms.

Understanding What a Logo Is and Why It Matters in Branding

A logo is a visual symbol that represents a brand’s identity, including its personality, values, and position in the market. It helps distinguish one brand from another and makes the brand easier to recognize. 

As the visual anchor of a brand, a logo plays a key role in first impressions.  According to the Nielsen Norman Group, users form opinions about visual design very quickly, so logos need to be clear, easy to recognize, and consistent across platforms.

Different kinds of logos in graphic design use different visual approaches. Some focus on readability and simplicity, while others rely on symbols or emotional meaning. Understanding these differences helps brands choose a logo style that fits their goals, audience, and industry.

7 Common Types of Logos Used in Design

Understanding different types of logos starts with knowing how each type functions visually and strategically. Below are seven widely used types of logos with examples from real-world applications.

1. Wordmark (Logotype)

A wordmark logo is built entirely from typography, using the brand’s full name as the logo itself. There are no symbols or icons, which means every visual cue comes from letterform design, spacing, and weight. 

Wordmarks work best for brands with short, distinctive names. This type helps new brands build name awareness quickly because audiences immediately see and remember the brand name. Google and Coca-Cola are classic examples where typography alone builds strong recognition.

Also Read: Luxury Logo Design: 10 Inspirations for Premium Brand Identity

2. Lettermark (Monogram)

Lettermarks or monograms use initials instead of full brand names. This type is ideal for companies with long or complex names, as it simplifies brand communication. 

Lettermarks also perform well in small spaces such as app icons, website headers, and social media avatars. Brands like IBM, HBO, Louis Vuitton demonstrate how simplicity can improve memorability and usability. 

3. Brandmark (Symbol or Icon)

A brandmark logo relies solely on a symbol without text. Among the types of logo design, brandmarks are especially effective for global brands because symbols can transcend language barriers.

However, this logo type works best when a brand already has strong recognition. Apple’s logo is a well-known example of how visual storytelling can communicate identity without words.

4. Combination Mark

Combination marks combine text and symbols into a single logo. This is one of the most versatile logo types because the elements can be used together or separately, depending on the context.

Brands that plan to evolve visually over time often choose this logo style. Adidas and Burger King are strong examples of how combination marks support flexibility while maintaining brand recognition.

Also Read: How Much Should Logo Design Cost for Modern Branding Needs?

5. Emblem

Emblem logos place text inside a shape, badge, or seal. This type conveys tradition, authority, and heritage, which is why universities, government organizations, and long-established brands commonly use emblems. 

Brands like Harley-Davidson and Starbucks use emblem logos to communicate trust, authenticity, and a strong sense of legacy.

6. Abstract Logo

Abstract logos use geometric or conceptual shapes rather than literal symbols to represent a brand idea. Abstract logos allow brands to create unique visual identities without cultural limitations. Brands like Pepsi and Airbnb use abstract forms to convey emotion, movement, or connection rather than literal meaning.

Among different types of logos, abstract logos offer high creative freedom but require strong visual consistency to build recognition over time.

7. Mascot Logo

Mascot logos feature illustrated characters that represent the brand’s personality. This logo fosters emotional engagement and humanizes brands, as mascots help make them feel approachable and relatable, particularly in family-oriented markets. 

Well-known examples like KFC’s Colonel Sanders and the Michelin Man show how mascots can become long-lasting brand ambassadors.

Also Read: Top 10 Modern Typography Trends for Designers in 2025

How Logo Types Influence Long-Term Brand Identity

From startups to global corporations, understanding different types of logos allows brands to evolve visually without losing recognition. According to Lucidpress, consistent branding across platforms increases revenue by up to 23%. 

A well-chosen logo type, supported by strong typography and consistent usage, plays a key role in maintaining brand clarity and recognition over time.

Also Read: 15 Standout Examples of Content Marketing for Smart Branding

Building Strong Logos with the Right Design 

Choosing among 7 different types of logos is not about following trends, but about building a visual system that can grow with your brand. Typography plays a decisive role in how different logo designs communicate clarity, emotion, and professionalism. 

HansCo Studio offers technically refined fonts designed specifically for branding applications, optimized for kerning, readability, scalability, and cross-media consistency. These qualities help logos perform reliably across websites, packaging, social media, and print.

Visit HansCo Studio and explore the crafting font collection to make your logo design stand out. Find a typeface that aligns with your branding needs and elevate your visual identity from concept to execution.