What's the Best Option: a Combination Mark Logo or Wordmark Logo?

The importance of choosing the right type of logo

Just like colors or fonts, it's important not to choose a logo type at random when creating your corporate image. In fact, all types have advantages and disadvantages and can help you promote certain aspects of your logo, such as your values and your company. You'll need to do some analysis before making your choice. It's also possible that a certain type of logo may be more appealing or appropriate for you.

For the purposes of this article, we'll be looking at combination logos and wordmark logos, two types of logos widely used by companies in general. However, there are also other types of logos, such as badge, monogram and symbol logos. Don't hesitate to do some research before making a choice.

What is a combination mark logo?

A combination mark logo is a logo composed of both the company name and an icon. It's also the most common type of logo used by companies, especially new ones. The reason behind this is simple: as the company is not known very well yet, we can associate the icon with the company name when we see them together. Over time, it will be possible to recognize the company just by seeing the icon. It will also be possible to use the different components of the logo separately, as required.

Examples of companies using a combination mark logo include Mastercard, Lacoste, and Pizza Hut.

Why choose a combination mark logo?

Now, what are the main advantages of combined logos? There must be a reason why companies choose this type of logo so often, no?

First, it's a very flexible logo. In other words, it's easy to use a combination mark logo just about anywhere, whether on the web or in print. As mentioned earlier, you can use different components separately if required. For example, you could use just the icon as a Favicon or on social media pages.

Next, if you have a new business, a combination mark logo can help create an association between your icon and name and vice-versa. Using more than one component can also help you create a strong brand image. In time, you'll be able to do as Apple and Twitter do; use only the icon since you'll be easily recognized.

What is a wordmark logo?

Let's move on to wordmark logos, another type of logo very popular in the business world. Unlike combined logos, which consist of two parts, a signature logo is made up of just a name or a few words. It's also possible to include a slogan underneath the name to give information about a company and its domain. Note that a wordmark logo uses the full name of the company, not an acronym. Logos composed of just a few letters are monogram logos. It's important to differentiate between these two types of logos.

Examples of companies using a signature logo include Netflix, Google and Fedex.

Why choose a wordmark logo

So why should you choose a signature logo for your business logo? If you want to show your personal name or company name, this is the perfect type of logo for it.

Whether you're a consultant, photographer or accountant looking to boost your professional credibility, a signature logo is probably just what you need. It can give a more serious touch to your brand image. If you want to become a freelancer or self-employed, or in other words start a business with just one employee, it is also a good idea to use your name as the basis of your identity.

There are, however, two requirements for creating a signature logo. First, your company name must be easy to remember. Second, your name must not be too long, preferably less than 10 characters. If your company name is long and complicated, it might be better to create a monogram logo.

Our conclusion

So, what's better, a combination mark logo or wordmark logo? To sum it all up, it all depends on what you have in mind and want to show.

First, combination logos are more flexible and widely used by companies in general. However, as this is the most popular type of logo, it may be difficult to stand out or be unique. You'll need to find an icon that represents you well.

Next, wordmark logos are perfect if your company name is the basis of your brand. They can also help you look credible and professional by getting straight to the point. However, it's important to mention that you'll have fewer components to work with when creating your brand.

In all cases, you'll need to find the perfect font and color palette to represent your values. Our advice is to try out different types of logos, from combination logos to wordmark logos, to see which best suits your needs. Let your imagination run wild - you can use any type of logo you like!