One of the most influential graphic designers of all time, Paul Rand said, “a logo is a flag, a signature, an escutcheon, a street sign. A logo does not sell (directly), it identifies.” Statistics show that 70% of marketers say that brand awareness is their top goal, proving him right. This makes custom logo designs even more crucial if you want your business to succeed. 

There are probably dozens of ways you can create a logo, but there are two that most people use. These are: hire a logo designer or get one via a free logo maker. Let’s take an in-depth look at each to help guide you get the logo that brilliantly speaks what your brand is all about. 

 

What are Custom Logo Designs? 

A custom logo design is a branding asset that someone has created specifically for your business. It is uniquely yours, and it uses your brand colors as well as your fonts or images. This type of logo comes from a professional graphic or logo designer. They are trained to incorporate your ideas to create the perfect logo for your brand. 

Many people are intimidated by the idea of having a custom logo design because of the high cost. But options such as an unlimited graphic design service can be affordable. It pays to do a little research to get the best one for your business. 

 

Pros 

Custom logo designs offer full personalization, so you won’t worry about someone having the same logo as yours. As you talk with your logo designer about what you want, they will offer their input as well. You’ll get professional ideas on how to go about the design as they understand what the dos and don’ts of logo designing. 

Furthermore, they will take into consideration your company’s culture, mission, vision, and philosophy. You can be sure that what you get is what you pay for—a logo like no other—high-quality and professional-looking. 

 

Cons 

There are but only a few drawbacks to hiring a custom logo designer, and one of which is the cost. It can be a more expensive route to having a great logo. Another snag you’ll contend with if you wish to go this way is the inconvenience. You’ll have to go through a lot of communications with your design agency. This can be time-consuming as it will eat up your time waiting for the result to come out. 

 

What are Free Logo Makers? 

A free logo maker is a web application that allows you to create your logo at no cost. Depending on the website you’ll be using, there are numerous choices available to you. They have libraries or collections of fonts, images, icons, shapes, or colors you can choose from to create your logo. 

These websites are relatively easy and straightforward to use. Typically, you just put in your company name, choose your color, icon, or typeface, and then download your design. Easy-peasy, you won’t have to spend a long time waiting for your logo or take the time to talk to a designer. 

 

Pros 

If you’re on a tight budget, a free logo maker is your best bet. Although it isn’t all free as there are websites that will ask you for payment upon downloading your design, it is still a cheaper option. 

Some websites allow you to tweak your design, so it’s also possible to get a logo according to your preferences. The design process is quick that you can see it instantly and see how they work on different marketing materials. You’ll also be able to see the logo on your letterhead, landing pages, or business cards. 

 

Cons 

As stated earlier, free logo makers aren’t entirely free to use. It may be less expensive than custom logo designs, but you’re on your own when you use it. You won’t have the knowledge and experience of a professional custom logo designer. There may be elements that won’t be included in your logo design. 

One major deal-breaker for free logo makers is customization. When you use this service, you’re only creating a logo out of a template. There is a high probability that a thousand other businesses have used the template you chose. 

 

The Elements of a Good Logo Design 

Whether you’re using a free logo maker or hiring a graphic designer, it’s essential to know what elements comprise a good logo design. Here’s what your logo has to have for it to help lead your brand towards success: 

 

Memorability 

Your logo should be memorable and easy to remember. You want consumers to keep you in mind, and a logo that has memorability will help you achieve this. 

 

Simplicity 

Your brand can easily be memorable if your logo is simple. Choose one that has no intricate designs that will stand out whatever medium and size you place it on. 

 

Consistency 

Your logo should represent your brand and resonate well with your target audience. It has to be versatile enough to look great however you use it to make your marketing strategies have a harmonious and consistent look. 

 

Which One Should You Choose? 

There has been much debate about which way to get your business logo. A logo can mean a lot of things for a variety of reasons. But the most important one is that it conveys what your brand is and why should people trust you to do business with. 

Having a logo that speaks your commitment to your customers is paramount if you want to move forward and upward. To achieve this, only a custom logo design will do. A logo that’s unique can instill trust and loyalty to your potential customers and generate more leads. 

 

Design Doctor Can Help! 

Design Doctor is an unlimited graphic design service that can create custom design logos suited to your brand. For as low as $329 a month, you can have all the logo design requests you want. Our professional graphic designers will make sure that you’ll get the logo design that you’ll love.