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Option #2: Online Logo Maker
Cost: Pricing for online logo makers varies, but it’s cheaper than crowdsourcing or outsourcing. Free packages usually only include low-resolution PNG files; professional packages are a relatively cheap option for the quality assets you get, including EPS and SVG files.
Timeframe: The best part about online logo makers like Logojoy is they can create mockups in minutes based on your preferences and let you tweak them in an editor tool. Some companies also provide design support via phone or online chat to make sure you get what you want.
Quality: Not all online logo makers are created equal, and some can generate options that look like clip art -- the opposite of modern and professional. Do your research and test a few before choosing.
Option #3: Templates
Cost: Logo templates from sites like Creative Market or GraphicBurger are a low-cost option, with packages starting around $50. You'll get the digital assets, and it's up to you to make them work for your brand.
Timeframe: Searching for the right logo template can be time-consuming. You may also need to learn or purchase design software like Photoshop to edit and customize the templates to your liking.
Quality: The good news? You're getting professionally designed assets. The downside? Because templates are available to everyone, someone else may be using the same template to design their logo.
Option #4: Crowdsourcing
Cost: Crowdsourcing involves posting a job and getting designers to submit logo options for you to choose from. Pricing varies depending on the options you're looking for and the quality of designers you're working with on platforms like DesignCrowd. You’ll often have to pay to post a design contest.
Timeframe: Crowdsourcing takes time. Designers need to create several logo options, and then you have to choose and do some back-and-forth communication to finalize your design. Fortunately, most designers on these platforms are used to working on tight timelines.
Quality: Working with a community of skilled designers yields many logo options. You should be able to find a high-quality design you're happy within the $200 to $1000 range.
Option #5: Freelance Designer or Agency
Photo by rawpixel.com on Unsplash
Cost: Working with an individual or agency to create a custom logo is a big investment. You can work out a flat fee or hourly rate – just make sure you agree on pricing before getting started.
Timeframe: Whoever you hire will want to meet or arrange a call to review ideas and get a feel for the company. Based on a creative brief, they'll send you logo options and iterations until you land on something you're happy with. It can be a long process depending on the edits required and the designer or agency’s turnaround time.
Quality: Hiring a professional designer or agency is one way to ensure you get exactly what you want for your logo -- something unique, beautiful, and branded to a tee. But keep in mind that not all designers are created equal, and the sizable investment means you’ll want to know your logo (and business) will be around for a long time.
As you can see, there are plenty of great options for creating a logo to meet your needs, even if you don’t have design skills.
If you’re testing out an idea or starting a new eCommerce or service-based business, an online logo maker or logo templates provide a fast pass to a professional-looking brand on a budget. And it can be fun to create your own logo without needing to know design software!
If you have more money to spend and want more customization -- or if you’re going through a rebrand after being in business for years -- crowdsourcing or hiring a designer can be the key to getting your dream logo.
Be sure to research and test-drive your options to find your best bet. Happy brand-building!
