The Logo File Types You Need (And How to Use Them)

Whether you hire a marketing agency for your logo designs or design them yourself, learning the different logo file types are key. Learning how to use them is equally important. Because when you’re ready to send out a logo for print, or for an ad, where do you start?

Print vs. Web? 

What are the different logo file types? 

Does it matter which one you use? 

You’ve got plenty of other things to manage then burying yourself into folders, hoping to pick the right file depending on the need. BrandCraft is here to help and clear up some of your questions.

Which logo file type should you make use of?

Let’s square things off with how to know which file to utilize or provide. The first question you should ask yourself is: will the logo be printed or live digitally on screens?

The main differences between the two logo file types are the document color mode in which the files are exported and file size/resolution. 

If you feel comfortable using a single file (vs. a whole print/web folder), we recommend doing so–especially if you’d like a specific logo version. 

What are the different logo versions?

Most of the time, you’ll want to send the primary logo, but that depends on how you intend to use it. Let’s break down the different logo versions and why we have them.

Primary Logo

Think of this logo as an introductory mark, like a book cover. It can be colorful and contain a tagline. The best part? It holds all the elements in one main mark. (Peep some of our primary logos here.)

Secondary Logo

You’ll use this logo when you have less space to work with than the primary logo. Some alternative orientations you’ll find in a secondary logo are stacked or ultrawide. Secondary logos can strip away elements, simplifying the mark–which is totally fine and looks great online. (It’s one of the best logo file formats for your website.)

Logomark

This is often the simplest–and arguably the best–logo version. LogoMarks usually lack text so that you can shrink your logo file size as small as possible without impacting the readability. This logo version is considered best because the mark tests the successfulness with connecting the logo to the company. Without relying on taglines, details, and colors, users are able to easily recognize this mark with the respective company. You can find these logos in the smallest places, like a favicon (the icon on your internet browser tabs).

What logo file types do you need?

Now that we’ve covered the logo versions, let’s cover the file types. You’ll find different file types depending on the logo use. These files are either raster or vector, and the main difference is that vector files can increase in size without affecting quality. 

Here are some pointers:

• The most common vector file types you’ll come across are EPS, PDF, SVG, and AI. These are the best file formats for printing a logo.
• Avoid enlarging PNG and JPG (raster) files.
• Logos with the PNG file extension can be transparent. This file type is perfect for detailed backgrounds, like gradients and photos. The downfall is that busy backgrounds can make it difficult to recognize aspects of the logo. 
• The JPG file contains a solid white background, unless the file is exported with a custom background color, gradient, or image. This logo file type works best on white backgrounds. (Learn more here.)

Conclusion

While a well-designed logo is essential, being the front-facing icon that people will associate with your company, it’s only part of the brand. Pairing the logo with the proper messaging, brand elements, and a great website design grows a company to another level of expertise. 

Allow BrandCraft to be your bridge to growth. Talk to a strategist today to plan your next steps.