In a world where brands are using their logo for their smartphone applications, people have started to mix up and confuse the two to the point where they are using these two interchangeably. Although both are visuals, there exists a lot of difference between the two. This article will help clarify the differences that exist between the two.
The meaning:
The meaning of the logo is a design that represents a business, its products or its services whereas icon is a symbol that represents an action to be taken. This definition will be the basis on which the rest of the differences would be explained.
The purpose:
The major purpose of a logo design is to get a brand known whereas the major purpose of an icon is to help the user take an action.
The use:
Logos are used on websites, social media pages, letterheads, visiting cards as well as the parcels through which goods are delivered to the customer by a brand whereas icons are used in the user interface to help users take the action they need to take.
Major advantage:
The major advantage of logos is growth in recognition of a brand whereas the major advantage of an icon is to provide a better experience for the user by helping him navigate better. One invites the customer to seek more knowledge about the brand whereas others invite the user to directly take an action.
Approach to design:
The logos are designed by keeping the brand in mind. Questions such as what the business does? What its values are? And other questions related to the business are asked when designing a logo. However, when designing an icon the questions related to the overall user experience are asked such as what is it that you want users to do with the icon? When will the user utilize this icon? etc. are asked.
Part of the picture:
A logo is part of a brand’s identity whereas an icon is part of the UI design. This one is probably the greatest difference of all on the list as it clarifies the essence both have. We at Buy Custom Logo can create icons for your UX designs as well as custom logo design for your brand. Drop us a message to know more.
Final word:
It is very important for the designers as well as businesses to know the difference between a logo and an icon. The businesses by knowing these differences can explain their requirements better to the designers they hire whereas the designers can help the businesses better by knowing these differences, as this confusion if not clarified can result in the failure of the project.
