An abstract logo doesn’t show what your company does — and that’s what makes it powerful. Instead of using literal icons or obvious imagery, abstract logos rely on shapes, motion, and symbolism to convey personality and feeling.
Think of brands like Nike, Airbnb, or Pepsi — they’ve all gone abstract and created strong emotional connections in the process. In this article, we’ll explore what abstract logos are, why they work, and 20 iconic examples to get you started.
What Is an Abstract Logo?
An abstract logo is a logo that uses non-literal forms — shapes, curves, patterns or geometry — to create a unique visual identity. Unlike a pictorial logo (like Twitter’s bird or Apple’s apple), abstract logos don’t represent a specific object or character. Instead, they suggest an idea, a mood or a value.
This style is especially popular among companies that want to convey innovation, movement or versatility without being tied to a specific product or symbol. Abstract marks are also highly adaptable — they scale well across different mediums and work globally without relying on language.
Looking for a custom brand identity built on symbolism? Check out our logo design services.
Why Do Brands Use an Abstract Logo?
Abstract logos give brands the freedom to:
-
Be unique – No limits from literal objects or clichés
-
Express ideas, not just things – Movement, innovation, balance or boldness
-
Scale globally – No language dependency
-
Evolve easily – Can grow with the brand’s product or mission over time
-
Stand out – Especially in competitive or creative industries
When done well an abstract logo becomes a long term visual asset — simple, iconic and instantly recognisable.
20 Famous Abstract Logos
Abstract logos distill complex ideas into simple, memorable forms. Let’s explore how some of the world’s most recognizable brands use them to convey emotion, innovation, and identity.
1. Nike
A fluid checkmark known globally as the “Swoosh.”
Why this logo works
The Nike logo suggests movement and speed through a bold, minimalist mark.
2. Airbnb
A symbol blending curves and geometry to represent belonging and connection.
Why this logo works
The Airbnb logo feels warm and versatile, balancing simplicity with a deeper message about home and human connection — all without relying on literal imagery.
3. Pepsi
A circular design with red, white, and blue waves.
Why this logo works
The Pepsi logo conveys motion and energy with abstract patriotic symmetry.
4. Microsoft
Four colored squares forming a window.
Why this logo works
The Microsoft logo reflects clarity, product range, and modular tech structure.
5. Mastercard
Two overlapping circles — red and yellow — without any text.
Why this logo works
The Mastercard logo uses an abstract logo to represent trust, connection, and global commerce.
6. Spotify
Three curved lines inside a green circle.
Why this logo works
The Spotify logo evokes wireless sound and rhythm using abstract motion lines.
7. Mitsubishi
Three diamonds arranged into a symmetrical triangle.
Why this logo works
The Mitsubishi logo balances tradition and strength through sharp abstract geometry.
8. Adidas
Three diagonal stripes suggesting upward momentum and progress.
Why this logo works
The Adidas logo suggests progress and challenge with stark, abstract motion.
9. BP
A green and yellow radial flower-like shape.
Why this logo works
The BP logo evokes clean energy and natural renewal through vibrant symmetry.
10. Google Drive
A triangle composed of green, yellow, and blue segments.
Why this logo works
The Google Drive logo suggests connectivity, storage, and simplicity with minimal geometric elements.
11. Intel
A smooth swirl encircling a modern wordmark.
Why this logo works
The Intel logo represents motion and digital evolution, hinting at tech leadership.
12. Chase Bank
A square rotated into an octagonal symbol.
Why this logo works
The Chase Bank logo applies an abstract logo design to convey security and structure without relying on traditional banking imagery.
13. Asana
Three dots arranged into a soft triangle.
Why this logo works
The Asana logo reflects balance and collaboration through clean, human-centered geometry.
14. Beats by Dre
A circular icon with a stylized lowercase “b”.
Why this logo works
The Beats logo doubles as a headphone and letterform, making it bold and memorable.
15. Huawei
Radiating red blades forming a floral shape.
Why this logo works
The Huawei logo implies growth, innovation, and global reach through abstract layering.
16. Dropbox
Four diamond shapes forming an open box.
Why this logo works
The Dropbox logo symbolizes simplicity and sharing with minimal geometric logic.
17. Slack
Colorful lines and dots forming a tilted cross.
Why this logo works
The Slack logo captures connection and conversation through a modular, abstract system.
18. Dell
A tilted “E” inside a bold wordmark.
Why this logo works
The Dell logo breaks convention with subtle abstraction to suggest innovation.
19. Symantec
A checkmark enclosed in a dynamic circle.
Why this logo works
The Symantec logo is a bold abstract logo that communicates safety, motion, and digital protection in a simple form.
20. Xero
A rounded blue wordmark with soft spacing.
Why this logo works
The Xero logo emphasizes clarity and ease of use with its abstract simplicity.
Our Abstract Logos
1. TerraFunds
An angular symbol that suggests both land and finance through layered geometric forms.
Why this logo works
It’s a flexible design that feels professional and modern, without relying on clichés like buildings or money.
2. Celli Collective
A circular “C” mark built from layered curves, paired with a modern wordmark.
Why this logo works
The symbol feels fluid and connected — an ideal match for a creative collective that values unity, rhythm, and openness.
3. Couriez
The upward arrow forms a bold abstract logo that suggests speed and direction.
Why this logo works
Its shape is energetic without being literal, perfectly suited for a logistics or delivery brand focused on forward motion.
4. MOON
The second “O” is replaced with a crescent moon — simple, abstract, and expressive.
Why this logo works
This logo blends symbolism and typography, giving the brand an identity that feels both calm and cosmic.
5. LITEEYES
A sleek icon formed from nested ellipses, hinting at vision, tech, and motion.
Why this logo works
The abstract shape evokes clarity and speed, making it a great fit for a brand focused on smart optics or visual tech.
When to Use an Abstract Logo?
An abstract logo is the right fit if:
-
Your brand is built on ideas, values or systems rather than one product
-
You want to stand out in a crowded or traditional industry
-
You plan to operate globally or expand into new markets
-
You need a logo that feels modern, flexible and scalable
This style works well for startups, tech companies, fintech, agencies, innovation driven brands and platforms where versatility is key.
How to Design an Abstract Logo
- Start with meaning – Think in concepts: movement, balance, connection, precision
- Use shape psychology – Circles = unity, triangles = motion, squares = stability
- Keep it simple – Abstract doesn’t mean complex
- Test scalability – Make sure it looks great from favicon to billboard
- Make it ownable – Look for a shape or structure that no one else is using
Conclusion
Abstract logos give you the freedom to create something unique, memorable and scalable — without literal imagery. When done well these symbols communicate more than what you do — they show how you make people feel.
Ready to create a custom abstract logo that’s truly yours? Check out our logo design services. We’ll turn your concept into a logo that lasts.
