Top Cryptocurrency Logos Explained (Technical Analysis)

1.Bitcoin

Bitcoin crypto currency is the world’s first peer-to-peer decentralized digital currency, which is now not only the most recognized and known cryptocurrency but also the only digital currency that is most widely accepted and used in numerous real-world transactions. Bitcoin is arguably the best crypto currency.
Bitcoin symbol – a capital letter B with two falling strokes at the top and bottom directly refer to a dollar sign which I believe is the best single visual treatment in this logo.
The distinctive “B” is imposed on an orange circle that makes it actually look like a coin. Next, the coin is slightly slanted to the right which together with the italic wordmark adds to dynamism of this volatile currency.

Pros
• visual nod to the dollar sign
• bold, simple typography
• reference to a coin
• distinctive color
Cons
• generic look
• the serif “B” and the sans serif word mark don’t match
• inaccurate proportions between logo and word mark

1. Ripple
   
   Ripple connects banks, payment providers, digital asset exchanges and corporate via RippleNet to provide one frictionless experience to send money globally. It’s another cryptocurrency next to Bitcoin, but in terms of visual aesthetics, it’s the absolute winner.
   Ripple got in its logo three dots, which connected together form a unique symbol that can represent the blockchain technology. The logo is simple, memorable & modern.
   The particles are in perfect relation to each other forming a triangle which is aligned to the right, so it sort of sticks to the logotype. The subtle gradient applied on the mark looks modern plus the blue color evokes trust and wisdom.

Pros
• the simple and bold typography with just right letter spacing
• the symbol conveys decentralization, connectivity, flow
• the blue gradient that evokes trust and wisdom
• perfect proportions between the symbol and the word mark

1. Litecoin
   
   Litecoin is a peer-to-peer cryptocurrency and open source software project released under the MIT/X11 licenses. Creation and transfer of coins are based on an open source cryptographic protocol and is not managed by any central authority.
   Litecoin mark is actually an existing character from a computer’s character map and a letter of the Polish alphabet, which makes it look recognizable instantly.
   Litecoin uses a distinctive first letter of its name – similarly to Bitcoin. However, the “Ł” letter exists in some alphabets like Polish e.g. (my origins) and the pronunciation is very different than “L”. It may cause some confusion. On top of that, the symbol uses Uppercase while we name uses lowercase. The symbol is in italic while the word mark is not. the symbol is bold while the word mark is set in the light font. The grey color makes it look weak and it projects overall poor impression.

Pros
• simple and legible typography
• reference to a coin (circle)
• right balance between symbol and wordmark
Cons
• “Ł” is an existing letter is Polish, confusing
• lack of visual link between “Ł” from symbol and lowercase “l”
• grey color make is look very weak and fragile

1. Dash
   
   Use Dash to make instant, private payments online or in-store using our secure open-source platform hosted by thousands of users around the world.
   Dash name stand for Digital + Cash. The name is set in a custom typeface that is bold, dynamic and distinctive enough to make an impact.
   Dash is Digital Cash you can spend anywhere. That’s the first thing we can see on the Dash website. Well, it makes sense. The name combines the first letter of “Digital” with the word “Cash”. D + Cash = Dash. A great name, also a great logotype.

Pros
• unique typography
• distinctive D
• dynamic wordmark
Cons
• omnipresent blue color (like Chase)

1. NEM
   
   NEM is the world’s first Smart Asset blockchain. Built from the ground up for enterprise-grade performance, NEM’s blockchain technology delivers a world-class platform for management of almost any kind of asset: currencies, supply chains, notarizations, ownership records and more.
   Helvetica with tight letters-pacing will always look good. The colorful three-arm symbol is not bad, but the proportion between symbol and wordmark are inaccurate.
   Helvetica-like typography set in bold with tight letter spacing will always look good. We can find so many brands using a similar typeface in their logos (Lufthansa, Jeep, Gillette). The three-arm symbol is appropriate and set in bright colors makes it look very appealing, however the proportions between wordmark and symbol are way off balance.

Pros
• simple & bold typography
• distinctive symbol (triskelion)
• vibrant colors
Cons
• symbol and wordmark off balance (proportions)
• weird position of the symbol (as it’s a star)

1. Monero
   
   Monero is a secure, private, and untraceable cryptocurrency. It is open-source and accessible to all. With Monero, you are your own bank. Only you control and are responsible for your funds. Your accounts and transactions are kept private from prying eyes.
   The “M” in the symbol divides the circle into 2 parts and the color separates it further which looks somehow original. However, the wordmark’s “M” is of a different shape which makes it look inconsistent.
   The name is set in all caps and legible sans serif typography. However, the weight of the font and the weight of the line in the “M” symbol doesn’t match. The first letter of the name uses totally different “M” than the one in the circle (inconsistency).

Pros
• simple & legible typography
• distinctive treatment with the M dividing the circle
• vibrant orange color
Cons
• generic symbol
• “M” in the symbol doesn’t match “M” in the name
• Color separates the top part of the negative space (no purpose)

1. Zcash
   
   Zcash is the first open, permission less cryptocurrency that can fully protect the privacy of transactions using zero-knowledge cryptography.
   At first glance, Zcash logo looks like a copy-cat of Bitcoin. Hold on, it is a copy-cat. Same treatment, slightly different execution. Even the color is too similar. Not so smart guys, not so smart.
   However, the logo wasn’t designed to work separately from the name (like Bitcoin). So if you separated the coin-like “Z” symbol from the name – you just end up with “Cash” word.

Pros
• coin-like symbol
• subtle orange gradient
Cons
• very generic, standard looking typography
• the stroke is too thick on the symbol
• “Z” should be repeated in the wordmark

Conclusions
When it comes to money investment, you want to particularly pay attention to the visual aspects of your identity system with a logo in its core.
I’ve reviewed these cryptocurrency logos, so you can actually learn from the life-case scenarios and avoid potentially costly mistakes when it comes to your logo design. Remember, whether it’s a new cryptocurrency, financial institution or any other business or venture – logo design principles are always the same.
An effective logo is more than the sum of its parts. The colors, shapes, fonts, and words chosen all need to work together to form a harmonious whole.
Therefore, every decision you make when you pick a logo can have an impact on the way your brand is perceived.
Is the logo friendly, capable, trustworthy enough?
Does it project the desired perception?
Will it work across variety of media?
Designers like me, use these forms of visual language (among others) to make sure that the brand comes to life in the most appropriate manner and makes an impact from the first encounter.

Overall look & feel
Finally, you need to think about the emotions conveyed by your logo. Everything should work together to create a harmonious whole.
A company that targets investors might use a strong and solid color such as blue, combined with a sans serif font and a circular shape. The combined effect sends a clear message that this is a company that can be trusted, is progressive and capable.

What do you think about these Cryptocurrency logos?
Did you spot other pros and cons? Share your comments below.
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