/ Crowdsourced logo and design contests
RIOT vs 99designs
99designs runs design contests — 50 designers submit logos, you pick one. The maths is brutal for the designers (most work for free) and the output reflects it: safe, derivative, on-trend-for-2019.
99designs is best for
A throwaway logo on the absolute cheapest budget.
Where it falls down
Brand identity that lasts more than 18 months.
Side by side
| Feature | 99designs | RIOT |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | £200–£900 | From £950 for full identity |
| Strategy | None — pure visual | Positioning + visual + guidelines |
| Files | Logo only | Logo, marks, type, colour, usage rules |
| Iterations | Pick one of 50, light tweaks | Unlimited until launch-ready |
| Originality | Designer plays it safe to win | Built around your business alone |
The verdict
A 99designs logo costs £200 and a rebrand in two years costs £3,000. A proper £950 identity lasts five years and saves the rebuild.
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