Names with 5-7 characters get recalled 42% more often than 12+ character names. But go below 4 and trademark conflicts spike. Here's the data-backed sweet spot.
The 5-7 Character Rule
Google (6), Amazon (6), Apple (5). Short enough to remember, long enough to be distinctive.
Below 4: Trademark Minefield
HP, BP, AA - all fought trademark battles for years. Short names have more conflicts.
The Syllable Test
2-3 syllables maximum. Character count matters less than pronunciation length.
Above 10: Memory Failure
Customers abbreviate long names themselves. You lose control of your brand.
UK Naming Patterns
British business names average 8.2 characters. Going shorter creates instant differentiation.
Warning: Ultra-short names (2-3 characters) cost £10,000-50,000 to acquire as domains. Budget accordingly.
Generic Names Can't Be Trademarked
If you want legal protection and a name competitors can't copy, make it distinctive from day one. Length doesn't override the need for distinctiveness.