Fastest-Growing USPTO Trademark Classes in 2026
As commerce shifts online, a handful of trademark classes are seeing the fastest growth in new applications — and they may be exactly where your brand belongs.
Free Trademark Search →Which classes are growing fastest?
The momentum is in technology and online commerce. Class 9 covers downloadable software and apps; Class 42 covers software-as-a-service and tech services; Class 35 covers online retail, e-commerce, and marketplaces; and Class 41 covers online courses, coaching, and digital content. These reflect where new brands are being built as businesses move online rather than opening physical storefronts.
Why are these classes booming?
The shift is driven by app development, SaaS startups, creator businesses, and sellers launching on marketplaces like Amazon and Etsy. Each of these business models needs brand protection in a digital-first class. As more founders launch software, online stores, and education products, applications concentrate in the classes that cover those goods and services.
How do you pick the right class?
Match your class to what you actually sell: an app belongs in Class 9, a SaaS platform in Class 42, an online store in Class 35, and courses in Class 41. Many digital brands span several of these and file in more than one. Because each class adds a $350 fee, focus on where you truly operate. Secure Mark USA can identify the right classes and file for you.
Ready to protect your brand?
Secure Mark USA is a private USPTO trademark filing service (not a law firm and not the USPTO). Filing starts from $99 plus the $350-per-class USPTO fee.
Start Your RegistrationKey takeaways
- Digital-economy classes are growing fastest in 2026.
- Class 9 covers software and apps; Class 42 covers SaaS and tech services.
- Class 35 covers online retail; Class 41 covers online education and content.
- Each class you file in carries a $350 USPTO fee.
- Secure Mark USA files applications from $99 plus the $350-per-class USPTO fee.
Frequently asked questions
What class is software in?
Downloadable software and apps generally fall in Class 9, while software-as-a-service falls in Class 42.
What class covers an online store?
Online retail and marketplace services generally fall in Class 35.
Do online courses need their own class?
Yes. Educational and training content, including online courses, generally falls in Class 41.
Can my brand span several growing classes?
Yes, many digital brands file in multiple classes, with each additional class adding a $350 USPTO fee.
Is Secure Mark USA a law firm?
No. Secure Mark USA is a private USPTO trademark filing service, not a law firm and not affiliated with the USPTO.
Helpful resources
Trademark Registration · Free Trademark Search · Trademark Monitoring · USPTO Trademark Classes · Trademark Consultancy
Start your trademark the smart way
Run a free search, then file with Secure Mark USA from $99 plus the $350-per-class USPTO fee.
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