Which Patent Protection Is Right for Your Invention?
Not every invention needs the same protection—and the wrong choice can waste thousands of dollars. Let us help you understand your options before you spend a dime.
Patent Protection Isn't One-Size-Fits-All
Most inventors jump straight to "I need a patent" without understanding what type of protection actually fits their invention, timeline, and budget. That's a recipe for wasted money and missed opportunities.
At FSBI, we believe in research-first clarity. Before you file anything, you should understand exactly what each option does—and doesn't—protect.
Compare Your Options at a Glance
Here's how the four main patent service options stack up:
| Patent Search | Provisional Patent | Utility Patent | Design Patent | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| What It Does | Tells you if your idea is likely patentable | Establishes early filing date; "Patent Pending" status | Protects how your invention works | Protects how your invention looks |
| Protection Duration | N/A (research only) | 12 months (then expires) | 20 years from filing | 15 years from issuance |
| Typical Cost | $500–$2,000 | $1,500–$5,000 | $8,000–$20,000+ | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Time to Complete | 2–4 weeks | 2–6 weeks | 2–4 years | 12–18 months |
| Examined by USPTO? | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Enforceable Rights? | No | No | Yes (after issuance) | Yes (after issuance) |
| Best For | Anyone unsure if their idea is patentable | Inventors who need time while preparing full application | Inventions with unique functionality | Inventions with unique appearance |
Coach note: Many successful products need BOTH utility and design protection. The comparison above isn't "pick one"—it's "understand each so you can make the right combination."
Not Sure Which You Need? Start Here.
Answer these questions to point yourself in the right direction:
Still not sure? That's exactly why we offer free idea reviews. No pressure, no sales pitch—just honest guidance.
Explore Each Service
Click to learn more about each option, including detailed timelines, costs, and what to expect.
SPARK Patent Search
Find out if your idea is likely patentable before you invest in an application.
Learn MoreProvisional Patent
Establish "Patent Pending" status while you refine your invention.
Learn MoreUtility Patent
Protect how your invention works with 20 years of enforceable rights.
Learn MoreDesign Patent
Protect your product's unique appearance with 15 years of protection.
Learn MoreOur Research-First Approach
At FSBI, we don't just file paperwork. We help you make informed decisions at every step.
Free Idea Review
Tell us about your invention and we'll give you honest feedback on your options.
Research & Strategy
If appropriate, we conduct a patent search to understand what protection makes sense.
File with Confidence
When you're ready, we prepare and file your application with licensed practitioners.
The Un-Invention Company difference: We'd rather tell you "this isn't worth patenting" than take your money for a filing that won't help you. That's research-first in action.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Get a free idea review and we'll help you figure out which protection—if any—makes sense for your invention.
Get Your Free Idea ReviewYou keep 100% ownership. No hype. No guarantees—just clarity.