Best free and paid software for 2D animation
In today's world, animation is extremely popular. It is a form of art that has captured the imagination of humans for quite a long time.
2D animation is the most understood, traditional, and popular form of animation that creates motion in images in a two-dimensional space.
2D animation software is often required for the creation of complex animations and is used by professionals like game developers, cartoonists, architects, and artists.
Thankfully, Whether you're a beginner or a professional, a Windows user or a Mac user, there are plenty of different animation software to choose from.
However, the selection process can be tricky due to the multitude of options available.
Are you familiar with animation software? Looking for an animation software app but are not sure whether it will help you achieve your goals and fit right into your lifestyle?
In this article, we will take a look at the top 12 best 2D animation software in 2024, based on their features, tools and prices.
We will also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each software so that you can make an informed decision when choosing the right animation software for your needs.
What is 2D Animation?
2D animation is the art of creating movement in a two-dimensional space. This includes characters, creatures, FX, and backgrounds. The illusion of movement is created when individual drawings are sequenced together over time.
While this process is sometimes referred to as traditional animation, mainstream 2D production has evolved from hand drawn processes using pencil and paper to the implementation of digital techniques using computer software like Toon Boom Harmony or Adobe Animate CC.
Despite the advances in technology, the core principles of 2D animation remain the same. Each frame is carefully crafted to create movement, and the frames are played back at a speed of 24 frames per second (24fps) to create the illusion of motion.
This illusion of movement has grown to become a top art form that is not only used in the entertainment industry. Various other industries, such as Advertisement, Marketing, Gaming, Retail, Architecture, and Engineering, use 2D animation in multiple ways.
What is 2D Animation software?
2D Animation software is an important tool used by modern animators to create stunning visuals and effects. It brings in life to the graphics creating an illusion of movement by arranging the graphics in a sequence.
Using 2D animation software, even an amateur artist will be able to create interesting animations, stop-motion, motion graphics, etc.
What is the difference between 2D and 3D animation?
2D animation involves creating objects in a two-dimensional space, showing width and height. As an example, classic Disney movies are in 2D.
3D animation involves a two-dimensional object depicted in three dimensions. 3D objects can be rotated, flipped, and moved like real objects.
For animators, is that 2D animation is more artistic and 3D is more mechanical/technical.
2D requires a large amount of illustration, as every frame needs to be drawn, either on a graphic tablet or hand drawn on paper.
For 3D animations, all frames must be rendered after modeling is complete. It is tasked with creating movement via ‘rigs', where a 3D model is essentially given a skeleton that can be manipulated in a virtual 3D space. you also need a 3D animation software.
The type of animation you pursue will mostly come down to your artistic preference and budget (2D animation is more cheaper).
12 Best 2D Animation Software in 2024
With the right software, it is fun creating 2D animation. You only have to get your script and storyboard ready.
Here's our compiled a list of the best paid and free 2D animation software out there to help you make the right decision for your animation needs!
1. Toon Boom Harmony
2. Adobe Animate
3. Moho Pro
4. Synfig Studio
5. Opentoonz
6. Pencil2D
7. Cartoon Animator 5
8. TVPaint Animation
9. DigiCel Flipbook
10. Blender
11. Krita
12. After Effects
Conclusion
As you can see, there are many animation software on the market today, each with its own unique set of features and pricing structure.
Whether you're looking to create 2D gaming environments, social media graphics, or cartoons, there's a top-quality animation software option on this list for you.
While some of these may be suited for professionals, most are generally user friendly to beginners as well.
Think about which features are most important to you, your budget, and how you're most likely to use animation software. Then select the one that best suits your requirement.
We hope it will help you hone your foundation skills, practice animation styles, and help you get professional results.
Have you used any of the software mentioned above before? Which one works for you and do you have any other recommendation? Share with us.
FAQs
Do people still use 2D animation?
While 3D animation is the most prominent type of animation in modern cinema, 2D animation remains a popular and essential medium for creating engaging and compelling content.
2D animation is often used in television shows, movies, commercials, and other forms of visual media.
It has a long history and is still a popular and widely used technique today, often praised for its ability to convey emotion and character in a simple, stylized way.
Do I need a graphics tablet for 2D animation?
A drawing tablet for animation is more or less essential for 2D animators, digital sculptors, story board artists, and concept artists. It works well with the drawing, sketching and animation software.
Compared to a mouse, A graphics tablet with pen allows for more precise and natural drawing, which can lead to smoother and more detailed animations.
All the pen tablets have great pressure sensitivity, which allows you to vary the line thickness and opacity by adjusting the pressure applied.
Graphics tablets with display are even more convenient as you draw on the screen directly. This creates a more natural and intuitive drawing experience.
Can I creat 2D animation if I can't draw?
There are actually several options for creating 2D animations without having to draw everything by hand.
One option is to use software that allows you to manipulate pre-made assets, such as characters, backgrounds, and props.
Another option is to use motion graphics software that allows you to animate text and shapes.