Difference between 2D and 3D Animation

Let me start this article by asking you a simple question. Have you seen the movie Inside out, Minions, Incredibles, Mulan, or lion king? So, what do these movies have in common? BINGO! you are absolutely correct, all these are animated movies, some are made in 2D animation and some movies are of 3D animation.

With the changing times, animation has evolved a lot. Earlier the animation sequences (frame to frame) were drawn by the animators with their hands. But now, these sequences are done by software. Along with that with the advent of three-dimensional (3D), the animation industry has split into two parts 2D and 3D. 

Today in this article we will discuss the difference between two-dimensional and three-dimensional animation. So, what are we waiting for? let's start. 

Difference between 2D (two-dimension) and 3D (three dimensions) 

Let's see what is the difference between 2d and 3d animation: 

2D Animation

The art of creating a movement in a two-dimensional space which includes characters, creatures, background, etc. They have used cartoons, advertisements, brand videos, etc. In older times these were done by the traditional cell animation method. But in recent times, the technique has changed a bit, now the animators use different software in developing action sequences where the tools automatically generate the sequence.

3D Animation

2D animation is all about frames but 3D animation is all about movements. This animation includes characters and objects with height, width, and depth. These are totally done by the computer software. The phrases consist of lightning, rigging, texturing, modeling, rendering, etc.

Explore the pros and cons of 2D and 3D animation

In terms of "Budget"

Well, 2D animation is more cost-effective than 3D animation. As 3D animation requires more resource-heavy software and hardware. And its creation process is quite lengthier as well. Although a 2D animation show can be more costly than a 3D show as well. why? because in the 3D show the artists can reuse the 3D models, with a little hard work and cost. 

Demand 

To be very honest, it is really hard to differentiate which one is more in demand. Although, by looking at the recent trends of the industry, we have differentiated 3D and 2D animation on the basis of demand. Let's start with 2D animation. The 2D animation has a stronger grip in mobile and pc applications, websites and advertisements, and television shows as well. On the other hand, 3D animation has a stronger position in films, video games, virtual reality, and product presentations as well. Both of these visual mediums as a profession are really coveted. 

Quality 

It is a very personalized topic, so most people have their own opinions about which style is better. Obviously, 2D and 3D are not the same, both of them are different. So, if an individual prefers realism and detail they might find 3D animation to be attractive. And those who prefer otherworldly visuals and innovative characters then they will like 2D animation to be more attractive. In the very end, the quality will totally depend on the impression of the content, not on the content which was used to create it.  

 

Animation Industry Outlook

In 2018, the global animation market was worth 259 billion U.S. dollars and is expected to grow to 270 billion by 2020. Animation is a big business, where consumers are increasingly expecting higher quality graphics in gaming, better visual effects in movies, and a more immersive consumption experience wherever they go. As per Precedence Research, the global animation market size is expected to hit around US$ 642.5 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2021 to 2030. There are several 3D animation courses in Kolkata that can help an aspirant to make their dreams to become an animator come true.