Difference between 2D and 3D animation: what is it and which one should you choose?

What is 2D animation?

2D animation works in height and width. Images are drawn or digitally illustrated and move frame by frame or via motion graphics. This allows you to communicate quickly, without visual noise. 2D often fits seamlessly with your corporate identity: you can translate your color palette, icons, and typography 1-to-1. It is ideal for explanatory videos, onboarding, abstract services, and social content. Production is usually faster and more cost-efficient, because you don't have to build or render 3D models. Limitation: real depth and materiality are simulated with shadow and perspective. For internal machine operation or photorealistic product detail, 2D can be less convincing. Want to learn more about the basics? Read: What is 2D animation?

What is 3D animation?

With 3D animation, you build three-dimensional models that you rig, light, texture, and film with virtual cameras. This creates depth, realism, and freedom to move around the subject. 3D excels in technical animations: think of exploded views, cross-sections, and process flows of machines, medical instruments, or infrastructure. Product visualizations also benefit from realistic materials, reflections, and shadows. Practical advantage: existing CAD or STEP files can often serve as a starting point. Keep in mind that more production hours are required for modeling, simulations, and rendering, plus heavier hardware. Revisions are more impactful than in 2D. Choose 3D when you want to clarify complex operations, show non-existent products, or are looking for a premium, realistic look for trade show displays, websites, or AR and VR. Immerse yourself in the process and the possibilities of 3D animation in detail.

Comparison of 2D vs. 3D animation

• Best for
  2D: Explanatory videos, abstract processes, social media
  3D: Technical animations, product visualization, demos
• Look and feel
  2D: Illustrative, consistent, iconic
  3D: Spatial, realistic, premium
• Turnaround time and budget
  2D: Relatively fast and affordable
  3D: More hours for modeling and rendering
• Complexity
  2D: Ideal for concepts and storytelling
  3D: Ideal for functionality, details, and physics
• Channels
  2D: Light files, ideal for web and social media
  3D: Trade show displays, websites, AR, and VR

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 2D and 3D animation?

2D is flat and illustrative, working in height and width. 3D has depth: you build models, light them, and render them for realism. This allows you to move around objects.

Which is better, 2D or 3D?

That depends on your goal. If you want to explain something quickly and clearly in your corporate style, choose 2D. If you want to show how something works, details, or realism, choose 3D. Budget and deadline also play a role.

What is 2D animation?

2D animation consists of drawn or digitally created images that move via frames or motion graphics. Suitable for explanatory videos, onboarding, and social content in your corporate style.

What is 3D animation?

3D animation uses 3D models, lighting, and textures to create realistic, three-dimensional scenes. See also What is 3D animation? for the basics, advantages, and limitations.