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

2D animation

2D animation is a traditional animation method that has been used for many years. In a 2D animation (two-dimensional), there is a height and a width, but there is no depth. So the animation simply consists of flat drawings. These can be made either by hand or by computer. Examples include all cartoons.

Did you know that the first successful animation was "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs"? This animation was released in 1937.

3D animation

Unlike 2D animation, a 3D animation has (three-dimensional) depth: that is, you can turn around an object with the camera. You cannot draw a 3D animation; it must be generated by computer.

Using 3D, you can make the invisible visible. Think of visualizing complicated processes in a machine or showing products that do not yet exist. A 3D animation is therefore much more realistic than a 2D animation.

A few examples of well-known 3D animations are Shrek, Jurassic Park and Toy Story.

2D or 3D animation?

You now know the difference between a 2D animation and a 3D animation, but which animation method best suits your message?

A 2D animation lends itself perfectly to explaining a service or an abstract concept. You can easily show enumerations in the animation and visualize the connection between parts. You can also easily incorporate corporate identity into the video.

A 3D animation can be used to explain complicated processes that are difficult to film with a camera. In addition, a 3D animation is suitable for visualizing products that do not yet exist. Because a 3D animation is very realistic, you can easily convey emotion to the viewer. Last but not least, a 3D animation is suitable for people with a slightly larger budget. On average, a 3D animation is more expensive than a 2D animation.