Not all video ideas can be brought to life through filming, and thatโs one reason animation exists. Animation is not a new concept and, for sure, you already know what that is. But the question is, should you use 2D or 3D for your business?
We know that 2D is two-dimensional and 3D is three-dimensional, but that’s not the only difference you should know before you choose a style that’s right for your business or goal. Here are all the differences you should take into consideration:
- Dimension
- Software
- Process
- Visual Experience
- Cost
Letโs get started.
2D vs. 3D Animation: 5 Differences You Should Know
First and foremost, one isn’t better than the other. There are people who are more drawn to 2D and there are some who like 3D more, so choosing between 2D and 3D animation is mostly about one’s preference, especially if budget isnโt an issue.
Animation has been existing for many decades and many of the videos you see every day whether on the internet or on television are animation, and you will see even more of them if you have kids.
Thereโs no denying that animation is entertaining because itโs colorful and looks more artistic when compared to video footage, so weโre not surprised that youโre interested in using it to give your audience something that will visually stimulate them.
But you have to decide what kind of animation to use. Here are the differences between 2D and 3D animation:
1. Dimension
The most basic difference between 2D animation and 3D animation is their dimensions, and you don’t have to be a video expert to see that difference. Basically, if the characters and graphical elements are flat, that’s 2D. If you see sides, that’s 3D.
Here’s an example of 2D animation:
Here’s what 3D animation looks like:
If you want it to be more realistic, then go with 3D animation.
2. Software
The main difference between the software and programs used for creating 2D and 3D animation is their capability when it comes to providing depth to a graphic or a model. Because 2D animation has no depth, the software used for it doesn’t have that capability.
Given that, 3D animation software is more powerful, so itโs more pricey. That’s one of the factors that make 3D more expensive than 2D.
3. Process
There are three steps in creating 2D animation: scripting, creating the graphics, and animating those graphics. For 3D animation, the process is quite the same but instead of graphics, what will be created are models, which have more dimensions.
The 2D animation process is simpler and shorter compared to the process of creating 3D, so if you are more drawn to 3D animation, you should be willing to wait.
Think of a painting and a sculpture. A painting can be done in one day because there’s nothing else to focus on but the canvas, which is flat. But when you sculpt, you also have to work on the sides and the back of the sculpture, so it takes more time.
4. Visual Experience
The movements aren’t more limited in 2D animation, but it will seem like that’s the case because it’s only two-dimensional, so the audience can’t see all the areas in the scenes. Given that, even simple movements can have a huge impact on the audience if it’s 3D.
But usually, the extremity of the movements depends on your budget. If your budget is limited, then what you’ll see are simple and repetitive movements. But if you have a big budget, the movements could be complex. That applies to both 2D and 3D animation.
5. Cost
Because the process of making 3D animation is longer and the software used for it is heavier, you have to be willing to pay more if you want to use it for your business, especially if the video to be made is long and rich in characters, objects, colors, and other elements.
But not all projects are the same and video production agencies charge differently, so if you want more accurate pricing, contact the agency you want to work with. If you’re interested in working with us, watch this video to know how much we charge for 2D animation:
We charge $1,000 per minute for a simple 2D animated video. Expect that you will have to pay more than that if you wish to use 3D animation for your business.
Conclusion
The results of your marketing don’t depend on the type of animation you use, so you don’t have to worry if you don’t have enough budget for 3D animation. You can still tell your story in a creative and artistic way with 2D animation.
Basically, the main difference between 2D and 3D animation is that 3D animation is โmoreโ: has more dimensions, is more expensive, and takes more time to finish. So if you want things to be realistic and you have the budget and the time for it, then choose 3D.
If you have video ideas in mind and youโre ready to bring them to life, letโs help you create a solid script for your animated video for free! Schedule an appointment here if youโre interested in having a scripting session with us!