Let’s talk animation. Ever wonder why certain types of animation styles seem to pop up everywhere—from kid’s cartoons to your favourite video games? What about the animation styles behind those super engaging product ads or mechanical demos?
With so many animation styles out there, it can be confusing to figure out what makes each one special or where it’s actually used.
In this article, we’re diving into the main types of animation, what they’re good for, and where you’ll see them.
Let’s break it down.
1. 2D Animation
2D animation is the old-school hero here.
We’re talking about hand-drawn (or digitally drawn) images that get scanned or added layer by layer to create movement.
Why it’s still popular?
2D animation is flexible, cost-effective, and has this timeless quality that works for all kinds of projects, whether it’s cartoons, social media content, or explainer videos. Ever seen an animated brand mascot or a YouTube explainer video? Odds are, it was made with 2D animation.
Where to spot it:
Look for 2D in kid’s shows, online ads, and educational videos. It’s especially great when you need characters to be expressive or want an animation style that feels “light and friendly.”
2. 3D Animation
3D animation is that next-level style you see in Pixar movies or high-end video games.
This style uses computer-generated models in a 3D space. Think lighting effects, textures, and all that jazz to create characters and environments that look almost real.
Why go 3D?
When you need realism or want viewers to feel immersed, 3D is the way to go. Yes, it’s more costly and time-consuming, but the payoff is worth it if your project calls for that wow factor.
Where it shines:
3D is perfect for animated movies, gaming, and ads with that “blockbuster” look. Plus, it’s often used in VR and AR for an even deeper level of immersion.
3. Stop Motion
Got patience? Then you’re ready for stop motion.
Each frame is captured individually, with slight movements between each shot to create motion. Think of Wallace & Gromit or Coraline. This style is all about that hands-on, tangible vibe.
Why bother with stop motion?
Stop motion has a tactile charm and a handmade feel that you don’t get with other animation styles. The characters look like they’re part of our physical world, which makes it great for adding nostalgia or a crafty look to projects.
You’ll see it in:
Art films, commercials, and anything that wants a vintage or handcrafted vibe.
4. Motion Capture (MoCap)
Motion capture brings real-world movement into the digital world.
With MoCap, actors wear suits with sensors that capture their movements, which then get transferred to a digital character. This tech made Gollum from The Lord of the Rings come to life and is heavily used in video games too.
What’s the point?
MoCap adds realistic movement and detail that’s hard to get otherwise, making characters feel more authentic. It’s especially good for projects where lifelike motion is key.
Where to watch it:
High-budget movies, AAA video games, and even some sports or training simulations.
5. Whiteboard Animation
This is your go-to for simple, clear explanations.
Whiteboard animation features a “hand” drawing images on a white background, usually paired with voice-over. It’s mainly black-and-white and keeps the visual focus on the message.
Why use whiteboard animation?
Whiteboard animations are easy to understand and straight to the point. They’re a favourite in educational and corporate settings where information clarity is the goal.
Spot it here:
Explainer videos, educational content, and presentations where the visuals need to stay clean and easy to follow.
6. Typography Animation
When words need to do the heavy lifting, typography animation is your friend.
Typography animation is all about moving text around—expanding, shrinking, transforming. You might’ve seen it in Instagram story ads or lyric videos.
Why bother with text animation?
It’s eye-catching, clear, and keeps things minimal. No fluff, just text with a bit of personality.
Where it’s useful:
Short social media ads, lyric videos, and simple promos where the text IS the message.
7. Claymation
Claymation is a spin on stop motion, but with clay models.
Each frame involves tiny adjustments to clay characters or objects, creating a tactile, quirky animation style. This one’s perfect for giving characters a soft, “squishy” look that’s instantly recognisable.
Why go clay?
Claymation is charming, nostalgic, and stands out because it’s not something you see every day. It’s also great for kids’ content.
Catch it here:
Kids shows, commercials with a throwback vibe, and animated short films that want a unique, “touchable” aesthetic.
8. Mechanical Animation
This is animation with a technical twist.
Mechanical animation shows how machines, products, or processes work, breaking down mechanical movements step by step.
Why mechanical animation matters:
It simplifies complex machinery, helping audiences understand how a product or system functions. It’s huge in sectors like engineering, aerospace, and manufacturing.
Where it’s used:
Product demos, training videos, and any industry where a mechanical process needs to be understood.
9. Mixed Animation
Mixed animation is the blend of different styles—traditional, digital, and sometimes even live-action.
This hybrid style lets creators mix hand-drawn art with digital effects or integrate real-life footage with animation.
Why mix it up?
Combining animation styles adds depth and keeps things fresh. It can be eye-catching, bringing in a unique look that stands out.
See it in:
Movies like Space Jam, creative ads, and any project that wants to break visual rules and get experimental.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best animation style for beginners?
2D animation is typically easier to start with, especially if you’re learning on a budget. Plenty of software out there supports 2D animation, and it doesn’t require high-end hardware like 3D animation.
Q: Which animation style is most popular in movies?
3D animation is by far the most popular in Hollywood movies because it delivers realism and can handle complex storytelling.
Q: How much does stop motion animation cost?
Stop motion can be pricey since it’s so time-consuming. For example, a high-quality stop motion short can cost thousands due to the detailed frame-by-frame work involved.
Hope this gave you a good look at what’s possible with animation styles. So, whether you’re a creator, marketer, or just curious about how your favourite characters come to life, now you’ve got a solid grip on how each animation style does its thing.
