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Among the 20 best animation styles, the top 5 include 2D, 3D, Stop-Motion, Motion Graphics, and Mixed Media. 

When it’s animation, know that it’s a TOON of choices.

Be it a heartwarming scene or an epic adventure, the animation style can change everything about a story. 

One good thing is you have a big audience for this video format. 

Because stats say that– 

80% of users can watch an entire animated video.​​ [Source: Academy of Animated Art] 

So, if you want to reach them, know the variety. This can help you craft the one that hits the right people.

Check Out Top 10 Animation Studios in New York for Award-Winning Storytelling

20 Types Of Animation Styles With Examples

 1. Traditional Animation

Traditional Animation Process
Traditional Animation Process

The old-school. 

Traditional animation is a classic technique for drawing each frame on cels with your hand. 

The process uses a series of hand-drawn frames with each playing in sequence. This produces the illusion of motion just like a flipbook. 

Such a hand-drawn factor gives it an aesthetic infusion of personality and warmth. 

Key Features

  • Artistic style
  • Hand-drawn 
  • Frame-by-frame layering 

Tools 

  • Traditional animation boards
  • Transparent sheets or cels 
  • Peg bars
  • Pencils and paints 

Example

2. 2D Animation

Definition of 2D Animation
Definition of 2D Animation

Conventional with a touch of digital. 

2D animation styles bring characters and scenes digitally into two-dimensional space. It only has height and width parameters that make it appear flat.

Such styles cater to different tones— be they playful or serious. This helps intrigue a wider audience. 

Key Features

  • Length and width, no depth. 
  • Combination of the characters, the background, and the motion.
  • Different uses, mostly in cartoons and explainer ads. 

Tools 

  • Rigging
  • Software like Adobe Animate or Moho 
  • Frame-by-frame animation 
  • Keyframe animation

Example

3. 3D Animation

Definition of 3D animation
Definition of 3D animation

Almost lifelike. 

3D animation styles give graphic objects the illusion of motion within a three-dimensional environment. The style has all the dimensions– length, height, and width. 

So, it creates more realistic objects and characters because it adds depth to them. This immersion of realism makes the story more relatable and interesting to people. 

Key Features

  • Length width, and depth. 
  • Realism and Dynamic movements.
  • Versatile applications like films, games, and ads. 

Tools

  • Blender
  • Maya
  • Cinema 4D
  • Adobe After Effects

Example

4. Motion Graphics

Definition of Motion Graphics
Definition of Motion Graphics

Anything but character.

Motion graphics style uses the movement of all sorts of static graphic objects. It focuses on conveying messages, information, and ideas.

Such animation creates visual narratives without character-driven stories. 

It’s great for summarizing data and concepts quickly. So, it works well for social media ads, marketing, and presentations. 

Key Features

  • Visual narration through graphic elements. 
  • Focus on message and data delivery. 
  • Great for marketing and presentations. 

Tools 

  • Adobe After Effects
  • Final Cut Pro
  • Blender
  • Morphing techniques 

Example

5. Stop Motion Animation

Definition of stop motion animation
Definition of stop motion animation

One move– at a time. 

Stop-motion animation is a physical animation technique. 

It requires you to move objects slightly between each photographed frame and capture them one frame at a time. This creates independent motion or change when you play them back in sequence. 

Its unique texture and whimsical feel make the style interesting and intoxicating for the audience. 

Objects like claymation, puppetry, paper cutouts, and live actors are commonly used in such styles.

Key Features

  • Physically manipulating objects.
  • Use of multiple creative objects.
  • Great for product ads, films, and cartoons.

Tools 

  • Digital camera
  • Blender
  • Opentoonz
  • Adobe Character Animator

Example

6. Whiteboard Animation

Definition of Whiteboard Animation
Definition of Whiteboard Animation

Animated doodling. 

Whiteboard animation is sketching static images in sequence on a whiteboard or white background with your hands. It can be a set of characters, graphics, or text. 

These drawings show the ideas being talked about and simplify complex concepts through narration. They effectively sell and explain procedures.

This makes learning fun and easy to digest. It’s mostly common in explainer and educational videos. 

Key Features

  • Images are drawn in a series.
  • Uses a white background. 
  • Explain the process through storytelling. 

Tools 

  • VideoScribe
  • Doodly 
  • Explaindio 
  • Vyond

Example

7. Rotoscoping

Definition of Rotoscoping
Definition of Rotoscoping

A more realistic motion picture. 

Rotoscoping is a technique where you trace over footage frame-by-frame to create more accurate and smoother animations. 

The result is realistic movements using the image or live-action footage as a reference. This process involves unique color schemes and visuals.

Such animation techniques allow you to create lifelike characters who move like humans in the real world. It’s common for intricate dance movements, walking, running, jumping, and other motions, such as facial expressions. 

Key Features

  • Using rotoscope.
  • Creating realistic animations. 
  • Emphasizes dramatic movements. 

Tools 

  • Adobe After Effects
  • Silhouette FX
  • Nuke
  • Blender 

Example

8. Typography Animation

Definition of Typography Animation
Definition of Typography Animation

Text in motion!

Kinetic Typography is the art of combining text with animated elements. This works to create movement and visual interest. That’s why you sometimes call it motion typography. 

It uses visual effects to add emotion and meaning to the text. This includes— color changes, size, and motion. 

Such animations are popular in many types of videos. For instance— commercials, explainers, product launch videos, and brand videos. It’s more suitable for title sequences, presentations, and social media posts. 

This can be a great way to grab the audience’s attention, improve message retention, and evoke a response.

Key Features

  • Moving text.
  • Uses visual effects.
  • Used for title sequence and social media posts. 

Tools 

  • Filmora
  • Animaker
  • Moovly
  • Biteable 

Example

9. Anime-style Animation

Definition of Anime-style Animation
Definition of Anime-style Animation

Straight outta Japan. 

Anime-style animation is a Japanese technique. The style has visually distinct features for characters. It involves colorful graphics, action-packed plots, and unique character designs.

In anime, the characters often have large, emotive eyes and mouths. Then again, their proportions and features can vary. 

Such styles are popular in different genres like action, romance, comedy, and fantasy. The movements are often exaggerated and expressions are dramatic. 

This helps grab the viewer’s attention— both young and adults as it resonates widely. 

Key Features

  • Originates in Japan. 
  • Exaggerated characters with big emotive eyes. 
  • Popular in fantasy, action, and romantic. 

Tools 

  • Toon Boom
  • Adobe Animate
  • Moho
  • Opentoonz

Example

10. Cutout Animation

Definition of Cutout Animation
Definition of Cutout Animation

This surely cuts the mustard. 

Cutout animation is a kind of stop-motion technique. It uses cutout shapes to create an illusion of motion. The materials can be— paper, cards, stiff fabric, or photographs. 

It’s one of the oldest forms of animation. Here, you move the props frame-by-frame and give them life. 

Such a style often features bold designs, vivid colors, and intricate patterns. This helps add depth and energy to the scene.

Key Features

  • Uses pre-cut pieces.
  • Objects are moved at intervals.
  • Common props are paper and cardboard. 

Tools 

  • Adobe Character Animator
  • Blender
  • Opentoonz
  • Digital Camera 

Example

11. Experimental Animation

Definition of Experimental Animation
Definition of Experimental Animation

A challenger! 

Experimental animation refers to a style where motion pictures have individual rhythm and movement. 

There’s no narration or specific structure. Instead, it involves exploring abstract ideas, emotions, and human experience through color, motion, and sound.

The animation can be non-linear. It highlights philosophic and spiritual concerns that the artists and filmmakers convey. 

This style emerged to push the boundaries of traditional techniques. It blends stop-motion, digital manipulation, and mixed media approaches.

Key Features

  • Challenges conventional technique.
  • Often lacks narration. 
  • Emphasizes abstract concepts. 

Tools 

  • Real-life objects
  • Blender
  • LightWave 3D
  • Cinema 4D

Example

12. VR Animation

Definition of VR Animation
Definition of VR Animation

Diving into the virtual world. 

Virtual Reality animation is a computer-generated simulation of 3D animated objects and environments. This allows you to interact with them in a virtual space that mimics real life.

It’s mostly used in video games, education, and advertising. You use specialized devices like VR headsets for the interaction. 

Key Features

  • Simulation of a 3D environment. 
  • Immersive experience.
  • Requires headsets.

Tools 

  • VR Headsets
  • Tvori 
  • Masterpiece VR
  • Ollie VR

Example

13. AR Animations

Definition of AR Animations
Definition of AR Animations

A reverse of VR. 

Augmented Reality animation is a technology that places objects or images in our own world. It’s a cutting-edge approach to visual storytelling

The style seamlessly infuses animated graphic elements into the real space. As a result, it creates an immersive and interactive experience to captivate viewers. 

AR uses movement and motion to bring virtual objects to life. It’s popular in gaming, marketing campaigns, product visualization, home design, and education. 

Key Features

  • Real-time digital overlay.
  • Interactive and immersive visual experiences.
  • Seamless blending of animation with physical environments.

Tools 

  • Vuforia Augmented Reality SDK
  • Unity
  • ARCore
  • ARToolKit

Example

14. CGI

Definition of CGI
Definition of CGI

PC as a producer. 

Computer-generated imagery is a type of visual effect (VFX). The technique refers to the creation of animated elements with computer software. 

This can be characters, environments, and special effects.

CGI delivers lifelike visuals that help enhance the storytelling experience. The style provides a wide range of creative freedom and goes beyond 2D, 3D, and other animations. 

It’s mostly used in games, films, television, advertisements, and education. 

Key Features

  • High realism.
  • Generated by computer software.
  • Beautifully rendered visual graphics. 

Tools 

  • Maya
  • ZBrush 
  • Houdini
  • Cinema4D

Example

15. Mixed Media

Definition of Mixed Media
Definition of Mixed Media

A mashup to another level. 

Mixed media animation is a video that blends a variety of graphic elements and techniques. 

These include live-action footage, still images, 2D animation, 3D animation, text, and other visuals. All these converge into a single, cohesive animation. 

Such styles work as a creative fusion which further encourages mind-blown innovation and experimentation. 

It’s mostly popular in films but many brands now use it for advertising. 

Key Features

  • Convergence of different elements. 
  • Offers a diverse visual approach and application.
  • Promotes innovative artistic expression. 

Tools 

  • Adobe After Effects
  • SketchUp
  • VideoFXPro
  • EbSynth

Example

16. Hybrid Animation

Definition of Hybrid Animation
Definition of Hybrid Animation

2D+3D. 

Hybrid animation is a technique that combines 2D and 3D animations. It mixes the charm and creativity of traditional 2D with the depth and realism of 3D.

This represents a beautiful synergy of artistry and technology. Plus, it offers innovative storytelling methods. 

Such a style has become increasingly popular in anime, films, and games.

Key Features

  • Combo of 2D and 3D. 
  • Encourages creative depiction. 
  • Broad application. 

Tools 

  • EbSynth
  • Adobe After Effects
  • SketchUp
  • VideoFXPro

Example

17. Flipbook Animation

Definition of Flipbook Animation
Definition of Flipbook Animation

Turn page after page and see the effect. 

Flipbook animation is a technique that uses a booklet with a series of static images. You flip the page quickly and this creates the illusion of motion. 

Such styles are mostly hand-drawn whereas some have digital forms. Because of its nostalgic factor and simplicity, it works to give viewers a tactile experience. 

It’s more popular in advertising, games, and education. However, some do it out of passion. 

Key Features

  • Flipping of a series of static images. 
  • Tactile creation.
  • A simple form of animation. 

Tools 

  • Traditional booklet
  • Paperturn
  • FlippingBook
  • Flipsnack

Example

18. Digital Puppetry

Definition of Digital Puppetry
Definition of Digital Puppetry

2D or 3D as performers.

Digital puppetry is a form of performance art. It integrates traditional puppetry techniques with digital technologies and animates characters in real time through motion capture. This translates live movements into digital action. 

It involves the manipulation and performance of 2D or 3D elements using software and hardware tools. You create and control those virtual characters in a virtual space. 

The technique is most commonly used in filmmaking, television, and video production

Key Features

  • Merges puppetry techniques with digital technologies.
  • Manipulation of 2D or 3D elements.
  • A blend of art and technology. 

Tools 

  • Digital Puppets
  • OpenToonz
  • Blender
  • ToonBoom

Example

19. Isometric Animation

Definition of Isometric Animation
Definition of Isometric Animation

Somewhere between 2D and 3D.

Isometric Animation is a 2.5D animation style. It involves designing 3D structures on a 2D surface where the frames are viewed from above and to the side. 

This kind of animation simplifies complex concepts as it offers clarity in design. Moreover, it gives viewers a visually appealing experience that works to stand out among crowds. 

The style is popular in multiple fields— games, education, video production, advertising, and films. 

Key Features

  • 2.5D Animation.
  • Unique isometric perspective. 
  • Clear visuals. 

Tools 

  • Microsoft Visio
  • CreativeStudio
  • Tumult Hype
  • Adobe After Effects

Example

20. Screencast Animation

Definition of Screencast Animation
Definition of Screencast Animation

A nice blend of screen and voice. 

A screencast animation is a kind of digital recording. It captures actions performed on a computer screen. 

The style typically combines a screen recording and a voiceover to explain the stuff happening on screen. 

It’s mostly used for demo videos or training content.

Key Features

  • Records screen and voiceover. 
  • Demonstrates what happens on screen. 
  • Suitable for demo videos. 

Tools 

  • Screencast-o-matic
  • Camtasia
  • ScreenFlow
  • Icecream Screen Recorder

Example

How to Choose the Right Animation Style?

Audience – Who’s gonna watch?

Evaluate your viewers when selecting the animation style for your video. For instance— 

  • If it’s for kids, you need lots of vibrant colors, quirky characters, and simple storylines to capture their imagination. This is mostly common in 2D animation styles. 
  • If it’s for a mature audience, you may want a sleek and polished look that conveys reliability. In that case, 3D is your pick. 

So, know who you’re talking to. This helps you craft animations that strike a chord with them. 

Budget – How much is there in your pocket? 

Budgeting for your animation project can be an influencing factor. 

High-end 3D costs a fortune and requires special skills. Meanwhile, simpler styles like 2D animations or motion graphics are pretty affordable. 

Then again, many video production companies can be flexible. So, you may get to create a premium-looking animation on a budget. However, there can be some limitations. 

Also, remember— 

A well-crafted simple animation can often be more powerful than a fancy one. 

Purpose – The main goal.

Your objectives shape the style you should use. 

Trying to explain a complex idea? Think about using 2D or 3D animation styles that simplify information. 

Want to attract people with creativity? Try mixed media or hybrid animation and portray your offerings through a fun, energetic tone. 

Aligning the animation style with its purpose is a must. The reason? 

  • It keeps the message clear and impactful! 

Matching Styles to Projects – Each animation style has its own aura. 

A quirky startup may go with a playful, cartoonish style for their promotional video. They can also pick isometric or experimental animation. 

For training programs or narrative storytelling, VR can be a great option. 

If it’s for a children’s show, you can consider stop-motion animation or digital puppetry. 

So, opt for animation styles based on the type of engagement and emotional response you want to create! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the most popular animation style?

Both 2D and 3D. They’re the most popular animation style since the format attracts both young and adult audiences. 

What are the 9 types of animation?

Here’s a list of 9 kinds of animation— 
2D, 3D, Motion Graphics, Stop-Motion, 2.5D, CGI, Typography, Experimental, and Mixed Media. 

What are the famous 6 types of animation?

These 6 styles of animation are quite famous— 2D, 3D, Motion Graphics, Stop-Motion, CGI, and AR/VR animation. 

Which animation is trending now?

Mixed media, hybrid, and isometric animation are trending currently. Such animation styles encourage a wide range of creativity and innovative thoughts.

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