We’ve rounded up the 15 best software to compile the ultimate 2d animation software list. Here’s how to find the best software for you. 

Are you a beginner looking to get started with 2D animation? Or a professional animator who’s ready for a more advanced suite? With so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. 

That’s why we’re here to help you out.  We guarantee you’ll find the best one for your animation project today.

Best for beginners

Pencil2D

Pencil2D is a free and open-source 2D animation software that is great for beginners. It has a user-friendly interface and features a range of drawing tools, including bitmap and vector drawing. Pencil2D also supports multiple layers, which is useful for creating more complex animations.

Synfig Studio

Next, Synfig Studio is another free and open-source 2D animation software that is great for beginners. It has a simple interface and features a range of drawing and animation tools, including bones and skeletons, which makes it easier to create more complex animations. Synfig Studio also has a supportive community that provides helpful tutorials and resources for beginners.

OpenToonz

Meanwhile, OpenToonz is a free, open-source 2D animation software that is a great option for beginners. It features a range of drawing and animation tools, including vector graphics and bitmap drawing, and supports multiple layers. OpenToonz also has a supportive community that provides helpful tutorials and resources for beginners.

Krita

If you want a multi-feature tool, then this option may be for you. Krita is a free and open-source digital painting software that is great for beginners looking to create 2D animations. It features a range of drawing and animation tools, including brushes and pencils, and supports multiple layers. Krita also has a supportive community that provides helpful tutorials and resources for beginners.

FlipaClip

FlipaClip is a free 2D animation app that is great for beginners who want to create animations on their mobile devices. It has a simple interface and features a range of drawing and animation tools, including layers and onion skinning. FlipaClip also has a supportive community that provides helpful tutorials and resources for beginners.

Best for intermediate users

VistaCreate

VistaCreate is an online design tool that includes a range of animation templates and easy-to-use animation tools. It’s a great option for animators who are looking for an easy way to create basic animations without a lot of technical know-how. VistaCreate is also known for its affordability, making it a great choice for freelancers or small animation teams.

VidToon

Next, VidToon is a 2D animation software that is designed specifically for creating animated videos for marketing or social media. It features a range of pre-made templates and assets, as well as easy-to-use animation tools. This is a great option for animators who want to create simple but effective animated videos quickly and easily.

Unity

Meanwhile, Unity is a powerful game development engine that also includes 2D animation capabilities. It’s a popular choice for animators who are creating interactive 2D games or mobile apps, as it includes a range of tools for creating animations, managing assets, and creating user interfaces. All in all, this is a great option for animators who want to create complex, interactive 2D animations.

Houdini

Meanwhile, Houdini is a 3D animation software that also includes powerful 2D animation capabilities. It’s a popular choice for animators who are working on complex animations or visual effects projects, as it includes a range of advanced tools for creating and manipulating animations. Houdini is a great option for animators who want to push the boundaries of what is possible with 2D animation.

Autodesk Maya

Autodesk Maya is a 3D animation software that is also widely used for 2D animation. It features a range of advanced drawing and animation tools, as well as collaborative workflows and support for multiple file formats. Autodesk Maya is a popular choice for animators who are working on complex projects, such as feature films or television shows.

Best for animation professionals 

Toon Boom Animation

Toon Boom Animation is a leading 2D animation software that is widely used by professional animators. It features a range of drawing and animation tools, including vector and bitmap drawing, rigging and cut-out animation, and special effects. This software is known for its powerful capabilities and flexibility, making it a go-to choice for pro animators.

TVPaint Animation

On the other hand, TVPaint Animation is another professional-grade 2D animation software that is great for advanced animators. It features a range of drawing and animation tools, including brushes and pencils, and supports 2D and 3D animation. This software also offers advanced features such as onion skinning, which allows animators to see previous frames as they draw.

Adobe Animate

Adobe Animate is a popular 2D animation software that is widely used by professional animators. It features a range of drawing and animation tools, including vector graphics and bitmap drawing, and supports collaborative workflows. Adobe Animate also integrates with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps, making it easier for animators to work on multimedia projects.

Moho Animation

Moho Animation is a powerful 2D animation software that is great for pro animators. It features a range of drawing and animation tools, including vector graphics and rigging, and supports 2D and 3D animation. The Moho Pro plan also offers advanced features such as bone rigging, which allows animators to create more complex animations.

CelAction2D 

CelAction2D is a 2D animation software that is known for its advanced capabilities and flexibility. It features a range of drawing and animation tools, including vector graphics and rigging, and supports collaborative workflows. CelAction2D also offers advanced features such as motion tracking, which allows animators to track the movement of objects in their animations.

The lowdown

In conclusion, selecting the right 2D animation software is crucial for creating amazing animations that bring creative ideas to life. Everything in this 2d animation software list definitely isn’t for everyone—and that’s okay. 

By choosing software that offers advanced drawing and animation tools, collaborative workflows, and flexibility, pro and beginner animators can take their skills to the next level and produce outstanding animation work.

Read more: The Smartest Ways To Use Motion Graphics in Your Ad Campaign

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