10 Most Common Types of Animation with examples
( 2024 updated )

Animation is a powerful storytelling tool that can captivate audiences and communicate ideas like no other medium. Whether you're an individual, a business, or a creative professional, understanding the different types of animation is essential to choosing the right style for your project.

At Crunchy Videos, we specialize in helping businesses bring their ideas to life with top-quality animation. In this blog, we’ll break down the 10 most common types of animation, how to choose the right one, and why Crunchy Videos is your go-to partner for animated content.

Content

• 10 Most Common Types of Animation

  • 1. Stop Motion Animation

  • 2. Claymation

  • 3. Rotoscope

  • 4. 2D Animation / Traditional Animation

  • 5. 3D Animation

  • 6. Motion Graphics

  • 7. Typography

  • 8. Animation with Live Action

  • 9. Whiteboard

  • 10. Frame-by-frame

• What is Animation?

• How To Choose The Right Animation Type

  • Have A Budget in Mind

  • Know Your Branding

  • Know Your Competition

  • Get Professional Help in the Animation Industry

• Why Work With Crunchy videos

  • Proven Track Record

  • Customized Solutions

  • Expertise & Experience

  • Transparent Pricing

• FAQs

• Final Thoughts

What is Animation?

Animation is the art of creating movement through a series of images. It brings static designs to life, allowing creators to tell stories, explain concepts, or promote brands in a visually engaging way.

Animation can vary in complexity, from simple whiteboard animations to highly sophisticated 3D renders. Each type serves different purposes and fits unique styles of storytelling.

10 Most Common Types of Animation:

1. Stop Motion Animation

• Description:
  Stop motion is a traditional animation technique where physical objects are moved in small increments and photographed frame by frame. When the frames are played in sequence, the objects appear to move.

• How It Works:
  Stop motion requires meticulous planning and precision. The animator sets up a physical set or backdrop, moves the objects slightly, and captures each frame using a camera. Tools like Dragonframe software can be used to streamline the process.

2. Claymation

• Description:
  A type of stop motion animation, claymation uses clay models or figures. Its pliable nature allows animators to create expressive characters and dynamic scenes.

• How It Works:
  Animators sculpt characters and objects from clay, position them on a set, and manipulate them frame by frame to create movement.

3. Rotoscope Animation

• Description:
  Rotoscope animation involves tracing over live-action footage to create realistic movements and detailed animations.

• How It Works:
  Animators use software or traditional methods to draw over live-action video frame by frame. This technique is often used to blend realistic movement with artistic effects.

4: 2D Animation / Traditional Animation

• Description:
  This classic animation style involves creating hand-drawn images frame by frame. Today, it’s often done digitally using software.

• How It Works:
  Animators draw each frame on paper or digitally, ensuring slight changes between frames to create fluid motion when played in sequence. Popular tools include Adobe After effects, Toon Boom and Adobe Animate, Vynod.

5. 3D Animation

• Description:
  3D animation uses computer-generated imagery (CGI) to create highly realistic or stylized characters and environments.

• How It Works:
  Animators build 3D models using software like Blender or Maya, rig them with skeletons for movement, and animate them in virtual environments. Lighting and rendering add final touches.

6. Motion Graphics

• Description:
  Motion graphics focus on animating graphic elements, such as text, shapes, and icons, often for marketing, presentations, or explainer videos.

• How It Works:
  Designers use tools like After Effects to animate flat graphics, incorporating smooth transitions, effects, and kinetic text to tell a story or explain a concept.

7. Typography Animation

• Description:
  Typography animation brings text to life with dynamic movements, transitions, and effects. It’s often used to emphasize key points in videos.

• How It Works:
  Using software like After Effects, text is animated to appear, move, or interact in creative ways, often synced with music or narration.

8. Animation with Live Action

• Description:
  This hybrid approach combines live-action footage with animated elements, blending reality with creativity.

• How It Works:
  Animators overlay animations on live-action footage using tools like Adobe After Effects. This method is popular for adding magical or whimsical elements to real-world settings.

9. Whiteboard Animation

• Description:
  Whiteboard animation mimics the process of drawing on a whiteboard, often used for educational or explainer videos.

• How It Works:
  Animators create drawings (digitally or manually) that appear to be sketched in real-time, synced with a voiceover explaining the content.

10. Frame-by-Frame Animation

• Description:
  Frame-by-frame animation is a meticulous process where each frame is drawn individually, offering complete control over every detail.

• How It Works:
  Animators manually create every frame, ensuring smooth transitions and detailed movements. This technique is labor-intensive but allows for stunning artistic results.

How to Choose the Right Animation Type?

1. Have a Budget in Mind

Animation projects can range from affordable to premium, depending on the style and complexity you choose. Having a clear budget in mind will help you narrow down your options.

• Budget-Friendly Options:
  Styles like whiteboard animation and motion graphics are cost-effective. They’re perfect for startups, small businesses, or anyone looking to create engaging content without overspending.

• Mid-Range Options:
  2D animation and typography animation are slightly more expensive but offer a polished and professional look.{2} These styles are great for explainer videos, ads, and educational content.

• High-End Options:
  If you’re aiming for visually stunning, highly detailed videos, 3D animation is the way to go. It’s ideal for big-budget projects like product demos, movie trailers, or high-impact marketing campaigns. However, it requires more time, effort, and resources.

Pro Tip:
While budget is important, don’t let it limit your vision. A skilled animation partner like Crunchy Videos can help you maximize your budget without compromising on quality.

2. Know Your Branding

Your animation should be an extension of your brand’s identity. Think of it as a visual representation of who you are and what you stand for.

• Match Your Brand Tone:
  Are you a playful, energetic brand? Go for bright colors and fun animation styles like 2D or claymation. If you’re a corporate brand, motion graphics or sleek 3D visuals might be a better fit.

• Appeal to Your Audience:
  Consider your audience’s preferences. For example:

  • Younger audiences might respond well to dynamic 2D animations with bold, colorful characters.

  • Professional audiences may prefer clean, minimalistic motion graphics.

• Stay Consistent:
  Ensure your animation aligns with your brand’s colors, fonts, and overall messaging. A cohesive look will strengthen your branding and make your content more memorable.

Pro Tip:
If you’re unsure which style fits your brand, a consultation with Crunchy Videos can help. We’ll analyze your brand and audience to recommend the perfect animation type.

3. Know Your Competition

Studying your competitors is a smart way to gain insights and stand out in the crowded marketplace.

• Analyze Their Content:
  Look at the animation styles your competitors are using. What works well for them? What could be improved?

• Identify Gaps:
  Find opportunities to do something different. If your competitors are using simple whiteboard animations, you could opt for eye-catching 3D animation or a hybrid of live action and animation.

• Set Yourself Apart:
  Don’t just follow trends—create your own. An innovative animation style can help your brand stand out and leave a lasting impression.

Pro Tip:
Use competitor research as inspiration, but always aim to deliver something uniquely yours. Crunchy Videos can help you craft animations that outshine the competition.

4. Get Professional Help

While DIY tools and templates are tempting, professional animation studios bring a level of quality and expertise that’s hard to replicate. Here’s why working with a team like Crunchy Videos is worth it:

• Customized Solutions:
  Professionals don’t rely on cookie-cutter templates. At Crunchy Videos, we tailor every animation to match your specific goals and branding.

• Creative Expertise:
  From storytelling to design, professional animators know how to create videos that engage and convert. They’ll help you turn your ideas into visually stunning animations.

• Time-Saving:
  Creating animations yourself can be time-consuming, especially if you’re not familiar with the tools. Working with experts allows you to focus on your business while we handle the heavy lifting.

• End-to-End Service:
  A professional team can manage the entire process—from scriptwriting and storyboarding to animation and editing. This ensures a seamless experience and a polished final product.

Pro Tip:
Partnering with Crunchy Videos means you get more than just animation—we offer strategic guidance to ensure your video achieves your objectives.

Why Work With Crunchy Videos?

At Crunchy Videos, we’re passionate about bringing ideas to life through high-quality animations that deliver real results. Whether you’re looking to explain complex concepts, promote your brand, or boost your sales, we’re here to help. Here’s why Crunchy Videos stands out as your go-to animation partner:

1. Proven Track Record

We’ve had the privilege of working with businesses across various industries, helping them achieve success with animation.

• Success Stories:
  From startups to established brands, our animations have helped clients communicate their message, attract more customers, and grow their business.

• Diverse Portfolio:
  We’ve worked on a wide range of projects, including explainer videos, branding animations, SaaS product demos, and more. Whatever your vision, we’ve likely done something similar and know how to deliver.

2. Customized Solutions

At Crunchy Videos, we believe no two projects are the same. Your business has unique goals, and your animation should reflect that.

• Tailored to Your Needs:
  Whether you need a simple whiteboard animation or a stunning 3D masterpiece, we take the time to understand your goals, audience, and brand identity.

• Collaborative Approach:
  We work closely with you throughout the process to ensure the final animation perfectly aligns with your vision. Your input is valuable, and we make it a priority.

Expertise & Experience

Creating impactful animations requires both creativity and technical skill, and that’s exactly what our team brings to the table.

• Creative Professionals:
  Our team consists of talented animators, designers, and storytellers who are passionate about their craft.

• Technical Know-How:
  From using advanced animation software to mastering the latest trends, we ensure every project meets the highest standards of quality.

• Years of Experience:
  With extensive experience in the animation industry, we know how to handle projects of any complexity.

Transparent Pricing

We understand that budgeting is a major concern for businesses, which is why we keep our pricing straightforward and fair.

• No Hidden Costs:
  We believe in transparency. Our quotes are clear and comprehensive, so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

• Competitive Rates:
  Our pricing is designed to offer excellent value, ensuring you get a high-quality animation without breaking the bank.

• Flexible Options:
  Whether you’re working with a tight budget or aiming for a premium production, we’ll find a solution that fits your needs.

Why Choose Crunchy Videos?

When you choose Crunchy Videos, you’re not just getting an animation—you’re partnering with a team that’s genuinely invested in your success. We don’t just create videos; we craft experiences that resonate with your audience, drive engagement, and help you achieve your business goals. Here’s what sets us apart:

Results-Driven Approach

At Crunchy Videos, everything we do is focused on delivering results for your business.

• Goal-Oriented Animations:
  Whether you want to boost sales, explain a complex product, or build brand awareness, we design animations with your specific goals in mind. Each video is a tool to help you communicate effectively and achieve measurable outcomes.

• Tailored Strategies:
  We take the time to understand your audience and objectives, ensuring the animation speaks directly to the people you’re trying to reach.

Example:
Need a product explainer for a SaaS platform? We’ll simplify the technical details into an engaging story that converts viewers into customers.

Customer-Centric Service

Your satisfaction isn’t just a priority—it’s our mission.

• Personalized Attention:
  From the initial consultation to the final delivery, we keep you involved at every step. Your feedback matters, and we’re committed to creating a video that exceeds your expectations.

• Flexible Collaboration:
  Got an idea but not sure how to bring it to life? We’ll help you refine your vision and guide you through the process, making it stress-free and enjoyable.

• Commitment to Excellence:
  We’re not happy until you are. If something isn’t perfect, we’ll work tirelessly to get it right.

Long-Term Support

At Crunchy Videos, our relationship with clients doesn’t end when the video is delivered. We’re here for the long haul.

• Ongoing Updates:
  Need to tweak your animation or add new content down the line? No problem—we’re always ready to help you keep your videos fresh and relevant.

• Future Projects:
  Whether it’s another explainer video, a branding animation, or a new concept altogether, we’ll be here to bring your vision to life.

• Support at Every Stage:
  We’re your go-to resource for all things animation, offering advice and expertise whenever you need it.

Example:
Many of our clients return to us for new animations as their business grows. We’re proud to be a trusted partner in their journey.

FAQs About Animation

What is the easiest type of animation?

Stop-motion animation is the easiest for beginners. It lets you work at your own pace, correct mistakes easily, and requires affordable equipment. Creativity, imagination, and patience matter more than drawing skills or technical expertise.

What is the best animation type?

The "best" animation type depends on your project’s goals.

• 2D Animation: Classic charm and affordability.

• 3D Animation: Realism and high visual impact.

• Motion Graphics: Great for modern, professional presentations.

Each serves a unique purpose. Use Crunchy Videos’ VidiFit Quiz to discover the perfect style for your project.

What was the first type of animation?

Animation’s origins include ancient tools like the zoetrope and phenakistoscope, which used spinning discs to create motion. These early innovations paved the way for modern techniques used in Disney classics like Mickey Mouse and Sleeping Beauty.

What is the hardest type of animation?

The hardest animations are:

• Frame-by-Frame Animation: Requires extreme attention to detail.

• 3D Animation: Demands advanced skills in modeling, rigging, and timing.

Both require technical expertise and creativity, making them challenging but rewarding.

What is the most familiar type of animation?

2D animation is the most recognizable. It has a rich history, from early Disney cartoons to modern commercials and films. Its timeless appeal makes it a favorite for audiences of all ages.

What type of animation is most traditional?

Hand-drawn or cel animation is the most traditional form of animation. Artists create individual frames by hand, showcasing artistic expression and nostalgic charm. It’s a cornerstone of the animation industry.

Looking for the right animation for your project? Crunchy Videos is here to help with expert advice and professional services to bring your vision to life!

Final Thoughts

When you work with Crunchy Videos, you’re getting more than an animation studio—you’re gaining a dedicated partner who cares about your business as much as you do. Let’s create something amazing together and take your brand to the next level.

Contact Crunchy Videos today to discuss your project and see how we can help you stand out with animation that truly delivers.