10 Best Animation Softwares Every Beginner Should Know

Getting started in animation is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it’s an incredibly beautiful and exciting time where the realms of creativity hover at the edges of your fingertips. On the other hand, it’s hard work, and it’s going to take a lot of practice.

All that being said, you need the right tools for the job, which means getting a beginner-friendly software application where you can start learning and mastering the basics. This is what we’re going to focus on today with my top ten animation software packages you need to think about trying.

1. Adobe Character Animator

By far the most powerful and most innovative animation software out there for beginners, if you’re a fan of the Adobe software packages, this is the application for you.

What makes this application special is the fact that you can create animation models, such as 2D people, using Photoshop or your other favourite creating software. Then you can use your computer laptop and microphone to animate in real-time. Super easy and there’s a ton of online support.

2. Rive

Part of the Open Design movement, Rive is an entirely free animation solution that allows you to make and create animations in real-time, as well as applying edits to your 3D models, all from one easy to use and interactive place. A small learning curve since there’s no coding to master. Just get stuck in!

3. Houdini

For Mac, Windows, and Linux systems, Houdini may be easy to use, but it has a very high skill cap. Don’t believe you’re going to master it in a day. You’re going to need to invest some serious hours into this software, but the interface is easy enough to get started and start making some great animations.

4. K-3D

If looking for an open-sourced option with your animation software, then K-3D is for you. It supports 3D modelling and has a range of interactive tools to take advantage of. It’s great if you want to learn Python programming languages, or you can use the native K3DScript engine.

5. DP Animation Maker

If looking for an open-sourced option with your animation software, then K-3D is for you. It supports 3D modelling and has a range of interactive tools to take advantage of. It’s great if you want to learn Python programming languages, or you can use the native K3DScript engine.

6. Clara.io

Clara.io is unique in the sense that you don’t need to download anything, but instead, you can create decent animations directly within your browser. There’s a vast library of 3D models ready to use, and you’ll have the ability to create and import your own. A great choice if your hardware limits restrict you.

7. Moho Anime Studio

A firm favourite of mine, Moho is great for creating the classically styled animation you’d find in anime genres, mainly 2D animation software. Suitable for both Mac and Windows computers, sure the software is a little dated, but as a beginner, it’s a great place to start from.

8. Adobe Animate

“The second animation software from Adobe to enter our list, Adobe Animate is the leading powerhouse when it comes to animation of any kind. The crème de la crème of animation software, if you’re looking to create vector-based animations, this is the software for you. What’s more, you can use these animations anywhere!” shares Nick Harrison, a tech writer at Writinity and Last Minute Writing.

9. Pencil 2D

Compatible with Linux, Windows, and Mac, Pencil2D is as basic as it may get. Perfect for hobbyists and those with little time to invest, Pencil is great for making little 2D sketches and doodles that you can bring to life using the simple features.

10. Cartoon Animator 4

Suitable for animators of any and all experience levels, you have the capabilities to create really amazing animations and really basic ones. CA4 focuses mainly on 2D animations, and there’s a huge database of templates you can use to get started.

Elizabeth S. Kinder is an experienced writer, animator, and blogger at Coursework writing services UK and Gumessays.com. Liz is all about getting as creative as possible and making the most of her life through art and expression.