Animation is no longer just for cartoons. Today, it is everywhere. People see it on social media posts, ads, business presentations, and even websites. Both 3D and 2D animations are now strong tools for telling stories.
Think about it. A short animated clip can explain a product faster than a long paragraph. A simple 2D sketch can show an idea in seconds. A 3D model can make something look real, even before it exists. This is why companies are increasingly incorporating animation into their marketing efforts.
The world of marketing changes quickly. Trends come and go. But one thing is clear: people like visuals. They remember what they see than what they read. According to reports of authentic studies, people see 80% of what they see, but only 20% of what they read. That’s a significant reason why animation is gaining importance.
This blog looks at the future of 2D and 3D animation in marketing. It will cover how they are used, why they are effective, and what might come next. It will also include simple charts and tables, making the ideas easy to follow and understand.
Here’s what will be covered:
- The rise of 2D animation in digital spaces
- The growth of 3D animation in ads and branding
- A comparison of 2D vs 3D animation
- How brands mix both styles together
- Future trends and challenges
The goal is not to promote any service. Instead, it aims to provide a clear picture of how animation is transforming modern marketing. By the end, readers will understand why animation is not just art. It is also a tool that connects ideas to people in a simple way.
The Rise of 2D Animation in Digital Spaces
2D animation is the oldest form of digital animation. It uses flat drawings and simple movements. Although 3D looks more advanced, 2D is still the most popular.
Why? Because it is simple. People connect with it quickly. It is also easy to use on websites, apps, and social media. A short 2D clip can convey information more effectively than text.
- Where 2D is Used Most
- Social media ads
- Explainer videos
- Educational clips
- Mobile apps
- Infographics
- Why People Like 2D Animation
- Easy to understand
- Colorful and eye-catching
- Works well on small screens
- Faster and cheaper to make than 3D
2D Animation in Marketing
Here is a table illustrating the benefits of 2D animation in marketing.
Use Case | Benefit | Example |
Social Media Ads | Quick to watch, shareable | Instagram reels, TikTok ads |
Explainer Videos | Explains hard ideas in seconds | Company product videos |
Mobile Apps | Fun, interactive experience | Learning apps for kids |
Infographics | Makes data less boring | Animated charts and graphs |
- Growth of 2D Animation in Digital Ads
Year | % of Marketers Using 2D Animation |
2019 | 35% |
2020 | 42% |
2021 | 50% |
2022 | 58% |
2023 | 64% |

2D animation services are everywhere now. From small businesses to big brands, everyone is using them to explain ideas quickly. It proves that sometimes simple is stronger than complex.
The Growth of 3D Animation in Ads and Branding
3D animation is changing how people see products and brands. Unlike 2D, it shows depth and detail. Things look real, even if they don’t exist yet.
Think about car ads. Many cars shown in commercials are not real cars on the road. They are 3D models. The same applies to furniture, clothing, or even food advertisements. This saves time and money, while also making the visuals look amazing.
- Why Brands Use 3D Animation
- Makes products look realistic
- Can show every detail
- Works well for ads, websites, and games
- Grabs attention fast
- Builds a modern, premium brand image
- Where 3D Animation Shines
- Product launches
- TV commercials
- Gaming ads
- Augmented reality (AR)
- Virtual reality (VR)
- 3D Animation in Branding
Use Case | Benefit | Example |
Product Launch Ads | Shows the product before it is made | Car or phone launch videos |
TV Commercials | Makes visuals more exciting | Food and drink ads |
AR / VR Marketing | Interactive, immersive experiences | Virtual product try-ons |
Gaming Industry | Attracts players with realistic trailers | Game release campaigns |
- Increase in 3D Animation Use in Ads
Year | % of Marketers Using 3D Animation |
2019 | 20% |
2020 | 28% |
2021 | 36% |
2022 | 47% |
2023 | 55% |

A bar chart here would show strong growth. In just five years, the use of 3D animation has more than doubled.
3D animation is no longer just for movies or games. Now it is a major part of advertising. An explainer video animation studio often mixes both 2D and 3D styles. But 3D is quickly becoming the star when brands want to impress.
A Clear Comparison of 2D vs 3D Animation
Both 2D and 3D animation are important in marketing. However, they differ in style, cost, and impact. Knowing the difference helps brands choose the right one for their message.
- Key Differences
Here is a table that highlights the key differences between 2D and 3D animation.
Feature | 2D Animation | 3D Animation |
Look & Style | Flat, simple, cartoon-like | Realistic, detailed, lifelike |
Cost | Cheaper, faster to make | More costly, takes more time |
Best For | Explainer videos, social media | TV ads, product launches, AR/VR |
Feel | Fun, light, easy to understand | Impressive, high-quality, modern |
Flexibility | Easy to edit and reuse | Harder to change once finished |
- What Marketers Prefer (Survey 2023)
Type of Animation | % of Marketers Who Use It |
2D Animation | 60% |
3D Animation | 40% |
A pie chart here would show that 2D is still slightly more popular. But 3D is growing quickly each year.
Why Some Choose 2D
- Works well on small screens like phones
- Costs less, so it’s good for startups
- Friendly and easy for all ages
Why Others Choose 3D
- Looks professional and premium
- Great for tech products and cars
- Can create “wow” moments in ads
An explainer video animation studio often suggests using both styles together. For example, a brand may start with a 2D explainer video and then switch to 3D for the product reveal. This mix keeps people engaged and strengthens the message.
How Brands Mix 2D and 3D Together
Many brands do not choose just one style. Instead, they mix 2D and 3D animation. This mix gives them the best of both worlds. 2D makes ideas clear and simple. 3D adds depth and realism. Together, they create stories that are both fun and impressive.
- Why Mixing Works
- 2D explains ideas step by step
- 3D shows the final product in detail
- People enjoy the change in style
- Keeps the audience hooked from start to end
- Examples of Mixing
- A 2D explainer video starts with a problem → then a 3D product demo shows the solution
- A 2D animated ad explains how a service works → then a 3D logo animation closes the video
- A 2D story character introduces a product → then 3D visuals make it look real
Final Thoughts
Animation is more than just art. It is a tool for connection. It helps people understand ideas quickly and remember them for longer. Whether it is 2D or 3D, the future of animation in marketing is bright.
The key is not choosing one over the other, but choosing them in the right way to tell a story. A compelling story, presented with the right style of animation, can make any brand truly stand out.