The world of animation is evolving rapidly, with new software and tools making it easier than ever for beginners to bring their creative visions to life. Now, what equipment would I need to start animating as a beginner?

A laptop is essential for creating digital art, 2D hand-drawn animation, motion graphics, modelling, and other related projects. The right software and tools can make all the difference.

Here are the essential must-have tools for aspiring animators, backed by industry trends and expert recommendations.

1. Adobe Animate—Best for 2D Animation & Interactive Content ADOBE ANIMATE

Adobe Animate (formerly Flash) remains a powerhouse for 2D animation, web cartoons, and interactive media. Professionals widely use it for its vector-based drawing tools, timeline controls, and seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps like Photoshop and After Effects. Its key features include

1. Frame-by-frame animation for traditional cartoon-style work.
2. Bone tool for rigging characters easily.
3. Export to multiple formats, including HTML5 Canvas, WebGL, and video.

This tool is best for beginners and professionals creating 2D animations, explainer videos, and game assets.

2. Animation Suite BLENDER WEBSITE

Blender is a free, open-source 3D animation tool that rivals paid software like Maya and Cinema 4D. It’s perfect for indie animators, students, and hobbyists who want a full-featured 3D suite without the cost. Its key features include

1. Modeling, sculpting, rigging, and rendering in one package.
2. Eevee & Cycles real-time rendering engines
3. Grease Pencil for 2D animation within a 3D workspace.

This tool is best for 3D animators, game developers, and VFX artists on a budget.

3. Toon Boom Harmony – Industry-Standard 2D Animation TOON WEBSITE

Used by studios like Disney and Cartoon Network, Toon Boom Harmony is the gold standard for professional 2D animation. It offers advanced rigging, special effects, and seamless cut-out animation workflows. Its key features include

1. Advanced vector & bitmap drawing tools.
2. Cut-out animation for puppet-style movement.
3. Camera & depth tools for dynamic scenes.

This tool is best for serious animators aiming for studio-quality work.

4. Procreate Dreams—Best iPad Animation App PROCREATE WEBSITE

Procreate Dreams, the new animation sibling of Procreate, brings powerful frame-by-frame and keyframe animation to the iPad. It’s perfect for artists who want a portable, intuitive animation tool. Its key features include

1. Real-time animation playback with smooth performance.
2. Onion skinning & timeline controls for traditional animators.
3. Apple Pencil optimized for natural drawing.

Best For: Digital artists and mobile animators who prefer drawing on a tablet.

5. Autodesk Maya—Leading 3D Animation for Films & Games AUTO MAYA WEBSITE

Maya is the industry leader in 3D animation, used in blockbuster films (like Avatar and Frozen) and AAA games. While it has a steep learning curve, its power is unmatched. ADM key features include:

1. Advanced rigging & character animation tools.
2. Dynamic simulations (fluids, cloth, particles).
3. Arnold renderer for cinematic-quality output.

Best For: Aspiring 3D animators targeting Hollywood or game studios.

As a beginner, choosing the right animation tool depends on your style, budget, and goals. For 2D animation: Adobe Animate or Toon Boom Harmony. For 3D animation: Blender (free) or Maya (professional). For iPad users: Procreate Dreams.

Each tool listed offers unique strengths, so experiment with free trials or open-source options before committing. There are more tools available. Gain more experience. Learn and immerse yourself. Registration for the YAPPI Cohort 3 is still on. Click the link to register and begin your animation and post-production journey! http://yappi.ng/register

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Written by: Ada C. Nwabuilo

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