Animation is generally not an expensive pursuit, but it does involve some significant costs when starting. If you’re enrolled in an animation institution, chances are you have access to all the tools and software you need. However, if you’re looking to equip your home setup with animation software, expenses can quickly add up. Fortunately, several free options are capable enough to handle most animation projects.
Pencil: OS (Mac, Windows, Linux)
Pencil stands out as one of the most versatile free and open-source 2D animation programs. Despite its simple interface, it boasts an impressive array of features comparable to some paid counterparts. Supporting both vector and bitmap images, multiple layers, and offering its built-in illustration tools, Pencil allows you to import graphics or create them directly before animating.
Synfig Studio: OS (Mac, Windows, Linux)
Similar in style to Pencil, Synfig Studio offers more advanced features, albeit with a steeper learning curve. Once mastered, it can achieve professional-level results due to its advanced functionalities.
Stykz: OS (Mac, Windows, Linux)
While there are two robust open-source options available, Stykz, a simple stickman animation tool, remains valuable. It serves those who prefer sketching ideas before diving into detailed artwork and animation. Completely free and compatible across platforms, it swiftly generates fluid. GIFs and integrates with Pivot, another free node-based animation tool.
CreaToon: OS (Windows)
CreaToon, an entry-level animation program, operates on cut-out graphics and streamlines the process of creating cartoon-style animation. Although not as polished as other software on this list, its real-time editing, automatic in-frame loading, and flexible file format support make it appealing.
Ajax Animator: OS (Windows, Mac, iPad)
Originally developed in 2006 as an alternative to Adobe’s Flash MX, Ajax Animator remains a robust and fully functional animation tool. Despite its basic appearance, it’s worth exploring, particularly for iPad users.
Blender: OS (Mac, Windows, Linux, FreeBSD)
Blender, a widely used free animation software, is favored by professional animators and game developers. While it may require some time for beginners to grasp its full potential, even utilizing half of its features can yield impressive results.
Bryce: OS (Mac, Windows)
Though not exclusively an animation suite, Bryce fills the gap for free high-quality surface generation software. As a Terragen, its simplicity or complexity can be adjusted according to your project’s scope and seamlessly integrates with various modeling software.
DAZ Studio: OS (Mac, Windows)
Initially a paid software, DAZ Studio’s professional version became free in 2012 upon registration for a free account. With a lightning-fast rendering engine and a vast library of pre-created content, it’s a great choice for modeling and animation.
Clara.io: OS (Browser-based)
Clara.io stands out as a fully functional web-based tool without the need for any browser plugins. With robust features for polygonal modeling and skeletal/keyframe animation, its large user base fosters a strong community vibe for discussions and sharing within the platform.”