Which Computer Animation Software?

With many companies now producing computer animation software it can difficult to seperate the good from the bad. In this guide i will provide an overview of the top titles available. I will explain in depth which software is best and why, i hope this valuable information will save you time and money.

Before i go into the available products in the market, i would like you to ask yourself “what do i want this software to do?”. Knowing the answer to that question will determine the which computer animation software is best for you. We are all different, have different skill sets and experience. If you work as a computer animator, it is likely that you posses the skills nessacary to tackle even the most technical graphics application. Like most of us however it comes down to which program will do the best job for the with the smallest learning curve.

Every good computer animation software should give you the ability to create quality 3D graphics, produce cartoon animated films, Draw and animate 3D models and design your own 3D games. In addition to creating real-time interactive 3D content, make realistic renderings and 3D sculptures, etc.

Of the many programs available, i have chosen just 5 and rated them in order of usability for the average person and price. These 5 programs are the top of their field for performance, features and 3d rendering ability.

1. IllusionMage -  Easy to use (geared toward the home user), professional results, low price
2. CINEMA 4D Studio – Requires learning, professional results (plug-ins required), expensive
3. 3ds Max- Steep learning curve, professional results, expensive
4. Maya – Steep learning curve, professional results, expensive
5. Swift 3D – Steep learning curve, professional results, reasonable price
   

For it’s ease of use and low price point i have chosen IllusionMage as the top computer animation software. Mainly because it is easy to use for the average person and requires very little learning of the software to start animating from the get go. For power users, people who are confident in 3D rendering and modeling i would recommend 3ds Max, it comes in a close 3rd and would have been 2nd if not for the high price point. 3ds Max is popular among professional animators.

All 5 of these computer animation software programs will deliver professional results every time. Not all however will be user friendly for the novice or intermediate user. I recommend visiting the websites and reading up on the requirements and skill levels for each program. It really comes down to your skill level and the price you are willing to pay. Now get to it and develop some amazing 3D creations!