Differences Between Graphics and Animation

Differences Between Graphics and Animation

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Damini
Damini Aggarwal
Assistant Manager - Content
Updated on Aug 12, 2025 10:44 IST
Despite belonging to the same art category, these two fields are poles apart. In this article, we will explore the differences between graphics and animation, two of the most appealing forms of visual communication. Stay with us to learn about what graphics and animation are, their types, the process of creating them

In this article, you will get to know the major difference between animation and graphics. Also, you will know what their uses are.

Differences between Graphics and Animation

Differences Between Graphics and Animation

Graphics and animation are two important components of multimedia arts. They are capable of beautifully communicating with viewers and evoking a sense of amusement. Both of them belong to the same art category; these two fields are poles apart. In this article, we will learn the differences between graphics and animation, two of the most appealing forms of visual communication.

The two are closely related but not the same. A graphic is an artwork, and animation brings that artwork to life. Stay with us to learn about what graphics and animation are, types of graphic design and animation, and the process of creating them.

Table of contents
  • What are Graphics?
  • What is Animation?
  • Graphics Vs Animation: Key Differences
  • Tools used to Create Animation & Graphics

What are Graphics?

Any image or design that you see around you or digitally is a graphics. It is best way to sharing information. 3D, Infographics, raster etc are the types of graphics.

Also Read: Graphic Design Courses

What is Animation?

Animation is about using a pattern of moving images where the viewer sees objects and characters in different frames shifting an object's or character's positions.That's what creates the movement.

Also Read: 

Animation Courses

Animation Course Syllabus

BSc in Animation

Graphics Vs Animation: Key Differences

Now that we understand what graphics and animation are, we can easily distinguish between the two based on specific parameters. Check out the distinction between graphics and animation based on their nature, creation process, and purpose.

Component Graphics Animation
Nature-based Graphics are static, and they don't have motion. Types of graphics are images, illustrations, diagrams, text, charts and graphs Animation is dynamic and it can move
Creation Process-based The process of creating graphics includes designing and drawing objects and characters using various hardware tools and software applications. The process of creating animation requires the animator to design a series of graphics and arrange them in the correct sequence to exhibit motion.
Purpose-based
Graphics are used to convey information, demonstrate concepts, and enhance visual appeal for print and digital media, user interface and experience design, and website design Animation is primarily used for storytelling, explaining concepts, and creating background and main characters for video games, advertisements, and educational technology purposes.
Motion Graphics Vs Animation Motion graphics are static images that are given motion for a short span of time Animation, on the other hand, is a sequence of images that include multiple frames and can move more fluidly than motion graphics
Examples
  • Logos
  • Posters
  • Infographics
  • Illustrations
  • Digital paintings
  • Cartoons like Doraemon, Tom and Jerry, Pokemon etc.
  • Animated movies like UP, Frozen, Inside Out, How to Train Your Dragon etc.
  • Sequences of video games like GTA, Valorant, Counter Strike, Super Mario etc.  

Tools used to Create Animation & Graphics

The list of tool for animation and graphics are mentioned below:

  • Adobe Photoshop
  • Illustrator
  • CorelDRAW
  • Canva
  • Figma

Tools for Animation

  • Adobe After Effects
  • Blender
  • Autodesk Maya
  • Toon Boom Harmony
  • Unreal Engine

Read More: 

About the Author
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Damini Aggarwal
Assistant Manager - Content
Damini Aggarwal expertise in management, research and analysis. She specializes in law and work proactively to cater to reader's needs. Apart from this, she has a passion to travel, read and write fictional novels, Read Full Bio
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