6 Types of Animation: A Complete Guide for Singapore Businesses (2026)

Animation in 2026 looks very different from what it was five years ago. Tools like Runway ML, Adobe Firefly, and Unreal Engine 5 have changed how quickly and affordably studios can produce high-quality work. What used to take three months now takes three weeks. What used to need a massive render farm now runs on a single workstation.

Singapore businesses are using animation more than ever. Government agencies run SkillsFuture and public health campaigns. Fintech companies explain complex products to everyday customers. Manufacturers show how their equipment works without building a single physical prototype. 

But not every type of animation suits every job. Picking the wrong one means spending more time and money than you need to. So this guide walks you through –

• all six animation types, 
• how each one works, 
• how long it takes, 
• where Singapore brands are using each, 
• and which one fits your next project.

Here we go now. 

What is Animation, Really?

Animation is the process of making still images move. It works by showing a sequence of frames one after another at high speed. Each frame is slightly different from the previous one, which tricks the human brain into seeing motion instead of separate pictures.

In most professional animation, videos are played at 24 frames per second (24fps). That means animators need 24 separate images, drawings, or rendered frames for every single second of footage. Some styles use fewer frames for a more stylised look, while others use higher frame rates for smoother movement.

Animation can be created in many different ways. 

• Some methods involve drawing every frame by hand, 
• while others use digital software, 3D models, moving typography, 
• or even real physical objects photographed frame by frame.

Each method produces a different look, costs a different amount, and takes a different amount of time.

Here is a fast overview before we go deeper:

Type	How It Works	Typical Timeline	Best Use
Traditional hand-drawn	Each frame is drawn by hand	12–24 weeks	Heritage, luxury, emotion
2D digital	Digital characters with rigged skeletons	3–6 weeks	Explainers, mascots, government
3D animation (CGI)	3D models rendered in software	3–20 weeks	Products, buildings, healthcare
Motion graphics	Animated text, shapes, data	1–4 weeks	Reports, data, brand content
Stop motion	Physical objects photographed frame by frame	8–16 weeks	Artisan brands, F&B, craft
Whiteboard	Simulated drawing synced to voiceover	2–3 weeks	Training, education, onboarding

Let’s show you the details. 

So, What are the 6 Types of Animation?

The six main types of animation used by Singapore businesses and studios today are traditional animation, 2D animation, 3D animation, motion graphics, stop motion, and whiteboard animation.

1. Traditional Hand-drawn Animation

Traditional hand-drawn animation is the oldest and most classic type of animation. In this method, artists draw every single frame by hand to create movement. Since videos usually play at 24 frames per second, even a short 90-second animation may need more than 2,000 individual drawings.

In the past, animators drew on transparent sheets called cels and photographed each frame one by one. Today, most studios draw on paper or tablets and then scan the artwork into digital software. 

The Production Phases of Traditional Hand-drawn Animation

Even with modern tools, the main process still stays the same.

• Usually, a lead animator creates the main poses and movements. 
• Assistant animators then draw the frames between those poses to make the movement smooth. 
• After that, the team adds colours, backgrounds, and final effects.

Traditional animation takes a long time to produce. A high-quality 90-second video can take around 12 to 24 weeks, depending on the detail and complexity.

So, Why do Brands Still Use It in 2026?

Because it feels human, artistic, and emotional. Small imperfections in the drawings give the animation warmth and personality that digital styles sometimes cannot match.

Famous examples include:

• Snow White
• Bambi
• Spirited Away
• My Neighbour Totoro

In Singapore, Traditional Animation is Often Used for:

Traditional Hand-drawn Animation	Heritage and cultural storytelling
	Museum and educational projects
	Premium product campaigns
	Government cultural content

Traditional hand-drawn animation is not the fastest or cheapest option, but it creates a timeless and handcrafted feeling that many brands still value today.

2. 2D Digital Animation

2D digital animation is the most common type of animation used by businesses in Singapore today. It uses software like Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, and After Effects to create characters, graphics, and motion digitally.

The biggest difference between traditional animation and 2D animation is something called rigging. Instead of drawing the same character again and again, animators build a digital skeleton inside the character. The arms, legs, head, and facial features become movable parts that can be controlled easily.

The Production Phases of 2D Digital Animation

The production process usually works like this:

• Artists create digital artwork and characters
• Characters are rigged with joints and controls
• Animators set important movement positions called keyframes
• Software automatically creates movement between those frames
• Final effects, colours, voice-overs, and music videos are added

A 90-second 2D explainer video usually takes around 3 to 6 weeks to complete.

What is Different As Per 2D Digital Animation in 2026?

AI tools are now a standard part of most 2D digital workflows in Singapore. 

• Adobe Firefly generates background textures in seconds. 
• Rigging presets cut setup time by 60 to 70 per cent. 
• Automatic in-betweening fills frames between keyframes without the animator drawing them. 

These tools make production faster without changing the quality of the output.

Popular 2D styles include:

• Flat design animation
• Character-based animation
• Whiteboard-style animation

In Singapore, 2D animation is Commonly Used for:

2D Digital Animation	SaaS product explainers and platform demos
	CPF Board, MOH, NEA, and SkillsFuture public campaigns
	DBS, OCBC, and UOB financial product education
	Corporate onboarding and HR training

2D digital animation is popular because it is flexible, cost-effective, and works well across websites, social media, presentations, and marketing campaigns.

3. 3D animation (CGI)

3D animation creates objects and characters in a three-dimensional digital space. Unlike 2D animation, everything in 3D has depth, texture, lighting, and realistic movement. Characters and objects move inside a virtual world much like digital puppets.

This is the type of animation used in:

• Pixar movies
• Video game cinematics
• Product demonstrations
• Architectural walkthroughs
• Industrial and medical simulations

The Four Production Phases of 3D animation (CGI)

The production process usually has four main stages:

Modelling (2–4 weeks)	Artists build 3D objects and characters using software like Blender, Maya, or Cinema 4D.  Every item is created with detailed shapes and surfaces.
Rigging (1–2 weeks)	A digital skeleton is added inside the model so the character or object can move naturally.
Animation (4–8 weeks)	Animators create movement by setting key positions called keyframes.  The software then fills the motion between those positions.
Rendering	The computer processes lighting, shadows, textures, and reflections to create the final, realistic visuals.

The Biggest Change in 2026: Real-time Rendering

Traditional rendering took 2 to 8 hours per frame. A 90-second video at 24fps has 2,160 frames. That was months of compute time on a render farm. Real-time rendering through Unreal Engine 5 and Unity renders frames instantly. You see changes as you make them, exactly like a video game. 

A project that took 3 months in 2021 takes 3 weeks in 2026. This brought 3D animation within reach for corporate budgets, not just feature films.

Where Singapore Industries Use 3D Today:

Industry	What They Animate	Example
Manufacturing	Equipment operation, assembly sequences	Industrial machinery demo before prototype build
Real estate	Property walkthroughs, interior previews	CapitaLand and CDL development sales
Healthcare	Surgical procedures, device mechanisms	Medical device demo for non-specialist audiences
Government	Urban planning, infrastructure projects	MRT extension visualisations, HDB and URA presentations
Retail	Product configuration, 360-degree views	Electronics and watch brands

4. Motion Graphics

Motion graphics is a type of animation that focuses on moving design elements instead of characters or storytelling. It uses text, icons, shapes, charts, and graphics to explain information in a visually engaging way.

You often see motion graphics in:

• Animated logos
• Product feature videos
• Social media ads
• Title sequences
• Data visualisations
• Website animations

Production time: 1 to 4 weeks. Adobe After Effects is the industry standard.

How it differs from 2D animation:

2D animation tells a story through characters. Motion graphics communicate information through shape, text, and data. No characters, no narrative arc, just clean visual communication at pace.

Core Elements Motion Graphics Uses:

• Kinetic typography — animated text that moves to convey meaning
• Shape animation — geometric transitions and visual rhythm
• Data visualisation — animated charts, graphs, and infographics
• Logo animation — brand reveals and identity sequences
• Scroll-triggered animation — web content that builds as you scroll

Three 2026 Trends Shaping Motion Graphics in Singapore:

In 2026, several trends are shaping motion graphics in Singapore.

• One popular trend is the liquid glass style inspired by modern app and website designs. It uses smooth movement, transparent effects, and layered visuals.
• Another trend is bold kinetic typography, where words physically act out their meaning. For example, the word “launch” may move upward, while “break” may split apart on screen.
• Scroll-triggered animation is also becoming common on business websites. Graphics and data appear as users scroll, helping websites feel more interactive and modern.

In Singapore, Motion Graphics is Widely Used for:

Motion Graphics	Annual report animations for SGX-listed companies
	DBS, OCBC, and UOB financial product content
	Channel NewsAsia broadcast graphics
	SkillsFuture digital campaign content
	SaaS website hero sections and product feature highlights

5. Stop Motion Animation

Stop motion animation is created by photographing real physical objects one frame at a time. After each photo, the object is moved slightly, and another photo is taken. When all the photos are played quickly together, the objects appear to move on their own.

There are several types of stop motion animation, including:

• Claymation
• Puppet animation
• Object animation using everyday items
• Cut-out animation using flat paper or card characters

Stop motion is one of the slowest animation styles to produce. In many cases, creating just one second of finished footage can take 8 to 12 hours of work.

Why Would a Brand Choose Stop Motion Animation in 2026?

Because its handmade look feels real, warm, and authentic. Small imperfections like visible textures and slight movements make the animation feel more human. In a time when AI can create very smooth digital visuals, stop motion stands out because it looks handcrafted and unique.

Many premium brands, such as Hermès, Lacoste, and a growing set of premium food and beverage brands, use stop-motion to communicate quality, creativity, and attention to detail.

Where Singapore Brands Use Stop Motion Animation

Stop Motion Animation	Artisanal and craft food brands
	Traditional heritage businesses
	Children’s product brands where warmth matters
	Premium F&B product launches
	Cultural and educational content

Some famous stop motion examples include:

• Wallace and Gromit
• Fantastic Mr. Fox
• PES food animations

Stop motion animation takes patience and time, but it creates a special visual style that digital animation often cannot fully replicate.

6. Whiteboard and Explainer Animation

Whiteboard animation is a style of animation that looks like someone is drawing illustrations on a whiteboard in real time while a voiceover explains the topic. As the drawings appear step by step, viewers stay focused and naturally follow the explanation.

This style works well because it feels similar to how a person teaches or explains something face-to-face. Instead of showing everything at once, the information appears gradually, making it easier to understand.

The Four Production Phases of Whiteboard and Explainer Animation

The production process usually includes:

1. Recording the voiceover first
2. Creating illustrations based on the script
3. Animating the hand and drawings to match the audio
4. Adding titles, transitions, music, and final effects

A whiteboard animation project usually takes around 2 to 3 weeks to complete.

Where Singapore Uses Whiteboard Animation Most:

In Singapore, whiteboard and explainer animations are commonly used for:

Whiteboard and Explainer Animation	SkillsFuture course content and e-learning modules
	Corporate compliance and onboarding training
	Financial literacy campaigns explaining CPF, insurance, and investments
	Technical product education for non-specialist buyers
	Healthcare and pharmaceutical procedure explanations

Popular tools used for whiteboard animation include:

• VideoScribe
• Doodly
• Adobe After Effects

Whiteboard animation may look simple, but it is one of the most effective ways to explain information clearly and keep viewers engaged from beginning to end.

2026 Trends Reshaping How Singapore Animation Studios Work

Beyond the six main animation types, several new trends are changing how animation studios in Singapore work in 2026.

Mixed 2D and 3D Hybrid Styles

Many studios now combine 2D and 3D animation. This style mixes the simple artistic look of 2D with the depth and realism of 3D environments.

A popular example is the visual style seen in Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, where 3D scenes use hand-painted 2D textures and effects. Singapore brands are starting to use this hybrid style for –

• advertising, 
• social media campaigns, 
• and corporate videos because it feels modern and visually unique.

AI-Assisted Animation Production

AI tools are now part of everyday animation workflows. Many studios use AI to speed up tasks such as:

• Automatic lip syncing
• In-between frame generation
• Background creation
• Motion tracking and conversion

These tools help studios work faster, but human creativity is still essential. Animators and creative directors still control the storytelling, design, branding, and final artistic decisions.

AR Animation and Interactive Experiences

AR (Augmented Reality) animation is also growing quickly in Singapore. This type of animation works through smartphone cameras and interactive apps.

Businesses now use AR to:

• Let customers preview furniture in their homes
• Show virtual property walkthroughs
• Create interactive event experiences
• Build social media filters and campaigns

These new technologies are helping Singapore animation studios create faster, smarter, and more interactive content for modern audiences.

Which Animation Type Fits Your Project?

The decision comes down to four things: your message, your audience, your timeline, and your budget.

If Your Goal Is…	Use This Type	Singapore Example
Explain complex concepts simply	2D Digital or Whiteboard	Fintech product explainer
Showcase the physical product realistically	3D Animation (real-time)	Industrial equipment demo
Create an emotional brand story	Traditional or Stop Motion	Heritage brand campaign
Animate data and statistics	Motion Graphics	Annual report highlights
Stand out with a unique aesthetic	Stop Motion or Hybrid 2D/3D	Luxury product launch
Train employees efficiently	Whiteboard or 2D Digital	Corporate onboarding

Singapore’s Animation Market in 2026

Singapore has over 50 animation studios and production companies. Most of them focus on corporate content for B2B clients. 

Key Industries Using Animation:

• Government: SkillsFuture, NEA, MOH, MOM campaigns
• Financial Services: DBS, OCBC, UOB explainers
• Technology/SaaS: B2B product marketing
• Manufacturing: Industrial equipment visualisation
• Real Estate: Property developments (CapitaLand, CDL)
• Healthcare: Medical device demonstrations
• Education: E-learning platforms, training content

Software & Tools Available

• Singapore studios use industry-standard software (Maya, After Effects, Unreal Engine). IMDA grants are available for production companies adopting new technology.

Language Capabilities

Most Singapore animation studios offer multilingual production:

• English (primary)
• Mandarin Chinese
• Malay
• Tamil
• Regional languages (for ASEAN markets)

If interested, you can check out this guide to learn about the top 6 animation companies in Singapore. 

Wrapping Up

You now know what each type of animation does, how long it takes, and where it works in Singapore. The next step is matching that knowledge to your brief. Animation in Singapore is not a luxury reserved for big-budget campaigns. Real-time rendering, AI-assisted production, and an established pool of local animation studios, like Moving Image, have brought production timelines and costs down significantly.

Moving Image, a top video production company in Singapore, produces 2D animation, 3D animation, and motion graphics for corporate, government, and technology clients across Singapore and the region.  We use real-time rendering and modern production workflows to deliver high-quality animation on timelines that work for your business.

View our animation work portfolio covering 2D, 3D, and 3D motion graphics or reach out directly to talk through your project.

FAQs How long does it take to make a 1-minute animation? A 1-minute animation usually takes 2 to 8 weeks, depending on style. Motion graphics and whiteboard are faster, while 3D and stop motion take longer. More characters, scenes, or revisions will increase the timeline. Which animation type is best for explaining complex products? 2D animation and motion graphics work best for complex ideas because they simplify information using visuals and step-by-step storytelling. They help viewers understand financial, tech, or SaaS products quickly. Can AI fully replace animation studios now? No, AI cannot fully replace animation studios. AI helps speed up tasks like background creation or in-between frames, but humans still control storytelling and design. Branding, creativity, and message clarity still need human direction. What animation style is best for marketing and ads? Motion graphics and short 2D animations work best for ads because they are fast, clear, and attention-grabbing. They are widely used on social media, websites, and digital campaigns. What is the difference between animation and motion graphics? Animation usually includes characters and storytelling, while motion graphics focus on moving text, icons, and data. Motion graphics are used for information, and animation is used for narrative. Is 3D animation necessary for product marketing? Not always. 3D animation is useful when you need realistic product views or demonstrations, especially for machines, buildings, or medical devices. For simple explanations, 2D or motion graphics are often enough.