Motion Graphics vs Animation: What is the Difference?
Motion graphics and animation are two styles that are often confused, for a simple reason. Both are moving images, but were motion graphics are static images given movement, animation is a series of moving images.
Simple, right?
The best way to see the difference is to compare the two styles side-by-side. Have a look at the examples below. The first starts with motion graphics. The second example is a short which mixes 2D character animation.
Still confused? Well you’re not alone. Head onto Google and search the difference between motion graphics and animation, and you will find two main answers.
- They’re the SAME! Motion graphics is just one type of animation.
- They’re NOT the same! They’re two completely different artforms.
So simple.
To save on the simplicity, this article will focus on the difference between motion graphics and animation at Squideo and what you can expect if you order one of these two formats from us.
Motion Graphics
There are a lot of benefits to motion graphics, particularly in terms of their production. It is faster and easier to produce a motion graphic than animation and, once produced, a motion graphic can be reused as many times as needed.
As discussed in Squideo’s previous blog post on motion graphics, they can be used for numerous projects. Examples include motion graphic logos, advertisements, explainer videos and infographics.
Animation
Animation has been around for over 100 years, and it is a much-loved and enduring artform for a reason. It is engaging, entertaining and adaptive. An animated video has a clear narrative and is ideal for a story-focused plot. With dozens of artforms to choose from, it is easy for Squideo to make something unique and brand-appropriate for your business.
Which One is For You?
The choice between motion graphics and animation comes down to five main decisions you have to make to find the right style for your video project. Here are some of Squideo’s tips to help you make the decision between motion graphics and animation. If you would like additional expertise to find out the perfect style for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.
1. Cost
The design choices of many projects are primarily influenced by cost. Squideo offers a competitive rate for the quality of service we deliver, but when it comes down to it motion graphics are cheaper to produce. Animated videos are usually longer in running length and add extra costs like script writing and voiceovers, which overall makes them more expensive – especially if you want a long video.
2. Time
Are you running to a tight schedule? Motion graphics can be quicker to produce and work well on projects with a short turnaround. Animation, especially if you’re looking for a complex animation style, works well for projects that can dedicate more time to production. Speak to our team to work out how quickly a video can be produced for you – and remember Squideo has express options available!
3. Audience
Different people want different products, and during the production phase it’s important to consider who will be viewing the finished graphic or video. Look at your archive or content produced by your competitors and what their audience has responded to, and use that research to inform your decision.
4. Reusability
If you plan to reuse your new content for years to come, think about which would be easier to amend if needed – for example if you update your brand guidelines or change logos. If you are unlikely to need amends, either option could work for you. If you are and want to keep amendment prices to a minimum, think about choosing motion graphics.
5. Branding
The final decision to consider is which style best suits your brand. Both motion graphics and animation are produced in various styles. Motion graphics can be character-based, abstract shapes or text-centred. Animation is either created in 2D or 3D, and follow numerous artforms. To decide which is right for you, look at examples of both styles and see what works best with your business’ branding.
Get Started with Your Marketing Video
Watch our video below to get a better understanding of who we are and how we can create motion graphics and animated videos to suit your project brief.
If you want to discuss how a motion graphic or animated video can benefit your business, get in touch with the Squideo team today!
