Introduction
You’ve got the concept. You know the design principles. You even have the style in mind.
Now comes the real question: which motion graphics software is right for you?
With so many options available, it can be tricky to know which tool will best suit your creative goals.
In this guide, we’ll break down the most popular motion graphics programs and help you choose the one that fits your workflow.
Objectives:
- The top tools in motion graphics
- Why your software choice matters
- A side-by-side comparison to help you decide
Most popular motion graphics software
There's so much software out there, but the key players are:
- Adobe After Effects, a key player in the motion graphics industry. Known for its comprehensive timeline, keyframe animation, masking, shape layers, and extensive effects library. It integrates with other Adobe Creative Cloud applications, making it versatile.
- Cinema 4D is a popular choice for 3D motion graphics, modeling, animation, and simulations.
- Blender is a free and open-source 3D creation suite, widely used for modeling, animation, and visual effects in motion graphics. Fun fact; the short film Spring was made entirely using Blender!
- DaVinci Resolve has a Fusion page, where you can create cinematic visual effects and motion graphics.
How does motion graphics software make a difference?
The choice of motion graphics software impacts your creative possibilities, workflow efficiency, and final product.
Different programs have different strengths and weaknesses, so your choice of software will vary depending on what you’re trying to achieve.
Some programs are better suited for 2D motion graphics—think typography and character animation. Others are more suited to the 3D side of things.
You’ll find certain programs have a more complex user interface, making it more challenging for beginners or casual users. The complexity of the project itself will also change the software you choose.
The software’s capabilities will directly influence the quality and visual style of the final animation, the right software will help you create more engaging, memorable, and effective content.
Motion graphics software comparison
There is so much to think about when deciding which software to use; price points, complexity, capability, and output all play a part.
Here is a comprehensive comparison of the features of each software:
| Feature / Tool |
Adobe After Effects |
Cinema 4D |
Blender |
DaVinci Resolve |
| Primary Strength |
2D motion graphics & compositing |
3D motion graphics & MoGraph tools |
Full 3D pipeline (free & open-source) |
Video editing + VFX + motion graphics |
| Best For |
Titles, lower thirds, VFX, 2D animation |
Broadcast graphics, 3D animation, product visuals |
Indie creators, 3D animation, simulations |
Editors needing integrated VFX & colour grading |
| Ease of Use |
Moderate (steep for beginners) |
User-friendly for 3D software |
Steep learning curve |
Complex for beginners (node-based workflow) |
| 3D Capabilities |
Limited (via plugins or Cinema 4D Lite) |
Advanced 3D modeling, animation, and rendering |
Full 3D suite with sculpting, rigging, rendering |
Basic 3D via Fusion tab |
| Integration |
Seamless with Adobe CC (Photoshop Illustrator) |
Integrates well with After Effects |
Integrates with Unreal, Unity, and others |
Integrated into Resolve for editing & grading |
| Pricing |
Subscription (£22.99-£56.98) |
£770-£3150 + VAT |
Free |
Free version + Studio version for a one-time payment of £255 |
| Community and Resources |
Vast, plenty of templates and plugins |
Strong, especially for MoGraph users |
Huge open-source community, lots of tutorials |
Growing community, especially among filmmakers |
As you can see, each tool has its niche:
- After Effects is the go-to for 2D motion design and composition.
- Cinema 4D is known for its intuitive 3D graphics workflow.
- Blender offers incredible power for free, especially for 3D animation and VFX.
- DaVinci Resolve is great if you want editing, colour grading, and motion graphics all in one place.
Conclusion
When choosing a motion graphics software, the top four options are:
- Adobe After Effects
- Cinema 4D
- Blender
- DaVinci Resolve
But, each of these programs have their place. So, when it comes to choosing the right one for you, make sure you keep your project in mind—what you want the end product to be will influence the program you choose!
At Media Training, our industry-expert instructors will guide you through hands-on courses—online or in-person—to help you level up your motion graphics game. Explore our courses and start animating with confidence.
by Josie Daniel