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Animation Paper vs CelAction2D

Both stand on 2d character animation software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

Animation Paper

Paid LinuxMacWindows

Animation Paper is focused on 2D work and offers a range of export formats across three desktop platforms. Confirm the price and billing terms, which are described inconsistently.

Visit Animation Paper

CelAction2D

Paid MacWindows

CelAction2D focuses on a rig-based production workflow for professional 2D animation. Its Windows support is direct, while Mac users need a compatibility layer, and there is no public demo or Linux version.

Visit CelAction2D

The facts

Animation PaperCelAction2D
Free planNot publishedNo
Open sourceNot publishedNot published
Runs onLinux, Mac, WindowsMac, Windows
Lowest paid planAnimation Paper 5.0: $79 a monthStudio Educational Edition: $140 a year
Plans published14
MakerAnimation PaperCelAction2D
Websiteanimationpaper.comcelaction.com
On 2d character animation software#37 of 48#41 of 48

Animation Paper: what it does well

  • Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux.
  • Exports MP4, GIF, ProRes MOV, and PNG.
  • Also exports OpenEXR and OCA.
  • Version 5.0 owners receive free updates.

What to know first

  • No listed 3D modeling or character rigging.
  • No listed motion graphics or cloud collaboration.
  • Price wording conflicts with one-time billing terms.

CelAction2D: what it does well

  • Rigged skeletons support reusable movement
  • Automatic in-betweening and mesh deformation
  • Imports assets from major art applications
  • Separates artwork creation from animation
  • Includes upgrades and support in Studio Edition

What to know first

  • No native Linux version
  • No public downloadable demo
  • Mac use requires Boot Camp or Parallels
  • Educational edition is non-commercial only

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