Side by side
Blender vs Pencil2D
Both stand on animation software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source LinuxMacWindows
Blender brings a wide range of 3D and animation tools into one free, open-source desktop application. Its broad feature set and Python customization are useful for varied workflows, while GPL source-publication terms matter when distributing modified versions.
Visit Blender
Free plan Open source LinuxMacWindows
Pencil2D provides core drawing and timeline tools for hand-drawn 2D animation without a software fee. Note its unimplemented video, text, and shape tools when deciding whether it fits your workflow.
Visit Pencil2DThe facts
| Blender | Pencil2D | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Maker | Blender | Not published |
| Website | blender.org | pencil2d.org |
| On animation software | #1 of 106 | #2 of 106 |
Blender: what it does well
- Free and open-source under the GNU GPL.
- Covers modeling, animation, rendering, and video editing.
- Cycles supports CPU and GPU rendering.
- Supports 2D drawing in a 3D viewport.
- Can run without installation or internet access.
What to know first
- Desktop platforms listed are Linux, macOS, and Windows.
- Distributing modified versions requires publishing the source.
Pencil2D: what it does well
- Free and open source, including for commercial use.
- Supports raster and vector workflows.
- Onion skin can show previous and next keyframes.
- Exports video, GIF, and image-sequence formats.
What to know first
- Video importing has not been implemented.
- Text and shape tools are not implemented.
- Legacy builds lack the latest security fixes.
Alternatives to Blender Alternatives to Pencil2D The whole list