Best animation software to learn in 2025

Animation today is more than just moving images—it's the art of breathing life into characters, building entire universes from scratch, and telling stories that resonate with audiences across the globe. From cinema and advertising to gaming, AR/VR, web series, and even e-learning platforms. Animation has evolved into one of the top career choices for creative minds looking to make an impact in the digital world.

Animation is where imagination meets technology. It’s the magic that turns static visuals into living, breathing expressions. Whether it’s a quirky 2D character making people laugh or a hyper-realistic 3D creature in a blockbuster film evoking awe, animation is the creative bridge between dreams and digital reality.

But animation isn’t just for dreamers—it’s for the doers too. The ones with a passion for visual storytelling, a keen eye for detail, a love for art, and a curiosity for how things move. If you’re someone who’s fascinated by cartoons, films, comics, games, or simply how a visual idea can be brought to life, animation might be your calling.

If you have a creative streak, a flair for storytelling, and a willingness to learn technical tools, animation could be the perfect blend of art and science for you. Whether you’re into character design, VFX, motion graphics, or 3D environments—there’s a niche for every skill and passion. To truly thrive in this fast-evolving field, you need to equip yourself with industry-relevant tools and software.

In the world of animation and VFX, your software skills are your brushes and canvas. Knowing the right animation software is not just a technical requirement; it’s the foundation for everything you’ll create, collaborate on, and showcase. From rigging and modeling to compositing and rendering, the right tools can define your workflow and elevate your craft.

So, if you're planning to step into the animation industry in 2025, here are the top 7 animation software you must learn to build a future-ready, creative career.

1. Autodesk Maya

A staple in the animation and VFX industry, Maya is perfect for 3D modeling, simulation, and rendering. Used in Hollywood and high-end gaming, mastering Maya opens doors to advanced animation careers.

2. Adobe After Effects

An essential tool for motion graphics, visual effects, and compositing. It’s widely used in everything from YouTube videos to feature films and is key for those interested in motion graphics courses.

3. Toon Boom Harmony

Ideal for 2D animation, Toon Boom is industry-recognized for creating television shows, cartoons, and online content. Its rigging features and drawing tools make it perfect for creative storytellers.

4. Cinema 4D

Loved for its user-friendly interface and motion design capabilities, Cinema 4D is a top choice for animators working in advertising and broadcast design.

5. Houdini

If VFX is your passion, Houdini is the tool to know. It’s used in simulations, destruction effects, and procedural generation, being essential for advanced animation courses.

6. Adobe Animate

Perfect for interactive content and vector-based 2D animation, Adobe Animate is ideal for web animations, games, and mobile applications.

7.Moho (Anime Studio)

Another great choice for 2D animation and rigging, Moho offers advanced features for professional-quality work without the complexity of bigger software.

Animation at Lexicon MILE Department of Media & Animation

At Lexicon MILE Department of Media and Animation (formerly Lexicon IMA), we don’t just believe in creativity but in nurturing it with purpose. Through our Animation courses in Pune, including the B.Sc in Animation & VFX, we train aspiring animators in the very software and tools mentioned above.

But more than just technical training, we focus on holistic learning, combining creativity, storytelling, and industry practice. Our students work on real-time projects, build portfolios, and engage in internships with agencies and studios to experience the animation world first-hand.

That’s why we’re not just one of the best animation institutes in Pune; we are where passion meets profession, and dreamers become doers.

Are you ready to enter the exciting world of animation but unsure where to start? 

Whether you’re looking for 3D animation training in Pune, Motion graphics courses, or a certification in animation, we’re here to guide your creative career every step of the way.

With the right training, the best software, and industry exposure, you’ll not only learn animation and VFX but also lead the industry.

Join Lexicon MILE Department of Media and Animation to begin your journey to becoming a pro animator. Your future in animation starts here.

FAQ’s 

1. Which animation software should I learn in 2025 to build a strong career in the animation industry?

You should start with industry-relevant software like Autodesk Maya, Adobe After Effects, and Toon Boom Harmony, which are widely used in film, gaming, advertising, and VFX.

2. Is learning Autodesk Maya or Blender better for a beginner aiming for a career in 3D animation?

Autodesk Maya is more widely used in professional studios and high-end projects, making it ideal for serious career-building. Blender is great for beginners and freelancers due to its free access and growing capabilities.

3. What are the career opportunities after learning software like Adobe After Effects and Houdini?

With After Effects, you can pursue careers in motion graphics, VFX, and content creation. Houdini opens doors to advanced VFX, simulations, and work in big production houses and gaming studios.

4. Why should I choose Lexicon MILE for animation and VFX training in Pune?

Lexicon IMA offers industry-driven training, expert faculty, real-time projects, internships, and portfolio development—making it one of the best animation institutes in Pune.

5. Can I build a professional portfolio and get real industry exposure during an animation course at Lexicon IMA?

Yes, students at Lexicon IMA work on real-time projects, internships, and practical assignments that help them build a strong portfolio and gain hands-on experience.