VFX vs Animation – Which Career Is Better in 2025?
Are you having trouble deciding between a career in animation or visual effects (VFX)? You’re not by yourself. Due to demand from OTT platforms, ad agencies, gaming businesses, and movie studios, both industries are flourishing in India, particularly in locations like Pune.
To assist you in choosing the best course for 2025, we have broken down the distinctions, career scope, skills required, and income expectations in this post.
Animation
what is Animation ?
2D, 3D animation
The process of producing movement with models, drawings, or computer-generated images (CGI) is called animation. Whether it’s realistic 3D characters or 2D cartoons, it’s motion-based narrative.
Types of Animation:
- 2D Animation (e.g., cartoons, explainer videos)
- 3D Animation (e.g., films like Toy Story, Avatar)
- Stop Motion
- Motion Graphics
Where It’s Used:
- Movies & TV shows
- Games
- Educational videos
- Advertising
Visual Effects
what is VFX?
In visual effects (VFX), live-action video is combined with computer components to produce situations that are either impractical or impossible to shoot in real life.
Popular VFX Techniques:
- Compositing
- Rotoscoping
- Matte Painting
- Green Screen Effects
Where It’s Used:
- Blockbuster films (Marvel, Bahubali, etc.)
- Web series (Netflix, Amazon)
- Advertisements
- News & Events (Virtual sets)
Key Differences Between VFX and Animation
Animation
Creating characters and movement
VFX (Visual Effects)
Enhancing or manipulating real footage
Animation
Maya, Blender, Adobe Animate
VFX (Visual Effects)
Nuke, After Effects, Houdini, Mocha
Animation
Animator, 3D Artist, Storyboard Artist
VFX ( Visual Effects)
VFX Artist, Compositor, Roto Artist
Animation
Films, Games, Ads, Education
VFX (Visual Effects)
Films, TV, Ads, Events
Career Scope in India (2025 & Beyond)
Animation Career Trends:
• Increasing prospects for global outsourcing;
• High demand for OTT content, mobile games, and ed-tech;
• Pune-based studios are employing 3D animators for short films and television shows
VFX Career Trends:
• Rapid expansion in the South Indian and Bollywood film sectors;
• Growing usage of AR/VR experiences and digital advertisements;
• Openings for roto, compositing, and matchmove artists
Conclusion: Both are in high demand. If you love storytelling and character creation, go for Animation. If you’re more into technical creativity and effects, VFX is ideal.
Salary Comparison (Entry-Level)
Role | Avg Starting Salary (Pune) |
Animator (2D/3D) | ₹15,000 – ₹25,000/month |
VFX Artist (Roto/Comp) | ₹18,000 – ₹30,000/month |
With experience, professionals can earn ₹50,000+ per month or freelance globally.
Learn Both at MAAC Kothrud, Pune
Why limit yourself to one? At MAAC Kothrud, we offer integrated courses that cover both Animation & VFX:
- AD3D EDGE Plus – Advanced 3D Animation
- VFX Plus – Full-stack VFX Training
- Blended Programs – Learn Game Design + VFX
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Get career guidance from industry experts. Call us or visit our center in Kothrud, Pune and find the course that suits your passion and skills.