Are you an aspiring animator? Or perhaps you're an early adopter wanting to get your hands on the latest gadgets used in content creation?
Well, look no further because we will list down 10 Must-Have Newest Tools For Content Creators In Animation. We will go over the pros and cons of each item and discuss all the usage applications and how they will benefit and enhance your work. In this article, we will cover hardware tools that will help you achieve success in the animation career if you choose to pursue it or if you're already in it and want to step up your productivity.
You may already know that animation, for the most part, has transitioned into being done in the digital workspace. And you may already be familiar with the essentials, like drawing tablets and the computers required to run animating programs. So we are here to recommend to you available options and talk about the price to performance and if it is worth it to buy, along with alternatives if you're on a tighter budget.
Chapter I: The Standard Set-up
Pen Tablets and Displays
First of all, one of the core items of an animation studio is where most of the actions happen. Pen tablets and displays play a crucial role in the animating industry, as they are the number one tool used in drawing and illustration, allowing the animator to bring ideas to life and make magic happen. Going digital also has its benefits; unlike traditional ways, the digital process is reusable, meaning that you only need electricity to power your devices up, saving you a lot of funds from buying traditional art materials every so often.
This essential tool connects to your computer and allows you to input, draw, design, and be animated as you please. There are a lot of options in the market for pen tablets and displays, with varying features and additional functionality that come along with the specific brand and model. The learning process of animation can be very fun. It may be challenging at first, but once you get the hang of it, I'm sure you'll be able to grasp the flow and enjoy creating more masterpieces afterward.
Tablet
- Entry level with a cheaper price tag
- Just a pad for pen input, no internal screen for display
- A little tricker to use when you're new to it, you must practice looking at your main screen while drawing with the tablet.
Display
- More costly, but you do get improved features in return.
- The main advantage here is the onboard screen, allowing you to see what you are drawing and also acts like an additional monitor for your PC
- Easier to use right from the bat; it almost feels like drawing on paper.
Brand Options
Wacom
Wacom is the world leader in pen tablets and displays, offering high end premium products. They also offer bundles with software, and they are by far the most well known and trusted brand worldwide.
Budget Friendly > Wacom Intuos Medium Bluetooth Pen Tablet - An excellent beginner's option when you're just starting out, it is an entry-level tablet that enables pen input for your PC, but the only downside is that it doesn't have a screen.
Mid Range> Wacom Intuos Pro Medium Bluetooth Pen Tablet - A step up from the smaller Intuos, it's still a pen tablet, but it has more features, mainly more buttons and shortcut keys and an improved pen.
High End > Wacom Cintiq 16 Pen Display - This one is the entry-level to the pen display category for when you are ready to upgrade from a pen table to a pen display. Get this one if you have a more limited budget.
XP-Pen
XP-Pen is one of the biggest, if not the second greatest, competitor in the drawing tablet market
Budget Friendly
Mid Range
High End
Studio Level
Huion
Not too far behind, Huion also has a significant share in the drawing tablet market.
Budget Friendly
Mid Range
High End
Studio Level
Computers and Workstations
A heavy workload demands a good and reliable computer, enough to supply sufficient processing and rendering power to bring your ideas to life. Being one of the most useful tools in everyday life, and also being widely used outside of animation, computers have been the stable of technology for the past decades. They are what makes everything digital possible, making work a lot more efficient and sustainable.
Like the advanced machine it is, computers come in all sorts of variations, being made of several different and most often interchangeable and customizable components. The main option is gathering and purchasing the main components for a desktop computer and building it yourself, and there are several online guides that will help you. Alternatively, you can buy a pre-built desktop computer if you want to save time and skip on the technical stuff. There are also more flexible options for laptops and mini PCs that allow your set-up to be portable.
Since PC building is very complex to a degree, we will only present pre-built options along with Laptops and Mini PC's. For a custom build, you may refer to online guides and visit pcpartpicker.com
PC Specs Analysis and Comparison
There is a lot to consider and take in mind when purchasing a PC. If you're not well-versed in computer building, then continue reading for a general guide. If you're already an experienced PC expert, you can skip the following part.
Building a PC can be fun to learn and provides educational background on how the entire system works. Some even treat their PC as their child since they created it. There are 4 main things that make up a pc. The Motherboard, Central Processing Unit (CPU), Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), and Random Access Memory (RAM)
While we'll only be covering the main components, it is also important to note the various other components, such as the PSU (Power Supply Unit) and the Case and Cooling Fans. You will need a powerful enough PSU to give all the required power to all your components, depending on their specs and how much they need. Then, for the case and cooling fans, you will need a big enough case to fit the components. The fans are also an important part of maximizing the efficiency of your systems; they cycle cool air in and hot air out to keep your system running smoothly.
The PC market is vastly wide and complex, while we will give recommendations, you should consider making a personal checklist of what you really need and give thorough thought before you make the final purchase.
Brief Component Explanation
Motherboard - The blank slate that connects all the components together. Things to keep in mind are: The I/O or ports on the back, depending what you need, And the CPU Socket and compatibility
CPU - The big brains of the system, responsible for processing complex tasks and algorithms. Does the heavy tasks and background processing.
GPU - The big muscles of the system, it allows you to render graphics even faster than a CPU can, most useful for video rendering.
RAM - The neuron network, it acts like a temporary storage for files and applications. The more the merrier as it allows you to run more apps simultaneously.
Recommendations
Motherboard - There are 2 main options; Intel or AMD. The latest offering is the AM5 platform for AMD, B650 for general use and X670 for high end users, they are also still supporting their previous AM4 platform for more budget ballers, the main boards offered are the B450 and B550.
Meanwhile for Intel, the latest is the LGA 1851 supporting 14th gen, while the previous one is LGA 1700 which supports 13th and 12th gen.
CPU - For budget options, go for the Ryzen 5 5600, or for higher end go for the Ryzen 7 7600 or 7800. On the Intel counterpart, i3 13th gen for budget, i5 13th gen for mid Range, then i9 13th or 14th for the highest end.
GPU - There is a wider choice in available graphics cards. With lots of generational improvement. AMD has a different contender in this space, which is Nvidia. AMD offers the RX6600 and RX7600 as budget options, while the RX7900 series is their top of the line. Meanwhile, Nvidia offers the RTX 3060 and RTX 4060 as budget to mid range options, while they have the RTX 4080 and RTX 4090 on the top of the food chain.
RAM - While the RAM is an essential part of the system, it's one of the easier components to think about. All you need to know is DDR4 vs DDR5 and their motherboard compatibility. But take note of the capacity speeds; the more you have, the more tasks you can have open at a time and how fast your system rams. If you have a previous-generation motherboard, then you're most likely going with DDR4 and around 2600-3200mhz. HyperX and Kingston are good brands. If you have the new-gen motherboards, then you would need to pair that up with DDR5 at least 4800mhz or more, GSkill and Corsair are the top contenders when it comes to premium choices. 16 GB capacity would be the bare minimum today, but it is recommended to at least go for 32 GB for a good headspace since animations take a lot of resources. And it would be better if you could go with 64 GB and more for higher-end systems.
Laptops & Mini PCs - The spec options remain mostly the same. However, there can be some that are mobile-exclusive. And there is also the issue of cooling solutions. Since these computers are made to be smaller, you might find heat issues, so it's recommended to consider an external solution like a laptop cooling pad so you can get all the performance that your computer can bring.
Pre-builts
Budget Friendly
Mid Range
High End
Studio Level
Laptops
Budget Friendly
High End
Mini PC's
Budget Friendly
Mid Range
High End
Studio Level
Office and Desk Space
A good work environment is one where you are most comfortable to be in. Your office space is an important factor to getting your work done. Creating your workspace can be tricky, you have to factor in the available room space and plan where to put your equipment and peripherals. Our main pieces for a set-up are the work tables/desks and chairs. Then miscellaneous things and decor.
Whatever aesthetics you're going for, always remember that if you love working in your office, then you will also enjoy your work. And that helps a lot in the long run, maintaining a healthy and happy workspace that makes you feel at home is also a big key to success. Would you color theme it and include your favorite Anime posters and figurines?
Tables and Desks
Standard Desks > If you want to solo your workspace with minimal settings, then this is the desk just right for you; it also has a few drawers to store your items.
L-Shaped Design > If you want more space and if you have a lot of equipment, then you should consider getting an upgrade. The L-shaped tables are very suited for that, offering you additional desk and shelf space. The only downside is that it requires more room, and you need to plan carefully where you will put it.
Conference Tables > If you want your team to work closely together, then you should go for the big one, a conference table. It can usually accommodate 6 up to 8 or more people. Being in a shared workspace can save office space for other essentials like lounge and kitchen area.
Office and Ergonomic Chairs
Budget Friendly > The mesh-type chairs are the cheapest options. However, they may offer limited comfort, especially if it doesn't have a headrest.
Mid Range> Mesh can still be a good choice if you can dish out a little more to get a wider seat and with a headrest.
High End > If you need maximum comfort, then you can go with the leather foam variety. It offers more cushion and flexibility. The downside is that leather is more susceptible to wear and tear and more often.
Studio Level > If you want to feel like the king of the office, then you must certainly get the greatest leather chair, offering extra comfort.
Decor
Ornamental Crystal Tree - A splash of color that also comes with the feel of nature
Corkboard - A space where you can organize your thoughts and plans
Desk Organizer - Extra storage for your office supplies, accessible right from for desktop
Chapter II: The Next Level
Lighting Equipment
Every studio needs a light, a torch to signify the burning passion for more amazing works to come. Maintaining a well-lit environment will brighten up the atmosphere. It will also be useful in combination with other equipment under this chapter, pairing it up together to create a more professional studio in the likes of Disney and Pixar.
There are various different kinds of lighting solutions, such as flood lights to light up the set or spotlights that take the center of attention to what you want to focus on. There are several applications of lighting, too, to express feelings and make a set more dynamic, from the use of different tones and hues to better convey the story.
Lighting Options
Stand Lights > Standard lights that can be moved accordingly provide general or wide lighting to the set.
Spot Lights > Anchored lights that are used for more focused subjects, only illuminating a narrow spot.
Strobe Lights > Flashing burst lights for specific scenarios, most often used in studios for visual effects.
Softbox > A softer light to diffuse glare and apply more subtle lighting.
Reflectors > Used to fill shadows and add more warmth to the set.
Audio Equipment
If there is movement, then there must also be sound. Audio is what brings a lot more soul into the characters and scenes, bringing more life and sense to the composition. If you're going for a more action packed and dramatic venture, then it is certainly a must to take note of the sounds to support the flow of your story.
Audio comes in two parts, input and output. Microphones will capture the sounds and Speakers will play them to you. They vary in quality by a degree, so it is important to choose wisely what you need.
Microphones
Budget Friendly > The Siren mini from Razer offers a small form factor and good quality despite its size. The only con is it's as basic as it is, and it does not have additional software features.
Mid Range > Fifine is a rising brand that offers affordable audio equipment and a wider variety of features and software support.
High End > The Blue Yeti brand has been a staple of the microphone market for years, being very reliable in delivering high-quality and crisp voices.
Studio Level > It takes the very best to get as close as the real deal. When it comes to customizability and functionality, the HyperX Quadcast takes the lead, offering the most features and audio quality; the only thing holding it back is the premium price tag.
Accessories
High-profile Boom Arm > A boom arm allows you to maneuver your microphone more freely, allowing more flexibility. Also, being closer to your mouth or audio equipment allows the mic to pick up more sounds and makes it clearer.
Low Profile Boom Arm > A smaller form factor of the boom arm, if you're tight in space then this is the one you should get. It can slide under your monitor and it can also fold more allowing you to store it in a smaller amount of space.
Pop Filter > This protects the microphone from sudden popping sounds, like when you speak the letter P.
Wind Screen > If you're recording somewhere with lots of ambient noise, especially wind, then putting a screen cover helps significantly reduce the amount of noise picked up.
Speakers
Budget Friendly
Mid Range
High End
Studio Level
Virtual and Augmented Reality
Ever since its creation, virtual and augmented reality has become the next step in bringing the digital world closer to the real one. Some may say it's a niche gimmick and most often used to just play VR-specific or compatible games, but in fact, there are several more usage applications, and it has more potential than currently realized.
While the current VR and AR market is not that vast, companies haven't skimped on making innovative options. Some only offer the basic features while some have added additional interesting and useful features on top.
The difference between is quite simple, VR is more focused in the digital space, while AR allows you to cross it with the real world.
VR Headsets
Meta Quest 3 > The Quest 3 is no doubt a very good first pick when it comes to choosing your first VR Headset. It comes with a load of features, including a high-resolution 2064 x 2208 display, 6 advanced cameras, and Touch Plus controllers. It also comes with Mixed Reality capabilities and a massive content library.
Meta Quest Pro > The Quest Pro is a higher specced version, featuring a faster Snapdragon processor along with more sensors. The pro model is also specifically tailored for VR development with more support and features.
AR Headsets
XREAL Air Pro 2 > If you want to sport a cool look while going at it, the XREAL is the way to go since they have developed and integrated AR capabilities under the shade and form factor of sunglasses. It acts as a floating screen, giving you more display options on your workspace. They also have an app that allows you to connect to your smartphone instead of a PC.
Microsoft Hololens > Microsoft offers a more complex system, a solution for the enterprise level. Features include eye tracking, voice commands, hand tracking, pre-installed software, and collaboration tools. But this great tool comes with a heavy price tag.
Motion Capture Equipment
What greater inspiration there is but taking it from real life itself? Motion Capture is an advanced form of input in animation. It takes specialized cameras and bodysuits with trackers to track and record real life movements and convert them digitally, to greatly help in the basis and creation for the animation rig, especially in 3D projects.
You usually don't see this every day, but the option is there once you've established your studio well enough and started to take on more advanced films like movie production. If you want to make sure the movement quality is at its best, then motion capture is an option to consider.
This system is special compared to what we've shown so far. The technology for this is still limited, so only a few companies offer it commercially.
Motion Capture
Suits
Cameras
Chapter III: The Technicals and Utilities
Data Storage
With great content comes great responsibility, well that is where you need to store them. Drawings, Illustrations, and Animation can take up a chunk of space, especially if they're bigger projects. It is great to have plenty of storage capacity for all your files, and it would also be great to have some extra space to archive your previous finished projects.
Coming in as a component for computers, it is no surprise that there is a wide selection of options. From the classic HDDs to the faster SSDs, there's no shortage of selection as multiple companies and brands offer a lot to choose from.
Storage Solutions
NAS or Network Attached Storage is a system that uses multiple drives to make up a connected network to store your data. It comes with various protocols, you can store your data to maximize the overall capacity, or you can use RAID configuration to store multiple copies of your data in the case if one drive fails.You also need the purchase the drives separately.
Synology
UGreen
Solid State Drives
Solid-state drives come in a smaller form factor and have faster transfer speeds than HDDs. Although they can become quite expensive, especially the higher capacity ones. There are 2 main distinct types, M.2 that directly connects to your computer's motherboard, and you also have to take note of the PCIE generations and speeds, then the 2.5 inch that connects through a SATA cable.
M.2 NVME
2.5" Enclosed
Hard Disk Drives
Hard drives come in a bigger package, and they generally have a bigger capacity-to-price ratio. The only con is that they are more prone to hardware failure because they use mechanical parts,
Western Digital
Seagate
3D Printing
Do you need a custom-made prop? Or perhaps a full suit of body armor? Well, anything is possible if you have a 3D printer! Having a replica or bringing life to props can be very useful in providing insights into how specific objects turn out and how well they will work in your composition. It provides key objects that add key visuals and functions to make your work look more detailed and well-designed.
Don't think 3D Printing is reserved as a premium; since some time has passed since the invention, many companies have begun to offer more diverse and affordable options. Some are tailored for smaller and simpler projects, while some are capable of handling more complex projects.
3D Printers
Budget Friendly
Mid Range
High End
Studio Level
3D Printing Supplies
Tool Kit > After you have printed your project, there's a high likelihood that it will still need additional work, like cutting off support beams and sanding and polishing them to perfection. If your piece comes in multiple parts, then you will need the tools for assembly.
Filaments > The soul and structure of 3D Printing itself. There are various types of plastic for filaments depending on the use case and material requirements. They also come in a wide selection of different colors.
Render Farms
Once your name is up there, you will need heavy firepower from there on and after. Taking on the worldwide market by producing animated movies can take a significant amount of time and effort. It also takes a ton of computing resources to make something big to show to the entire world. This is where Render Farms comes in; think of it similarly to a big server room, where multiple compacted and organized computers link up to each other to process the heaviest video rendering tasks.
While not your typical everyday equipment, once you find the need for it then it will certainly be the life and time saver. They can get pretty expensive so think twice before committing to the investment.
Alternatively, there are already established companies that offer rendering services through the cloud if you don't have the dedicated resources to host the servers yourself.
Rendering Servers
Render Boxes Atom
Render Boxes Nano Pro
Rendering Services
Fox Render Farm > https://www.foxrenderfarm.com
And that's it for this time, folks. I hope you enjoyed reading and browsing through it. Did I interest you more in animation? I would like to hear feedback from you, any suggestions or criticism is welcome, feel free to comment down below. Have a great day!
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