# What is the easiest animation software to use?

> The easiest tool depends on what you want to make. For animated videos without animation skills, template tools such as Animaker or Canva are easiest. For UI animation, Figma's Smart Animate is the gentlest start. For motion graphics, Jitter is easier than After Effects. For interactive UI that ships, Rive and ExodeUI take more learning but do much more.

Updated November 2026. Source: https://www.exodeui.com/questions/what-is-the-easiest-animation-software/

## Key takeaways

- Template video: Animaker, Canva
- UI prototypes: Figma Smart Animate
- Motion graphics in the browser: Jitter
- Interactive UI: Rive, ExodeUI (steeper, more powerful)
- Easy to start is not the same as easy to finish a real project

## Frequently asked questions

### What is the easiest free animation software?

Figma for UI prototypes, and free plans of Jitter, Rive and ExodeUI for motion.

### Is After Effects hard to learn?

It has a steep start, but there are many tutorials. Expect a few weeks for basics.

### Can I animate without drawing skills?

Yes. UI and motion graphics animation rely on shapes and timing, not drawing.

### Is Rive easy for beginners?

The basics are approachable; state machines take practice.

## Related

- [Spline vs Rive vs Lottie: which is easier?](https://www.exodeui.com/questions/spline-vs-rive-vs-lottie-which-is-easier)
- [Free online UI animation tool](https://www.exodeui.com/questions/free-online-ui-animation-tool)
- [ExodeUI vs Jitter](https://www.exodeui.com/compare/exodeui-vs-jitter)
- [Most used animation software](https://www.exodeui.com/questions/what-is-the-most-used-animation-software)