2d icons versus 3d icons in present-day website graphics

Basic differences between 2D and 3D icons design

Speaking about 3d Icons we need to point out that the source of light plays an extremely essential role for creating authentic three-dimensional images. Certainly the using several light sources in website design nowadays is preferable but bear in mind that they should follow fundamental laws of physics and stay truthful. A few lights generally make 3D web icons look softer and much more realistic.

Both 2D and 3D icons represent the volume found in the three-dimensional world but use different methods of creating this illusion. 2D Icons can surely represent volume to less extent than 3D Icons. Among the minuses of 2D Icons are flat images that show just one perspective. Detailed highlights and imperceptible soft shadows are missing as a rule. The shades usage is limited as well.

3D icons can be proud of all these features instead. But 3D is mathematical replication of the data which in any case limits its usage. In some case 3D objects like 3D Icons may be successfully replaced by 2D ones or by the videos with the sounds. Software used for 3D modeling allows to create that 3D dimension. Don't forget that 3D icons should be depicted in correlation with the other objects and the environment they are placed into.