Learn Threejs-animation - 8 Code Examples & CST Typing Practice Test
Three.js Animation System is a powerful, flexible framework for keyframe-based animations of 3D objects, cameras, materials, and morph targets. It uses AnimationMixer, AnimationClips, and KeyframeTracks to animate properties over time with smooth interpolation and precise timeline control.
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Learn THREEJS-ANIMATION with Real Code Examples
Updated Nov 26, 2025
Explain
Three.js uses AnimationMixer to manage playback of animations on 3D objects.
AnimationClips contain reusable timeline data for objects, materials, cameras, and skeletons.
KeyframeTracks define value changes across time with interpolation.
Supports skeletal animation, morph targets, camera motion, and custom property animation.
Animation system integrates with GLTF loaders for production-friendly workflows.
Core Features
KeyframeTrack variants (Vector, Quaternion, Boolean, Color, Number)
AnimationAction for clip playback
Action warping, looping, clamping
Cross-fading and blending
Morph target & skeletal animation support
Basic Concepts Overview
AnimationMixer - animation controller
AnimationClip - collection of tracks
KeyframeTracks - property/value timeline
AnimationAction - controls playback
Interpolants - blend between keyframes
Project Structure
scene/ - base Three.js setup
animations/ - imported clips or custom tracks
models/ - GLTF or FBX assets
controls/ - user input & camera logic
render/loop.js - mixer.update & rendering
Building Workflow
Create/Load AnimationClip
Bind clip to mixer via clipAction
Configure play/loop/fade
Update mixer in render loop
Blend/transition actions when needed
Difficulty Use Cases
Beginner: rotate cube with keyframes
Intermediate: animate camera paths
Advanced: GLTF skeletal mix/blend
Expert: multi-character orchestrated action blending
Architect: full cinematic timeline sequencing
Comparisons
Three.js Animation vs GSAP -> GSAP is timeline-based, Three.js is property-based
Three.js vs Reanimated -> Web 3D vs mobile UI
Three.js vs Unity WebGL -> Unity is heavier with built-in animation tools
Three.js vs Babylon.js -> Babylon has a stronger integrated animation editor
Three.js Keyframes vs skeletal -> skeletal is best for characters
Versioning Timeline
2014 - Initial Animation system introduced
2016 - Mixer & Clip system standardized
2018 - GLTFLoader animation improvements
2020 - Better blending & interpolation
2023-2025 - WebGPU pipeline, major animation fixes
Glossary
AnimationClip - reusable timeline
KeyframeTrack - time/value list
AnimationAction - playback controller
Mixer - global animation manager
Interpolant - calculates smooth transitions
Frequently Asked Questions about Threejs-animation
What is Threejs-animation?
Three.js Animation System is a powerful, flexible framework for keyframe-based animations of 3D objects, cameras, materials, and morph targets. It uses AnimationMixer, AnimationClips, and KeyframeTracks to animate properties over time with smooth interpolation and precise timeline control.
What are the primary use cases for Threejs-animation?
Object and camera animations. GLTF character and skeletal animations. Morph target and facial animations. Scene transitions and cinematic sequences. 3D product demos and interactive experiences
What are the strengths of Threejs-animation?
Highly flexible keyframe-based system. Works seamlessly with GLTF pipelines. Supports blending multiple animations smoothly. Great for complex interactive scenes. Lightweight and efficient for WebGL
What are the limitations of Threejs-animation?
No node-based timeline editor built-in. Requires manual sequencing for complex animations. Interpolation may require fine-tuning. Large animation data increases file size. Not an all-in-one motion engine like GSAP
How can I practice Threejs-animation typing speed?
CodeSpeedTest offers 8+ real Threejs-animation code examples for typing practice. You can measure your WPM, track accuracy, and improve your coding speed with guided exercises.