Computer graphics can be 2D or 3D . Despite these differences , 3D computer graphics rely on many of the same algorithms as 2D computer vector graphics in the wire frame model and 2D computer raster graphics in the final rendered display . In computer graphics software , the distinction between 2D and 3D is occasionally blurred ; 2D applications may use 3D techniques to achieve effects such as lighting , and primarily 3D may use 2D rendering techniques .