Finding lightweight materials that are suitable for high-strength impact application is imperative. However, incorporating empirical methods for the same can be an exorbitant affair. This study aims to obviate these experimental methods and replace them with a numerical approach to the problem using the finite element method (FEM) in tandem with mean-field homogenization. CNT and BNNT nano-fillers were used in the polymer matrix for the sake of comparison of dynamical response. The preliminary step involves finding material properties of composite panels having different configurations and concentration of nanofillers both computationally and experimentally. Later, an explicit dynamic based finite element analysis was performed to simulate the low-velocity impact on each of the composite plate developed. Finally, temporal responses of the plate such as contact force, displacement, and velocity after the impact were illustrated and compared for both CNT and BNNT composite plates for different heterogeneities of fibre. © 2021 Elsevier Ltd