Affordable Explainer Video for Business: Budget-Friendly Guide

Explainer videos are powerful but expensive. Not anymore. Affordable explainer videos for business solutions make it possible to create engaging, high-quality videos without breaking the bank. 

The secret will be revealed in no time. In this article, we will show how to choose the right video style, find cost-effective production methods, suggest TOP 5 companies for affordable explainer video services, and provide 12 cost-saving tips.

What to Expect About Quality of an Affordable Explainer Video for Business

Creating an explainer video on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing effectiveness. However, understanding the relationship between affordability and quality is key to making informed decisions. Before diving into specific styles and production methods, let’s set realistic expectations about what you’ll get at affordable price points. 

The following table highlights the fundamental differences between affordable and premium animation, helping you weigh the trade-offs and make the best choice for your needs.

Feature	Affordable animation	Premium animation
Style	Simplified, can be template-based, generic	Custom-designed, unique, visually striking
Illustration	Stock assets, basic illustrations, limited detail	Original artwork, intricate detail, polished aesthetic
Animation	Basic motion graphics, limited frame rate, simple transitions	Fluid movement, dynamic transitions, advanced rigging
Scriptwriting	Focus on key messages only, with minimal customization	Engaging storytelling, tailored messaging, strategic focus
Voiceover	Basic, sometimes text-to-speech, limited range of talent	Professional voice actor, custom tone, expressive delivery
Sound design	Basic music, limited sound effects	Original music, immersive sound effects, professional mixing
Production time	Fast turnaround, limited revisions	Longer process, multiple revision rounds, client collaboration

Simplified visuals and animation

Affordable explainer videos often feature basic animation styles such as whiteboard drawings, 2D motion graphics, or simple character animations. These styles take fewer hours to create, but that doesn’t mean they are low-quality. Simplicity in the hands of an expert can be just as effective and stunning as complex animation.

Use of templates and stock assets

To keep production costs low, many budget-friendly explainer videos rely on pre-made templates, stock images, and royalty-free music instead of custom-designed elements. While this speeds up production and reduces expenses, it may lead to a more generic look if not used creatively. 

Potential trade-offs in production quality 

The cost-saving measures discussed above mean that affordable and high-end productions may emphasize different aspects of the final product. Budget-friendly explainer videos may use simpler visuals and streamlined customization, focusing on clear messaging, strong storytelling, and engaging visuals. 

Rather than matching premium complexity, they prioritize essentials to deliver an effective message within budget constraints.

5 Styles for Affordable Explainer Video for Business

Now that you have a clearer picture of what affordability means in terms of video quality, the next step is selecting the right style. Different animation styles not only affect how engaging your video is but also significantly impact production costs. 

Whiteboard animation

Whiteboard animation is a fun and simple way to explain ideas using hand-drawn illustrations on a white background. The images appear as if being sketched in real-time, making it easy to follow along. This style is cost-effective because it uses minimal animation and focuses on storytelling rather than complex visuals. It’s great for educational content and step-by-step explanations.

Whiteboard explainer videos can range anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000.

Basic 2D character animation

2D character animation brings simple, flat characters to life with smooth movements and expressions. It’s engaging without being overly complicated, making it an affordable choice for businesses that want a personal touch. By using pre-designed characters and animations, production time and costs stay low while still delivering an appealing and professional look.

Basic 2D animations can range from $2,000 to $6,000 per minute.

Screencast videos

They’re often paired with voiceovers and annotations to explain software, websites, or workflows. This type of explainer video is budget-friendly since it requires little to no animation—just clear narration and good screen recording software. 

A screencast explainer video typically costs between $900 and $4,500 for a 1-minute video.

Infographic videos

Infographic videos turn data, numbers, and facts into dynamic visuals with engaging charts, graphs, and icons. They simplify complex information in an easy-to-digest way. This style relies on simple animations and existing graphic assets rather than custom illustrations, making it a great option for businesses that need a professional yet cost-effective explainer video.

An animated infographic video can cost between $1,000 and $4,500 for every minute of 2D animation.

Kinetic typography

Kinetic typography is all about making words move! This style uses animated text with different fonts, sizes, and effects to bring messages to life. It’s an excellent choice for brands looking to create impact with strong messaging. Since it doesn’t require detailed illustrations or characters, it’s one of the most affordable explainer video options while still being eye-catching and engaging.

Typographic video production costs typically fall between $900 and $4,000 on average.

You might also like: Top 8 Different Types Of Explainer Videos To Match Your Corporate Needs

3 Ways to Create Budget-friendly Explainer Videos for Your Business

Choosing the right style is just one piece of the puzzle—how you bring that vision to life is just as important. Businesses looking for affordable explainer videos have three main options: using DIY tools, hiring freelancers, or partnering with specialized agencies. 

Each comes with its own pros and cons, and understanding these differences will help you make the best choice based on your budget, time, and quality expectations. 

DIY approaches

There are several software options for producing explainer videos. These tools provide a library of templates, designs, and characters, enabling individuals with little or no prior experience to create affordable explainer videos for businesses.

Software	Best for	Pricing	Features
Canva	DIY animation	Free (Basic)  $12.99/month (Pro)	Drag-and-drop editor Pre-built templates Animated text and graphics
Doodly	Whiteboard animation	$39/month (Basic plan)	– Drag-and-drop interface – Hand-drawn animations Multiple export formats
Vyond	2D character animation	$49/month (Essential plan)	– Pre-built character animations Customizable templates – Scene transitions
OBS Studio	Screencast video	Free	– High-quality screen recording – Real-time audio capture – Free to use
Adobe After Effects	Kinetic typography	$22.99/month	– Advanced text animation – Motion graphics Professional-grade effects

Hiring freelancers

For those who want more customization but still need to keep costs low, hiring a freelancer can be a middle ground. Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork offer a wide range of freelancers, with services starting from about $90. 

While some freelancers deliver explainer videos at a fraction of agency costs, there are risks involved. First and foremost, quality can be inconsistent, as experience and skill levels vary widely between freelancers. Additionally, communication challenges may arise, especially if the freelancer works in a different time zone or lacks a structured workflow. 

Revisions can also be time-consuming and costly, as some freelancers charge extra for additional edits. Lastly, without a team supporting the project, turnaround times may be longer, especially if the freelancer is juggling multiple clients.

For businesses looking for a balance between affordability and reliability, F. Learning Studio offers a flexible working approach on Fiverr and Upwork. Unlike solo freelancers, we provide a team-based approach, ensuring consistency in quality, timely communication, and a clear revision policy.

Partnering with Specialized Agencies

While DIY tools and freelancers offer budget-friendly solutions, some businesses need a more structured and reliable approach. That’s where specialized agencies come in. They provide professional-quality videos while still offering budget-conscious packages. 

If you’re looking for an option that ensures quality while minimizing hands-on involvement, working with an agency could be your best bet. Let’s explore some of the top agencies that provide affordable explainer video services and what makes them stand out.

Company	Overview	Specialization	Pricing
F. Learning Studio	Animated explainer videos, live-action videos, and motion graphics.	Wide range of animation styles, including whiteboard animation, motion graphics, and character animation.	Contact for a custom quote
Vidico	Award-winning video production company that uses video and animation to grow businesses globally, completing over 1,400 creative projects.	Whiteboard animation, modern color explainer videos, and 2D character animation.	Starts at $5000
Jumpstart Video	100% US-based company that creates affordable animated explainer videos with over ten years of experience and more than 13,000 projects completed.	Whiteboard animation, modern color explainer videos, 2D character animation.	Starts at $600
Creamy Animation	A production company specializing in animated explainer videos, providing tailored animated and live-action video solutions.	Explainer videos, corporate videos, educational videos.	Starts at $2000
Gisteo	Creates world-class explainer videos that help businesses clarify their offerings and ignite growth, combining expert scriptwriting and production skills.	2D animation, motion graphics, kinetic typography, whiteboard videos.	Starts at $2750

1. F. Learning Studio

Based in Vietnam, F. Learning Studio provides high-quality animation services at a fraction of the cost compared to studios in high-expense regions. Here’s how we bring over 9 years of experience to the table to deliver customized and cost-effective explainer video solutions:

Tailored explainer video solutions within the budget

F. Learning Studio leverages our Vietnam-based location to offer high-quality explainer videos at competitive costs. By optimizing resources and streamlining production, we provide budget-friendly yet professional animation solutions without cutting corners on quality. 

With over 9 years of experience, F. Learning Studio has mastered a wide range of animation styles, including whiteboard animation, motion graphics, and character animation. This versatility allows us to tailor videos to different clients in various industries. Some notable examples include:

• MODO: We streamlined the platform to manage data and provide clear insights for the energy sector.
• Cargoful: We produced an engaging video to showcase their management software.
• FreightSnap: We visually illustrated the advantages of a machine for measuring freight pallets.

Efficient workflow that helps to minimize the cost

One of the key ways F. Learning Studio keeps costs low is through an efficient, well-structured production process. Clients receive easy-to-follow tutorial videos that help provide constructive feedback, reducing unnecessary revisions and speeding up production. 

By focusing on streamlined workflows and clear communication, our studio ensures that projects are completed on time and within budget, allowing businesses to maximize value from their video investment.

Dedicated client collaboration

At F. Learning Studio, client collaboration is a priority. Our team provides 24/7 responsive support, keeping clients involved at every stage of the production process. Regular updates, flexibility, and strong project management practices ensure that every video meets expectations.

Testimonials speak volumes, so let’s see what our clients have said about us:

So, why wait? Start your project today with expert guidance, efficient production, and unbeatable affordability.

• WhatsApp: (+84) 378 713 132
• Email: [email protected]
• Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/f.learningstudio
• LinkedIn: ​https://www.linkedin.com/company/f-learning-studio/​

2. Vidico

• Overview: Vidico is an award-winning video production company that uses video and animation to grow businesses globally. They have completed over 1,400 creative projects, achieving more than 1.4 billion views.
• Specialization: Animated explainer videos, live-action videos, motion graphics
• Top clients: Square, Spotify, Uber, Airtable
• Pricing: Starts at $5000
• Contact:
  • Website: https://vidico.com
  • Phone number: +61 1300 127 186
  • Email: [email protected]

3. Jumpstart Video

• Overview: Jumpstart Video is a 100% US-based company that creates affordable animated explainer videos. With over ten years of experience and more than 13,000 projects completed, they offer clear communication and value. 
• Specialization: Whiteboard animation, modern color explainer videos, 2D character animation
• Top clients: GE, Home Depot, Intel, United Way
• Pricing: Starting at $600
• Contact:
  • Website: https://vidico.com
  • Phone number: +61 1300 127 186
  • Email: [email protected]

4. Creamy Animation

• Overview: Creamy Animation is a production company specializing in animated explainer videos, providing tailored animated and live-action video solutions for businesses, nonprofit organizations, and startups.
• Specialization: Explainer videos, corporate videos, educational videos
• Top clients: Warner Brothers, RBC Bank, Fujitsu, Blockdaemon, Logitech
• Pricing: Starts at $2000
• Contact:
  • Website: https://www.creamyanimation.com/
  • Phone number: 800-660-7269
  • Email: [email protected]

5. Gisteo

• Overview: Since 2011, Gisteo has been creating world-class explainer videos that help businesses clarify their offerings and ignite growth. They combine expert scriptwriting and production skills with a simple process and fair pricing to provide affordable explainer videos for business.
• Specialization: 2D animation, motion graphics, kinetic typography, whiteboard videos
• Top clients: Warner Brothers, RBC Bank, Fujitsu, Blockdaemon, Logitech
• Pricing: Starts at $2750
• Contact:
  • Website: https://gisteo.com/
  • Phone number: 1-844-438-4478
  • Email: [email protected]

However, finding an affordable explainer video production company is just the first step—choosing the right partner for your specific needs is what truly makes the difference. Not all budget-friendly studios deliver the same level of quality, expertise, or service. The right choice ensures you get high-impact storytelling, engaging visuals, and smooth collaboration without overspending. 

In this table, we’ll break down key factors to consider when selecting an affordable production partner, helping you make an informed decision that balances cost with quality.

Factors	Questions to Ask
Portfolio & Industry experience	– Can I see examples of your previous work, especially in my industry? – Have you worked with businesses of a similar size or budget?
Pricing & Hidden costs	– What’s included in the quoted price (script, animation, voiceover, revisions)? – Are there any additional costs for revisions or faster delivery?
Customization & Animation style	– Do you offer fully custom animations, or do you use templates? – Can you adapt the visual style to match my brand identity?
Production process & Timeline	– What is your process for creating explainer videos? – How long does it typically take to complete a project? – How do you handle communication and project updates?
Script & Storytelling quality	– Do you provide scriptwriting services, or do I need to supply my own? – How do you ensure the messaging is engaging and clear?
Voiceover & Sound design	– Do you offer professional voiceover services? – Can I choose the voiceover artist and style? – Do you include background music and sound effects?
Revisions & Flexibility	– How many revisions are included in the price? – What’s your policy on feedback and changes? – Are there extra charges for additional edits?
Client reviews & Testimonials	– Can you provide references or client testimonials? – Where can I find independent reviews of your services?
Ownership & Final deliverables	– Will I own full rights to the final video? – In what formats will you deliver the final product? – Can I get the project files for future edits?

Cost-saving Tips for Affordable Explainer Videos

Regardless of the option you choose, you might want to maximize your budget and get the best value for your investment. Here are some smart ways to cut costs without compromising quality.

Tip	How to do it
1. Keep the video short	Plan your video to be under 60-90 seconds. Shorter videos require less scripting, animation, and voiceover work, which translates to lower production costs. Focus only on the core message.
2. Write a tight script	Prioritize clear and concise language. Eliminate unnecessary words and phrases. The better the script, the less time spent in revisions.
3. Consider a simpler animation style	Choose whiteboard animation, kinetic typography, or basic 2D animation over complex character animation or 3D. Simpler styles require less time and specialized skills.
4. Use existing assets	Leverage existing logos, graphics, images, or footage that you already have. Providing these assets to the production team can significantly reduce the creation of new assets.
5. Provide your own voiceover	If you or someone on your team has a clear and professional voice, consider doing the voiceover yourself. This eliminates the cost of hiring a professional voice actor (but ensure good audio quality).
6. Be realistic about your budget	Research average costs and set a realistic budget based on the scope of your project. This will help you narrow down your options and find a studio or freelancer that fits your price range.
7. Use royalty-free music and sound effects	Avoid copyright infringement by using royalty-free music and sound effects. There are many affordable or free resources available online.
8. Offer clear and constructive feedback	Be prepared to provide detailed and timely feedback to the production team at each stage. This can minimize revisions and ensure that the final product meets your expectations.
9. Limit the number of revisions	Understand the revision policy of your chosen studio or freelancer. Try to consolidate your feedback and limit the number of revision rounds to avoid extra charges.
10. Provide a detailed creative brief	A comprehensive creative brief upfront provides a clear vision for the project, minimizing miscommunication and preventing costly rework.
11. Consider offshoring/outsourcing	Outsourcing video production to countries with lower labor costs can be a significant cost-saving strategy. Research reputable companies and verify their quality standards.
12. Focus on quality over quantity	Instead of commissioning a series of lower-quality videos, focus on one or two higher-quality animated videos that are highly targeted and effective.

Conclusion

An affordable explainer video is within reach for businesses willing to invest the time and effort in smart planning. It’s about understanding your priorities, researching your options, and making informed decisions that align with your unique circumstances. 

With a bit of diligence and realistic expectations, you can create a captivating video that elevates your brand and engages your target audience, all without overspending.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free experience with professional quality, F. Learning Studio has you covered! We combine affordability, expertise, and a streamlined process to deliver custom explainer videos that fit your needs. Want to see how we can help? Contact us now!

• WhatsApp: (+84) 378 713 132
• Email: [email protected]
• Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/f.learningstudio
• LinkedIn: ​https://www.linkedin.com/company/f-learning-studio/​

Read more: 

• 5 Ways to Ensure Explainer Videos Increase Conversion Rate
• What are Good Animated Explainer Videos for Fintech?
• Explainer Video Sales Funnel Guide: How To Build A Strategy That Drives Conversions