Animated Product Explainer Video: 20+ Examples to Maximize Your ROI

Animated product explainer videos look great. But are they working? If stakeholders are asking, ‘What’s the ROI?’ you’re not alone. Animation alone isn’t enough. To maximize your video’s impact, you need measurable results and a proven strategy. Stop justifying the cost and start demonstrating the value. 

This article shows you how. We’ll explore 7 key types of animated product explainer videos with 20+ inspiring examples, reveal 6 signs of high-ROI videos, and outline approaches to make animated explainer videos that deliver. Gain budget confidence, prove the video’s impact, and drive profitable growth now!

Why Animation is the Winning Formula for Product Explainer Videos?

Animation isn’t just a nice way to explain your product – it’s often the smartest way, especially compared to other video types. Think about it: live-action video is great for showing things as they are in real life, but what if your product is complicated, or your idea is brand new and hard to picture? That’s where animation shines.

Animation makes complex ideas simple, showing what live-action can’t – like software processes or tiny product details – with full creative control. Plus, animation turns boring topics into engaging stories with fun characters, keeping viewers hooked. Unlike costly and limited live-action, animation offers flexibility and perfectly aligns with your message and brand. 

7 Key Types of  Animated Product Explainer Videos with 20+ Inspiring Examples

So, we’ve established why animation is a powerhouse in modern marketing for explaining products. But “animation” itself is a broad term, encompassing a diverse range of styles and techniques. To truly harness its potential and ensure your budget is well-spent, it’s crucial to understand these different types. We’ll explore 7 types of animated product explainer videos with 20+ examples, helping you choose the perfect style for your needs.

Types of Animated Product Explainer Video	Potential Cost Calculation	Common Use Cases	Pros	Cons
2D Animation	$1,500 – $7,000 per minute  Costs depend on complexity, style, and duration.	– Product Demos: Simplifying product features. – Brand Storytelling: Explaining brand values. – Social Media: Engaging short videos.	✔ Versatile and adaptable ✔ Cost-effective ✔ Quick production	✘ Limited depth and realism compared to 3D ✘ It may not suit highly technical products
3D Animation	$5,000 – $20,000+ per minute  Higher costs due to advanced techniques and rendering.	– Tech & Engineering: Demonstrating product mechanics. – Medical Devices: Showing complex functionalities. – Luxury Products: Enhancing visual appeal.	✔ High realism and detail ✔ Ideal for complex visuals ✔ Strong visual impact	✘ Expensive and time-consuming ✘ Requires specialized expertise
Motion Graphics	$1,500 – $5,000 per minute  Pricing depends on animation complexity and design.	– Data Visualization: Presenting statistics. – Corporate Videos: Simplifying business concepts. – Software Products: Explaining digital tools.	✔ Great for abstract concepts ✔ Engaging for B2B content ✔ Modern and clean aesthetic	✘ Less effective for storytelling ✘ Limited character-driven narratives
Whiteboard Animation	$2,000 – $4,000 per minute Generally affordable due to simpler production methods.	– Educational Content: Training videos. – Explainer Videos: Breaking down processes. – Nonprofits: Delivering messages clearly.	✔ Simple yet effective ✔ Great for step-by-step explanations ✔ Keeps audiences engaged	✘ Limited visual appeal ✘ Not suitable for dynamic storytelling
Kinetic Typography	$2,000 – $4,000 per minute Cost is influenced by design complexity and animation effects.	– Promotional Videos: Highlighting key messages. – Presentations: Adding dynamic text elements. – Advertising: Short, impactful campaigns.	✔ Eye-catching and dynamic ✔ Effective for conveying messages quickly ✔ Works well with voiceovers	✘ Limited in visual storytelling ✘ Can feel monotonous if overused
Stop Motion	$5,000 – $18,000 per minute High costs due to labor-intensive production.	– Product Showcases: Especially tangible items. – Food & Fashion: Highlighting textures and details. – Creative Campaigns: Bringing unique ideas to life.	✔ Unique and artistic ✔ Great for physical products ✔ Memorable and engaging	✘ Time-consuming production ✘ Limited flexibility in edits
Screencast Animation	$250 – $12,500 per minute  The price depends on the video quality and the complexity of the software demonstration.	– Software Tutorials: Demonstrating features. – Product Walkthroughs: Guiding users through interfaces. – Training Videos: Providing clear, step-by-step instructions.	✔ Highly practical and instructional ✔ Affordable for simple videos ✔ Ideal for digital products	✘ Visually less engaging ✘ It may lack storytelling elements

1. 2D Animation

2D animation brings characters and stories to life in a flat, two-dimensional world. Think classic cartoons; it’s a versatile and widely understood style, often focusing on clear character movements and storytelling for broad appeal in product explanations.

You may also interested in: How Much Does 2D Animation Cost Per Minute: $100, $1,000, or $8,000?

2. 3D Animation

3D animation creates depth and realism, building characters and environments in a three-dimensional space. This style offers a visually impactful and often more cinematic feel, capable of showcasing intricate details and complex product features with greater visual fidelity.

Get more insights: 3D Animation Is Harder Than 2D: Unveiling 6 Key Factors

3. Motion Graphics

Motion graphics are animation focused on moving graphic elements like text, shapes, and data visualizations rather than character-driven narratives. This dynamic approach is excellent for explaining processes, showcasing statistics, and presenting abstract ideas in a visually engaging and informative way.

4. Whiteboard Animation

Whiteboard animation mimics the look of someone drawing on a whiteboard, often using simple lines and illustrations to unfold a story or explain a concept step-by-step. This style is perceived as highly educational, approachable, and effective for breaking down complex information clearly and engagingly.

Read more: Whiteboard Animation Services: Top 17 Studios To Choose In 2024

5. Kinetic Typography

Kinetic typography makes words move and dance across the screen. It’s a style where the text itself becomes the primary visual element, using dynamic animation to emphasize key messages and create rhythm and impact, often paired with a compelling voiceover.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MtEeXxXvWxE&pp=ygUqS2luZXRpYyBUeXBvZ3JhcGh5IHByb2R1Y3QgZXhwbGFpbmVyIHZpZGVv r 

6. Stop Motion

Stop motion animation involves physically manipulating real-world objects frame by frame to create the illusion of movement. This technique, often using clay, paper cutouts, or even products themselves, offers a unique, handcrafted aesthetic that can be particularly charming and memorable.

7. Screencast Animation

Screencast animation combines screen recordings with animated elements to demonstrate software, websites, or apps in action. This practical approach is ideal for tutorials, software demos, and showcasing digital product functionality in a clear and step-by-step format.

6 Signs of a Truly High-Quality Animated Product Explainer Video

You’ve seen examples of different animation styles, but how do you know if a video is truly good before you invest heavily? We’ll outline 6 key indicators – that signal a truly high-quality animated product explainer video, ensuring your investment translates into tangible ROI and avoids common pitfalls.

Criteria	Key Considerations	What to Look For
Message Alignment and Visual Appeal	The animation style should strategically support the product’s core message and resonate with the intended audience, not just be visually appealing.	✅ Deliberate stylistic choices aligned with the target audience. ✅ Strategic aesthetics over mere visual appeal.
Resonance and Informative Content	A high-quality video goes beyond delivering information, creating an emotional connection through storytelling, character nuances, and evocative elements.	✅ Character development, effective pacing, and impactful music. ✅ Ability to evoke curiosity, trust, and excitement.
Effective Visual Storytelling	Visual storytelling should effectively communicate key benefits without over-relying on voiceovers, allowing animation to lead the narrative.	✅ Use of silent yet expressive visual sequences. ✅ Strong communication of messages through animation alone.
Delightful and Elevating Details	Attention to detail is critical, with micro-interactions that demonstrate a high level of craftsmanship and elevate the viewer’s experience.	✅ Subtle animations, clever visual cues, and seamless transitions. ✅ Details that contribute to a polished final product.
Addressing Viewer Needs	The video should address not only product features but also explain why the product is relevant and valuable to the viewer’s specific needs and desires.	✅ Clear connection to the viewer’s pain points and aspirations. ✅ Messaging that positions the product as essential.
Longevity and Re-watch Value	A truly exceptional explainer video should maintain its relevance over time, providing lasting value and encouraging repeat viewership.	✅ Timeless content that avoids trends that could quickly feel outdated. ✅ Storytelling that engages viewers repeatedly.

2 Easily Approaches to Make Animated Explainer Video 

Now comes the practical question: how do you actually create one? There are 2 primary paths readily available, so let’s explore the DIY route and the option of leveraging the freelance talent pool.

Approach 1: DIY Animated Explainer Video via Tools and Resources

The rise of user-friendly software and readily available online resources has democratized animation, putting the power to create compelling visuals directly into your hands. In fact, with the right tools and a bit of effort, you can often produce an animated explainer video for under $500. 

To help you get started, we’ve compiled a helpful table showcasing a range of DIY animation tools and free resource options, catering to various skill levels and project needs.

Tools/ Software

Tool	Description	Key Features	Best For
VideoScribe	A popular whiteboard animation tool used to create engaging explainer videos.	Easy drag-and-drop interface, pre-made templates, music library.	Beginners and professionals alike looking to create product explainer video animations.
Doodly	A user-friendly software designed for creating doodle-style videos.	Drag-and-drop, customizable characters, hand-drawn animations.	Those who need quick and simple animated product explainer videos.
Animaker	A versatile video-making platform that offers whiteboard animation templates.	Customizable characters, voice-over recording, and built-in stock footage.	Marketers and educators who want diverse video formats.
Vyond	A platform for creating animated videos, including whiteboard explainer style.	Advanced animation tools, pre-made assets, and export options.	Businesses require high-quality, professional videos.
Powtoon	A cloud-based tool that provides easy whiteboard animation templates.	Templates for various industries, voice-over options, music library.	Quick video creation for small businesses and content creators.

Free Resource

Resource	What It Offers
Freepik	Free stock images, vector graphics, and icons
Pexels	Free stock videos and high-quality images
Unsplash	High-quality free stock photos for backgrounds or references
Storyset	Animated and static illustrations with customization options
DrawKit	Free vector illustrations and icons for explainer videos

Approach 2: Finding Talent on Freelance Platforms 

Engaging a freelancer for your animated explainer video project can often start from a surprisingly affordable $200 and range up to around $1,500 depending on complexity and experience. To help you navigate this landscape, we’ve curated a table listing reputable freelance platforms where you can find and connect with talented animators ready to bring your product vision to life.

Platform	Description	Strengths	Considerations	Ideal For
Upwork	Large platform with a vast pool of freelancers offering various skills and rates.	Wide range of talent, robust payment protection, and escrow services, good for both experienced and beginner freelancers.	Rates can vary significantly, and require careful screening.	Projects of varying size and complexity; finding a freelancer within a specific budget.
Fiverr	Gig-based platform offering pre-defined packages, often at competitive prices.	Competitive pricing, good for smaller, well-defined tasks, quick turnaround times.	May need to purchase multiple gigs to complete a complex project, quality can be variable.	Smaller, well-defined whiteboard video tasks, such as specific animations or scene creation.
Dribbble	Design portfolio platform showcasing illustrators and animators.	Access to highly creative and visually appealing whiteboard styles, good for finding unique design talent.	Primarily a design-focused platform, may not offer the same project management tools as other freelance sites.	Projects requiring exceptional design and visual creativity; finding a distinctive whiteboard animation style.
Behance	Adobe-owned design portfolio platform.	Similar to Dribbble, a good place to discover talented designers and illustrators. Can find professionals familiar with Adobe Creative Suite.	Primarily a design-focused platform, may not offer the same project management tools as other freelance sites.	Projects requiring exceptional design and visual creativity; finding a freelancer skilled in Adobe Creative Suite.

Beyond DIY & Freelance: What’s Next? Is “Good Enough” Really Enough?

While DIY tools and freelance platforms offer accessible routes into animated explainer videos, let’s be honest – they often fall short of truly optimal. Yes, they can be cost-effective and convenient, but they can also come with limitations: inconsistent quality, project management headaches, and a lack of deep strategic input. 

So, if DIY and freelance are good starting points, but not always the best, what is the most effective way to ensure your animated product explainer video truly maximizes your ROI and achieves your marketing goals? The answer lies in collaborating with a professional animation agency. But why is this approach superior? Let’s break down the key advantages in detail.

Feature	Description	Advantages (Over Freelancers/DIY)
Expertise & Team	A dedicated team of scriptwriters, animators, and creatives.	Ensures a high-quality, cohesive animated product explainer video with professional management.
Process & Workflow	A streamlined production process from script to final animation.	Provides clear timelines, and regular updates, and minimizes project delays.
Quality Control	Comprehensive quality checks at every production stage.	Delivers consistent quality while maintaining brand guidelines throughout the video.
Equipment & Resources	Utilizes top-tier animation tools and software for production.	Produces high-resolution visuals, crisp audio, and professional-grade voiceovers.
Strategic Input	Offers expert guidance to align animation with marketing objectives.	Enhances viewer engagement, boosts conversions, and ensures a strong call to action.

Take Your Explainer Videos to the Next Level: Choose F.Learning Studio Company for Premium Animated Product Videos! 

2D Animation: Marketers’ Top Choice for Product Explainer Videos 

For product explainer videos, 2D animation is a top pick for savvy marketers due to its clarity and direct messaging. Here’s why:

Key Benefit	Description	Why It Works for Animated Product Explainer Videos
Simplifies Complex Products	Uses clear, symbolic visuals to break down complicated concepts.	Ideal for explaining software features or intricate processes without overwhelming viewers.
Delivers Messages Quickly	2D animation is faster to produce and consume than 3D or live-action videos.	Perfect for short attention spans, ensuring key messages are delivered before viewers click away.
Versatile Visual Storytelling	Offers adaptable styles, from playful characters to sleek infographics.	The animation style complements and enhances the product’s message without overshadowing it.
Affordable and Customizable	Provides budget-friendly solutions while allowing tailored designs to fit specific brand needs.	Balances cost-efficiency with creative flexibility, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.

A commercial project by F.Learning Studio – a significant example of the product’s benefit in the customer’s perception.

We Custom Animated Product Explainer Video Style to Fit Your Budget and Needs

At F.Learning Studio, we understand that “one size fits all” simply doesn’t work when it comes to animated product explainer videos. Your budget, your target audience, and the complexity of your product all play a role in determining the ideal animation style. 

That’s why we expert in crafting custom animation solutions, ensuring your video not only looks fantastic but also perfectly aligns with your specific goals and resources.:

• Whiteboard Animation: For clear, budget-friendly explanations.
• Motion Graphics: To dynamically visualize data and processes.
• Character Animation: For engaging storytelling and relatable product demos.
• Frame-by-Frame Animation: To achieve a unique, artistic, and memorable style.
• 2D & 3D Animation: For versatile visual solutions ranging from simple to highly detailed.

Case Study: XL Feet Finds the Perfect Fit with Character Animation 

Client: XL Feet – a retailer specializing in large-size shoes for men.

Client’s request: A promotional animated video to reach their target audience and drive sales.

Target Audience:

• Men with large feet (sizes 7-20, various widths)
• Working professionals, athletes, fathers, husbands, etc.
• Women (moms/wives) who purchase shoes for men with large feet.
• Channels: Social media (YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter), website.

F. Learning Studio Recommendation: Character Animation in a vector-based style. Reasoning for Character Animation Choice:

• Relatability: Creates memorable characters to connect with a diverse audience.
• Approachability: Makes the topic of large shoe sizes more comfortable and engaging.
• Personal Connection: Fosters a stronger connection with viewers on a personal level.

Strategic Approach: F.Learning Studio emphasized consultation and aligned the animation style directly with XL Feet’s:

• Specific target audience.
• Promotional goals.
• Ensuring the video would resonate, drive engagement, and ultimately be effective.

Results: The character-driven video successfully captured the attention of XL Feet’s target audience, generating strong engagement on social media and their website. The approachable and relatable characters helped to humanize the brand, leading to a positive audience reception and increased interest in XL Feet’s product offerings.

Expert Guidance & 24/7 Support for Animated Product Explainer Project

We believe in personalized support and ensuring your product explainer animation project is set up for success from day one. Benefit from our expert guidance and 24/7 support, which includes:

Feature	Description
Tailored Style Recommendations	Expert advice on selecting the ideal Animation Style based on your unique needs and objectives.
Seamless Service Integration Planning	Guidance on incorporating our Comprehensive Service Suite (Translation, Voice-Over, Music) for a fully realized video.
Dedicated Expert Guidance Throughout	Ongoing support and insights from our experienced team throughout the entire production process.
Round-the-Clock Assistance	24/7 support to ensure you get help whenever you need it most.

Affordable Animated Product Explainer Videos with A Structured Process for High-Quality Results

Investing in an animation product explainer video is a smart marketing move, and we make it an even smarter financial decision. We specialize in affordable solutions that are engineered to deliver maximum impact and a strong return on your investment. 

Feature	Description
Cost-Effective Production	Efficient workflows and optimized processes allow us to offer high-quality animation at competitive rates.
Strategic Value Engineering	We create videos that are not just visually appealing but strategically designed to achieve your specific business objectives.
Measurable Results Focus	We prioritize ROI, ensuring your videos are trackable and deliver measurable results.
Flexible Budget Options	Customizable options to accommodate different budget levels while maintaining high production standards.

Moreover, we ensure high-quality animated product explainer videos through a clear, structured process. We begin with in-depth consultations to understand your needs, followed by expert scriptwriting and storyboarding. Throughout production, we incorporate review stages to refine the video based on your feedback. 

Final Thoughts

Think back to why you looked up animated product explainer videos in the first place. You wanted to do more than just tell people about your product, right? You wanted them to care about it. We’ve talked about a lot in this article – different kinds of animation, how to spot a good video, and even ways to make one yourself. 

You now know that animation is powerful because it can make complicated things simple and interesting. You understand that a great video isn’t just pretty; it helps you get results. But all of that knowledge is just the starting point. What matters is making a video that touches people. 

At F.Learning Studio, we will help you tell your product story in a way that people will truly connect with. We listen to what you want to say, and then we use animation to make it come alive in a way that words alone can’t. CONTACT US NOW! We can make something big together!

• Email: [email protected]
• Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/f.learningstudio
• Website: https://flearningstudio.com/ 
• LinkedIn: ​https://www.linkedin.com/company/f-learning-studio/​

Don’t stop here – there’s so much more to discover!:

• Cost of An Explainer Video – A Price Guide for Any Budget in 2025
• Top 8 Different Types Of Explainer Videos To Match Your Corporate Needs
• 2D vs 3D Animation: Discovering 10 Key Differences