How Much Does A B2B Explainer Video Cost

How Much Does A B2B Explainer Video Cost?

Written by Rishabh
Written by Rishabh

Rishabh leads the content strategy at Content Beta, an on-demand creative video and design team for Tech & SaaS companies.

If you’re in the B2B Marketing, Software, or Tech sectors, you have probably considered using explainer videos to simplify complex concepts. But the questions that often arise are,

  • What factors influence the cost?
  • How does the length of the video affect the overall cost?
  • How much should you actually allocate from your recommended marketing spend for a high-quality explainer video?

In this blog, we’ll break down the various elements that contribute to explainer video cost. From production quality to duration, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

Table of Contents

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What is an explainer video?

An explainer video is a short, engaging video that clearly explains a product, service, or concept. It uses a combination of visuals, animations, narration, or music to engage the audience.

Explainer videos are ToFu content that are used to capture attention and educate potential customers. These videos are frequently used on a landing page, the main page of your website, or a prominent product page.

They serve as an effective lead magnet, drawing visitors into the funnel. It can positively influence your Average Funnel Conversion Rates and increase the likelihood of converting a visitor into a Marketing Qualified Lead (MQL).

The main elements of an Explainer Video are

Explainer videos combine engaging visuals with a clear narrative to simplify complex ideas, making them visually captivating and easy to understand. They comprise of the following main elements:

1. Script

Your video’s script is pivotal. It determines how effectively your message is conveyed. A reputable agency will have experienced script writers who take the time to understand your service. They will then craft an engaging and informative explainer video script.

A well-crafted script goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about effectively telling your brand’s story and explaining your service’s features. The best SaaS explainer videos are tailored to your brand, and designed to convey your identity.

Additionally, referring to explainer video script templates while creating explainer videos is greatly beneficial.

2. Design

Design breathes life into your video. It involves creating animations, including scenes and characters, based on the script. Design elements encompass color palettes, character designs, and overall style.

The decisions regarding design should align with your video’s strategy and ensure it achieves the desired results. Design is crucial and often plays an important role in establishing and reinforcing your brand’s identity.

3. Style

Experienced creators transform storyboards and character designs into motion. This step demands time and skill to achieve perfection.

It’s not just about moving characters or objects on the screen; it’s about conveying emotions, emphasizing key points, and creating a compelling narrative that resonates with your Ideal Customer Profile (ICP).

We know how to sell your story using your product UI

How much does an explainer video cost?

Explainer video cost varies depending on several critical factors.

1. Live-action explainer video cost

Live-action explainer video cost can vary significantly based on factors such as video length, location, equipment, and talent.

On average, a simple live-action video might start at around $1,500 and go up from there. However, for high-quality production and professional actors, costs can exceed $10,000.

2. Animated explainer video cost

Animated explainer videos offer flexibility in style and complexity, which affects the cost. Basic 2D animations can start at $1,000 per minute, while more complex 3D animations or custom illustrations can range from $5,000 to $20,000 per minute.

The choice of animation style and level of detail plays a significant role in determining the final explainer video cost.

Factors That Drive Explainer Video Costs

Explainer video pricing depends on numerous factors, some of which are:

1. Video Length

The duration of an explainer video is a primary cost driver. Explainer video cost per minute is a common pricing model in the industry.

Longer videos require more time for scripting, animation, and editing, which translates to higher production costs. This means that a 2-minute video will generally cost more than a 1-minute video.

2. Turnaround Time

Explainer videos vary in production time, typically taking between 1 week to 12 weeks. This timeline depends on factors like the agency’s workload, video complexity, and your deadlines. If you’re in a hurry, some agencies offer a “quick turnaround fee” for faster delivery.

3. Animation Complexity

The level of complexity in the animation style chosen directly impacts costs. Complex animations demand more time and skilled animators.

Highly intricate 3D animations or custom illustrations are more expensive than simpler 2D animations.

4. Voiceover and Talent

Explainer videos cost more if you require professional voiceover artists or on-screen talent. The expertise and reputation of the talent play a role in determining the explainer video cost. Well-known actors, for instance, command higher fees.

5. Script and Storyboarding

A well-crafted script is crucial for clear communication. Hence, crafting a compelling script and detailed storyboard is essential for a successful explainer video.

Professional script writers and storyboard artists often charge higher fees that contribute to the overall cost.

6. Editing and Post-Production

Post-production is vital for creating a polished, professional look and feel for the video. The quality of editing, sound design, and post-production work significantly influences the final cost of an explainer video.

Explainer videos cost more if skilled editors and post-production specialists are required.

We know how to sell your story using your product UI

Motion Graphics Video Cost Per Minute

The costs of explainer videos, particularly motion graphics videos, vary per minute due to several influencing factors. Some of the factors are graphics complexity, animation style, and production company pricing.

On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 or more per minute for motion graphics videos. For simpler and shorter motion graphics videos, the cost per minute may be on the lower end of this range.

However, if your project requires intricate animations, custom graphics, or a high level of detail, the cost per minute can increase significantly. Additionally, the reputation and experience of the production agency you choose can also influence explainer video prices.

How Style Affect Production Cost and Why

The chosen style in explainer video production significantly affects production costs for several reasons –

  • Animation complexity varies between styles. For instance, 3D animations and custom illustrations are more intricate and time-consuming than simpler 2D animations.
  • Certain styles may extend production timelines, resulting in higher labor expenses.
  • Talent requirements differ based on animation styles. Styles like 3D animation or custom illustrations often demand specialized skills, leading to higher fees for experienced professionals.
  • Certain styles may require specialized software and equipment, like powerful computers and 3D animation software licenses, which adds to the overall cost.

We get asked sometimes whether a voice-over is even worth it. The answer is that this is more a creative decision and not a cost decision. A voice-over can help you set up and carry the viewer across the whole storyline while explaining your product to them along the way.

Not just that, It needs to be recorded by a professional voice actor in a closed and soundproof vocal booth to avoid room ambience. A high-end audio recording device is used to ensure the crispness of the voice being recorded. Hence, using stock audio as much as possible could drive down the costs by quite a bit.

1. 2D Animation Price

2D animation, with a typical price range of $2,000 to $5,000, offers an effective means of storytelling by connecting narratives to relatable situations.

It enables the establishment of a cohesive tone for the video through engaging visuals while staying within budget constraints. However, it’s worth noting that 2D animation often involves larger teams and intricate artwork. This can extend the production timeline significantly.

This style provides a cost-efficient way to convey a message creatively and is well-suited for projects that require detailed visual storytelling.

2. 3D Animation Price

3D animations are typically priced between $5,000 and $10,000. Crafting 3D animations involves designing each character and element. It is a process that can span over two months or more.

Furthermore, once these intricate designs are established, making significant changes can be challenging. This style excels in delivering visually captivating content but demands careful planning.

Note: We’ve curated a list of the ‘Top 10 Animated Explainer Video Agencies‘ to help you connect with experts who can turn your ideas into compelling visuals.

3. Whiteboard Video

Whiteboard animation videos typically range in cost from $1,000 to $5,000. These videos are characterized by their simplicity and use of a white background, resembling the look of hand-drawn sketches.

However, pricing can still vary based on several factors. Despite their cost-effectiveness, whiteboard videos effectively convey information in an engaging and easy-to-understand manner.

We know how to sell your story using your product UI

Why Choose Content Beta?

Crafting effective custom explainer videos requires a deep understanding of your audience and a clear message. With our expertise in B2B Tech and SaaS industries, we ensure that every frame serves a purpose.

Our innovative approach and commitment guarantee that your explainer video will:

  1. Resonate with your target audience
  2. Convey your brand’s value

Additionally, transparent pricing is at the core of our services. We offer straightforward, fixed-rate pricing. Our user-friendly project management dashboard keeps our clients in the loop while providing real-time updates on the project’s progress.

Partner with us to create explainer videos that not only inform but also inspire action in your audience. Click here to learn more.

Schedule a call now!

Conclusion

In conclusion, explainer video costs are calculated after a thorough assessment of factors including:

  1. Complexity
  2. Length
  3. Style
  4. Choice of explainer video production agency

When considering the cost of an explainer video, it’s vital to keep these factors in mind as there’s no standardized solution. It’s essential to strike a balance between cost-effectiveness and quality to ensure that the custom explainer videos are engaging and effective.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

On average, a simple explainer video cost can start at around $1,000 and go up from there.
The cost of an animated explainer video can vary widely depending on factors like complexity, quality, and the production company.

The explainer video price for a 30-second animated explainer video typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000. The explainer video cost is determined by various factors such as animation quality, complexity, and the specific production company you choose.

The explainer video cost for a 60-second video typically ranges between $2,500 and $10,000, or more. It depends on the level of detail and animation quality.

When considering the explainer video cost, it’s worth noting that a 90-second video typically falls within the range of $3,500 to $15,000 (or more).

The final cost of an explainer video depends on factors such as project complexity and your choice of production company.

To make low cost explainer videos, options start from approximately $500 to $1,000.
However, it’s crucial to exercise caution regarding quality and professionalism in this explainer video cost range.

Striking a balance between the cost of the explainer video and its effectiveness for your specific needs is essential.

Creative Team on-demand = Marketing done right.

Need a mixed team of video, design, and creative experts to scale up your marketing?

Creative Team on-demand = Marketing done right.

Need a mixed team of video, design, and creative experts to scale up your marketing?

Content Beta