Capturing your audience's attention is now very challenging. Whether you are marketing a product or service, the way you introduce it can make a lasting impression. Explainer videos are a compelling way to showcase your company while keeping viewers engaged.

In this blog, we will discuss the different types of explainer videos, how to make your own, and the trends we are noticing in the industry.

What Are Explainer Videos?

Explainer videos are short, focused videos that simplify complex concepts and present them with interesting visuals. They are designed to educate potential customers about a product, service, or concept, often using animation or live-action elements to keep the audience engaged. Explainer videos can also be used across industries, such as advertising, B2B, E-learning, cybersecurity, and more.

Types of Explainer Videos

Animated Explainer Videos

Some of the best explainer videos are animated with elements like dynamic visuals, motion graphics, and often on-screen text to explain a concept. They are particularly effective for abstract ideas or products that are difficult to showcase in real life.

Here's an animated explainer video that Creative Frontiers made for Grant Assistant:

Live Action Explainer Videos

These videos feature real people. Live action explainer videos often highlight a company’s team, facilities, or a relatable scenario. The great thing about this type of videos is that they can establish a personal connection with viewers.

Check out this live-action explainer video for ISN:

Screencast Videos

This type of explainer videos consist of utilize screen recordings to demonstrate a software or online tools. Adding music, sound effects, and on-screen text can make screencat explainer videos more engaging.

Whiteboard Explainer Videos

For a more educational approach, whiteboard explainer videos are highly effective. These showcase hand-drawn visuals that appear on a whiteboard as the narration unfolds. The whiteboard style is ideal for step-by-step explanations or in-depth concepts.

How much does a 1-minute explainer video cost?

When it comes to cost assessment, there are several factors that count. Generally, the cost of most explainer videos is between $500 and $20,000+ per hour based on company records, expertise, style level of customization, and so on. You can contact Creative Frontiers for a cost breakdown of a 1-minute explainer video.

How to Create an Explainer Video

Ready to make your own explainer video? Here's a simple guide to making an explainer video:

Start with a script

What are you trying to convey in the video? Why do you need the video? What is the message you want to share with your audience? When making your own videos, start with a clear script that addresses your target audience’s pain points and highlights your product’s features or benefits. A compelling story ensures your audience stays engaged.

You can either make a simple explainer video or enhance emotions with characters who bring your message to life.

Pick the style you prefer

Decide whether to use animation, live-action, or a combination. This decision depends on the type of product or services offered by your business or organization. Use an explainer video template or work with a professional explainer video maker to streamline the process.

Music! (+ sound effects & voiceover)

As much as we are now drawn to visuals, audio is what catches the viewer's attention. You need to decide what type of audio complements your message. You can add voiceover, music, and sound effects to the video.

On-screen text

A simple way to make your explainer video effective is to incorporate on-screen text. The text gives quick ques to the users about where to focus or what to expect from the product at different stages. This makes your videos more accessible, making it easier for the audience to follow along.

Edit, edit, edit

Once you are finished with the whole process, it is time to edit it. You can use a video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, iMovie, or Final Cut Pro to refine your footage. This is an important step in video production where you ensure that it is visually interesting, concise, and aligned with your brand.

Upload

Once the video is ready, upload it to platforms like YouTube, your website, or social media. It is time to showcase your work to the world. You might also want to start tracking its performance based on metrics like user engagement and ROI.

Why Explainer Videos Matter

Explainer videos don’t just explain. They drive action.

85% of people are more inclined to buy a product if they see an explainer video about it. This is because compelling storytelling and visuals are more likely to capture the essence of your message than scattered content.

Moreover, explainer videos are ideal for landing pages, sales enablement, and brand awareness campaigns. Their ability to simplify concepts and engage viewers makes them a cornerstone of any marketing strategy.

In addition, explainer videos are an invaluable medium for YouTubers and social media creators where users can simplify complex ideas, promote products, or share stories. Their visuals, animations, and concise narration capture viewers' attention quickly, making them ideal for platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

Explainer videos can help creators build stronger connections with their audience by breaking down topics in an accessible, entertaining, and visually appealing manner.

What Is The Future Of Explainer Videos

Sora AI has launched in the market, making it possible to create an animated video within seconds. There is a lot of anticipation around what to expect, considering that making videos has become easier than ever.

We think the following explainer video trends will dominate the industry in 2025:

AI For Content Generation

Artificial intelligence is set to change explainer videos by streamlining content creation. With AI tools, generating scripts, editing videos, and even optimal formats for specific audiences is easier. Overall, it can reduce production time and cost. Moreover, this advancement allows for more personalized video production.

Short-Form Videos

With attention spans decreasing, short-form videos are becoming increasingly popular and tend to generate two times the engagement. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts have popularized this format, leading to higher engagement rates. Explainer videos in this format can effectively convey messages in a concise and engaging manner. Besides serving as sales videos, short videos can also be used to educate and train the audience.

Interactive And Shoppable Videos

Interactive videos give your viewers a choice to make or influence the choices or influence the narrative. These videos transform passive watching into active participation. In other words, it is a compelling and efficient way to boost engagement and retention. For instance, product demos where viewers can click on items to learn more or real estate walkthroughs where users navigate through a property virtually.

Augmented Reality (AR) Integration

Augmented reality is anticipated to be more prominent in video marketing, offering interactive and immersive experiences. Brands are already experimenting with AR features that allow users to "try on" products, visualize furniture in their homes, or explore virtual environments. In 2025, AR will likely expand beyond apps into mainstream video content.

Authentic Content

People are increasingly seeking authenticity and social responsibility from brands. Explainer videos that reflect a brand's values and mission, focusing on social impact, sustainability, and community-based initiatives, will resonate more with consumers.

Use explainer videos to your advantage

The time is ripe for you to start using explainer videos to optimize your platform and accelerate business growth. Whether you want to promote your company's product, create an online learning course, or find a professional direction for your social media, contact Creative Frontiers to watch your business soar to new heights.

Read More: Corporate Training Videos - Types, Benefits, and 25 Examples