Explainer videos have become essential tools for businesses looking to communicate their message clearly and engage their audience. Whether you’re launching a new product, explaining a complex service, or building brand awareness, the right video can make all the difference. But with countless options available, how do you select the best explainer video maker for your specific needs?
This guide walks you through the key factors to consider when choosing an explainer video production partner or tool that aligns with your business goals.
Understanding Your Business Needs First
Before you start evaluating different video makers, take time to define what you actually need. Ask yourself these questions: What message are you trying to convey? Who is your target audience? Where will you share these videos?
Different businesses require different video styles. A tech startup might need animated software demos, while a healthcare provider might prefer live-action patient testimonials. Your industry, audience demographics, and platform preferences all influence which explainer video maker will serve you best.
Budget also plays a role here. Some businesses need high-end production with custom animations, while others can work with template-based solutions. Being clear about your requirements upfront saves time and prevents costly mistakes later.
Types of Explainer Video Makers Available
The market offers several categories of video creation options, each with distinct advantages.
DIY Software Platforms
These tools let you create videos yourself using templates, stock footage, and drag-and-drop interfaces. They work well for simple projects and tight budgets. You maintain full control over timing and revisions, though the learning curve can be steep for complex animations.
Professional Video Production Studios
Full-service studios like Frame Makerzzz handle everything from scriptwriting to final delivery. They bring expertise in storytelling, animation, and brand alignment. While more expensive than DIY tools, professional studios deliver polished results that reflect well on your brand.
Freelance Video Creators
Individual freelancers offer a middle ground between DIY and studios. You get personalized attention at moderate costs, though quality varies widely based on the creator’s experience and portfolio.
AI-Powered Video Generators
Newer platforms use artificial intelligence to automate video creation. They can produce basic explainer videos quickly, but often lack the nuanced storytelling and brand customization that human creators provide.
Key Features to Evaluate
When comparing explainer video makers, certain features distinguish good options from great ones.
Animation and Visual Quality
Look at sample videos from potential providers. Do the animations flow smoothly? Are the visuals crisp and professional? Poor quality videos can damage your credibility rather than enhance it.
Animation styles range from whiteboard drawings to 3D motion graphics. Choose a maker who can deliver the aesthetic that matches your brand personality. Frame Makerzzz, for example, offers various animation styles tailored to different industries and messaging needs.
Customization Capabilities
Generic templates might save time, but they won’t help your business stand out. The best explainer video makers allow extensive customization of colors, characters, scenes, and messaging to reflect your unique brand identity.
Check whether the maker can incorporate your logo, brand colors, and specific visual elements. Can they adjust the tone and pace to match your audience? Flexibility in customization often separates adequate videos from memorable ones.
Scriptwriting and Storytelling Expertise
Great explainer videos start with compelling scripts. Does your chosen video maker offer scriptwriting services? Do they understand how to distill complex ideas into clear, engaging narratives?
Review examples of their storytelling approach. Effective scripts hook viewers in the first few seconds, clearly explain the problem and solution, and end with a strong call to action. If you’re not a natural writer, partnering with a maker who provides script development can be worthwhile.
Revision and Feedback Process
Changes are inevitable during video production. Before committing, understand the revision policy. How many rounds of edits are included? How quickly can they implement changes? What happens if you need major revisions?
Clear communication channels and structured feedback loops prevent frustration later. Studios that offer collaborative platforms for reviewing drafts and leaving timestamped comments tend to deliver better final products.
Turnaround Time
Production timelines vary significantly. DIY tools might let you finish a basic video in hours, while custom animation projects can take weeks. Balance your urgency against quality expectations.
Rush jobs often compromise quality. If you have a specific launch date, start the process early. Ask potential video makers about their typical timelines and whether they can accommodate your schedule.
Pricing and Value
Cost structures differ across video makers. DIY platforms typically charge monthly subscriptions. Freelancers might quote per project or hourly. Professional studios often price based on video length and complexity.
Don’t simply choose the cheapest option. Consider the return on investment. A higher-quality video that converts viewers into customers delivers better value than a cheap video that gets ignored. Request detailed quotes that break down what’s included at each price point.
Technical Considerations That Matter
File Formats and Resolution
Ensure your video maker delivers files in formats compatible with your distribution channels. You’ll likely need multiple versions: high-resolution files for your website, optimized versions for social media, and perhaps different aspect ratios for various platforms.
Videos should be available in at least 1080p HD resolution. If you plan to display videos on large screens or projection systems, confirm that 4K options are available.
Voiceover Quality
Audio quality significantly impacts viewer engagement. Professional voiceover artists sound clear, confident, and natural. Some video makers include voiceover services, while others expect you to provide audio separately.
If using voiceovers, ask about accent options, language availability, and whether you can approve voice samples before recording. Background music should complement rather than overpower the narration.
Mobile Optimization
Over half of video views happen on mobile devices. Your explainer videos need to work perfectly on smartphones and tablets. Text should remain readable on small screens, and important visual elements shouldn’t get cut off.
Test videos on multiple devices before final approval. Frame Makerzzz ensures all explainer videos are optimized for mobile viewing, recognizing that audience accessibility across devices is critical for modern businesses.
Evaluating Experience and Portfolio
Past work reveals what you can expect. Request portfolios or case studies from potential video makers. Look for projects similar to yours in industry, style, or complexity.
Client testimonials provide insight into the working relationship. Did previous clients feel heard? Were deadlines met? Did the final product achieve its goals? Don’t hesitate to ask for references you can contact directly.
Industry experience matters, especially in specialized fields. A video maker who understands your sector’s terminology, audience, and competitive landscape will create more relevant content with less hand-holding from you.
Testing Customer Support and Communication
The production process involves numerous decisions and potential questions. Responsive, helpful customer support makes everything smoother.
During initial conversations, note how quickly they respond and how clearly they explain their process. Do they ask thoughtful questions about your goals? Do they offer suggestions based on their expertise?
Studios and platforms with dedicated account managers or support teams typically provide better experiences than those where you’re just another ticket in a queue.
Making Your Final Decision
After evaluating options against these criteria, narrow your choices to two or three finalists. Request proposals or trial projects if possible. Some platforms offer free trials of their DIY tools. Some studios provide discounted first-project rates.
Compare the proposals not just on price, but on how well each maker understands your vision and can execute it. Trust your instincts about which provider communicates most effectively with your team.
Remember that choosing an explainer video maker often leads to an ongoing relationship. If your first video succeeds, you’ll likely create more. Select a partner who can grow with your business and adapt to evolving needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of creating a professional explainer video?
Professional explainer videos typically range from $1,500 to $10,000, depending on length, animation complexity, and revisions included. Simple 60-second animated videos start around $2,000, while elaborate 3D animations or live-action productions can exceed $15,000. DIY tools cost $20 to $100 monthly but require your time investment.
How long should an explainer video be for maximum effectiveness?
Most effective explainer videos run between 60 and 90 seconds. This length maintains viewer attention while delivering your core message. Videos under 60 seconds work well for social media, while 2-minute videos suit websites or presentations requiring more detail. Attention spans drop significantly beyond two minutes.
Can I use the same explainer video across all marketing channels?
You can repurpose one core video, but optimize versions for each platform. Social media needs square or vertical formats, auto-play without sound, and captions. Websites accommodate horizontal formats with audio. Creating platform-specific edits from one master video maximizes your investment while respecting each channel’s best practices.
What’s the difference between 2D and 3D animation for explainer videos?
2D animation uses flat, illustrated graphics and costs less while delivering faster turnaround times. It works well for most business explainer needs. 3D animation adds depth and realism, creating more immersive visuals but requiring longer production time and higher budgets. Choose 3D when showcasing physical products or needing photorealistic representations.
How do I measure if my explainer video is successful?
Track metrics aligned with your goals: view count, watch-through rate (percentage who watch to the end), click-through rate on calls-to-action, conversion rate, and social shares. Videos with 50% or higher completion rates generally perform well. Use analytics tools to monitor where viewers drop off and refine future videos accordingly.
