Explainer videos have quietly become one of the most powerful tools in the tech industry. Whether you’re a startup introducing a groundbreaking app, a SaaS platform trying to simplify your service, or a large tech corporation launching a complex AI solution, explainer videos help break down big ideas into simple, engaging visuals and storytelling. In this article, let’s explore why these videos matter, how they’re best used in the tech world, and what you need to keep in mind if you’re planning to create one.
Why Explainer Videos Matter in Tech
Explainer videos simplify what’s complex, and in tech, complexity is the norm. When you’re dealing with things like cloud infrastructure, data encryption, machine learning, or even a simple user onboarding process, words and text alone often fall short. That’s where explainer videos step in.
Here’s why they’re so effective in tech:
- Visual storytelling breaks barriers
Tech products often involve abstract concepts. A well-crafted explainer video brings these to life with motion graphics, simple animations, or real-life use cases. - They boost understanding
Instead of reading through long documents or white papers, your audience gets a clear idea in a minute or two. This leads to better retention and quicker decision-making. - Perfect for product demos
Showcasing features visually helps users understand your platform’s interface and capabilities in real time. - Helps with internal communication
It’s not just about marketing. Explainer videos are often used internally to train new hires or present concepts to stakeholders. - Increases engagement on digital platforms
Videos grab more attention than text-based content, especially on social media and landing pages. For tech companies, that’s a key way to generate leads and drive traffic. - Builds brand trust
High-quality videos make your brand look professional. It gives the impression that you know your product, your customer, and the problem you’re solving.
Best Types of Explainer Videos for Tech Companies
The tech industry has unique demands, and explainer videos come in different forms to meet those needs. Here are a few types that work especially well in tech:
Animated Explainer Videos
These are the most popular format in tech. Whether it’s 2D, 3D, or motion graphics, animation helps you explain ideas that don’t have a tangible or physical form.
Why animation works:
- Makes abstract topics feel more concrete
- Gives you full creative control over the message
- More cost-effective than live-action
- Easy to update if your product changes
Whiteboard Videos
These have a “teaching” feel, often using simple drawings and a hand sketching the visuals. They’re highly effective for education-based tech products or services that need a “step-by-step” breakdown.
Ideal for:
- Online learning platforms
- Tech startups trying to explain an unfamiliar concept
- Developers presenting technical walkthroughs
Live-Action Videos with Screencasts
Sometimes your product’s actual interface needs to be shown. A mix of live-action talking heads and screencasts (recordings of software or apps in action) works best in these cases.
Useful when:
- Launching SaaS platforms
- Showing UI/UX features
- Walking users through onboarding or dashboard use
How to Create an Effective Tech Explainer Video
Creating a tech explainer video isn’t just about having animations or fancy visuals. It’s about clarity, purpose, and connection with the viewer. Here’s how to make sure your video hits the mark.
Start with a clear script
Before any visuals are made, you need a clear script. It should outline the problem, introduce the product or service, explain how it solves the problem, and end with a call to action. Keep it short and conversational.
Know your audience
Are you speaking to developers? Business stakeholders? End-users? The tone, language, and visuals need to match your audience’s knowledge level and interests.
Focus on benefits, not features
Tech companies often fall into the trap of listing features. But viewers want to know why those features matter. Focus on how your product improves lives or solves specific problems.
Keep it short
Most effective explainer videos are under 2 minutes. Respect your audience’s time and keep your message tight.
Invest in quality
Even a short video reflects your brand. Poor audio, clunky visuals, or confusing narration can hurt your image. If you can, work with professionals who understand both animation and the tech world.
Don’t forget the CTA
Every explainer video should end with a next step—whether it’s signing up, booking a demo, or visiting your site.
Sample Table: Comparison of Explainer Video Formats
| Video Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
| Animated Explainers | SaaS, AI, Blockchain, Startups | Engaging, versatile, easy to update | Can feel generic if poorly designed |
| Whiteboard Videos | Education Tech, Developer Tools | Simple, clear, cost-effective | Less dynamic, not suited for branding |
| Live-Action + Screencast | SaaS platforms, Web tools | Real product demo, personal touch | Requires more resources and planning |
| Motion Graphics | Enterprise Tech, Cloud Infrastructure | Sleek, professional, abstract concepts | Higher production costs |
FAQs About Explainer Videos in Tech
What makes an explainer video successful in the tech space?
A successful explainer video simplifies the message, is visually appealing, and connects with its target audience. It should clearly explain what your tech product does, why it matters, and how it solves a problem.
How long should a tech explainer video be?
Ideally, under 2 minutes. But for highly technical topics, 3–4 minutes can work if you keep it engaging. Always lead with the most important information in the first 30 seconds.
Can I make an explainer video on my own?
Yes, there are tools like Powtoon, Vyond, and Biteable that let you create simple videos. But for high-stakes projects, hiring a professional team ensures better quality, storytelling, and impact.
Should I use voice-over or text only?
Voice-over is recommended because it adds a human touch and improves engagement. Combine it with on-screen text and visuals for clarity.
How much does a tech explainer video cost?
Costs vary based on complexity and quality. A simple animated video might cost a few hundred dollars if DIY, but professionally produced ones can range from $3,000 to $15,000 or more.
Do explainer videos improve conversion rates?
Yes, many companies report increased conversion rates on landing pages and email campaigns when using explainer videos. They help users make decisions faster and build trust.
What’s the best platform to host an explainer video?
YouTube and Vimeo are common choices for public-facing videos. For websites, hosting on your server or using services like Wistia allows for more control and analytics.
Conclusion: The Power of Simplicity in Tech
In the fast-moving world of technology, clear communication is more than just a skill—it’s a competitive advantage. Explainer videos help bridge the gap between complex tech solutions and the people who need them. They can turn confusion into clarity, hesitation into action, and viewers into customers.
Whether you’re a solo founder with a new app or a tech giant rolling out enterprise software, explainer videos offer a powerful way to make your message heard and remembered. If you can explain it simply, you’ve already won half the battle.
So don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted explainer video. In the tech industry, it might just be your best storyteller.