In today’s fast-moving digital world, motion graphics explainer videos have become a go-to tool for businesses, educators, and content creators. These short videos are a perfect blend of animation, voiceover, and storytelling designed to explain a concept, product, or service in a simple and engaging way. They’re especially effective when you want to break down complex ideas or introduce something new without overwhelming your audience.
Let’s explore what makes motion graphics explainer videos so popular, how they work, and why they’re such a smart investment for anyone looking to communicate more clearly and memorably.
Why Use Motion Graphics Explainer Videos?
Motion graphics explainer videos are powerful for a few key reasons. Whether you’re a startup trying to pitch a product or a teacher trying to make learning stick, motion graphics can deliver your message in a clean and compelling way.
- They simplify complex ideas
One of the biggest strengths of motion graphics is how they take hard-to-understand topics and turn them into something digestible. Through animated charts, characters, or simple visuals, viewers can grasp what might be a tough concept in a matter of seconds. - They’re engaging and hold attention
People have short attention spans, especially online. With colorful visuals, dynamic movement, and clear narration, explainer videos make it easier to keep someone’s focus. - They work well on multiple platforms
Whether you’re uploading to YouTube, embedding on a website, or sharing on social media, motion graphics explainer videos adapt well to all formats. Their versatility is a big plus. - They help with brand recognition
When done well, these videos don’t just explain—they reflect your brand’s voice and style. Custom colors, fonts, and tone can all be aligned with your identity.
Key Elements That Make a Great Explainer Video
Creating a motion graphics explainer video isn’t just about putting some animations together. The best ones follow a thoughtful structure and include a few important ingredients.
- A strong script
The script is the backbone. It needs to be clear, concise, and tailored to your audience. Good explainer videos usually follow a “problem-solution-benefit” format to hook the viewer and guide them to a solution. - Clear voiceover narration
A professional voiceover helps give the video a polished feel and ensures the message is delivered with the right tone. The voice should match the personality of the brand—friendly, authoritative, upbeat, etc. - Clean, purposeful visuals
The graphics should support the script—not distract from it. Every visual element should have a reason to be on screen, helping clarify what’s being said rather than just filling space. - Smooth animation
Good motion design is fluid and intentional. The transitions, timing, and visual cues all work together to make the video feel natural and easy to follow. - Background music and sound effects
Subtle music and well-placed sound effects can add polish and energy. They should enhance the mood without overpowering the message.
How Motion Graphics Explainer Videos Are Used Across Industries
You’ll find motion graphics explainer videos in nearly every field. Their flexibility makes them a favorite across the board.
- Startups and tech companies
Explainer videos are often used on homepages or landing pages to help potential customers understand how a new app, platform, or product works. - Healthcare and education
These industries use explainer videos to break down complicated procedures, theories, or systems into understandable chunks. For example, a hospital might use an explainer to describe a new patient intake process. - Finance and insurance
Abstract topics like investing, budgeting, or types of insurance coverage are easier to understand with simple animations and step-by-step visuals. - Human resources and onboarding
Companies use explainer videos to train new employees or communicate HR policies. It saves time and ensures consistency in the message. - Nonprofits and causes
To spark interest and spread awareness, nonprofits rely on explainer videos to show the problem and how their organization provides a solution—often ending with a call to donate or take action.
Common Types of Motion Graphics Explainer Videos
| Type | Purpose | Common Use Case |
| Product Explainer | Show how a product works | Website homepage, sales presentation |
| Service Overview | Break down how a service benefits customers | Agency or consulting firms |
| Educational/Training | Teach a process or concept | Schools, online courses, corporate HR |
| Awareness or Campaign | Raise awareness about an issue or cause | Nonprofits, public service messages |
| App or Software Demos | Demonstrate features or interface of an app | SaaS companies, mobile developers |
FAQs About Motion Graphics Explainer Videos
What’s the ideal length for an explainer video?
Most motion graphics explainer videos are between 60 and 90 seconds long. That’s usually enough time to deliver a focused message without losing the viewer’s attention.
How long does it take to create one?
Depending on complexity, it can take anywhere from two to six weeks. This includes scripting, storyboarding, animation, voiceover, and final editing.
Do you need a professional to make one?
It’s recommended. While DIY tools exist, a professionally made explainer video tends to look cleaner and delivers a higher return on investment. Agencies or freelancers who specialize in motion graphics bring scriptwriting, design, and animation expertise to the table.
What software is used to create them?
Professionals commonly use tools like Adobe After Effects, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro. Some may also use motion design platforms like Vyond or Moovly for quicker productions.
Are they expensive to produce?
Costs vary widely. A basic explainer might cost a few hundred dollars, while a fully custom one with advanced animation could run into several thousand. The price reflects script quality, animation complexity, and voiceover talent.
Can they help with SEO or conversions?
Absolutely. Videos can boost time spent on a webpage, reduce bounce rates, and improve search engine rankings. They also help increase conversion rates by making it easier for users to understand and trust your offering.
Conclusion
Motion graphics explainer videos are a powerful, versatile tool for communication. They take the guesswork out of understanding your message and make it easier for your audience to take action. Whether you’re launching a product, simplifying a service, or trying to teach something new, a well-made explainer video can do the heavy lifting in just a minute or two.
With the right script, visuals, and sound, you can turn even the most complex topic into something anyone can understand—and enjoy watching. In a noisy digital world, that’s a big advantage. If you’re looking to connect with your audience in a clear, creative way, motion graphics explainer videos are definitely worth considering.