Let’s be honest—people don’t have the time (or the patience) to read through walls of text anymore. Whether you’re trying to market a product, explain a process, or educate an audience, you need to do it quickly, clearly, and engagingly. That’s where motion graphics explainer videos come in. They’re short, punchy, and visually engaging videos that simplify complex topics using animated graphics, text, and voiceovers.
In this article, we’re diving deep into what makes motion graphics explainer videos so powerful, how they compare to other types of explainer videos, where you can use them, and how to get started creating one—even if you’re not a designer or animator.
If you’ve ever watched a video that explained a product using sleek animations and smooth transitions while a narrator walked you through it, chances are you’ve already experienced the power of motion graphics. But there’s a lot more to this format than meets the eye.
So buckle up—we’re going all in on the world of motion graphics explainer videos.
What Are Motion Graphics Explainer Videos?
Motion graphics explainer videos are a style of explainer video that relies heavily on animation, graphics, and kinetic text rather than live footage or hand-drawn illustrations. These videos are designed to convey information in a visually appealing and easily digestible way.
They’re commonly used in industries like tech, finance, education, healthcare, and SaaS. Think of them as the bridge between traditional presentations and full-blown animations. They blend simplicity with visual flair, making even the driest topics feel dynamic and approachable.
Here’s a breakdown comparing motion graphics explainer videos to other types of explainer videos:
| Type of Explainer Video | Description | Best For | Pros | Cons |
| Motion Graphics | Uses animated graphics and kinetic text | Tech, finance, SaaS, education | Clean, modern look; good for abstract ideas | Can feel impersonal if not done right |
| Whiteboard Animation | Simulates drawing on a whiteboard | Education, training, onboarding | Simple and clear; good for step-by-step explanations | Limited creativity; may look outdated |
| Live Action | Uses real people and real settings | Testimonials, brand storytelling | Builds trust; human connection | Costly to produce; less flexible |
| 2D/3D Character Animation | Uses illustrated or modeled characters to tell a story | Product demos, storytelling, marketing | High engagement; emotionally driven | Time-consuming and expensive |
| Screencast | Shows screen recordings with voiceovers | App/software demos | Great for tutorials and walkthroughs | Not very visually engaging |
Motion graphics are ideal when you need a professional, polished, and straightforward visual to explain something complex—especially when you want to avoid filming or relying on characters.
Why You Should Use Motion Graphics Explainer Videos
There’s no denying that attention spans are shrinking. But motion graphics have a unique way of grabbing your attention and holding it long enough to deliver a message. Here are some compelling reasons why businesses, educators, and marketers love motion graphics explainer videos:
They Simplify Complex Ideas
Have a complicated product, process, or concept to explain? Motion graphics allow you to distill it down into easily understandable visuals. With animated charts, symbols, and transitions, you can walk viewers through even the most complex topic without losing them.
They Look Professional
The clean, modern aesthetic of motion graphics gives your brand a polished look. It’s the kind of video style that says, “We mean business.” Whether you’re pitching a SaaS product to investors or onboarding new clients, this kind of presentation boosts your credibility.
They’re Highly Versatile
Motion graphics can be used in product demos, training materials, explainer videos, investor pitches, email campaigns, social media, and more. You can tailor the tone to be fun, formal, or somewhere in between—whatever matches your brand.
They Work Without Sound
Many people watch videos on mute (especially on mobile), and motion graphics still deliver. With kinetic text and visual storytelling, your message doesn’t rely solely on a voiceover or music track.
They’re Cost-Effective Compared to Live Action
No actors, sets, or camera crews needed. Motion graphics are created entirely in post-production, which often makes them more budget-friendly—especially if you want to update them later.
They’re Great for Branding
From color schemes to typography, you can tailor every element to match your brand identity. It’s a seamless way to reinforce brand recognition while communicating value.
How to Create a Motion Graphics Explainer Video
Okay, so you’re sold on the idea. But how do you actually create one? Here’s a breakdown of the typical process:
Define the Goal
What’s the purpose of the video? Are you educating, selling, onboarding, or training? Having a clear objective helps you shape the narrative and visuals.
Write the Script
The script is the foundation. Keep it clear, concise, and conversational. Aim to hook the viewer in the first few seconds, deliver the key message, and end with a strong call to action.
A good rule of thumb: 150 words = ~1 minute of video.
Create a Storyboard
This is a visual outline of your script. It maps out what’s happening on screen, scene by scene. It doesn’t have to be Picasso-level drawing—stick figures and arrows work just fine at this stage.
Design the Assets
Here’s where the fun begins. Designers create the visual elements like icons, graphs, text animations, and background elements. This stage ensures everything aligns with your brand.
Animate the Graphics
This is the heart of the motion graphics video. Animators bring the static visuals to life using tools like After Effects or Blender. Expect to see transitions, zooms, pop-ups, and more.
Add Voiceover and Music
The voiceover guides the viewer through the visuals. You can record it yourself or hire a pro. Background music adds emotional tone—whether you want something upbeat, calm, or dramatic.
Edit and Finalize
Finally, everything is stitched together, synced, and polished. Make sure timing is smooth, text is legible, and your message is clear.
Common Use Cases for Motion Graphics Explainer Videos
Not sure if this format is right for you? Here are some real-world ways people use motion graphics:
- Startups launching a product
- Software companies explaining a new feature
- HR teams creating onboarding content
- Educational platforms teaching complex subjects
- Marketing teams running ad campaigns
- Nonprofits promoting awareness initiatives
- Financial institutions simplifying processes (like loans or investments)
Basically, if you have something to say and you want people to get it—motion graphics can help you say it better.
FAQs
What’s the ideal length for a motion graphics explainer video?
Generally, 60 to 90 seconds is the sweet spot. It’s long enough to convey a message but short enough to maintain attention. If you need to go longer, consider breaking your video into sections.
Do I need animation experience to create one?
Not necessarily. While professional motion graphics are often created with tools like Adobe After Effects, there are beginner-friendly platforms like Vyond, Animaker, and Powtoon that let you create decent videos with minimal experience.
How much does it cost to make a motion graphics video?
It varies. DIY platforms can cost as little as $50–$100/month. Hiring a freelancer might run $500–$3,000. A high-end studio can charge $5,000–$20,000 or more depending on complexity.
Can I use stock templates?
Yes, and they’re great for speeding up production. Websites like Envato Elements or Motion Array offer customizable After Effects templates. Just swap in your text, graphics, and branding.
What industries benefit most from motion graphics?
While almost every industry can use motion graphics, they’re especially popular in tech, finance, healthcare, education, marketing, and e-commerce.
Conclusion
Motion graphics explainer videos are more than just pretty animations—they’re powerful communication tools. Whether you’re breaking down a complex idea, introducing a new product, or just trying to keep your audience’s attention, these videos strike the perfect balance between informative and engaging.
They don’t require a Hollywood budget, and you don’t need to be an animator to get started. With the right script, visuals, and a clear message, you can create a motion graphics video that elevates your brand, explains your product, and leaves a lasting impression.
If your goal is to explain, educate, or engage—this format might just be your new best friend.