Youtube Explainer Videos
The Power of Youtube Explainer Videos
In a world increasingly defined by fast-paced content and fierce competition for attention, video has become the undisputed king. Social media channels and video platforms—most notably YouTube—now dictate how we consume information, learn about brands, and make purchasing decisions.
For businesses, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity. It’s no longer optional to maintain a presence on these platforms—without social media, you don’t exist. And YouTube? It’s the go-to platform for anyone looking to explain, educate, or entertain. That’s where YouTube explainer videos come into play.
These concise, often animated videos are powerful tools that help businesses showcase their offerings, demonstrate value, and drive action—all in an engaging, digestible format. Unlike traditional ads, explainer videos build organic visibility, enhance SEO, and foster authentic connections with your audience.
And here’s the kicker: you don’t need a million-dollar ad budget to make it work. With the right strategy, some creativity, and the right tools (which we’ll explore below), you can promote your business, explain your service, and generate conversions—often more effectively than paid ads.
Let’s dive in.
What Are YouTube Explainer Videos?
A YouTube explainer video is a short, engaging video—typically between 60 to 120 seconds—designed to introduce a product, service, concept, or company in a way that’s easy to understand and compelling to watch.
These videos usually include:
A problem-solution structure (highlighting an issue and how your offering solves it),
Simple visuals, often animated or motion graphics,
Narration or text overlays that walk the viewer through the idea.
They’re a favorite for startups, SaaS companies, educators, consultants, and e-commerce brands because they’re incredibly versatile. Whether placed on a website’s homepage, shared via email, or published to YouTube for SEO reach, they act as a conversion accelerator.
From my experience, explainer videos have become crucial in today’s market. YouTube is a fun and very creative way to show what you offer, and it’s free. You don’t need to spend thousands on advertising—you can just create content and let it work for you indefinitely.
Why Your Business Needs Explainer Videos
Let’s talk ROI. What makes explainer videos so effective, and why are so many businesses—especially small ones—leaning into this format?
1. Increased Engagement
People are 80% more likely to watch a full video than read a full article. Videos are more memorable, more shareable, and they perform exceptionally well across all platforms—especially YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
2. Clear Communication
Complex ideas? No problem. A well-crafted explainer video simplifies your message and helps people understand quickly what you offer.
3. Trust and Credibility
Professional animation or even a polished DIY video shows you’ve invested in your brand. This helps build trust—which is essential in the digital space.
4. Improved Conversion Rates
According to multiple case studies, explainer videos on landing pages can increase conversion rates by up to 80%. From my own work, I’ve found that explainer videos reach my buyer persona directly—they don’t just grab attention—they show my value in a way that feels personal, creative, and trustworthy.
Types of Explainer Videos: Finding the Right Fit
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Depending on your brand and budget, different styles of explainer videos might work better for you.
1. Animated Explainer Videos
Probably the most popular format. Think of motion graphics, characters, or whiteboard animations. They’re flexible, visually appealing, and often cost-effective.
2. Live-Action Explainer Videos
Great for brands with a personal touch—especially if you’re the face of your business. These videos build emotional connection and authenticity.
3. Screencast Videos
Ideal for SaaS and digital tools. Show your product in action with a screen recording and voiceover to explain functionality.
4. Text + Voiceover
A minimal, fast approach for solo entrepreneurs or those testing content ideas. Text on screen, paired with royalty-free music or a simple narration.
Creating Effective Explainer Videos on a Budget
✍️ Start with a Script
A great explainer video begins with a tight script—ideally under 200 words. Focus on:
- The problem
- Your solution
- How it works
- A call to action
💡 Use Affordable Tools
Here are some budget-friendly platforms you can explore:
- InVideo – Great for AI-assisted video creation
- Animaker – Perfect for beginners creating animated content
- Canva Pro – Surprisingly useful for quick text-based videos
I personally believe that hiring animation companies is more cost-effective than learning to use animation software yourself. . Not only do you save on expenses, but you also avoid the steep and often exhausting learning curve of navigating complex tools.
Leveraging AI Tools for Video Creation
Welcome to the future. AI-powered tools are revolutionizing the explainer video game.
AI Script Writers
Tools like ChatGPT or Jasper can generate video scripts tailored to your brand tone and audience.
AI Voiceovers
Platforms like Lovo, WellSaid, or Murf offer lifelike voiceovers—no mic needed.
AI Video Makers
Apps like Pictory, Synthesia, and Runway ML allow you to generate full videos from text or templates. This is perfect for solopreneurs or small teams with no editing experience.
I’ve used these tools to cut production time in half and scale content output without increasing costs. It’s one of the best ways to stay ahead of the curve in content marketing.
Optimizing Videos for SEO and Maximum Reach
A beautiful video means nothing if no one sees it. That’s where Video SEO comes in.
Keyword Research
Use tools like TubeBuddy or VidIQ to find searchable terms. Target your main keyword (“YouTube explainer videos”) and include secondary terms in your title, description, and tags.
Engaging Thumbnails
Design bright, clear thumbnails that stand out in search results. Canva has templates that make this easy.
Descriptions & CTAs
Write 200–300 word descriptions. Add timestamps, relevant hashtags, and calls to action (like links to your website).
Thanks to Video SEO, I’ve created evergreen explainer videos that still pull in traffic months after posting. The reach is amazing, and best of all—it’s free.
Integrating Explainer Videos into Your Marketing Strategy
Explainer videos are not a “one-and-done” asset. They should be repurposed and embedded across all marketing touchpoints.
🌐 Website
Feature on your homepage or landing pages.
✉️ Emails
Embed in onboarding, sales, or promotional emails.
📱 Social Media
Cut into short reels or stories.
🎯 Ads
Retarget warm audiences using snippets.
🔄 Repurpose
Convert explainer videos into blog posts, infographics, and podcasts, creating a full content ecosystem from one asset.
You can even convert explainer videos into blog posts, infographics, and podcasts, creating a full content ecosystem from one asset.
It’s about being smart with content. With YouTube and social media, you have unlimited reach without spending a cent—as long as you're creative and strategic.
Embracing Video for Business Growth
If you’re not using YouTube explainer videos, you’re missing out on one of the most effective marketing tools available today.
They’re affordable, scalable, creative, and powerful. You don’t need a big budget—you need clarity, consistency, and creativity.
Remember: social media is free real estate. And explainer videos are the key to unlocking it.
From my own journey, I’ve found that focusing on short, high-impact explainer videos allows me to reach my ideal audience, explain my value clearly, and convert—all without spending thousands on ads or burning out trying to master complex marketing funnels.
Start with one. Keep it simple. Keep it real.
And let your video do the explaining.
🗂️ A great video starts with a solid plan.
Discover how our explainer video storyboard process helps bring clarity, creativity, and structure to every frame — making your message more effective.
🧠 Turn Ideas Into Illustrations
Want to explain your product or concept in a way that feels natural and human? Our whiteboard animation studio turns complex messages into compelling, easy-to-follow stories with a hand-drawn touch.
Visit Whiteboard Animation Studio