The short answer
What makes a good SaaS explainer video?
A good SaaS explainer video shows the problem your software solves, what changes for the user, and why your product is different, without walking through every feature.
It gives sales and marketing one clear story to use on the homepage, in demos and in outbound email.
Since 2009, Epipheo has made more than 6,000 videos for over 3,000 brands, including Microsoft, Cisco, Splunk and Okta.
A 2D or motion graphics SaaS explainer from Epipheo typically costs $10,000–$45,000 and takes five to six weeks.
Last reviewed
SaaS explainer videos: what to know before you start
What these videos usually need to explain
- Why your product beats the tool, spreadsheet or paper process the buyer already has
- What a day looks like before and after your software
- How it fits with the systems they already run, like their CRM or ERP
- The security and data questions buyers will raise
Which video style fits
| Style | Typical range | Timeline | Good fit for SaaS when… |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motion graphics | $10K–$35K | 5–6 weeks | You want to show the product itself: key screens, workflows and data |
| 2D animation | $15K–$45K | 5–6 weeks | You need to sell the “why” with characters and a relatable story |
| Hybrid (live action + motion graphics) | $35K–$150K | 6–12 weeks | It is a flagship launch that mixes real people with product visuals |
Ranges are typical Epipheo project costs; your quote depends on length, style and complexity. See the full pricing guide.
How an Epipheo project works
- Discovery & content strategy. A kickoff call to learn who you are, what you do and why it matters to your audience.
- Video planning. A story arc and visual concept that fits your budget, delivered as “The Story Plan.”
- Pre-production. Script, a custom illustration style sample and storyboards, usually delivered as an animatic timed to a rough voiceover (“The Production Plan”).
- Production & post. Animation or filming, final voiceover, music and sound, then delivery.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a SaaS explainer video cost?
Most Epipheo explainer projects cost $5,000 to $150,000+. For SaaS, most videos are 2D animation ($15K–$45K) or motion graphics ($10K–$35K).
How long does a SaaS explainer video take to make?
Most take four to twelve weeks from kickoff to delivery, depending on style. A 2D or motion graphics video typically takes five to six weeks, 3D animation eight to ten weeks, and live action six to twelve weeks.
Should a SaaS explainer show our actual product screens?
Usually only in key moments. Interfaces change often and raw screen recordings are hard to follow, so simplified, stylized versions of the most important screens stay accurate longer and keep attention on the benefit.
Where should a SaaS company use its explainer video?
The most common places are the homepage and product pages, sales decks and demos, outbound email, and customer onboarding.