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Published: January 2, 2025

How Much Does Animated Short-form Video Production Cost In 2025?

On average, animated short video production pricing can range from $400 and $5,000, with starting estimates as low as $1,100. We've found that various common video formats like explainer video, 2d character animation, and motion graphics video, fall within these costs; however, motion graphics videos typically have a narrower average pricing of $1,000 and $2,500 and a quicker 2 to 4 week production timeline.
Animated Short-Form Video
methodology:
  • Join the 3,400+
    trusting Advids to elevate your brand with compelling animated short-form video. Many video ad providers rely on generic templates. That’s not how we create at Advids. We pride ourselves on delivering custom-crafted animated short-form videos.

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Animated Short-Form Video Pricing

  • Advids Expertise
    • 48 award-winning creative team members specializing in explainer, 2d and motion graphics video creation.
    • Full-service production for impactful video ads, ensuring maximum audience engagement.
    • Custom design for unique and engaging video ads, delivering your brand message effectively.
  • What Sets Advids Apart

    At Advids, our short-form video specialists help boost your conversions. We use proven strategies and cutting-edge creative expertise.

    • Compelling Narratives: We craft engaging stories that resonate with your audience.
    • Impactful Visuals: We create stunning visuals that capture attention.
    • Strategic Calls-to-Action: We design persuasive calls to action that drive conversions.
    • Expert Animation: We deliver high-quality motion graphics and animation.

 

Join the 3,400+
trusting Advids to elevate your brand with compelling animated short-form video.

Many video ad providers rely on generic templates. That’s not how we create at Advids. We pride ourselves on delivering custom-crafted animated short-form videos.

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Key Takeaways

  • 83% of businesses believe videos are effective for reaching their target audience.
  • 37% of businesses cite creative storytelling challenge as their biggest challenge in creating effective videos.
  • 62% of businesses use engagement metrics as their key performance indicators (KPIs) for measuring the success of videos.
  • 18% of businesses regularly A/B test different versions of their animated short-form videos, focusing on variations in animation style and call-to-action.
  • 49% of businesses leverage data analytics to inform their videos creation.

Factors

What factors influence the cost of animated short-form video creation?

Understanding the factors that influence animated short-form video production costs is crucial for effective budgeting. Let's break down the key elements that can affect your investment.

Primary Factors:

1. Video Length: A longer animated short-form video, say three minutes versus one, naturally requires more production time and resources, directly impacting the overall cost.
2. Video Design Complexity: Intricate character designs or detailed environments in your animated short-form video will require more artistic expertise and time, increasing the cost.
3. Video Production Scope: Extensive pre-production for your animated short-form video, including detailed storyboarding and animatics, adds to the project's complexity and cost.


Secondary Factors:

4. Scriptwriting & Storyboarding: A well-crafted script and detailed storyboard for your animated short-form video are essential for a smooth production process, but can add to the upfront cost.
5. Number of Revisions: Multiple revisions to the animation, voiceover, or other elements of your short-form video can extend the production timeline and increase the overall cost.
6. Voice-over Talent Selection & Direction: Choosing a professional voice actor for your animated short-form video adds a layer of polish, but their fees can vary significantly based on experience and demand.

How to optimize animated short-form video creation budget?

Managing your animated short-form video budget requires a strategic approach. These 6 factors can impact the cost by as much as 40%. Smart planning? Engage a video production agency early. Why? They can tailor a quote to your specific needs, ensuring optimal results and potentially saving you up to 20% compared to going in blind. Ready to budget effectively?

Define Must-Haves: Prioritize essential elements for your animated short-form video. What's non-negotiable?
Transparent Communication: Clearly communicate your needs and budget to your chosen agency. Any questions?
Explore Value-Adds: Negotiate for extras like multiple versions or raw files. Thinking long-term?
Agency Guidance: Lean on your agency's expertise for cost-effective solutions. Need advice?

How to get exact budget for your animated short-form video production?

Getting an accurate budget for your animated short-form video production requires proactive communication and a clear understanding of your needs. How can you ensure you're getting the best value? Start by gathering 1-2 reference videos and a brief outlining your objectives. What's next?

To get a precise budget, provide your chosen agency with a detailed brief and examples. This allows them to accurately assess the scope and provide a tailored quote. Remember, 49% of businesses are open to using a video production agency, highlighting the value of professional expertise.

Here's a streamlined workflow to secure the best price:

Share Your Vision: Provide a clear brief, reference videos, and your video outline. What are your goals?
Scope of Work: Request a detailed scope of work, milestones, payment terms, and revision flexibility. Need clarity?
Premium Extras: Inquire about any included premium extras, such as expedited delivery or source files. Want more?
Client Input: Understand the level of creative input expected from you. Ready to collaborate?
Negotiate & Partner: Discuss potential discounts and long-term partnership opportunities. Looking ahead? This can save money.
Special Pricing: Don't hesitate to ask for a special price, especially if you have a clear budget. Confident? This can affect the cost.
Future Updates: Discuss the process and cost for future video updates or revisions. Planning for the future?
Agency Expertise: Leverage the agency's experience for creative and cost-effective solutions. Need guidance? Remember, 18% of businesses are willing to experiment with new video ad formats, so explore options with your agency.

Overall average cost of animated short-form video

The average cost of a 15-second animated short-form video is $914, with prices ranging from $1000 to $8000.

  • Key factors affecting the cost include production quality, customization, and the provider’s geographic location.

  • We identified a “sweet spot” between $1000 and $4000, balancing quality, customization, and value.



  • Geographical spending on video production -

  • US-based companies spend average of $970 for 15 seconds

  • European companies spend average of $737 for 15 seconds

  • Asian companies spend average of $594 for 15 seconds



  • Companies types and their animated video production budgets -

  • For startups and SMB businesses, a budget of $648 to $1404 is recommended for an optimal balance of affordability and quality.

  • Founders of early stage companies, achieve the most rich content for better investment ROI, a budget of $864 to $1836 is average spend per video.

  • Enterprise companies spend a higher price for rich aesthetics and branding, an average of $1728 to $3132 for top quality videos.



  • With remote work and advanced software paired with modern ai powered graphics software, agencies are able to deliver the same quality in 2025 at a lower budget of 22% compared to previous year. Returning clients expect to get the same quality of animated videos at a discounted price of 28% to 34% on average.



    Data source - Advids surveyed in 2025 , 80 of its clients and 12 agencies to calculate the average cost & spending.

    Animated Short-Form Video Pricing List

    Understanding the various styles of animated short-form videos and their respective costs is crucial for making informed decisions. We'll break down each style, outlining its ideal use cases, lengths, common elements, production timelines, and pricing to help you plan your video project effectively.

    Below is average per minute pricing

    1. Whiteboard Explainer Pricing: $500 - $1,500
    * Use Cases: Product Demo, Feature Highlight, Concept Explanation
    * Ideal Length: 30 seconds, 60 seconds
    * Video Elements: Hand-drawn animation, Simple characters, Text overlays
    * Production Timeline: 2-3 weeks


    2. Simple Animated Explainer Pricing: $700 - $2,200
    * Use Cases: Process Overview, Tutorial, Benefit Breakdown
    * Ideal Length: 30 seconds, 60 seconds
    * Video Elements: Basic shapes, Solid colors, Iconography
    * Production Timeline: 3-4 weeks


    3. Motion Graphics Animation Pricing: $1,000 - $2,500
    * Use Cases: Data Visualization, Logo Animation, Kinetic Typography
    * Ideal Length: 15 seconds, 30 seconds
    * Video Elements: Shapes, Text, Transitions
    * Production Timeline: 3-4 weeks


    4. 2D Animated Demo Pricing: $1,500 - $3,500
    * Use Cases: App Demo, Software Tutorial, Product Showcase
    * Ideal Length: 30 seconds, 60 seconds
    * Video Elements: Characters, Backgrounds, Animated objects
    * Production Timeline: 4-5 weeks


    5. Isometric Visualization Pricing: $1,800 - $3,800
    * Use Cases: Building walkthrough, System overview, Map demonstration
    * Ideal Length: 30 seconds, 2 minutes
    * Video Elements: 3D models, Isometric angles, Camera movement
    * Production Timeline: 4-5 weeks


    6. Animated Character Demo Pricing: $2,500 - $4,500
    * Use Cases: Brand mascot introduction, Character-driven story, Product personification
    * Ideal Length: 30 seconds, 60 seconds
    * Video Elements: Character animation, Lip sync, Facial expressions
    * Production Timeline: 5-6 weeks


    7. Stock Footage + Video Editing Pricing: $400 - $1,400
    * Use Cases: Event recap, Testimonial montage, Social media content
    * Ideal Length: 15 seconds, 60 seconds
    * Video Elements: Stock footage clips, Text overlays, Transitions
    * Production Timeline: 2-3 weeks


    8. Live Action + VFX Pricing: $3,500 - $5,000
    * Use Cases: Product integration, Special effects demonstration, Surreal scenes
    * Ideal Length: 30 seconds, 2 minutes
    * Video Elements: Live action footage, Visual effects, Compositing
    * Production Timeline: 6-8 weeks

    How much does animated short-form video production cost?

    Ever wondered how animation style impacts budget? In our experience, animated short-form video production typically costs between $400 and $6,000 for a one-minute video. This range encompasses various styles, from basic explainers to complex 3D product demos. Quality doesn't have to break the bank; smart planning is key. Choosing the right format for your message and budget is crucial. For instance, a simple animated explainer, often priced between $1,500 and $3,500, can effectively communicate core concepts. Typically, these include scriptwriting, voiceover, music licensing, and revisions. Many studios offer tiered packages—basic, standard, and premium—with varying features and price points. Remember, 83% of businesses report a positive ROI from animated short-form videos. Costs can vary based on video length, complexity, talent fees, and post-production needs. A 15-second video might fall between $500-$2000, while a 30-second version could range from $1000-$4000. Custom animation elevates your brand by tailoring visuals and messaging to your specific needs, unlike generic templates.

    How does animated short-form video creation pricing work?

    How do you decipher pricing quotes? comparing quotes requires careful consideration. Don't just look at the bottom line; evaluate the quality, production expertise, and team experience reflected in the price. One often overlooked aspect is the value of revisions and ongoing support. A lower price might mean fewer revisions or limited support. Align your pricing research with your video goals. If you need a 2D Animated Software Demo to showcase your software's functionality, prioritize clarity and precision over flashy visuals, which might unnecessarily inflate the cost. Focus on value, not just price.

    Data roundup
    Do you plan to increase or decrease video content budget?

    What is the average pricing range for custom animated short-form video creation?

    When should you go fully custom? For truly bespoke animation, consider a 3D Software Product Demo. This style demands high-level expertise and intricate detailing, making it ideal for showcasing complex products with realistic visuals. In our experience, expect a price range of $4,500 to $6,000 for a one-minute video. This investment is justified when you need to create a high-impact, immersive experience that sets your product apart. This level of customization offers a significant advantage over basic templates, resulting in higher engagement and conversion rates.

    What is the estimated cost range for a 60 seconds animated short-form video?

    For a 60-second animated short-form video, the average cost ranges from $400 to $6,000. Negotiating effectively can unlock added value. Instead of focusing solely on lowering the price, explore options like multiple versions with different calls to action or aspect ratios. Raw files can be invaluable for future repurposing. Maximize your 60 seconds by delivering value in every frame. Consider creating versions tailored to specific user personas with minor edits. For example, a Motion Graphics + Product Demo can effectively showcase product features within 60 seconds, allowing for clear explanations and engaging visuals. Sixty seconds is an opportunity, not a limitation.

    Data roundup
    Are you happy with the quality vs cost of your current video creation agency?

    How much does it cost to hire a professional Animated Short-Form Video production agency?

    Finding the right agency for your animated short-form video can feel overwhelming, right? We understand the pressure of balancing cost and quality. In our experience, professional agencies typically charge between $2,000 and $4,000 for a one-minute video. However, this is just a starting point. Before committing, we strongly recommend meticulously reviewing agency portfolios and Google Reviews to gauge their expertise and client satisfaction. Comparing detailed proposals from several agencies—at least three to five—is crucial; don't just focus on the headline price. Instead, carefully evaluate their understanding of your needs, their creative vision, and their communication style. Create a shortlist based on these factors, ensuring a good fit for your long-term content needs. A strong agency partnership can provide ongoing support and creative solutions beyond a single video.

    How much does freelancers cost to create Animated Short-Form Videos?

    Considering freelancers for your animated short-form video? It's a valid option, especially if you find someone with a proven track record. However, we've found that managing a freelancer can be more challenging than working with an agency. Freelancers often lack the comprehensive pre-production and research capabilities of a full team. While they can be 30% to 70% cheaper than agencies—potentially ranging from $600 to $2,800 for a one-minute video—remember that their hourly rates, typically between $15 and $25, can quickly add up. Their pricing model often involves hourly billing, which can make budgeting less predictable. We suggest carefully weighing the potential cost savings against the increased project management demands and potential risks associated with relying on a single individual.

    How much does DIY cost to create Animated Short-Form Videos and their limitations?

    While DIY options like VideoGen and Animoto offer tempting monthly subscriptions ($220 and $40 respectively), we wouldn't necessarily recommend this route for professional-quality animated short-form videos. If you must, however, these platforms are among the better choices. Your success hinges on finding the right template that aligns perfectly with your goals. Even then, we advise testing your video with a small focus group to gauge its effectiveness before a wider release. Remember, a compelling narrative is key, so invest time in crafting a strong script using AI tools for content research. Don't rely solely on text-to-video prompting; that rarely yields professional results. The limitations of DIY often outweigh the cost savings in terms of quality and overall impact.

    FAQs about animated short-form video production costs

    Get answers to common questions about the cost of animated short-form video production below!

    How much does animated short-form videos creation cost in 2025?

    On average, animated short-form videos production cost $400 to $5,000 per minute. Early-stage startups often spend under $1,900 per minute, while established brands focus on quality and tend to spend upwards of $3,100 per minute.

    Source Data

    Cost % of marketers
    $1,100 - $1,700 19.97%
    $1,701 - $2,500 20.17%
    $2,501 - $4,000 33.57%
    $4,001 - $5,000 15.29%
    $5,001 - $7,000 4.84%
    More than $7,000 6.16%

    How much is higher pricing relevant to higher animated short-form videos quality?

    Higher pricing is directly related to higher quality (68% of respondents). And (27% of respondents) think cost increase does not guarantee a great output always for animated short-form video.

    Source Data

    Cost % of marketers
    High Price is equal to High Quality 68%
    High Price sometimes get High Quality 27%
    Low Price can get High Quality 5%

    What budgets should be allocated for animated short-form videos production for the entire year?

    Marketers who have already produced video content in 2025 are 76% more likely to increase budgets. While marketers creating animated short-form video content for the first time plan to spend less than $7,000 in 2025.

    Source Data

    Budget % of marketers
    $4,000 - $6,000 15.97%
    $6,001 - $10,000 20.17%
    More than $10,000 63.86%

    What are the key factors that influence the pricing of animated short-form video production?

    We find that video length, animation style, complexity, character design, sound design, and revisions significantly affect the overall production cost.

    What is the average budget I should allocate for a 60-second animated explainer video from a freelancer?

    We recommend budgeting between $500 and $2000 for a 60-second explainer video when hiring a freelance animator.

    How does the cost of an animated short-form video vary with its length and complexity?

    We observe that longer videos with intricate animation and detailed characters typically command higher production costs.

    Are there ways to lower the price when working with an animated short-form video production studio?

    We suggest exploring early bird discounts, package deals, or negotiating project scope to potentially reduce studio costs.

    What is the typical price range for a simple animated social media video from an agency?

    We see that simple animated social media videos from agencies usually range between $400 and $5000 depending on various factors.

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