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explainer video3 min read

Why animated explainer videos are more sustainable than traditional advertising

Discover the benefits of explainer video advertising: convince your customers with clear, accessible messages.

Stephan BaumArt Direction, Brussobaum
Cartoon of a dark-haired woman smiling thoughtfully, surrounded by question marks on a purple background.

Today, selling products or services requires more than loud advertising messages. People want to understand why they should buy something – and how it specifically helps them. This is where animated explainer videos truly shine.

Compared to traditional advertising, they appear more accessible, easier to understand – and, most importantly, more convincing. Why is that? Here are the key reasons why animated explainer videos generate more sales than traditional ads.

1. They explain, instead of persuading

Traditional advertising usually aims for a direct sale: "Buy now! Today only!". But many people are sceptical of such messages – especially for products that need explanation.

An animated explainer video takes a different approach: it imparts knowledge, explains a problem, and offers a concrete solution. This builds trustbefore a purchase decision is made – and trust is the most important currency in online sales.

2. Complexity becomes clear

Illustration: lightbulb, social media post and vector graphic elements on a yellow background

Whether it's software, insurance, or technical equipment – many products are not self-explanatory. A traditional ad often can't explain enough here. An explainer video, however, makes complex content simple, tangible, and visually comprehensible.

Through clear language, vivid metaphors, and suitable animations, customers understand in a few seconds what they are getting – and why it makes their lives easier.

3. Moving images are better remembered

Studies show: people remember 95% of a video message, but only 10% of a read text.

An animated video combines sound, image, and motion – this activates the brain on multiple levels. The result: higher recall rates, stronger brand loyalty, and a significantly higher probability that customers will choose the product.

4. Longer dwell time = more conversion

Illustration: bar chart, arrow pointing up, heart symbol, design elements

People stay longer on a website if they can watch a video. According to Wistia , the average dwell time on pages with embedded video is 2.6× higher than on pages without.

This extra time is often enough to convey the benefits of a product – and increases the chance that interested parties will decide to buy.

5. Explainer videos work on all channels

Whether website, email, LinkedIn, Instagram, or YouTube: animated explainer videos can be used in many ways.

Unlike traditional TV or print ads, they are flexible, shareable, and easily integrated into other formats – e.g., into blog articles, newsletters, or presentations.

This means: a single video can be effective for weeks and months – constantly attracting new interested parties.

6. Better performance in advertising

Even in paid campaigns, animated videos often perform better than traditional ads. Why?

  • They stand out in the feed
  • They immediately explain the benefit
  • They create likeability through a clear, narrative style

Many companies report significantly lower cost-per-click (CPC) and higher conversion rateswhen using animated videos instead of pure banners or text ads.

Illustration: browser window with video player and play button, surrounded by emojis and geometric shapes

Conclusion: Explainer videos don't sell more aggressively – but smarter

People buy when they understand the added value – not when they are pressured.

Animated explainer videos meet customers exactly where they are: with curiosity, open questions, or doubts. They explain, show solutions, and invite action – at eye level and with clarity.

If you want to sell more in the long term, you shouldn't advertise louder – but explain better.

Final tip:

A good explainer video begins with a clear strategy. Who is the target audience? What are their questions? And what needs to happen for interest to turn into a purchase? Once these questions are answered, a video can be created that truly sells – and doesn't just look nice.

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