How Much Do Whiteboard Animation Videos Cost? Key Influencing Factors

In this article, we will look at the pricing for Whiteboard video animation. So, first, let’s talk about the format.

What is a Whiteboard Animation Video?

In contrast to 2D and 3D explainer videos, whiteboard animation videos are more simplified and straightforward video formats that rely heavily on the story and simple visuals. These videos are in the form of diagrams, text on whiteboards, digital canvases, and hand drawn illustrations.
Although the level of animation is not near the complexity of other forms of animation, whiteboard animations are still extremely engaging for the target audience.

However, like other animation formats, whiteboard animations primarily serve to simplify some of the more difficult concepts – such as one of our examples later in this article, which deconstructs Cloud Computing concepts in just 6 minutes.

Of course, while whiteboard animations appear to be simple, the reality is that these videos are also created by professional video production teams.

Decoding the Price Tag: Key Factors Affecting Cost

So, let’s get to the meat of the matter and figure out what influences video costs for whiteboard animation videos.

The first thing to consider is the overall duration of the video. The general rule is that the longer the video you want to create, the higher the overall cost. As a result, as the runtime increases, so do production time, team members, and resources. Especially if you want the video delivered on time, expect your video production agency to charge a reasonable price.

Of course, a great whiteboard animation video should start with a solid script, as this will serve as the video’s foundation.

As previously stated, the overall duration of the video influences the pricing and final quote you receive from the video production team. In this case, if you want the team to write a script for you, that will be included in the overall production quote, because a professional copywriter will need to research and write a script, share it with you and your team for approval, and then add finishing touches to finalize it.

The overall artstyle and design are now an additional cost for the video. Of course, most whiteboard animation videos have a similar, 2D hand drawn aesthetic – but if you want to add extra flair and experiment with a different format, it will undoubtedly cost more for the time spent researching, exploring, and creating styleframes.

So, if you want your video to be niche-defining and unique while still maintaining the aesthetic of a whiteboard animation video, you’ll have to pay more.

Talking about really breathing life into your video – is using a great voice over actor to do the narration. In 2024, there are many options to do your voice over. Starting from free AI options generated by ElevenLabs, and finishing with great narration of world renowned actors.

Now, for us, it’s critical not to simply jump in and use the cheapest option, which is AI generation – as they certainly feel soulless at this stage and lack customization and the ability to make minute changes.

If you want to hire a real voice over actor with great cadence, they do not come cheap.
Expect to pay an additional fee for voiceover artist services in your final quote.

Last but not least, revisions and modifications. Creating a masterpiece is a process of experimentation, failure, and repetition until you have a fantastic work of art. Most agencies already include a certain number of revisions per stage (3 revision rounds here at Zelios), but if you need more, this will come at an additional cost. But, of course, each revision brings you closer to the wonderful result you are aiming for.

Taking all of this into account, a whiteboard animation video lasting about b will cost you between $500 and $3,000. Additionally, longer or more complex videos can cost anywhere from $2000 to $10,000, depending on the design and topic. But that’s not all; premium and high-end production companies may charge even higher rates, depending on your specifications.

Just a heads-up: Longer videos cost more to make and take longer to produce, which adds up. Each extra minute can really add to the final price. So, aim for short, punchy content that keeps your audience engaged without breaking the bank. Usually, 1-2 minutes is perfect.

Solomia Gamuliak

Video Producer at Zelios

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Tips for Maximizing Value: 3 Examples of Great Whiteboard Animation Videos

So, now that you’ve learned what influences the quote of a whiteboard animation video, let’s discuss some tips for maximizing the impact and value of your video – ensuring that the funds you’ve invested provide a clear and positive ROI.

Here are some of the best hand drawn whiteboard animated videos:

1. The Story of Stuff by Annie Leonard:

Opening our list of great examples is a thought-provoking video that walks us through the creation and decay of material goods. We see how they affect both social and environmental issues, which reminds us to be more aware of our consumption habits.

Simple and striking visuals, as well as narration, make it an effective Whiteboard video production that raises awareness and inspires us to be the change we want to see in the world.

2. Cloud Computing In 6 Minutes by Simplilearn

Simplilearn’s incredible video, which has already received over 2.2 million views, enthrals and ultimately simplifies the complex jungle of abstract cloud computing, ensuring that viewers stick around until the end, reinforcing visuals and summaries with great narration.

Using various hand drawn elements, we can see the progression through various concepts, such as on-premise and cloud-based computing, as well as different models.

Just a fantastic source of information on the subject, capturing the magic and explaining why whiteboard animation videos are so effective.

And just in 6 minutes!

Tip:

The more complex the animation, the more it'll cost. It's best to define the complexity you need early on so you can estimate costs better and avoid spending more than you need to.

3. Storyboard of The Lean Startup Introduction:

And just to drive home our point on how effective these videos are, Let’s take a look at some whiteboard animation videos that summarize the content of an entire book in under 8 minutes.

This video, based on a best-selling business book and using the Whiteboard format, distills the essence and core message of the Lean Startup approach – ideal for any entrepreneur who does not have enough time to read the entire book!

Visual metaphors combined with clear explanations ensure that anyone watching can apply the book’s points to their own lives.

Now, let’s take a few lessons from the examples above and discuss some tips for creating a Whiteboard animation:

• Simplify everything:
  99 percent of the time, the goal of whiteboard animation is to break down complex ideas and make them more accessible to viewers – so make sure that your visuals and narration are simplified to a 6th grade level.
• Engage with Storytelling:
  Of course, simplifying the concepts is a good start, but make sure you don’t miss out on the story and core message you’re attempting to convey. After all, the most effective whiteboard videos do more than just convey information; they can become immersive experiences if your story is told correctly.
• Incorporate Branding:
  Of course, even though the design in whiteboard video animations is more limited and simplified than in traditional 2D Explainer videos, you should still leave room to incorporate your brand identity, whether through colors, fonts, or other finishing touches.

So, if you follow the formulas from the best examples above and keep those tips in mind, you’re more than likely to create a killer video.

Zelios Agency: Your Partner in Video Marketing

But why figure out the best examples, try to find the best formula for the video, and then struggle to get it produced when you can work with a professional team to create a great video for you?

With Zelios, you get a team of professionals who have worked on hundreds of video marketing videos in various formats, shapes, and sizes.

From writing the script for your next video to holding brainstorming sessions and creating great sound design, we are your go-to partner for your video marketing funnel.

So let’s collaborate on your next whiteboard animation video – send us a message today!