Animated Video Pricing – How do I figure out the right option for my project?

This article dives into the world of animated video pricing and what goes into the various costs associated with production. What you’ll find is that animated videos could be produced for as little as a thousand dollars. But you’ll end up spending more to make something high quality, custom, original and longer than 30 seconds.

If you have a question about animated video pricing that isn’t answered in this article, you can use our contact form to ask your question or click the image below to with a member of our production team:

TL;DR: How much does an animated video cost?

You get what you pay for…

DIY Online Video Maker: $19-$299

Freelance Animator: $199-$10,000

Marketing Agency: $3,000-$50,000+

Animation Studio: $3,000-$20,000+

Video Igniter Animation: Get our current, market-beating rates here.

Animated Video Pricing: You Get What You Pay For

Sure, you can find freelancers online who can make animated videos for a few hundred bucks. But the quality is going to show. Most people aren’t aware of how much time and effort goes into making quality custom animated videos. In order to create something you will be proud of, expect to spend at least a few thousand dollars to hire some talented illustrators and animators to create your video.

Below are some examples of the kinds of quality you can expect to get when you have a large production budget vs something closer to the $1,000 – $2,000 range.

Examples of high end animated videos:

 

Examples of low cost animated videos:

 

What factors contribute to an animated video’s price?

 

Length

Animated video production budgets are typically calculated by the length of the video being created. The longer the video, the more time, talent and resources ($) are needed to create the animated video.

Style

Following length, the style of an animated video is the second biggest contributing factor to the cost of making an animated video. The more complex the visual design and motion detail, the more the animated video will cost. Unique visual styles require talented, expensive animators. 3D animated videos cost an order of magnitude more than 2D animated videos to produce.

Timeline

Finally, speed is the last factor. The faster you want your animated video, the more it will cost. A simple 60 second animated video can be produced in 3-5 weeks – although rush delivery options are available if you need it faster. We recommend never rushing an animated video project if you can avoid it. It’s best to allow time for all the creatives to work their magic without a time crunch looming overhead.

How much does it cost to make an animated video?

 

Scriptwriting + Research

Researching, developing and writing your script can be done for free (aka the cost of your time). You can also hire a freelance animator, animation studio, or Video Igniter Animation to create your animated video for you. Costs range widely from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars.

Two things contribute the scriptwriting aspect of your animated video’s cost:

1). The script writer/team does extended research to learn and understand the target audience for the video to figure out how to best present ideas and elements of the story in a way that will resonate with them.

2). The script writing team tests their script on the target audience to see if they understand and appreciate the way the story was told – before anyone spends time actually creating the animation.

Storyboarding

A storyboard is like a blueprint for an animated video. It describes to the illustrators and animators what they’re supposed to illustrate and animate.

You can create your own storyboard for free. Or, you can hire Video Igniter to create your storyboard for you. Storyboards cost hundreds of dollars to produce for each minute of video content that’s being created. Access our current storyboarding rates here.

VoiceOver

Each voiceover for your animated video will cost between $10 to $300 per minute of recorded audio. If you plan to display your animated video using paid broadcast media (TV or online), you may need to pay your voiceover artist additional licensing fees for the voiceover recording’s broadcast rights.

Soundtrack

Soundtracks are in a similar ballpark with voiceovers. Marketplaces like AudioJungle and PremiumBeat license professional quality soundtracks for $10 to $300+

Check out this video if you want to pick the perfect soundtrack for your animated video!

Art

A significant portion of an animated video’s price goes into the creation of the custom art that is created for the video. Depending on the style of animation being created, art could eat up the majority of a video’s production budget. For B2B animated explainer promo videos, expect to spend $1,000 to $2,000+ per minute of animation for quality illustrations that are sleek, modern, and appropriate for high end c-suite marketing communications.

Animation

If art didn’t eat up the majority of the production budget, animation certainly will. Of course, this does vary depending on the style of animation being created. Expect to spend $2,000+/min for sleek animation and motion design when creating commercial and corporate explainer videos.

Sound Design

Finally, after the timing of the animation is locked in, sound engineers will add sound effects and double check to ensure levels are balanced between all voiceovers, soundtracks and sound effects. These final touches can cost $50 to $1,000/minute depending on the level of detail and expertise needed to finalize audio effects for your animation.

How to keep costs down for your animated video project

 

Write your script

Researching and writing a script for an animated video is the backbone of the entire project. This is not an area to skimp on. If you can’t afford the price to hire a professional script writer for your animated video, write the script yourself. After all, you’re probably the expert on your story/vision/idea/product/service that you want to feature in the animation. If anything, at least try to write the first draft and the animators working on your video can help review and polish your script so that it gets approved for production.

Create your storyboard

Storyboarding is the process of reading through your script and then documenting what you want the animators and illustrate to create. If you can brainstorm ideas for the visuals and clearly articulate your ideas, consider creating the storyboard for your animated video to save hundreds or thousands of dollars off your production budget.

Resource: Download our storyboard template and storyboard creation guide.

Record your voiceover

Another way to keep pricing low for your animated video is to provide the voiceover for your video. You can save you up to $100 to $300 for each minute of video that’s being created because that’s what it costs to hire one from an online voiceover marketplace. Even more if your video is being produced in a language that isn’t English. For tips on how to record a professional sounding voiceover at home for free, check out Episode 3 of The Video Igniter Show.

Use stock assets

Not every piece of your animated video needs to be made from scratch. In order to help keep the cost of your animated video down, consider using some stock assets in this video. This could include backgrounds, 3D models, stock photos, stock designed animated characters, icons, fonts and more!

Animated Video Pricing FAQ:

How long does it take to make an animated video?

It takes three to six weeks to make a 60-second animated video. Each stage of production takes about one week to create the assets, review them with the client and integrate the edits. You can shave a few weeks off the timeline by providing the script and or the storyboard.

What does a typical minute long animated video cost?

A typical minute long animated video can cost as little as $1,000 to $5,000 but easily go over $20,000. This is a wide range that encompasses many visual styles and levels of production quality. You can get high quality custom 2D animations produced between $3,000 and $7,500/ per minute. Access our current pricing page here.

How do I figure out the pricing for my animated video?

Schedule a call with our production team – or – tell us about your project and we’ll generate a quote for you.

Check out this companion article to learn more about what goes into the cost of making an animated explainer video.

Why is animation expensive?

Animated videos require 10’s, 100’s or 1,000’s of labor hours from talented individuals to create. While some animated videos can be created by a single individual, it still takes a lot of effort for one person to write the script, brainstorm the visuals, record the voiceovers, find good music and sound effects for the animation, create the art and then finally, animate the video. Most projects require a team of specialized individuals who focus on individual aspects of production from storytelling to scene design, lighting, sound effects and various forms of animation.

How to Choose the Right Animation Style for Your Budget

Choosing the right animation style is critical when planning your animated video pricing. The style you select directly impacts your budget, as different animation types have varying production costs. For instance, 2D animation tends to be more affordable due to simpler designs and quicker production times. In contrast, 3D animation requires advanced skills and more time, making it more expensive. Other styles like motion graphics or stop-motion also vary in cost depending on their complexity and detail.

To make the best decision for your budget, evaluate your project’s goals, the level of detail required, and the desired impact on your audience. By aligning the animation style with both your project goals and budget, you can ensure that your video delivers the intended message without overspending.

How Animation Complexity Impacts Your Animated Video Pricing

The complexity of your animation plays a crucial role in determining animated video pricing. More intricate animations require additional resources, time, and effort, all of which increase costs. Visual complexity can include detailed backgrounds, advanced character animation, or intricate motion sequences. High-quality audio design also adds to the cost if multiple sound effects or voiceovers are needed. Simple animations, like flat design or basic motion graphics, are usually more affordable, while complex visual storytelling or high-end 3D effects tend to increase both time and cost. Understanding these factors will help you better allocate your budget and make informed decisions about animation complexity.

Voiceover Talent Costs and Their Influence on Animated Video Pricing

Voiceover talent plays an important role in animated video pricing. The voice actor you choose can significantly impact both your video’s effectiveness and budget. Professional voice actors typically charge more for their services, but they bring a high level of expertise, ensuring clear, engaging narration that aligns with your brand. On the other hand, hiring less experienced talent or using freelancers can reduce costs, though it might require more direction and editing.

Additionally, pricing may fluctuate based on the length of the script, the number of voiceovers required, and the talent’s reputation. Make sure to account for these factors when estimating the overall animated video pricing, as voiceover costs can be a substantial portion of the total budget.

Tips for Negotiating Better Animated Video Pricing with Studios

Negotiating the best animated video pricing with an animation studio involves clear communication and strategic planning. Start by understanding your project’s scope and having a clear vision of what you need. Asking for multiple quotes can help you compare different pricing models and services offered. Don’t hesitate to negotiate deadlines and scope—sometimes offering more flexible timelines can result in cost savings. It’s also important to request a detailed cost breakdown so you can understand where your money is going. Asking about additional fees like revisions, extra animation details, or rush charges can also help avoid surprise costs. Effective negotiation is about balancing quality with budget, ensuring that you get the best value for your investment.

2D vs. 3D Animation: How They Affect Your Animated Video Pricing

When considering animated video pricing, it’s important to understand how the choice between 2D and 3D animation can significantly influence the overall cost. 2D animation is typically more affordable because it involves simpler designs, fewer resources, and quicker production times. It’s ideal for explainer videos or animated social media posts where speed and cost-efficiency are key.

On the other hand, 3D animation is more intricate and resource-intensive. Creating high-quality 3D visuals involves more specialized artists, advanced software, and longer production times, resulting in higher costs.

Ultimately, the choice between 2D and 3D animation should be based on your project’s objectives, audience, and available budget. 2D works well for straightforward messaging, while 3D is suited for projects that demand more depth and visual impact.

How to Choose the Best Animation Studio for Your Budget

Hiring the right animation studio is crucial for managing your animated video pricing effectively. Start by evaluating studios based on your project needs—do they specialize in your animation style, and do their previous works align with your vision?

Researching studio animation portfolios, reading client reviews, and assessing past projects will help you find a studio that fits both your style and budget. Studios with extensive experience and a strong reputation may charge higher fees, but their work often delivers better results.

On the other hand, smaller or less experienced studios may offer more budget-friendly options, but there could be trade-offs in terms of quality and turnaround time. Ensure that the studio you choose offers clear communication, transparency in pricing, and a willingness to work within your budget.

Custom vs. Template-Based Animations: How Pricing Differs

When it comes to animated video pricing, understanding the difference between custom animations and template-based animations is essential. Custom animations are tailored specifically to your brand, audience, and message, requiring a full production process that includes storyboarding, character design, and detailed animation. This level of customization leads to higher costs due to the increased production time and the need for specialized animators.

On the other hand, template-based animations use pre-designed assets and structures, making them quicker and more affordable to produce. While template animations can be highly effective for simple explainer videos or short marketing clips, they lack the unique touch that custom animations provide. Balancing your project’s requirements with available resources will help you decide whether to opt for a custom or template-based approach.

Hidden Costs in Animated Video Pricing: What to Watch Out For

When estimating your animated video pricing, it’s important to be aware of hidden costs that can unexpectedly inflate your budget. These may include costs for storyboarding, revisions, and additional revisions beyond the initial scope. Voiceover licensing, stock music licenses, and custom sound design may also incur extra charges. Additionally, many animation studios charge for additional edits after the initial video draft, especially if they significantly change the animation or audio elements.

To avoid these hidden costs, always request a clear, itemized quote and discuss potential extras upfront with your studio. Being transparent about your needs and setting expectations will help you stay within budget while ensuring your animation meets your vision.

How to Create Cost-Effective Animated Videos Without Sacrificing Quality

Creating a cost-effective animated video doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. By streamlining your project and making strategic choices, you can manage animated video pricing without compromising on results. Start by selecting a simpler animation style, such as 2D or motion graphics, which can be more affordable than high-end 3D animation.

Prioritize essential elements such as the core message, strong visuals, and effective storytelling. Additionally, limit revisions and feedback cycles, which can extend production time and increase costs. Utilize existing assets including logos, color palettes, or stock footage to reduce animation and design costs. By focusing on what matters most, you can create a high-quality animation while staying within your budget.

Short-Form vs. Long-Form Animated Video Pricing: What You Need to Know

The length of your animated video plays a significant role in animated video pricing. Short-form videos (under 2 minutes) tend to have lower production costs due to their concise nature and faster turnaround times. These are ideal for advertisements, social media content, or quick explainer videos.

Long-form videos, like documentaries or in-depth brand videos, typically require more resources, time, and higher production costs. They often involve more detailed animation, a longer script, multiple voiceovers, and complex sound design. Understanding the project scope will help you determine whether a short-form or long-form video fits within your budget and meets your communication objectives.

Maximizing Value: How to Get the Most from Your Animated Video Budget

Maximizing value from your animated video pricing requires strategic planning and smart decisions throughout the production process. Start by clearly defining your project’s goals and making sure the animation style, duration, and complexity align with your budget. Focus on prioritizing key elements such as clear storytelling, strong visuals, and effective messaging, rather than focusing on unnecessary details. Leverage existing resources like templates or pre-designed assets, to reduce costs without sacrificing quality. Communicate openly with your animation studio to ensure they understand your vision and budget constraints. By optimizing your resources and making informed decisions, you can achieve a high-quality animation that maximizes value without exceeding your budget.

Estimating Costs for Animated Videos with Complex Graphics or Motion

Estimating the costs for animated videos that involve complex graphics or motion can be tricky, as these types of animations require more time, skill, and resources. Complex animations, like intricate 3D models, advanced visual effects, or detailed character animation, demand more skilled animators and longer production timelines, which naturally increases costs.

The more detailed the graphics or motion, the higher the budget will likely be due to the additional expertise and tools required. To estimate these costs accurately, consider the level of detail required for each scene, the time it will take to create the effects, and any additional revisions that may be necessary. Understanding these factors will help you plan and budget appropriately for complex animation projects.

How Animation Quality Affects Engagement and Animated Video Pricing

The quality of animation directly influences both viewer engagement and animated video pricing. High-quality animations—whether it’s smooth character movement, rich visual effects, or immersive 3D elements—tend to engage viewers more effectively, leading to increased retention and conversion rates.

These top-tier animations, however, come with a higher price tag due to the specialized skills and time needed to produce them. On the other hand, lower-quality animations may save costs but might not captivate the audience as effectively. For businesses looking to make a strong impression and ensure long-term ROI, investing in quality animation can be worth the higher cost, as it often results in greater viewer engagement and brand recall.

Common Budget Pitfalls in Animated Video Pricing and How to Avoid Them

Animated video pricing can quickly spiral out of control without careful planning. Common budget pitfalls include underestimating production time, overlooking additional revisions, or failing to account for hidden costs like sound design or voiceover fees.

Additionally, complexity creep can drive up costs if new ideas or elements are added to the project after the initial scope is agreed upon. To avoid these pitfalls, create a detailed project brief with clear expectations and a realistic timeline. Establish a transparent cost breakdown with the animation studio and include a contingency budget to cover unforeseen expenses. Effective project management and communication can help keep your animation project on track and within budget.

How to Communicate Your Vision for Accurate Animated Video Pricing

Clear communication is key to ensuring accurate animated video pricing. To communicate your vision effectively, start by providing a detailed project brief that outlines your goals, target audience, and key messaging. Include references to animation styles you admire and explain any specific preferences or constraints. Regularly check in with the studio to ensure they are aligned with your vision throughout the production process. This helps prevent costly revisions or misalignments later on. By keeping the lines of communication open and detailed from the outset, you’ll ensure that the animation stays within your budget while meeting your expectations.

Outsourcing vs. In-House Animation Teams: How Each Affects Pricing

When deciding between outsourcing animation or hiring an in-house animation team, it’s essential to consider how each option impacts animated video pricing. Outsourcing animation to freelance artists or studios often provides a more cost-effective solution, as it offers flexibility and access to global talent. However, this can result in communication challenges, less control over the process, and potential delays. In contrast, in-house animation teams provide more control and consistent quality but come with higher overhead costs, including salaries, benefits, and equipment. For projects with strict timelines or a need for constant iteration, an in-house team may be ideal. For cost-sensitive projects with more flexibility, outsourcing might be the better choice.

Animated Video Pricing & Production Resources

These popular resources are recommended for people interested in animated video pricing:

Get a quote for your animated video.

How to make a video animation.

How do I figure out my animated video price?

What is it like to work with Video Igniter to create a 2D animation video?

How do I make video animations with Video Igniter, a freelancer or an animation studio?

Hire Video Igniter to Create Your Animated Video

World class design talent at prices startups can afford.

Our team can create any kind of 2D or 3D animation you can imagine.

+20 reasons companies love hiring us.

Do you want to create an animated cryptocurrency video or an animated blockchain explainer video that explains how your technology works? We can help with that too.

Animated Video Demo Reel

 

Animated Video Success Stories & Testimonials

“From the very beginning, we knew working with Video Igniter was the right decision. Derek was easy to talk to and completely accessible through the entire experience. He offered different options to the creative process, was open to changes and additions to the storyboard, and made sure we were 100% happy with every second of our finished video.

We couldn’t be more satisfied with the finished product and highly recommend Derek and the rest of the Video Igniter team for the quality of their work, pricing that worked within our budget and a personal touch all along the way.”

Chelle Parmele – Fmr. Director of Marketing, SheerID.com

“I run a video production company and outsource animation. The team at Video Igniter did a great job in taking the concept I very crudely drew out and made it into a beautiful animation. The review process was easy and their turnaround time was very quick. I’d def recommend them if you’re looking for an animation project.”

Pat Henderson – Founder, Path8 Productions

“My whole family and everyone on Facebook thinks you are amazing. My whole office is freaking out.”

Patricia Shields – Real Estate Agent

“Video Igniter came to us with a number of creative and engaging ideas and were able to create an exciting, impactful video in a short period of time. And the best part was that it cost much less than other options of similar quality. The video they made is a great marketing tool for us.”

Alex Raymond – Founder, Kapta Systems

Get in touch

Schedule a call to discuss your animated video project.

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What is Video Igniter Animation?

We’re an animated video production service. Waaay better than hiring a 2D animation studio! Check out our explainer video: