best-animation-studios-12

Best Explainer Video Production
Companies 2026


Explainer video production is still deceptively tricky in 2026. The animation format is familiar to many, but the difference between a clear, effective explainer video and a cheap, template-driven one is significant.

There's no definitive way to rank the best explainer video production companies, as studios vary widely in style, process, and approach. That won't stop us though! businesses still want a sensible starting point, so this editorial list highlights explainer video companies known for clarity, craft, and reliable delivery.

1. Hocus Pocus Studio

Hocus Pocus Studio is an explainer video production company based in London and New York, with a long history in voiceover-led explainer content. The studio originally built its reputation producing colourful, personality-driven explainers in the early days of tech and SaaS marketing, and has steadily evolved the format rather than abandoning it. They are frequently commissioned to produce explainer videos for tech platforms, digital products, and service-based businesses.

Their work spans flat 2D, 2.5D, and full 3D animation, depending on what the brief needs. The strength here is clarity and quality. Scripts are tightly structured, visuals are colourful, and the animation supports the message rather than competing with it. It's a good example of how the explainer format can mature without losing its usefulness.

2. Animade

Animade is a London-based animation studio known for character-led, design-forward work. Their explainer videos often feel warm and approachable, which makes them particularly effective for products or services that risk sounding abstract or overly technical.

Like many explainer-focused studios, much of their work sits in the tech and digital space, but the emphasis on character performance and visual personality helps their films stand apart from more generic SaaS explainers. A strong option when tone and charm matter as much as information.

3. Giant Ant

Giant Ant is a Vancouver-based animation studio with a reputation for story-driven commercial animation. While they are not positioned as a pure explainer video company, their work is often referenced when brands want an explainer that feels cinematic rather than instructional.

They are particularly strong at pacing, mood, and emotional clarity, which can be valuable when an explainer needs to persuade rather than simply explain. As with many studios at this level, they are best suited to projects with healthy budgets and clear creative ambition.

4. BUCK

BUCK is a global creative studio with deep roots in design, animation, and brand systems. They do far more than explainer videos, but when they do take on explainer-style projects, the results are usually polished, distinctive, and design-led.

BUCK's strength lies in making complex ideas feel intentional rather than simplified. If your explainer needs to align closely with a wider brand system or product ecosystem, they are one of the strongest names in this space.

5. Wyzowl

Wyzowl represents the high-volume end of the explainer video market. They operate at scale and are often chosen by businesses that prioritise speed, repeatability, and lower pricing over bespoke craft.

While their approach is very different from smaller studio-led teams, they are a useful benchmark for understanding what the broader explainer market looks like in 2026, particularly for companies producing large volumes of product or onboarding content.

Example: Explainer video work in practice

Viewing real explainer video examples is often the fastest way to assess clarity, pacing, and production quality. The reel below shows a range of explainer video styles, from product and platform explainers to more brand-led approaches.


How to choose an explainer video production company

Choosing the right explainer video production company depends on your goal of course: audience, and where the video will be used.

Start with structure, not style

A good explainer lives or dies on its script. If a studio can't help refine the structure, visuals won't save it.

Be clear on the goal

Sales, onboarding, fundraising, internal comms, or paid media all demand different pacing and emphasis.

Watch full examples

Showreels are highlights. Ask to see at least one complete explainer video from start to finish.

Know where the video will live

Homepage, ads, sales decks, product onboarding, or social feeds all affect how an explainer should be built.

FAQs

How much does an explainer video cost in 2026?

Pricing varies widely. Template-led approaches tend to be cheaper, while bespoke design, character animation, and 3D work increase cost significantly.

How long should an explainer video be?

Most effective explainers sit between 60 and 120 seconds. Longer formats can work for onboarding or product walkthroughs if the structure is tight.

Do explainer videos still need voiceover?

Not always. Text-led or subtitle-driven explainers are increasingly common, especially for silent autoplay and international use.

How long does production usually take?

A bespoke animated explainer typically takes four to eight weeks, depending on complexity and approval cycles.

What files should be delivered?

A final master video, subtitle files or captions, and guidance on social or platform-specific versions are usually expected.