The main types of explainer videos include animated explainers, live-action explainers, screencast explainers, whiteboard videos, product demos, and hybrid videos that combine multiple formats. The right format depends on what the viewer needs to understand. HiLo Media often blends explainer video production, screen capture, animation, and product demos so the video fits the product instead of forcing the product into a template.
Animated Explainer Videos
Animated explainers are useful when the product value is abstract, the workflow is hard to film, or the story needs custom visual metaphors.
They work well for SaaS platforms, technical services, healthcare products, financial workflows, and new categories that need context.
Screencast Explainer Videos
Screencast explainers use real product UI, edited screen capture, callouts, captions, and voiceover to explain a software workflow.
They often overlap with software tutorial videos because viewers need to see how the product actually works.
Live-Action Explainer Videos
Live action helps when people, environments, devices, or customer stories matter. It can make a product feel tangible and trustworthy.
For regulated or healthcare topics, live action may also connect with medical video production when the production needs review checkpoints and careful claim handling.
Whiteboard and Hand-Drawn Explainers
Whiteboard and hand-drawn styles can make an idea feel approachable, especially for educational or process-driven topics.
They should still be chosen for a reason. The style works best when drawing the sequence helps the viewer follow the concept.
Hybrid Product Explainers
Many technical products need a hybrid approach: UI capture for accuracy, animation for invisible systems, and live action or voiceover for human context.
Hybrid explainers are often the best fit when one video has to support a homepage, sales conversation, launch campaign, and product education path.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of explainer video is best?
The best type depends on the product and audience. Software products often need screencast or hybrid explainers, while abstract services may need animation or live action.
What is a screencast explainer video?
A screencast explainer video uses real screen capture, editing, callouts, and narration to explain a software product or workflow.
Are whiteboard explainer videos still useful?
Whiteboard explainers can still work for educational ideas and process explanations, but they should be chosen because the drawing format helps the viewer understand the concept.
Can one explainer video use multiple styles?
Yes. Hybrid explainers often combine animation, screen capture, live action, product visuals, and motion graphics to explain technical products more clearly.