In 2025, 2D explainer videos remain one of the most effective and engaging ways to communicate complex messages to a broad audience. Through a combination of motion graphics, illustration, and 2D animation, businesses can convey their ideas quickly, concisely, and visually. Explainer videos have proven to be valuable marketing tools, helping brands capture attention, increase conversions, and enhance understanding.
In this blog post, we will explore the 10 best 2D explainer videos of 2025, explain when and why 2D animated explainer videos are essential for modern marketing, and provide tips on creating your engaging explainer video.
Top 10 Must-Watch 2D Explainer Videos in 2025
The digital world is overflowing with explainer videos, but some truly stand out. These examples showcase the best use of motion graphics, creative illustration, and seamless 2D animation to communicate key messages memorably and entertainingly. Here are the top 10 best 2D explainer videos that you must watch in 2025:
1. Hello, Sunday Morning
Hello, Sunday Morning is a nonprofit initiative focused on helping people reduce or quit alcohol consumption. Their 2D animated explainer video does a brilliant job of conveying an emotional message with ease. The design uses minimalistic illustrations and impactful motion graphics to tell a personal story. The simple, clean visuals make it accessible while maintaining a deep, emotional connection with viewers.
The 2D animation in this video is highly effective in evoking empathy, making it clear that the organization is more than just an educational platform—it’s a supportive community. The storytelling style here is a testament to how explainer videos can effectively use visuals to simplify serious messages.
2. Operata
Operata is a SaaS tool that helps businesses optimize and streamline their operations. Their 2D explainer video uses a blend of modern motion graphics and sleek illustrations to show how their platform works. What makes this explainer video stand out is its balance of technical detail and user-friendliness.
By employing 2D animation, Operata makes complex operational workflows easy to digest. The motion graphics illustrate how the platform integrates with other tools, providing clarity for potential customers while keeping the visuals engaging. This is an excellent example of how animated explainer videos can demystify tech-heavy products and services.
3. Plutora
For businesses that operate in the tech space, explaining product features can be tricky. Plutora nails this challenge in their 2D animated explainer video, which effectively showcases their software’s capabilities in a digestible format. The video uses vibrant illustrations and smooth motion graphics to explain complex software processes like change management and project tracking.
The video is particularly effective because it captures the viewer’s attention with its clean and professional design while maintaining a focus on delivering information. 2D animation serves the dual purpose of keeping things visually appealing while also breaking down complicated concepts.
4. CaraKit
CaraKit’s explainer video is an excellent example of how 2D animation can be used to represent a tech-driven product in an approachable way. This 2D animated explainer video uses playful motion graphics and fun illustrations to show how their platform works. The video takes the viewer through the steps of the product’s functionality, making a potentially complicated process feel simple and user-friendly.
What sets CaraKit apart is the video’s ability to speak directly to its target audience—tech enthusiasts and business owners—through a clean, professional, yet visually captivating style. The 2D animation here doesn’t just serve as decoration but enhances the overall communication.
5. Spotify
Spotify’s 2D explainer video is a prime example of how motion graphics and illustration can be used to highlight product features. The video showcases how Spotify works, from playlist creation to content discovery, using simple yet vibrant illustrations paired with smooth motion graphics.
Spotify’s explainer video is perfect for audiences who may be new to the platform or those who want to explore advanced features. The video takes advantage of 2D animation to communicate Spotify’s brand values and core functionalities, making it a top-notch example of how to use animated explainer videos in the music streaming industry.
6. YouLocal
For a service like YouLocal, which focuses on connecting people with local businesses and services, their 2D explainer video is a fantastic marketing tool. The video uses motion graphics and intuitive illustrations to show how users can easily find local solutions. What makes the video stand out is the simplicity of the 2D animation. It’s clean, easy to follow, and effective in getting the point across without unnecessary complexity.
The explainer video focuses on real-world scenarios that audiences can relate to, enhancing the video’s effectiveness. In this case, 2D animated explainer videos do more than just explain; they drive action by engaging potential customers.
7. Slack
Slack’s 2D animated explainer video is iconic in the world of corporate communication tools. The video uses a unique mix of motion graphics and illustrations to explain how Slack helps teams collaborate efficiently. The video breaks down Slack’s features step-by-step, making it clear how the platform solves communication challenges in a fun and interactive way.
Slack’s approach to 2D animation is colourful and engaging, with distinct visual cues that help viewers understand the software’s main functions. This explainer video works because it keeps things simple without sacrificing important details—perfect for both newcomers and existing users.
8. QuickBooks Online + Etsy
QuickBooks’ explainer video for the Etsy integration is an excellent example of how 2D animation can help business owners understand the value of financial tools. The video showcases how Etsy sellers can benefit from QuickBooks Online by simplifying their accounting processes. Using motion graphics and illustration, the explainer video communicates the key features of the integration in a way that’s visually appealing and easy to comprehend.
This 2D animated explainer video is especially successful because it tackles a practical, everyday problem that many business owners face—tracking expenses, managing invoices, and keeping finances organized. The video’s approach of combining detailed illustrations with clear motion graphics ensures that even non-financial experts can understand the value of the integration.
9. Dropbox
Dropbox’s explainer video is one of the best examples of how to present a cloud-based solution engagingly. The video uses 2D animation and motion graphics to explain Dropbox’s key features—file sharing, cloud storage, and collaboration. By combining simplicity with effective visual storytelling, Dropbox’s video communicates its message in less than two minutes, which is crucial for retaining viewer attention.
The 2D animation creates a fun and professional atmosphere that helps humanize the technical aspects of the product. It’s the perfect example of how explainer videos can effectively blend information with entertainment.
10. Animals
The Animals Explainer video is a standout because of its creative use of 2D animation to explain a cause—animal conservation. The video uses charming illustrations and dynamic motion graphics to tell the story of endangered species, promoting environmental awareness. The playful yet impactful visuals make this video both informative and fun to watch.
This explainer video excels at combining education with entertainment. It’s a fantastic example of how animated explainer videos can raise awareness for social causes while engaging viewers through creative storytelling.
When to Use 2D Explainer Videos
2D explainer videos are versatile marketing tools that can be utilized across a variety of industries. Knowing when and how to use them can make all the difference in the effectiveness of your marketing strategy. Below are some ideal scenarios where 2D animated explainer videos can shine:
1. Product Launches
When launching a new product or service, explainer videos are a great way to introduce the audience to your offering. 2D animation can effectively showcase the product’s features, functionality, and benefits. With motion graphics and illustration, complex concepts can be communicated clearly and quickly, helping potential customers grasp your product’s value proposition.
2. Software and App Tutorials
For SaaS products, apps, and software platforms, 2D explainer videos simplify the explanation of complex features and functionality. Motion graphics can visually demonstrate how the software works, while 2D animation can highlight key steps in using the product. This makes it easier for users to get up to speed and start using your software or app effectively.
3. Educational Content
Whether you’re teaching a new concept to students or explaining a complicated subject to your audience, 2D animated explainer videos are a great way to convey educational content engagingly. The illustration can simplify difficult topics, while motion graphics can break the content into digestible pieces that viewers can easily follow.
4. Service Explainers
If your business offers a service, an explainer video can break down how your service works and the problems it solves. 2D animation makes it easy to demonstrate abstract or hard-to-visualize concepts, like consulting services, insurance offerings, or other service-based solutions. It’s an effective way to show potential clients what they can expect from your business.
5. Social Media Marketing
Given the short attention spans on social media, 2D explainer videos are an excellent way to grab attention and deliver a concise message. Whether you’re promoting a product, announcing a new feature, or raising awareness about your brand, motion graphics and illustrations help make your content stand out.
Why Marketers Prefer 2D Explainer Videos
Marketers favour 2D animated explainer videos for several key reasons. Let’s take a closer look at why this medium is so effective:
1. Efficiency
2D explainer videos are quick to produce compared to other forms of video content, such as live-action videos. This makes them ideal for companies that need to communicate information fast without investing excessive time or resources into production. Whether it’s a product launch or an update to a service, 2D explainer videos can deliver a compelling message without long lead times.
2. Flexibility
One of the greatest advantages of 2D animation is its versatility. From simple and minimalistic designs to detailed illustrations and dynamic motion graphics, the medium can be adapted to fit any brand style and message. The flexibility of 2D explainer videos means they can be used in a variety of scenarios—sales pages, social media, email campaigns, and more.
3. Engaging Storytelling
2D explainer videos make storytelling engaging and accessible. With motion graphics and illustration, brands can communicate complex messages in a way that is both entertaining and informative. The ability to engage viewers through dynamic visuals ensures they stay interested from start to finish.
Tips for Crafting the Perfect Explainer Video
When creating a 2D explainer video, it’s important to keep several key considerations in mind to ensure your video resonates with your audience and achieves your marketing goals.
1. Focus on Your Audience
Understanding your audience’s pain points is critical. What problems does your audience face, and how can your product or service solve them? By addressing these issues, you ensure that your video is relevant and compelling to the right people.
2. Keep it Concise
In the digital world, people’s attention spans are short. Keep your explainer video under two minutes to maintain viewer interest. If possible, aim for one minute. This forces you to prioritize the most important information, keeping it clear and to the point.
3. Compelling Script
The script is the backbone of any explainer video. A compelling script ensures your message is clear, concise, and persuasive. Focus on the problem, the solution your product provides, and a call to action at the end.
4. High-Quality Animation
Invest in high-quality 2D animation to ensure your video looks polished and professional. Poor-quality visuals can undermine the message you’re trying to convey, so ensure that your motion graphics and illustrations are well-crafted and align with your brand identity.
FAQs
Q: What makes 2D explainer videos effective?
2D explainer videos are effective because they simplify complex information, use engaging visuals, and keep the viewer’s attention through creative storytelling.
Q: How long should a 2D explainer video be?
The ideal length is around 60 to 90 seconds. This is enough time to convey your message without losing the viewer’s interest.
Q: Can 2D explainer videos be used for any industry?
Yes, 2D explainer videos can be adapted to any industry, from technology and finance to healthcare and education. Their versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of applications.
In Conclusion
2D explainer videos are a powerful tool for businesses looking to communicate their message clearly and effectively. Whether you’re explaining a product, showcasing a service, or educating your audience, motion graphics and illustrations help simplify complex ideas and keep your audience engaged.
By studying the top 2D explainer videos of 2025 and understanding when to use this format, marketers can enhance their video content strategy and create videos that drive results.
