Budgeting and Pricing: A Transparent Look at Animated Video Costs
Animated videos don’t have to be a mystery to budget for. Here’s a clear breakdown of what influences cost—and how to choose the right animated video production company.
If you're considering using animated video to promote your product to promote your product, explain your service, or engage your audience, one of the first questions you'll ask is: how much will it cost? And it’s a fair question—pricing for video production can vary wildly depending on what you’re creating and who you’re working with. The good news? Understanding what drives the cost makes it easier to plan your budget and find the right animated video production company for your needs.
A great video doesn’t have to break the bank, but it should feel like a smart investment. The more clarity you have about pricing, deliverables, and process, the better your end result will be. Let’s break down the factors that influence pricing and what you can expect when budgeting for a high-quality animated video.
WHAT GOES INTO THE COST OF AN ANIMATED VIDEO
Video pricing isn’t pulled from thin air. It’s shaped by a range of variables that affect time, resources, and output. Key factors include:
-
Length of the video
-
Complexity of animation (e.g., basic icon animation vs. character-based scenes)
-
Style (e.g., minimalist, illustrative, high-detail)
-
Script development and revisions
-
Voiceover talent and sound design
-
Music licensing
-
Number of feedback rounds included
-
File format versions for different platforms
A well-scoped project from an experienced animated video production company will include most, if not all, of these elements in a clear proposal.
LOW-END, MID-RANGE, AND PREMIUM PRICING
While every agency has its own pricing structure, animated videos generally fall into three tiers. At the low end, DIY platforms or freelance options might offer basic animations starting from a few thousand dollars. These are often templated and limited in customisation.
Mid-range pricing—often between $6,000–$20,000—is where most small to mid-sized businesses find a good balance between quality and cost. You get a tailored approach, with input from scriptwriters, designers, and producers, and a style that matches your brand.
Premium productions can exceed £20,000, especially if you’re creating highly detailed, fully bespoke content, or a series of videos. At this level, you’re working with a full team and can expect campaign-level strategy alongside production quality.
HOW TO AVOID UNEXPECTED COSTS
Hidden fees usually happen when there’s a lack of clarity in scope. To prevent surprises, ask potential agencies to define:
-
What’s included in the base price
-
How many rounds of revisions are allowed
-
Whether they charge extra for voiceovers, subtitles, or platform-specific cuts
-
If there’s flexibility to scale the project later
A reliable animated video production company will present transparent terms and help you prioritise your budget without compromising on results.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PRICE AND VALUE
It’s tempting to choose the cheapest option—but video is an investment, and value isn’t always about paying less. A more expensive video that clearly communicates your message and drives conversions could be worth ten times its cost in results.
When comparing animated video production companies, consider what you’re getting in terms of strategy, support, and content repurposing. Does the agency understand your goals? Are they helping you maximise the video’s impact across platforms? These questions are just as important as the price tag.
WHERE TIME CAN ADD TO COST
Urgency often leads to higher costs. If you need a video in a week rather than a month, expect rush fees. Likewise, if your review cycles are slow and the project drags out, additional time may lead to extra charges—either through formal extensions or added project management hours.
The most efficient animated video production companies will help you stay on track, setting timelines that are realistic and respectful of both sides. They know that good planning leads to better creative work—and fewer unexpected charges.
WHY REVISIONS MATTER MORE THAN YOU THINK
Revisions are a standard part of any creative process, but if not managed properly, they can impact your timeline, budget, and final quality. Most agencies include one or two revision rounds per stage (script, storyboard, and animation). Going beyond that often incurs additional fees.
A good animated video production company will walk you through how to give feedback effectively. By consolidating comments, being specific, and involving decision-makers early, you’ll keep things moving—and avoid paying extra.
HOW TO BUDGET FOR FUTURE USE
Your first video is unlikely to be your last, and planning for future use can save money in the long run. Ask if the agency can build modular scenes, supply raw assets, or create reusable templates. This approach allows you to update messaging or re-cut footage for future campaigns without starting from scratch.
An animated video production company that thinks long term will suggest options for content repurposing upfront. This adds flexibility and improves the overall value of your investment.
THE COST OF DOING IT TWICE
A cheap video that misses the mark may need to be redone—doubling your costs and delaying your goals. This is one of the most common frustrations for companies that try to cut corners on video. In contrast, a well-executed project might take a little longer or cost a little more, but it will last longer, convert better, and be easier to repurpose.
By partnering with an animated video production company that prioritises results and collaboration, you reduce the risk of needing a redo. Instead of a quick fix, you get a lasting asset with strategic value.
WHY QUOTES CAN VARY SO WIDELY
If you’ve requested quotes from multiple agencies, you’ve probably noticed huge price gaps. That doesn’t necessarily mean one agency is overcharging—more often, it means they include different things. One may bundle voiceover and scripting, another may not. Some offer unlimited revisions, others charge per round.
To compare quotes fairly, line up what’s included, who’s doing the work, and what kind of support you’ll receive. A well-outlined proposal from an animated video production company should give you everything you need to make an informed decision.
LET’S HELP YOU BUDGET SMARTER, NOT HARDER
Video pricing doesn’t have to be vague or confusing. With the right agency, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for, what to expect, and how to get the most value from your investment. Whether you’re budgeting for a single explainer or an ongoing campaign, we’re here to help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
Let’s talk about your goals, your timeline, and your budget—and build something that’s worth every penny: get started with a tailored quote.
To promote your product, explain your service, or engage your audience, one of the first questions you'll ask is: how much will it cost? And it’s a fair question—pricing for video production can vary wildly depending on what you’re creating and who you’re working with. The good news? Understanding what drives the cost makes it easier to plan your budget and find the right animated video production company for your needs.
A great video doesn’t have to break the bank, but it should feel like a smart investment. The more clarity you have about pricing, deliverables, and process, the better your end result will be. Let’s break down the factors that influence pricing and what you can expect when budgeting for a high-quality animated video.
WHAT GOES INTO THE COST OF AN ANIMATED VIDEO
Video pricing isn’t pulled from thin air. It’s shaped by a range of variables that affect time, resources, and output. Key factors include:
-
Length of the video
-
Complexity of animation (e.g., basic icon animation vs. character-based scenes)
-
Style (e.g., minimalist, illustrative, high-detail)
-
Script development and revisions
-
Voiceover talent and sound design
-
Music licensing
-
Number of feedback rounds included
-
File format versions for different platforms
A well-scoped project from an experienced animated video production company will include most, if not all, of these elements in a clear proposal.
LOW-END, MID-RANGE, AND PREMIUM PRICING
While every agency has its own pricing structure, animated videos generally fall into three tiers. At the low end, DIY platforms or freelance options might offer basic animations starting from a few thousand dollars. These are often templated and limited in customisation.
Mid-range pricing—often between $6,000–$20,000—is where most small to mid-sized businesses find a good balance between quality and cost. You get a tailored approach, with input from scriptwriters, designers, and producers, and a style that matches your brand.
Premium productions can exceed £20,000, especially if you’re creating highly detailed, fully bespoke content, or a series of videos. At this level, you’re working with a full team and can expect campaign-level strategy alongside production quality.
HOW TO AVOID UNEXPECTED COSTS
Hidden fees usually happen when there’s a lack of clarity in scope. To prevent surprises, ask potential agencies to define:
-
What’s included in the base price
-
How many rounds of revisions are allowed
-
Whether they charge extra for voiceovers, subtitles, or platform-specific cuts
-
If there’s flexibility to scale the project later
A reliable animated video production company will present transparent terms and help you prioritise your budget without compromising on results.
THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PRICE AND VALUE
It’s tempting to choose the cheapest option—but video is an investment, and value isn’t always about paying less. A more expensive video that clearly communicates your message and drives conversions could be worth ten times its cost in results.
When comparing animated video production companies, consider what you’re getting in terms of strategy, support, and content repurposing. Does the agency understand your goals? Are they helping you maximise the video’s impact across platforms? These questions are just as important as the price tag.
WHERE TIME CAN ADD TO COST
Urgency often leads to higher costs. If you need a video in a week rather than a month, expect rush fees. Likewise, if your review cycles are slow and the project drags out, additional time may lead to extra charges—either through formal extensions or added project management hours.
The most efficient animated video production companies will help you stay on track, setting timelines that are realistic and respectful of both sides. They know that good planning leads to better creative work—and fewer unexpected charges.
WHY REVISIONS MATTER MORE THAN YOU THINK
Revisions are a standard part of any creative process, but if not managed properly, they can impact your timeline, budget, and final quality. Most agencies include one or two revision rounds per stage (script, storyboard, and animation). Going beyond that often incurs additional fees.
A good animated video production company will walk you through how to give feedback effectively. By consolidating comments, being specific, and involving decision-makers early, you’ll keep things moving—and avoid paying extra.
HOW TO BUDGET FOR FUTURE USE
Your first video is unlikely to be your last, and planning for future use can save money in the long run. Ask if the agency can build modular scenes, supply raw assets, or create reusable templates. This approach allows you to update messaging or re-cut footage for future campaigns without starting from scratch.
An animated video production company that thinks long term will suggest options for content repurposing upfront. This adds flexibility and improves the overall value of your investment.
THE COST OF DOING IT TWICE
A cheap video that misses the mark may need to be redone—doubling your costs and delaying your goals. This is one of the most common frustrations for companies that try to cut corners on video. In contrast, a well-executed project might take a little longer or cost a little more, but it will last longer, convert better, and be easier to repurpose.
By partnering with an animated video production company that prioritises results and collaboration, you reduce the risk of needing a redo. Instead of a quick fix, you get a lasting asset with strategic value.
WHY QUOTES CAN VARY SO WIDELY
If you’ve requested quotes from multiple agencies, you’ve probably noticed huge price gaps. That doesn’t necessarily mean one agency is overcharging—more often, it means they include different things. One may bundle voiceover and scripting, another may not. Some offer unlimited revisions, others charge per round.
To compare quotes fairly, line up what’s included, who’s doing the work, and what kind of support you’ll receive. A well-outlined proposal from an animated video production company should give you everything you need to make an informed decision.
LET’S HELP YOU BUDGET SMARTER, NOT HARDER
Video pricing doesn’t have to be vague or confusing. With the right agency, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for, what to expect, and how to get the most value from your investment. Whether you’re budgeting for a single explainer or an ongoing campaign, we’re here to help you navigate the process with clarity and confidence.
Let’s talk about your goals, your timeline, and your budget—and build something that’s worth every penny: get started with a tailored quote.
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Written by James Bryant Video strategist and co-founder for Venture Videos — a full-service video production agency that specialises in producing creative videos & campaigns that get real results.