In today’s fast-paced digital world, where capturing attention is more challenging than ever, animated explainer videos services have emerged as one of the most powerful storytelling tools for businesses. Whether you're launching a startup, marketing a tech product, or even educating audiences, nothing conveys your message better than a well-crafted 2D explainer video.
But here’s the question that sparks heated debates among creative minds and marketers alike: What is the best 2D animation explainer video you’ve ever seen? That’s the conversation we’re diving into today.
We'll explore iconic 2D animated explainer videos, what makes them unforgettable, the best 2D animation studios for explainer videos, and how logo animation services and the biggest animation companies shape this creative landscape.
What Makes a Great 2D Animation Explainer Video?
Before we showcase some legendary examples, let’s break down the core elements of a top-tier 2D animated explainer video:
Simplicity with Clarity: A great explainer video simplifies complex ideas.
Engaging Visuals: The 2D animation must be visually stimulating without overwhelming the viewer.
Strong Script: The foundation lies in storytelling—an emotionally resonant and clear script.
On-Brand Style: From colors to tone, it must reflect the brand's personality.
Call to Action: It should guide the viewer toward a next step—whether it's signing up, buying, or learning more.
The best 2D animation studios for explainer videos excel by mastering these elements.
Top Contenders for the Best 2D Animation Explainer Video
Here are some of the most iconic and widely praised 2D explainer videos that have set benchmarks in the industry.
1. Dropbox’s Explainer Video (2009)
Why It Stands Out: Often credited with pioneering the explainer video boom, Dropbox’s hand-drawn style was simple yet profoundly effective. The video helped Dropbox grow from 0 to millions of users.
Animation Style: Sketch-style 2D animation
Studio Behind It: Common Craft
Impact: Increased conversions by over 10%
This was a pivotal moment that inspired the biggest animation companies to start offering animated explainer videos services.
2. Spotify “What’s Spotify?”
Why It Stands Out: Spotify used colorful 2D animation to visually represent sound, playlists, and moods. The transitions were seamless, and the rhythm perfectly matched the music-first brand.
Animation Style: Flat design with high-motion dynamics
Key Feature: Strong brand identity integration
This video proved how powerful logo animation services and branding could be when incorporated into 2D animation.
3. Slack “So Yeah, We Tried Slack…”
Why It Stands Out: This explainer video tells a relatable office story while explaining Slack’s benefits. It’s witty, fast-paced, and blends humor with storytelling perfectly.
Animation Style: Clean, flat 2D style
Studio Behind It: Giant Ant (one of the best 2D animation studios for explainer videos)
It’s a textbook example of how to create connection through storytelling—something even the biggest animation companies aim to emulate.
Why These Videos Go Viral: A Breakdown
Let’s analyze what makes these videos so compelling and what we can learn from them.
1. Storytelling Over Selling
Instead of hard-selling features, these videos use storytelling to show benefits in context. Dropbox didn’t talk about storage limits; it talked about simplifying file sharing.
2. Animation That Reinforces the Message
Whether it’s the scribble style of Dropbox or the music-infused visuals of Spotify, the animation isn't just pretty—it’s functional. This is where animated explainer videos services bring true value.
3. Cohesive Branding
From voiceovers to logo animation services, these videos maintain brand consistency. Spotify’s logo animation, for example, is seamlessly integrated into the final scene.
The Studios Behind the Best: Who’s Really Leading?
Behind every unforgettable 2D animation explainer video is a studio or team that understands both art and marketing. Here are some of the best 2D animation studios for explainer videos that consistently produce top-tier content.
1. Giant Ant
Location: Canada
Notable Works: Slack, Airbnb
Strengths: Emotionally intelligent storytelling and crisp visuals
2. Epipheo
Location: USA
Known For: Simplifying complex tech products
Signature Style: Whiteboard animation, educational tone
3. Yum Yum Videos
Location: Argentina
Client Base: Google, Amazon, Walmart
Standout Feature: Vibrant characters, playful storytelling
These studios have earned their place among the biggest animation companies in the 2D explainer video niche, not because of size, but due to consistent creative excellence.
The Role of Logo Animation Services
Many overlook this, but logo animation services play a vital supporting role in explainer videos. A static logo can’t capture attention like a dynamic, animated one.
In the context of an explainer video, animated logos serve as:
Visual Signature: Reinforcing brand memory
Transition Tools: Used creatively between scenes
Closure: An animated logo at the end wraps up the message with impact
Many of the best videos we’ve listed (Spotify, Slack, Dropbox) use this tactic subtly yet effectively.
Honorable Mentions: Other Noteworthy 2D Explainers
These might not be the “absolute best” but deserve a spotlight:
1. Mint.com
Before acquisition by Intuit, Mint’s animated explainer helped them skyrocket sign-ups. The video uses smart metaphors and visual economy.
2. Crazy Egg
Their 2D animation explainer resulted in a $21,000/month increase in revenue. Proof that animated explainer videos services deliver ROI.
3. Google Chrome “Now, Every Tab is a Superhero”
This quirky animation gave a technical browser update a fun twist. Not a traditional explainer, but one that used 2D animation innovatively.
What to Look for When Choosing a 2D Animation Studio
If you’re a business owner or marketer inspired by these videos and thinking of creating your own, here’s what to look for in the best 2D animation studios for explainer videos:
Portfolio Depth: Look beyond quantity—focus on versatility and style.
Storytelling Ability: Can they turn your boring concept into an exciting narrative?
Design Philosophy: Does it align with your brand?
Service Add-ons: Do they also offer logo animation services, voiceovers, music, etc.?
Bonus Tip: Some of the biggest animation companies often subcontract to boutique studios. So don’t let size be the only deciding factor—creative quality is what matters most.
Where Is the Industry Heading?
The future of 2D explainer videos lies in:
Interactive Explainers: Clickable segments and branching narratives
AI-assisted Animation: Faster turnarounds, more customization
Brand-Focused Microvideos: 15-30 second explainers with embedded logo animation services
Many of the biggest animation companies are investing heavily in 2D animation again due to its scalability and mobile-friendliness—proving that this format isn’t just surviving; it’s thriving.
Cast Your Vote: What’s YOUR Favorite?
We’ve covered iconic examples, dissected their magic, and praised the best 2D animation studios for explainer videos—but now it’s your turn. What’s the best 2D animation explainer video you’ve ever seen?
Maybe it was the witty Slack video, or perhaps a lesser-known gem from an indie app launch. Share your pick in the comments and tell us what made it stand out.
Conclusion
2D animated explainer videos have evolved into much more than simple visual aids. They are now powerful brand ambassadors, storytellers, and conversion tools. Whether you're working with the biggest animation companies or boutique studios, the goal is the same—clarity, engagement, and storytelling.
And if you're considering producing your own video, remember to partner with the best 2D animation studios for explainer videos—those who also offer complementary services like logo animation services and understand the pulse of digital communication.
So, let’s keep the conversation going—what’s the best 2D animation explainer video you’ve ever seen? Vote, comment, and let the creativity flow!
