5 SaaS Explainer Videos That Convert (And Why They Work)
Explainer videos aren’t just another box to check in your SaaS marketing strategy—they’re a tool to clarify, persuade, and convert. When done right, they don’t just tell your story; they resonate, educate, and drive action.
In this post, we’ll break down five types of SaaS explainer videos that have proven to drive conversions, explain why they work, and offer tips for making them work for you.
1. The Problem-Solution Video
Why It Works:
Customers buy solutions, not products. A problem-solution explainer video hooks the audience by addressing a pain point they’re actively trying to solve, then demonstrates how your SaaS product is the answer.
Example:
Slack’s early explainer videos didn’t just show off features—they illustrated how teams struggled with communication and how Slack could streamline their workflow.
Key Tip:
Keep it simple and relatable. Open with a common frustration your audience experiences, and lead directly into how your SaaS offers an intuitive fix.
2. The Product Demo Video
Why It Works:
Sometimes, seeing is believing. A product demo video shows potential customers exactly how your software works, highlighting key features and usability.
Example:
HubSpot’s demo videos use real-time screen recordings to guide viewers through the platform, breaking complex tools into digestible steps.
Key Tip:
Focus on the “aha!” moments—those standout features that make your product indispensable. Show how they’ll make your customers’ lives easier.
3. The Customer Testimonial Video
Why It Works:
Social proof is powerful. A testimonial video featuring real customers builds trust and shows prospects the tangible results others have achieved with your product.
Example:
Zendesk’s testimonial videos spotlight customer success stories, demonstrating ROI and building credibility with relatable narratives.
Key Tip:
Choose customers who represent your target audience. Let them speak authentically about their experience and how your SaaS addressed their unique needs.
4. The “How It Works” Video
Why It Works:
For SaaS products with more complex functionality, a “How It Works” video offers clarity. It walks viewers through the platform, answering questions they might not even know they have.
Example:
Dropbox’s explainer video famously broke down the concept of cloud storage in an easy-to-understand way, using simple animations and clear messaging.
Key Tip:
Use visuals to simplify complex ideas. Animation, diagrams, or screen recordings can make even the most technical features feel approachable.
5. The Case Study Video
Why It Works:
Case study videos combine storytelling with data. They showcase how your SaaS solved a real problem, backing it up with measurable results.
Example:
Asana’s case study videos feature teams explaining how the platform transformed their workflows, supported by metrics like time saved or productivity gained.
Key Tip:
Focus on impact. Highlight before-and-after scenarios and use metrics to prove your value.
What Makes These Videos Convert?
While each type of explainer video serves a different purpose, they all share key ingredients for driving conversions:
Clarity: They communicate the value of your product in a way that’s easy to understand.
Relevance: They address your audience’s specific needs or pain points.
Engagement: They’re visually compelling, keeping viewers hooked from start to finish.
Get Started with High-Converting Explainer Videos
You don’t need to reinvent the wheel—just focus on creating videos that resonate with your audience and communicate your value clearly.
Ready to elevate your SaaS marketing? Let us create five tailored explainer video concepts that guide leads through every stage of the funnel—and the best part? It’s completely free.
