Explainer videos are the fastest way to turn complex ideas into clear messages that sell, educate, and train. AI has eliminated much of the manual work: today, you can ideate, script, produce, and publish in hours, not weeks. In this guide, you’ll learn how to create explainer videos with AI step by step, which free tools to use, and how to scale results without sacrificing brand quality.
An AI-powered explainer video is an audiovisual piece where generative algorithms create and/or assist with scripting, voice, editing, animation, avatars, and distribution.
Key differences vs. traditional videos:
Applications: education (microlearning), marketing (landing pages and ads), internal training (onboarding, SOPs), post-sales (tutorials, FAQs).
Main Advantages
Drawbacks to Consider
Below are options with free plans or trial versions. The focus is on ease of use and AI capabilities.
| Tool | Best For | Key AI Features | Ideal For | Free Plan |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CapCut | Fast editing + social media | Basic avatars, transcription, auto-subtitles | Creators and social ads | Yes |
| Canva | Templates + branding | Script rewriting, auto beat sync, simple VO | Marketing and non-technical teams | Yes |
| InVideo | Script → video in 1 step | Script generation, AI voices, stock footage | Fast multi-format explainers | Yes |
| Animaker | Intuitive animation | Characters, lip-sync, motion templates | Education and training | Yes |
| Renderforest | Multi-purpose | Styles, AI intros/outros, branding tools | SMEs seeking consistent branding | Yes |
| Others (no sign-up) | Start right away | Basic text-to-video generators | Quick tests and prototypes | Some |
1. CapCut
Basic AI avatars + intuitive editing.
Automatic subtitles/audio cleanup.
HD export tailored for social media.
2. Canva
3. InVideo
Script generation + AI voices + stock library.
“Text to video” flows in minutes.
Great starting point for explainers.
4. Animaker
Simple 2D/3D animations with characters.
Lip-sync and modular scenes.
Perfect for education and onboarding.
5. Renderforest
Wide range of styles (explainer, logo reveals, presentations).
Easy to keep branding unified.
Exports in multiple formats.
6. Other Options Without Sign-Up
Basic online generators (text → slides with voice).
Useful for prototyping ideas without creating an account.
1. Define Objective and Audience
Objective: awareness, product demo, onboarding, support.
Audience: knowledge level, objections, usage context.
2. Write the Script or Use an AI Script Generator
Structure: Hook → Problem → Solution → Benefits → CTA.
Ask AI for: 120–180 seconds (1:30–3:00), clear language, real example.
3. Choose the Tool and Template
If speed is the priority: InVideo/CapCut.
If branding matters: Canva/Renderforest.
For educational animation: Animaker.
4. Create or Choose Talking Avatars
Choose an avatar that fits your brand (age/style/clothing).
Avoid the uncanny valley: consistent lighting and setting.
5. Adjust Synthetic Voices and Music
Voice: language, accent, tone (educational/professional/friendly).
Music: lower volume to 8–12% and match the script’s rhythm.
6. Add Effects and Branding
Brand colors, fonts, lower-thirds, logo watermark.
Highlight CTA with micro-animations and subtle arrows.
7. Export and Publish in Multiple Formats
Horizontal (YouTube/web), square (feeds), vertical (Reels/Shorts).
Upload subtitles (.srt) and test different thumbnails.
1. Choose Visual Style
Minimalist/tech/illustrated based on your identity. Consistency > flashy effects.
2. Adjust Tone and Accent
Define emotion (calm/enthusiastic/expert) and accent for your market.
3. Lip-Sync Accuracy
Check lip-sync; re-render if noticeably off.
Break script into short sentences to improve sync.
4. Add Branded Elements
Color palette, fonts, product UI, and real examples.
1. Data Verification
Double-check stats/claims; link sources in the description.
2. Use Royalty-Free Assets
Use clearly licensed libraries; keep proof of usage.
3. Diversity and Representation
Be inclusive with avatars, examples, and scenarios.
4. Be Transparent With Your Audience
Build trust when helpful: “Video generated with AI support."
1. A/B Variant Creation
Change hook, CTA, thumbnail, and length.
Test 3 variables—one at a time.
2. CRM Workflow Automation
Trigger videos by event (signup, onboarding, cart).
Darwin AI connects your CRM and channels for smart sequences.
3. Key Retention Metrics
View-through rate (VTR), % watched at 30/60/90 seconds.
Click-through rate on-video CTA and post-click (landing page).
Comments and replies (engagement quality).
4. Data-Based Iteration
Adjust script and pacing based on drop-off points.
Double down on what retains viewers; cut the “filler”.
Retail: product demos, size comparisons, care/instructions, coupon CTAs.
Education: micro-courses, LMS onboarding, unit recaps, FAQs.
Real Estate: property tours, financing explanations, neighborhoods and amenities.
Automotive: model features, preventive maintenance, financing plans.
How Darwin AI helps: captures leads directly from the video (WhatsApp/IG), qualifies them, schedules demos, and nurtures with personalized sequences.
Creating the video is only half the journey—automating its distribution and follow-up is where the ROI happens.
With Darwin AI, you can:
Send the right video to the right lead (CRM + WhatsApp/Instagram).
Answer questions in real time with digital agents.
Track from first click to sale and auto-optimize messaging.
👉 Explore advanced automation with Darwin AI: https://app.getdarwin.ai/signup
Can I create AI videos completely free and without limits?
Most tools offer free plans with limits (duration, watermark, quality). For serious projects, consider basic paid plans.
What’s the difference between an AI video generator and a traditional video creator?
AI automates script, voice, avatar, and editing; traditional approaches rely on manual production and editing.
How can I integrate AI explainer videos with WhatsApp or Instagram?
Export in short/vertical format, upload natively, or use integrations to publish and trigger sequences from your CRM.