B2B Video Costs: What You’re Really Paying For

Video production costs can vary wildly... as you probably know.

However once you understand what the video is meant to achieve, the numbers suddenly make sense. This isn’t about hunting for the “cheapest rate.”

It’s about matching ambition with the right level of craft.

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Here’s what real-world budgets look like:

• AI-generated video: from $5,000
• 60-sec animation: $1,000–10,000+
• 2–3 min explainers: on average $3,000 per min (premium 3D styles from $8,000+/min)
• Live-action: polished, high-impact work typically starts around $15,000, with most strong B2B projects landing in the $50,000 range, and premium builds going far beyond.

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‍What drives the cost?

• Your brand’s size & expectations: Big brands often expect flawless execution, so contingency planning, higher fees and premium quality add cost. 

• Quality level: Better visuals = more time, more experienced crew, more cost.

• Schedule & time: Rush jobs cost more. Longer lead‑time = better value. 

• Crew, talent & rights: More people, higher profiles, more rights = higher budget.

• Equipment, locations, set design: Premium shoots include expensive gear, detailed sets, exotic locations.

• Post‑production: Editing, colour‑grading, effects, sound design - all add up.

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How to talk budget like a pro:

• Start with the business goal (awareness, leads, product education, social ads, etc.)
• Be upfront about the range, vendors can then propose smarter solutions
• Invest in pre-production to avoid expensive surprises
• Focus your message and audience
• Consider internal capability for long-term efficiency

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‍👉 Read the full cost breakdown

Walk into your next budget meeting with clear ranges, strategic reasoning, and a reuse plan... and leadership will see you as someone who’s not guessing, but steering.