Quick answer: Explainer video voice-overs run at 130 to 150 words per minute. That means a 30 second video fits about 65 to 75 words, a 60 second video fits 130 to 150 words, and a 90 second video fits around 200 to 225 words. Write your script to these limits first, because every explainer that feels rushed started as a script that was too long.
How many words per minute should an explainer video script have?
The comfortable narration pace for explainer videos is 140 words per minute. Slower than 120 feels sleepy; faster than 160 feels like a disclaimer. Energetic launch videos can push to 150 to 160 words per minute for short bursts, but comprehension drops if the whole script runs that fast, especially for technical SaaS products.
Word counts by video length
Use these targets when drafting: 15 seconds, 30 to 38 words. 30 seconds, 65 to 75 words. 45 seconds, 100 to 110 words. 60 seconds, 130 to 150 words. 90 seconds, 200 to 225 words. 120 seconds, 260 to 300 words. These numbers assume a couple of natural pauses; if your video has moments where the product should speak for itself, subtract 10 to 15 words per pause.
Why pacing matters more than length
Viewers do not abandon videos because they are long; they abandon them because they are dense. A 90 second video with room to breathe outperforms a 60 second video where every frame is packed. Leave half a second after key claims, let numbers sit on screen, and give the call to action its own quiet moment at the end.
How to cut a script that is too long
Cut in this order. First, remove every sentence that describes your company instead of the viewer problem. Second, replace feature lists with the single outcome the features produce. Third, delete adjectives; the visuals carry emotion better than words. A 200 word draft usually contains a 130 word script that converts better.
Does reading speed change for different platforms?
Yes. Website hero videos can hold 140 words per minute because viewers chose to press play. Paid social ads should run leaner, closer to 110 to 120 words per minute equivalent, with bigger on-screen text, because most people watch muted. That is why we deliver separate ad cuts with heavier captions in every package.
Frequently asked questions
How long should an explainer video be overall?
60 to 90 seconds for most SaaS products. See our full data-backed guide on explainer video length in the Learning hub.
Should I write the script or the visuals first?
Script first. Voice-over timing defines every scene length, which is why script approval is stage one of our 5-stage process.
Do you write the script for us?
Yes. Script writing is included in every Motion Graphix project, and you approve it before animation starts.
Motion Graphix is a SaaS explainer video production studio that turns software products into clear, high-converting videos. Get a free 10 to 15 second sample before you commit.
