How Much Does a 3D Animation Cost? Pricing for 3D Product Videos

Price is often one of the first questions. But how expensive are 3D animated product films really? We break it down – with the most important cost factors and a concrete price range from our own projects.

How much does a 3D animation cost? The key cost factors

1. Complexity of the video

One of the most important factors is complexity. The more complex the ideas for a film, the greater the effort. If characters need to be animated, costs can rise quickly – especially when fine motor animations are required.

Simple character animations can be purchased from generic libraries and (at least with us) don't add much cost. We can also use AI video mocap to recreate animations from filmed movements. You can see how this works in practice in our article on industrial animation with ActorCore, iClone and Blender.

2. Length of the video

It's also clear that a 3-minute film costs more than a 90-second one. More runtime means more scenes, and therefore more work and rendering time. A classic runtime that can communicate even complex topics clearly is usually 60 to 90 seconds.

3. Existing CAD data

Next, the prerequisites need to be clarified. If the 3D CAD model can be provided, the product doesn't need to be modeled from scratch – which saves a considerable amount of money. Most companies already have this data; all that's left is to arrange the data transfer.

We usually work with STEP files, as most CAD programs can export them and they import into Blender without any problems. Learn more in From STEP file to 3D video and our guide on importing CAD files into Blender.

4. Clarity of the idea

The same applies to the idea: the clearer the vision, the less work has to go into the storyboard. Ideally, prepare a rough script draft before approaching an animation studio.

Based on such a draft, we at Immersive Animation can already prepare a very accurate quote, because we know in advance how long and complex the film will be. The draft then serves as the basis for our storyboard: the client provides the technical expertise, we combine it with our creativity – and the result is the finished storyboard. We describe this process in From storyboard to finished 3D animation.

The typical case: the scope we see in 80% of projects

Once all of this is clarified, around 80% of projects end up with the following scope:

• 60–90-second animated film (e.g. a product explainer)
• Generic character animations
• STEP file available
• Script draft available as the basis for the storyboard

Price range: EUR 6,000 to 9,000 (net) for a 3D product video

A rough price range for these cases is usually EUR 6,000 to 9,000 net (plus VAT where applicable). This covers everything from the idea and script draft to the storyboard and the finished product film. Renderings (images) and short reels can also be delivered from the film.

The exact amount depends on the individual project and can vary up or down – depending, for example, on how complex the script is.

Frequently asked questions about 3D animation costs

How much does a 60–90-second 3D product video cost?

In most cases, the price range is EUR 6,000 to 9,000 net – provided that CAD data and a rough script draft are available.

Do existing CAD files reduce the cost?

Yes. If the 3D model already exists, the product doesn't need to be modeled. This significantly reduces the effort.

Which file format is needed for a 3D animation?

STEP files are ideal. They can be exported from most CAD programs and processed without any problems.

What is included in the price?

Everything from the idea, script and storyboard to the finished product film. Renderings and short reels can also be delivered from the film.

Are character animations expensive?

Generic character animations from libraries or via AI video mocap are comparatively affordable. Fine motor animations are what make it more complex and therefore more expensive.

Free price check for your project

For an accurate assessment of your project, you can request our free price check for your individual project. Get an impression of our work on our homepage.