The Best Video Ads Examples to Inspire You in 2026

Most video ads don’t just get skipped—they fail to generate any real business impact. Over the years, hundreds of marketing leaders have come to us frustrated after spending $30,000–$80,000 on a video ad or videography ad that looked beautiful but delivered zero measurable results. The truth is simple: videos for advertising only work when strategy and storytelling lead the process.

At Yum Yum Videos, we’ve produced more than 1,000 video ads, video production ads, explainer videos, and commercial campaigns for brands in SaaS, Healthcare, Biotech, Financial Services, and beyond—including companies like Amazon, McKesson and Thermo Fisher Scientific. all those projects, we’ve identified the exact patterns that separate great video ads from the ads for videos that end up wasting budget. And the results are measurable: our work has supported a $6.4B IPO, helped companies scale past $3.5B valuations, contributed to multimillion-dollar fundraising rounds, increased sales, and improved conversion rates across entire funnel stages (you’ll see specific, verifiable examples in the sections below).

In this guide, we break down the best video ads examples of 2026, the creative decisions behind each video advertisement, and the strategic frameworks we use to create ad videos that actually convert. Whether you’re planning a commercial, a social-first campaign, or an explainer-style video ad to simplify a complex product, this guide will show you what truly works in modern video advertising—and how to maximize every dollar you invest.

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Top 15 Best Video Ads Examples of 2026

Below you’ll find some of the best video ads examples of recent years — a mix of animated pieces, emotional storytelling, iconic commercials, and high-performing campaigns. We begin with three real Yum Yum Videos success stories, because nothing proves the impact of a great video ad like measurable business results.

These first three examples demonstrate how a strategic video advertisement can increase conversions, improve clarity, support fundraising, and even play a role in billion-dollar valuation milestones.

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1) Accelerant – by Yum Yum Videos (Supported $1B+ in Funding and a $6.4B IPO)

Accelerant is one of the fastest-growing insurtechs in the world — but their model is complex, technical, and difficult to explain quickly. Yum Yum Videos produced nine explainer-style video ads to simplify their value proposition for investors, partners, brokers, and clients across the U.S. and Europe.

Why this video ad works

• Transforms complex insurtech concepts into simple visual stories

• Clean motion design that reinforces trust and sophistication

• Perfect example of videos for advertising in Financial + Insurtech markets

• Clear pacing ideal for fundraising, onboarding, and partner enablement

Impact

Our videos supported a period of exponential growth:

• $190M raised in 2022 at a $2B valuation

• $150M raised in 2023 at a $2.4B valuation

• $724M raised during the 2025 IPO at a $6.4B valuation, with a 36% surge on day one

In total, Accelerant raised over $1B while scaling into a global insurtech leader — and our videos became core communication assets featured in investor decks, partner presentations, and even global media coverage including Reuters, and the Wall Street Journal.

This is a prime ads example of how strategic video production ads can materially support a company’s growth story.

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2) Chargebee – by Yum Yum Videos (Supported Their $230M+ Funding Journey to a $3.5B Valuation)

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Chargebee operates in one of the most competitive SaaS categories—subscription billing and revenue operations. Between early 2020 and 2021, we produced three explainer-style video ads to clarify their highly technical product for CFOs, CEOs, product teams, and investors.

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Why this video advertisement stands out

• Breaks down complex RevOps and billing workflows

• Strong contrast between “manual chaos” vs. “automation clarity”

• Modern SaaS look perfect for ads for videos on LinkedIn, YouTube, or product pages

• Friendly but authoritative tone that resonates with technical and executive audiences

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Impact

Our videos supported Chargebee through critical hyper-growth moments:

• $55M Series F (2020) — accelerated global expansion

• $125M Series G (2021) — reached unicorn status at $1.4B

• $250M follow-on funding (2022) — scaled to a $3.5B valuation

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Chargebee’s videos gathered 265K+ YouTube views, became central to their marketing and sales enablement, and were used across major tech coverage in TechCrunch, Bloomberg, Reuters, and Crunchbase News.

One of the clearest real-world proofs of how a well-crafted video ad can change how a market understands a product.

3) McGraw Hill – by Yum Yum Videos (Supporting +7.2% YoY Digital Growth & 95% Instructor Adoption)

Yum Yum Videos created three explainer-style video ads for McGraw Hill to support the company’s digital transformation across GO, Sharpen, and the Evergreen delivery model. These videos were embedded directly on official product pages, used in onboarding flows, and shared across institutional channels.

Why this video ad works

• Turns complex digital-learning platforms into simple, accessible stories

• Clean, modern motion design aligned with academic audiences

• Ideal video advertisement format for onboarding, awareness, and product education

• Great ads example of how to communicate platform features without overwhelming viewers

Impact

Our video series coincided with strong digital performance at McGraw Hill:

• +7.2% YoY digital revenue growth

• Digital products reached 61% of total revenue

• 95% instructor adoption of the Evergreen model for instructors using Connect

• Three platform videos embedded across official product pages (GO, Sharpen, Evergreen)

The videos helped educators and students understand how the new platforms worked, supported migration from print to digital, and reduced friction in onboarding and product adoption.

A powerful demonstration of how strategic video production ads and videos for advertising can drive clarity, adoption, and engagement within large education ecosystems.

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4) Airbnb – Advertisement Video Example

This video advertising example by Airbnb stands out for both its creativity and stunning visual quality.

With smooth 3D animation, clever transitions, and a charming dollhouse aesthetic, the ad immediately grabs attention. But what truly elevates it is its use of thoughtful sound design. Instead of relying on voiceover, the video contrasts the chaos of hotel stays with the serenity of Airbnb experiences—purely through visual storytelling and immersive audio cues.

It’s a unique advertisement video that’s not only memorable, but instantly recognizable, even if you’re not actively watching.

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5) Dumb Ways to Die – Video Ad Example

Let’s go with a classic. This video advertising example became a viral sensation like few others—and it all started as a safety campaign for the Melbourne Metro.

With over 333 million views, “Dumb Ways to Die” combined dark humor, catchy music, and charming animation to deliver an unforgettable message about train safety. The campaign’s massive success even led to a YouTube series and a mobile game.

A legendary advertisement video that proves how powerful and unexpected great video ads can be.

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6) Volkswagen – “The Force” Super Bowl Ad

This video advertising example became a viral hit even before it aired on TV. Featuring an adorable kid in a Darth Vader costume trying to summon the Force, the ad blends humor, pop culture, and emotion in a way that instantly resonated with viewers.

What makes it even more impressive is that Volkswagen took a bold risk by releasing this advertisement video online ahead of the Super Bowl—a move that paid off big time, earning over 17 million views before the game even started.

It’s one of the most iconic video ads examples, proving that creativity and timing can outshine even the biggest media budgets.

7) Coca-Cola – “Happiness Factory” – Video Advertising Example

Coca-Cola is no stranger to iconic advertisement videos, and Happiness Factory is one of their most imaginative campaigns to date.

This video advertising example takes viewers on a whimsical journey inside a vending machine, revealing a fantastical world where Coca-Cola is magically produced. The choice of 3D animation enhances the sense of wonder, making the experience both memorable and visually delightful.

A perfect blend of video storytelling, animation, and brand identity—this is a video ad that truly sticks with you

8) Chipotle – Video Ad Example

This beautifully crafted video advertising example tells the story of a farmer who gradually turns his small family farm into a large-scale industrial operation—only to realize he’s lost touch with what truly matters.

Commissioned by Chipotle, the ad delivers a powerful message about the importance of sustainability in the food industry. The emotional weight of the story is amplified by Willie Nelson’s cover of Coldplay’s “The Scientist,” which plays throughout the animation and became a central part of the campaign’s impact.

More than just an advertisement video, it helped position Chipotle as a brand with purpose, using storytelling and music to advocate for change in how food is grown and consumed.

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9) Sony Bravia – “Balls”

Thousands of colorful balls bouncing down the hills of San Francisco might not sound like much—until you see it. This video ad example by Sony Bravia turns a simple concept into a mesmerizing visual experience that became an instant classic.

Set to a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, the ad is more than just a way to show off color fidelity—it’s two and a half minutes of pure visual poetry that made viewers stop and watch, whether or not they cared about TVs.

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10) Taco Bell – “Web of Fries” (Video Ad Example)

This cinematic video ad from Taco Bell turns a simple question—“Why don’t they serve fries?”—into a full-blown conspiracy thriller. Starring Josh Duhamel, the ad dives into a darkly humorous world where “Big Fries” will do anything to protect their turf.

With slick production, suspenseful pacing, and a clear wink at movie tropes, this video advertising example manages to introduce a new menu item in a way that’s bold, unexpected, and unforgettable.

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11) McDonald’s Japan – Anime Family Video Ad Example

This heartwarming video ad from McDonald’s Japan became a viral hit thanks to its unique approach: no dialogue, no flashy visuals—just a beautifully animated family sharing a quiet meal together.

Styled like a slice-of-life anime, the ad captures a sense of everyday warmth and connection that struck a chord with viewers around the world. Its subtle storytelling and Studio Ghibli-inspired look made it stand out from typical fast food campaigns.

A great video advertising example of how simplicity, emotion, and style can turn a short spot into something unforgettable.

12) TWIX – “Camping” – Advertisement Video Example

This video advertising example takes a darkly funny twist on a timeless debate: which side of the Twix bar is better? Set during a tense camping moment, the ad leans into offbeat humor to keep viewers both uncomfortable and entertained.

By the end, the message is clear—left or right, every bite is crunchy and delicious. It’s a clever video ad that proves how unexpected humor can make even the simplest product unforgettable.

13) Google – “Home Alone Again”

And we’ll wrap things up with this nostalgic video ad from Google—because what better way to end than with a classic reboot?

In this clever video advertising example, Macaulay Culkin returns as a grown-up Kevin from Home Alone, reenacting scenes from the iconic film—but this time with the help of Google Assistant. From ordering aftershave to setting up traps, everything is just a voice command away.

It’s a fun, feel-good ad that blends ‘90s nostalgia with smart product placement, and it’s no surprise it became one of Google’s most popular ads to date.

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14) Samsung – “Rear Window” (Video Ad Example)

This creative video ad from Samsung tells an unexpected and emotional story: a small city spider becomes fascinated with the Galaxy S22 Ultra’s multi-lens camera, seeing it as a reflection of itself. The ad blends humor, charm, and product storytelling without relying on technical explanations.

Why it works:
A simple, character-driven idea that highlights the phone’s camera in a memorable, non-traditional way — a great video advertisement that resonates without needing a hard sell.

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15) Volvo Trucks – “Epic Split” (Video Ad Example)

This iconic video ad from Volvo Trucks features Jean-Claude Van Damme performing his legendary “Epic Split” between two reversing trucks. With almost no dialogue and Enya’s calm soundtrack, the spot demonstrates the precision and stability of Volvo’s engineering in a visually unforgettable way.

Why it works:
Minimalist, bold, and instantly memorable — one of the strongest ads examples in B2B advertising, proving that a single striking visual can communicate more than any technical description.

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What Makes a Great Video Ad in 2026

Creating a great video ad in 2026 is no longer about flashy visuals or big production budgets. The best-performing video ads are built on clarity, narrative, and platform-specific execution. A successful video advertisement must communicate a single idea in seconds, deliver emotional or strategic value, and guide the viewer toward understanding or action.

The most effective video ads share several traits. They open with an instant hook that captures attention before the viewer has a chance to scroll away. They simplify complex ideas through visual metaphors, animation, or tightly written scripting. They adapt pacing, framing, and message to the platform, whether it’s YouTube, TikTok, LinkedIn, or a programmatic placement. And above all, they lead with story, not features, making the ad video feel purposeful rather than promotional.

In the examples above, you’ll see how ads for videos succeed when the creative direction aligns with audience psychology, brand identity, and clear communication. Whether you use animation, mixed media, or live action, great video ads are built on the same foundation: clarity, relevance, and emotional impact.

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Why Yum Yum Videos (Real Results, Not Just Great Production)

Yum Yum Videos is not just a studio that creates beautiful videos. We create strategic video ads designed to deliver clarity, conversion, and measurable business outcomes. With more than 1,000 productions across SaaS, healthcare, biotech, financial services, and enterprise markets, our focus has always been the same: storytelling that supports real growth.

Our work has helped companies raise over $1B in total funding, supported IPO-stage communication, and helped global brands scale adoption across complex products and digital platforms. Companies like MedVector, BrightInsight, and Sintavia have used our videos to clarify their value propositions for investors, enterprise buyers, and partners.

This is the advantage of choosing a partner that specializes in high-performance video advertisement and video production ads: every script, frame, and transition is built to simplify complex products, reduce friction in the buying or onboarding process, and move audiences to action. Instead of producing disposable content, we help brands build long-lasting communication assets that support awareness, sales, fundraising, and retention.

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FAQs About Video Ads

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What makes a video ad effective in 2026?

The most effective video ads combine a strong narrative hook, fast delivery of the core idea, platform-specific pacing, and visuals that reinforce clarity rather than overwhelm it. Great video ads communicate a single message quickly and use storytelling to keep viewers engaged, even in scroll-heavy environments.

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How long should a video ad be?

Most high-performing video advertisements run between 15 and 60 seconds, depending on the platform. Short formats work well for TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts, while 30–60 second ads for videos perform strongly on YouTube, LinkedIn, and paid campaigns that require a bit more storytelling.

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Are animated video ads better than live action?

Both formats can be effective. Animation excels at simplifying complex products, SaaS platforms, and abstract services, making it ideal for explainer-style video production ads. Live action can be more emotional or cinematic. The right choice depends on the message, audience, and distribution channel.

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How much does a video ad typically cost?

The cost of a video ad depends on length, style, and production complexity.
Here are the typical U.S. market ranges for 2024–2026:

2D Animation (professional-quality):
Usually $7,000–$20,000 per minute, depending on illustration detail, motion graphics, revisions, and scripting.

Advanced Motion Graphics / Mixed Media / High-Complexity Work:
Often $50,000–$100,000+ per minute, especially for multi-layered animation, advanced compositing, or broadcast-level ads.

3D Animation:
Can exceed $30,000–$150,000+ per minute, depending on modeling, texturing, character work, simulations, and rendering requirements.

Live Action Commercials:
Typically start around $25,000 for smaller productions, while campaigns with multi-location shoots, actors, large crews, and high-end cinematography can reach six-figure budgets or more.

Overall, the right budget depends on scope, creative complexity, and distribution strategy. A video ad should align with measurable goals—such as clarity, conversion, onboarding, or awareness—and not just production value.

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Where should brands run their video ads?

Distribution depends on the audience. YouTube, TikTok, Meta, and LinkedIn remain strong channels for reach and conversion. For B2B companies, LinkedIn and YouTube ads are particularly effective. For B2C, TikTok, Meta, and YouTube drive strong engagement. The best-performing campaigns adapt the ad video to each platform’s format.

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How do you measure the success of a video advertisement?

Performance can be tracked through engagement metrics (view-through rate, watch time), conversion metrics (sign-ups, demo requests, purchases), and qualitative results (clarity, reduced sales friction, improved onboarding). The best ads example cases combine both qualitative and quantitative signals to demonstrate real impact.

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Final Thoughts

The landscape of video advertising continues to evolve, but one principle remains constant: great video ads succeed when they combine clarity, storytelling, and strategic execution. Whether you’re launching a complex SaaS platform, introducing a healthcare innovation, or creating brand awareness at scale, the right video advertisement can simplify your message, reduce friction, and move audiences from interest to action.

The examples in this guide show how powerful video production ads can be when grounded in a clear narrative and designed for the channels where people actually watch. They also show the impact that strategic videos can have across the entire customer journey—from fundraising and prospect education to onboarding and long-term engagement.

If you’re planning your next ad video or exploring new ways to communicate a complex idea, investing in a well-crafted video is one of the most effective ways to strengthen your brand and drive measurable results. With the right partners, your message can become not just more visible, but more understandable, memorable, and persuasive.

Ready to create a video ad that truly performs? Let’s build it together.