App Walkthrough Video For SAAS: Full Guide

The Problem

Let’s be honest—no one wants to read a giant help article when they’re trying to figure out how to use your app. And they definitely don’t want to click around aimlessly, wondering where the magic “aha” moment is hiding. That’s where a solid, well-thought-out app walkthrough video can step in and save the day. Or better yet—turn a confused user into a confident, paying customer.

If you’re building a SaaS product and haven’t invested in a proper walkthrough video yet… this is your sign. Let’s talk about why these videos services matter, what they should include, and how to make one that doesn’t just explain your app, but actually excites people about using it.

Why Walkthrough Videos Matter (More Than You Think)

Your onboarding flow might be smooth, your UX might be tight, but there’s something about watching how something works that just clicks differently.

• People retain 90% of what they see in a video versus only 10% of what they read.

• A walkthrough video doesn’t just explain features—it shows value in action.

• It builds trust. If users can see how to use your tool, they’re more likely to feel like they can use your tool.

But here’s the catch: Not all walkthroughs are created equal. Some are just dry screen recordings with robotic voiceovers. Others are too salesy, like they're trying to sell you a timeshare. The sweet spot is somewhere in the middle—clear, honest, visually clean, and just the right amount of personality.

What a Good Walkthrough Video Actually Includes

You don’t need explosions or a celebrity cameo. But you do need a few key things locked down:

✅ A Quick Hook (First 5–10 Seconds)

People decide within seconds if a video is worth watching. Start with a real-world scenario or a clear benefit.

“Here’s how you can go from a blank workspace to publishing your first report in under 3 minutes.”

✅ Clear Voice & Simple Language

Skip the buzzwords. Imagine you’re explaining the app to your smart but sleepy friend over coffee.

✅ Real Navigation, Not Just Feature Dumps

Don’t just show buttons—use the product like a real person would. Take them on a journey:

1. Create a project

2. Add data

3. Share it with someone

4. See the result
   Each step should feel like a natural next move.

✅ Clean Visuals, Clean UI

If your interface is already clean, keep it that way. Zoom in on details, highlight actions, but don’t overdo the effects. Think helpful, not Las Vegas.

✅ Background Music (Optional, but Don’t Make It Weird)

A light, neutral background track can help keep things flowing. Just make sure it doesn’t sound like a video game loading screen.

✅ Call to Action at the End

Wrap it up with something useful.

“Now that you’ve seen how it works, try it yourself. The first project’s on us.”
Or,
“Want a deeper dive? Check out our full demo video below.”

• In drip email campaigns to nudge trial users

• On social or in pitch decks to show the product instead of just talking about it

Final Word: Don’t Just Tell, Show

Your app might be brilliant, but if people don’t understand how to use it quickly and clearly, they’ll bounce. A walkthrough video is one of the most powerful tools in your entire SaaS marketing and onboarding toolkit—and yet, so many people treat it like an afterthought.

So don’t rush it. Don’t phone it in. Treat your walkthrough like a conversation, not a presentation. Keep it sharp, human, and helpful—and your users will thank you for it.

How Long Should It Be?

Short answer: as short as possible, but as long as necessary.

• Under 90 seconds is ideal for top-of-funnel videos (used in ads, landing pages, or emails).

• 2–3 minutes works better for in-app onboarding or help center use.

• If it goes over 5 minutes, you better be giving them real value—not just walking them through every settings tab.

Tips from Behind the Scenes (That You Might Not Hear Elsewhere)

• Record your clicks slowly. People need time to visually register what’s happening.

• Use a script, but don’t sound scripted. Read it out loud, tweak it, make it flow like real speech.

• Leave in micro-pauses. Not everything needs to feel rushed.

• Label actions on screen with subtle text pop-ups. Not everyone watches with sound.

• Preview it on your phone. That’s how a lot of people are going to watch it.

Tools to Make Your Life Easier

Here’s a quick list of tools depending on your style:

• Loom or CleanShot X for quick, informal walkthroughs.

• Camtasia or ScreenFlow for more polished screen captures with editing control.

• After Effects or Premiere Pro if you want to go high-end with animation and branded transitions.

• Figma + AE combo if you're prototyping your UI and want to animate fake flows before the product is fully built.

Where to Use the Walkthrough Video

You’ve made it—now what? Don’t just let the video collect dust in your help center. Use it like a workhorse:

• On your landing page (especially if you have a complex product)

• Inside your app as part of user onboarding

• In support articles to answer common “How do I…?” questions