In a world dominated by Reels, TikToks, and 15-second pre-rolls, it’s easy to believe that shorter is always better. After all, attention spans are shrinking, right?
Not so fast.
While short-form content rules the top of the funnel—grabbing attention and sparking interest—it’s long-form content that consistently closes the deal. And in 2025, long-form infomercials are quietly outperforming their bite-sized counterparts in one key metric: conversion.
In fact, brands that lean into long-form video are seeing higher purchase intent, deeper product understanding, and better return on ad spend (ROAS) than ever before.
Let’s explore why.
Long-Form Isn’t Dead—It Just Evolved
For decades, infomercials were a late-night TV staple. The formula was simple: identify a problem, demo the solution, hammer home the value, and close with urgency. From vacuum cleaners to fitness equipment, long-form ruled the world of direct response television (DRTV).
Then came YouTube. Then came Instagram. Then TikTok. Each platform shortened the window to hook a viewer. The marketing world shifted accordingly.
But here’s what never changed: some products just need more time to sell.
Try explaining a complex medical device in 30 seconds. Or convincing someone to buy a $300 tool they didn’t know existed. Or teaching a skeptical audience how to use a brand-new kitchen gadget.
That’s where long-form still thrives.
The Data Doesn’t Lie
According to recent studies in 2025 digital marketing analytics:
- Long-form video (7+ minutes) sees up to 3x higher conversion rates than short-form in direct-response campaigns.
- Average watch time on product education videos is up 40% year-over-year, especially for products over $100.
- Brands using long-form video content report lower return rates and higher customer satisfaction, because customers understand what they’re buying.
This trend isn’t anecdotal. It’s measurable, and it’s driven by the same core factor that powered TV infomercials in the ‘90s: trust.
People Buy What They Understand
At its core, long-form content gives you the space to:
- Educate your audience
- Demonstrate the product in real-world use
- Address objections before they come up
- Build a relationship between the brand and the viewer
This emotional and informational runway is what allows viewers to move from “I’ve never heard of this” to “Take my money.”
Look at companies like Drill Doctor, which sold over 2 million units through a 30-minute infomercial, or newer brands on YouTube and Facebook that use 5-10 minute sales videos to walk viewers through every feature and benefit. These aren’t one-hit ads—they’re mini-documentaries on problem-solving.
Long-Form in the Age of Skips and Scrolls
“But people scroll too fast now. No one has time for 10 minutes of video.”
That’s partially true—if your hook is weak.
The key is this: people have short attention spans for content they don’t care about. But for content that’s relevant, helpful, and entertaining, they’ll watch as long as it takes. Netflix isn’t worried about the TikTok generation. Neither is MasterClass or any successful YouTube educator.
The same applies to product content. If your product solves a real problem, and you take the time to tell that story well, people will watch—and buy.
Smart Brands Use Both Forms—But Lean on Long
There’s no denying the power of short-form video for reach and virality. It’s a phenomenal way to drive discovery and build brand awareness.
But short-form often stops at “That’s cool.” It takes long-form to move people from curious to committed.
Here’s how the smartest brands are using both in 2025:
- Short-form to catch attention and spark interest.
- Long-form to nurture, educate, and convert.
Whether it's on YouTube, Amazon product pages, or landing pages optimized for DTC, long-form content sits closer to the sale—and it drives action.
Final Thoughts: Depth Wins
The tools have changed. The platforms have evolved. But the psychology behind purchasing remains consistent: people buy from brands they trust, and trust takes time.
In 2025, long-form infomercials—whether on TV, YouTube, or a product site—are more than just retro holdovers. They’re a strategic edge.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not about length.
It’s about how well you tell the story.
And some stories deserve more than 15 seconds.