GIF file format
Graphics Interchange Format (.gif): short looping animations, reactions and simple graphics.
GIF is the original animated image format of the web. Each frame can use at most 256 colors and a pixel is either fully transparent or fully opaque, so photos look grainy and animated GIFs are much larger than the same clip as MP4. It is still everywhere because every app can play it without a video player.
| Full name | Graphics Interchange Format |
|---|---|
| File extension | .gif |
| MIME type | image/gif |
| Created | 1987 by CompuServe (animation was added in the 1989 version) |
| Compression | Lossless |
| Transparency | On/off only |
| Animation | Yes |
| Colors | Maximum 256 colors per frame, on/off transparency |
| Opens on | Every browser, messenger and social network |
| Best for | short looping animations, reactions and simple graphics |
Advantages
- Animation that plays anywhere, no player needed
- Supported by every messenger and social network
Drawbacks
- Only 256 colors
- Huge files compared with MP4 or WebP
- No partial transparency
Convert GIF to…
Convert to GIF
Frequently asked questions
What is a .gif file?
GIF is the original animated image format of the web. Each frame can use at most 256 colors and a pixel is either fully transparent or fully opaque, so photos look grainy and animated GIFs are much larger than the same clip as MP4. It is still everywhere because every app can play it without a video player.
How do I open a GIF file?
GIF files open on Every browser, messenger and social network. If a program will not open yours, convert it to a more common format.
Is GIF lossless?
Yes, GIF is lossless: no detail is lost when saving.
How do I convert GIF?
Use one of the converters below — they run in your browser, so your images are never uploaded. Most popular: GIF to JPG, GIF to PNG, GIF to MP4.