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Image format comparison

GIF vs WebP

GIF is limited to 256 colours per frame but plays everywhere, while animated WebP supports full colour and alpha and is typically smaller.

PropertyGIFWebP
Extension.gif.webp
MIME typeimage/gifimage/webp
TransparencyYesYes
AnimationYesYes
Lossless modeYesYes
Lossy modeNoYes

Practical recommendation

Use animated WebP for modern web pages where it is supported, and GIF when the destination only accepts GIF. Note that still-image conversion does not preserve animation.

Frequently asked questions

What is the main difference between GIF and WebP?

GIF is limited to 256 colours per frame but plays almost everywhere. Animated WebP supports full colour and transparency and is typically smaller.

Does FreeImageKit keep animation when converting?

No. Still-image conversion does not preserve animation. GIF to PNG exports the first frame.

Can I make an animated GIF?

Yes. The Animated GIF Maker builds a GIF from ordered images with timing and text overlays, in your browser.

Read the format guides

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