Graphics Interchange Format (MIME: image/gif) is one of the oldest image formats still in active use, best known for supporting animation and widely used for short looping animations, memes, and simple web graphics.
History and Development
GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) was introduced by CompuServe in 1987 (GIF87a), with an enhanced version (GIF89a) released in 1989 adding animation and transparency. The format became controversial in the 1990s when Unisys enforced its LZW compression patent, spurring the creation of PNG. Despite being technically inferior to modern formats, GIF remains culturally significant and universally supported for short animations.
Technical Specifications
- Compression: Lossless (LZW algorithm)
- Color depth: 8-bit (256 colors maximum per frame)
- Transparency: Binary only (fully transparent or fully opaque)
- Animation: Multi-frame with per-frame delay control
- Max resolution: 65,535 × 65,535 pixels
- Interlacing: Supported
Common Use Cases
GIF is primarily used for short animations, memes, reaction images, and simple web graphics. Social media platforms, messaging apps, and email clients all support GIF animations natively. It's also used for simple diagrams and pixel art where the 256-color limit is not an issue.
GIF vs Similar Formats
- GIF vs WebP: Animated WebP offers full 24-bit color and much smaller files. GIF is limited to 256 colors but has universal support.
- GIF vs APNG: APNG supports full color and alpha transparency, making it superior technically, but GIF has broader support in messaging platforms.
- GIF vs MP4: For longer animations, MP4 video is 90%+ smaller than GIF. Many "GIF" platforms actually serve MP4.
How to Open and Edit
GIF files open in all browsers, image viewers, and messaging apps. Create or edit GIFs with GIMP, Photoshop, or free online tools like EZGIF.com. Screen recording tools like LICEcap can capture GIFs directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is GIF pronounced?
The creator Steve Wilhite stated it's pronounced "jif" (soft G), but "gif" (hard G) is widely accepted. Both are considered correct.
Why do GIF files look grainy?
GIF is limited to 256 colors per frame. Photographs and gradients suffer because they need millions of colors. GIF works best with flat colors and simple graphics.
What is the maximum GIF file size?
There's no formal size limit, but large GIFs (>10 MB) cause performance issues. Most platforms limit uploads to 8-15 MB. For longer animations, consider MP4 video instead.