About this tool
PNG to GIF
This can be useful if you need to convert image to a GIF. If your target doesn’t accept PNG/APNG then converting to a GIF may help. For static images you will get one frame. For animated PNGs you can get multiple frames. If the browser can decode them then they will be encoded into a single animation. GIFs use an indexed color palette so if your source image is very detailed or photographic you may see some dithering. It’s important to preview the image so you know what file will be downloaded.
How to use this tool
How to use this tool
- 01
Choose a PNG, APNG, JPG, WebP, or another supported image.
- 02
Check the converted preview, including any animation and transparent edges.
- 03
Click Process GIF and Download the GIF.
PNG, APNG, and GIF are different
PNG is often used for static images as it can preserve crisp edges and transparency. APNG is an extension of PNG to allow for animation. GIF is another indexed image format that allows for animation, but has a limited colour palette and transparency.
When you're converting your colourful PNG into a GIF you'll need to convert your pixels to match the GIF's colours. This can be easy when it comes to logos, icons and flat illustrations but if you have gradients and photos you might want to choose a format with more colour depth.
Animated PNG conversion
If the chosen file contains multiple frames that can be read by browsers then these will be converted in the same order using the decoded frame times. The output preview will be created using the generated GIF so any transparency trails or missing frames can be identified. If the source file is a standard single frame PNG then the output will be a single frame GIF. To create an animation from individual images use the GIF combiner or add them in sequence within an application that allows this.
Choose the right output
GIF is a practical choice for simple animations and broad compatibility. For richer color, alpha transparency, or a smaller animated file, animated WebP may be a better fit where it is supported.
This converter is local-first. It is useful for a fast format change, a compatibility copy, or a file that must have a .gif extension without sending the source to a server.
Common questions
Common questions
How do I convert a PNG to GIF?
Choose the PNG, preview the generated GIF, and download the GIF. The conversion happens in the browser.
How do I turn a Live Picture into a GIF?
Export the Live Picture as a browser-readable image first, then upload it here. If it contains multiple frames, the converter can use them for the GIF animation.
Can I convert an animated PNG to GIF?
Yes, when the browser can decode the APNG frames. The converter uses the decoded frame sequence to create the GIF output.
What happens to a still image?
A still PNG, JPG, WebP, or supported image becomes a one-frame GIF with the same dimensions.
Will a GIF keep PNG transparency?
Simple transparent areas can remain transparent, but GIF uses a more limited transparency model than PNG. Check the generated preview.
Why does the GIF have different colors?
GIF stores indexed colors, so a full-color source may be mapped to a smaller palette. This is a format limit rather than a crop or resize.
