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GIF vs MP4

Choose GIF for short silent loops in chats and docs. Choose MP4 for sharing video with anyone, anywhere. The structural difference: GIF is lossless, MP4 is not.

GIFMP4
CompressionLosslessLossy
Transparency✓-
Animation✓-
HDR--
Metadata-✓
Open / royalty-free✓-
Defined by-MPEG / ISO
Since19872001
Best forshort silent loops in chats and docssharing video with anyone, anywhere

GIF

256 colours and animation. Plays absolutely everywhere, including where video cannot.

MP4

H.264 video and AAC audio. Plays on absolutely everything.

Questions

GIF or MP4: which is smaller?

MP4, by a lot. GIF is lossless and therefore larger.

Can I convert GIF to MP4?

Yes, in your browser, nothing uploaded.

And MP4 to GIF?

Yes, as well.