GIF is an image file format that, unlike other image formats, supports animations. Basically, you can record short animations and save and share them in the GIF format. The format is now widely used for Internet jokes as well as for tutorials. We cover several apps and services that will let you create and modify GIF images on your device. Once you get them on your device, you’ll be able to create GIFs, convert videos to GIFs, turn data into GIFs, and even modify your existing GIF images.
1. Giphy GIF Maker
Giphy (Android | iOS) is a great tool for users looking to create GIFs on their mobile devices. The app lets you record quick videos, then automatically turns them into GIFs. Of course, you can also decorate your mini clips with multiple stickers, effects, filters, and text.
You can activate some filters before you start shooting the mini clip. Once the video is done, users can edit it by adding text, various effects, and stickers. What’s more, the app lets you trim the GIF so you can cut out the unflattering parts.
2. GIF Maker and Editor
GIF Maker and Editor (Android) is a free GIF creator application that allows users to create animated GIFs in a very simple way. Users can then share these files via social media, message applications, and email.
The app lets you craft GIFs from images as well as videos. Once you’ve made a GIF, go ahead and add stickers, text, effects and much more to your creation. You can use your own material for the GIF or simply use the app to edit preexisting GIFs you already have on your phone.
GIF Maker and Editor is free to download, but if you want to get rid of all the ads and also unlock a few more options, like a set of 32 professional stickers and support for up to 600 frames, you’ll have to upgrade to the PRO version for $2.99.
3. GIF Me!
GIF Me! (Android | iOS) is an easy-to-use GIF maker that can create short clips using different methods. You can stick a few images together, which are then played in a loop. Alternatively, you can shoot a quick video if you prefer. There’s also an option to import files.
Once you have a video or a batch of photos ready for stitching together, you can add filters. There’s also a range of editing options which allow you to rearrange frames, adjust speed and add text/stickers.
4. Coub
Another great mobile app for making GIFs is Coub (Android | iOS). The app offers access to a library of GIFs and mini clips, but you can also make your own by using the “Create” button.
Coub allows you to use your own videos and cut them up according to your needs. Alternatively, you can use any video found on the Web. Just paste the link of the video, which allows you to edit it from within the app. Unlike other apps, though, Coub does not allow you to add filters or other enhancements to your GIFs; however, you can add music to your GIFs.
5. Data GIF Maker
Data GIF Maker is a web app developed by Google that allows you to create animated GIFs out of what’s usually viewed as boring data. The service turns your numbers into visuals to make it more interactive and fun for the people you have to share it with.
Using the service is quite simple: just select the theme and input the parameters, and Google will create a stylish GIF in just a few seconds. Once you’ve saved the GIF, you can go ahead and generate a link for sharing it with others.
6. Peek
Peek is an animated GIF recorder for Linux that makes it easy to create short screencasts of your display. It was actually built for the specific use case of recording screen areas for such things as easily showing UI features of your own apps or showing a bug in bug reports.
With Peek, simply place the Peek window over the area you want to capture and press “Record.” Peek is optimized to generate animated GIFs but can also directly record to WebM or MP4 if you prefer.
7. EzGif
Want a GIF as your avatar or profile image on a website but the size is too large? You can use the EzGif tool to easily fix the problem.
This is a web service that helps users change the dimensions of their animated GIFs. First, upload a GIF and set the desired image size (width and height). Next, select the Resize method and what you want to happen if the aspect ratio does not match and press “Resize image!” That’s it, you’re done!
8. Gif Run
Gif Run is a useful web tool which allows you to create a small GIF of up to 10 seconds from a YouTube/TikTok/Facebook/Twitter or Vimeo video. Copy the link of the video in Gif Run to get started, then press “Get Video.”
Next, select how long you want your GIF to be. Find the part in the video you want to turn into a GIF and press the “Preview” button to get started. Once the set time has expired, you can click “Create GIF” to create your mini clip.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I play animated GIFs on Mac?
Made a GIF but not really sure how to play it on your Mac? Interestingly, while the Preview app can easily handle all types of formats, it can’t play GIFs. Learn how to get around this limitation by checking out our article on the matter.
2. Can I use GIFs as wallpapers?
Sure. If you’re on a Mac, read how to use an animated GIF as your wallpaper. Alternatively, learn how to do the same on Android.
3. What’s the difference between a GIF and a JPG?
JPG and GIF are both a type of image format to store images. If you wish to know what sets them apart, read about the differences in depth.
Now that you know how to make GIFs, perhaps you’ll be interested to learn more about video editing. Check out our reviews of VideoProc Vlogger and the VITA app.
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