Source: https://mactoolbox.app/glossary/gif

# What is a GIF?

By Nikhil Barik · Published November 3, 2026

## Quick answer

GIF is an image format that can hold a short looping animation. It is limited to 256 colors per frame, so GIF files are often large and rough-looking compared with video.

## What it is

GIF stores frames one after another with no sound. It is widely accepted in chat apps and documents.

## Why it matters on a Mac

A short MP4 is usually smaller and looks better than the same clip as a GIF, but GIF works where video cannot be embedded.

## How to make a GIF smaller

Use a lower frame rate and a smaller width, and include only the part you need.

## How Toolbox handles it

Video to GIF offers 10, 15 or 24 fps, widths of 320, 480 or 640 pixels or the original size, looping on or off, and converting only part of a video by start and duration. Videos are never enlarged.

## Frequently asked questions

**Why are GIFs so big?**

They have no modern video compression and limit each frame to 256 colors.

**Does GIF have sound?**

No.

**Can I make a GIF from a screen recording?**

Yes. Record with Record Screen, then use Video to GIF.

## Tools mentioned

- [**Video to GIF**: Turn clips into high-quality animated GIFs.](https://mactoolbox.app/video-to-gif-mac)
- [**Record Screen**: Record a display, a window or an area, with sound.](https://mactoolbox.app/screen-recorder-mac)

## Keep reading

- [Video to GIF](https://mactoolbox.app/video-to-gif-mac)
- [Record Screen](https://mactoolbox.app/screen-recorder-mac)
- [Frame rate](https://mactoolbox.app/glossary/frame-rate)