To convert a PNG or JPG to GIF, drop the image in, choose how many colors to keep, and click Convert to GIF. You get a single-frame GIF. This tool doesn't make animations. It runs in your browser, so nothing is uploaded.
What is a static GIF and why make one?
A GIF is best known for looping animations, but it can also hold just one frame. A single-frame GIF works anywhere GIFs are accepted.
- Some older forums, signatures, and content systems only take GIF.
- Small flat-color graphics, icons, and pixel art can stay tiny.
- A GIF can have a simple transparent background for older software.
- A project needs every image to be a GIF.
How to convert an image to GIF
- Click Select File, or drag a PNG or JPG into the drop zone.
- Keep Max colors at 256, or lower it for a smaller file on simple graphics.
- Click Convert to GIF, check the preview, then click Download.
What to expect from a GIF
A GIF holds at most 256 colors. Logos, icons, and cartoons convert with little change. Photos can show banding in smooth areas like skies, and the file is usually bigger than the JPG you started with. Use GIF for graphics, not photography.
Transparency is on or off, with no partial fades. Pixels that are mostly see-through become fully transparent, and the rest become solid, so soft shadows turn hard-edged.
Related jobs
- Need an animated GIF? This tool can't make one. It saves a single image.
- Turn a GIF back into a picture with GIF to JPG.
- Change other formats with Image Converter, or resize first with Image Resizer.
For more on where GIF fits, read our image format guide.
When GIF is the wrong tool
GIF is a poor fit for photos, since 256 colors can't reproduce smooth gradients. For a website, PNG or WebP handle graphics better, and JPG or WebP handle photos better. Choose GIF only when a system specifically asks for it.
For real animation, short video is usually smaller and looks better than an animated GIF, though this tool doesn't create either.
Frequently asked questions
Can this make an animated GIF?
No. It saves one PNG or JPG as a GIF with a single frame, so the result doesn't move.
Will my photo look worse as a GIF?
Photos can. GIF has only 256 colors, so smooth gradients may show banding. Graphics and flat colors look fine.
What does Max colors do?
It limits the palette. 256 looks best. Lower values such as 64 or 32 give a smaller file that suits simple graphics.
What happens to transparency in a PNG?
GIF supports only on or off transparency. Partly see-through pixels become either clear or solid.
Why is my GIF bigger than the JPG?
GIF compresses photos far less efficiently than JPG. Keep the JPG, or use Image Compressor to shrink it.
Are my images uploaded?
No. The GIF is made in your browser, so the image stays on your device.