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Superior alternatives to GIFs

When it comes to web graphics, GIFs have several limitations. They are outdated and heavy, resulting in slow loading times, and when used on transparent background the pixel quality on edges is poor. Moreover, they doesn't work as interactive elements.

Luckily, there are way better options out there that enable the creation of high-quality, fast-loading, and interactive web graphics with an ease.

It is all about the use case

The best format to use depends on the specific use case. Here are some guidelines to help you make the right choice:

Case 1: If you want to use animated icons on your website that play on "intro," "hover," or "morph" events, it's best to use the Lottie JSON format.

Case 2: If you want to use animated icons on your website that play on a loop (eg. website loader), the MP4, WEBP, or APNG format is a better choice.

Case 3: When it comes to using animated icons in newsletters or presentation slides, GIFs are usually the most practical choice. You can find out more about using GIFs in presentations at this link.

Case 4: If you're working with external editing software to create video materials with animated icons, you have the option of using either the MP4 or Adobe After Effects format.

By carefully considering your use case and choosing the right format accordingly, you can ensure that your animated icons will be presented in the best possible way, no matter where they're used.

Lottie JSON

  • Require basic coding skills to implement

  • Micro: 20-100 kb

  • Vector quality

  • High-quality color support

  • Sharp corners with transparency

  • Supports all animation triggers

  • High CPU usage

GIF file

  • Easy to implement

  • High: 1000-3000 kb

  • Raster quality

  • Low-quality color support

  • Pixelated corners with transparency

  • Works only with loop or one-play

  • Buffers only one time

MP4 file

  • Easy to implement

  • Low: 100-200kb

  • Raster quality

  • High-quality color support

  • Transparency not supported

  • Works only with loop or one-play

  • Buffers only one time

  • What format to choose JSON Lottie, GIF, or MP4?
  • Consider avoiding GIF format

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