How to turn an Imgur video into a GIF
- Start with a file you're allowed to useIf the post is yours, the original file on your phone or computer is the best copy. Otherwise, use the download option Imgur offers on the post, and only for posts you have permission to reuse.
- Add the MP4 to DropGIFOn a computer, drag the file onto Drop a video or images here; on a phone, tap Pick a video or photos. DropGIF can't import from an Imgur link.
- Trim and size itMove the yellow Trim handles to the loop you want, then choose a width under Size.
- Export GIFTap Export GIF, then Download GIF. You now have a real .gif file, not a video.
Why Imgur GIFs are often videos
Imgur has converted animated uploads to video for years, since video files are usually much smaller than GIFs. At the time of writing (October 2026), Imgur's API still lists an MP4 file and a .gifv link next to animated posts. A .gifv link is the video version, not a GIF file, so what you save from Imgur is often an MP4.
That's fine for watching, but plenty of places want an actual GIF: email signatures, Slack custom emoji, Google Slides and older forums. Converting the MP4 back gives you a file that animates everywhere.
A GIF made from an already-compressed MP4 can pick up blocky edges. Under Advanced, try Smooth dithering and 256 colors, or see the high-quality GIF maker for more settings.
Making GIFs for Imgur
Using DropGIF as an imgur gif maker works the same way: make the GIF, then upload it to Imgur. Imgur publishes its current file types and size limits in its help center, and those limits have changed over the years, so check there before a big upload.
Even if Imgur accepts a large file, think about where the link ends up. If people will see your GIF in Discord, on X or in Slack, size it for those apps instead. The Where it fits strip under the preview shows which ones it fits, and the Fit button shrinks it in one tap. The GIF size limits page lists each platform's numbers.
- Start at 480 px and 15 fps for most clips.
- Trim hard. Every second you cut makes the file smaller.
- Add a caption before you upload so the joke travels with the GIF. The caption GIF maker shows the styles.
Frequently asked questions
What is a GIFV on Imgur?
It's Imgur's video version of an animated post, played as an MP4 rather than stored as a GIF file. To get a real GIF, drop the MP4 into DropGIF and export it.
Can I paste an Imgur link into DropGIF?
No. DropGIF doesn't download from links. Save the file first, from your own uploads or posts you have permission to use, then drop it in.
Why did Imgur save my GIF as an MP4?
Imgur often serves animated posts as video because it loads faster. DropGIF converts that MP4 back into a GIF for free.
What's Imgur's GIF size limit?
Imgur lists its current upload limits in its help center. If the GIF will be shared to Discord, X or Slack, size it for those apps, which DropGIF's Fit button does for you.