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GIF vsHEIF: Key Differences & Best Format for You

Compare the features of GIF and HEIF file formats to choose the best option for your needs.

Basic Information

GIFHEIF
CategoryThe general type of file (audio, image, etc.).
imagesimages
CompressionMethod used to reduce file size (Lossy, Lossless, Uncompressed).
LosslessLossy
Relative SizeTypical file size compared to other formats.
SmallSmall
MIME TypesCommon MIME types associated with the format.
  • image/gif
  • image/heif
  • image/heic
Open FormatIs the format specification publicly available and free to use?
NoNo

Technical Details

GIFHEIF
Bit DepthNumber of bits used to represent color or audio sample amplitude (higher means more detail).
810
ResolutionImage dimensions (pixels) or audio sample rate/video dimensions.
Pixel dimensionsPixel dimensions
Max QualityHighest achievable quality level or characteristic.
Limited by 256 color paletteHigh quality at lower file sizes than JPEG
Encoding MethodSpecific algorithm or standard used for encoding the data.
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Max File Size LimitAny known maximum file size limitations.
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Features & Usage

GIFHEIF
CompatibilitySoftware, devices, or platforms that support the format.
  • Web Browsers
  • Image viewers
  • Social media
  • Apple devices (iOS 11+, macOS High Sierra+)
  • Windows 10+ (with extensions)
  • Android 9+
Use CasesCommon applications and scenarios where the format is used.
  • Simple animations
  • Logos with limited colors
  • Memes
  • Web graphics (historically)
  • Mobile photography (default on iPhones)
  • Image sequences
  • Storing computational photography data
Metadata SupportCan the format store additional information (tags, descriptions, etc.)?
YesYes
Transparency SupportDoes the format support transparent backgrounds (for images)?
YesYes
Editing FriendlyIs the format suitable for easy editing without significant quality loss?
NoNo
Encryption SupportDoes the format support password protection or encryption?
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Pros & Cons

GIFHEIF
ProsAdvantages and strengths of the format.
  • Supports animation
  • Supports transparency (binary)
  • Lossless compression
  • Widely supported
  • High compression efficiency (smaller files than JPEG for similar quality)
  • Supports transparency, depth maps, animations
ConsDisadvantages and weaknesses of the format.
  • Limited to 256 colors
  • Not suitable for photographs
  • Inefficient compression compared to modern formats
  • Not yet universally supported
  • Requires specific software or OS support