GIF vs WebP: Which Is Smaller?

Animated WebP can use fewer bytes, especially for detailed or photographic frames. The result depends on the source, quality, and encoder, so compare actual output.

Keep the comparison fair

Keep the same dimensions, clip length, and loop. Use the GIF resizer first if the image is larger than it needs to be. Convert the resulting file with GIF to WebP.

Compare bytes and appearance

Play both files and compare motion, transparency, and small text. Calculate savings as (original bytes − new bytes) ÷ original bytes × 100. A negative result means the new file is larger.

A case where GIF is smaller

GifLoom’s built-in animation uses a small palette and flat shapes. The original GIF is 122,382 bytes. In one Chromium test, converting it at 80% quality made a 209,506-byte WebP with the same 480 × 320 canvas, 36 frames and 2.52-second loop. That WebP was about 71% larger; browser encoders can produce different results.

Check the destination

Keep the smaller WebP when the destination supports animated WebP. When a form specifically requires GIF, keep GIF and tune the size instead.