ReframeHow to turn a screen recording into a GIF
GIFs play everywhere a video might not: in docs, README files, help-desk replies and some chat apps. Here are two free ways to make one, and how to keep the file small.
Updated 29 October 2026 · 3 min read
GIF or video?
A GIF loops silently and starts by itself, which is perfect for a short “here’s how” clip. It has no sound and grows large quickly, so for anything over about 20–30 seconds, or anything with narration, share a video (MP4) instead.
Option 1: export a GIF from Reframe
The GIF keeps Reframe’s zooms, cursor and click effects, so viewers can follow along without sound.
- Record your screen with Reframe as usual.
- In the editor, cut the recording down to the part you want (30 seconds or less).
- Press Export, choose GIF, and save it.
Option 2: convert any video in your browser
Already have a recording from another tool? Use our free Video to GIF converter. Choose the video, set where the GIF starts and ends, its width and frame rate, and download it. The video is converted on your computer and never uploaded.
Keep GIFs small
- Keep it short: 5–15 seconds is ideal.
- Use a width of 480–640 pixels; most places show GIFs smaller than that anyway.
- 10–12 frames per second is smooth enough for screen recordings and much smaller than 30.
- Crop to what matters: a zoomed-in recording makes a far more readable GIF.