GIF vs. PNG — What's the Difference?

By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 23, 2023

GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) is an image format that supports both static and animated images and is commonly used on the web. PNG (Portable Network Graphics) is a lossless image format ideal for web graphics but doesn't support animation.

Difference Between GIF and PNG

Key Differences

GIF is well-known for its support of animated images. PNG, on the other hand, only supports static images, making it unsuitable for animations but better in quality.

GIF uses a limited color palette, which often results in lower-quality images. PNG uses a full-color spectrum and lossless compression, making images crisper and clearer.

GIF has been around since 1987 and is widely supported across various platforms. PNG was developed as a better alternative to GIF, especially for use in web graphics, and was first released in 1996.

GIF images usually have smaller file sizes because of their limited color palette and optional lossy compression. PNG images tend to have larger file sizes but are better in quality due to their lossless compression technique.

Both GIF and PNG are commonly used in web development. However, GIF is often chosen for animated icons or simple animations, while PNG is typically selected for high-quality static images.

Comparison Chart

Animation Support

Yes

Image Quality

Lower due to limited colors

Higher due to full-color spectrum

File Size

Generally smaller

Generally larger

Release Date

1987

1996

Best Use Case

Web animations, simple icons

High-quality web graphics

Compare with Definitions

Gif

GIF supports both static and animated images.

The website uses a GIF for its animated logo.

Png

PNG allows for a full-color spectrum.

The PNG image had vibrant and true-to-life colors.

Gif

GIF is widely supported on the web.

I chose a GIF because every browser can display it.

Png

PNG is commonly used for high-quality web graphics.

The graphic designer recommended PNG for our project.

Gif

GIF was created in 1987.

The GIF format has been around since the late 1980s.

Png

PNG is a lossless image format.

I used a PNG for the website banner to keep it crisp.

Gif

GIF uses a limited color palette.

The GIF looked grainy due to its limited colors.

Png

PNG does not support animation.

For animated images, I couldn't use a PNG.

Gif

GIF typically has smaller file sizes.

The GIF loaded quickly because of its small size.

Png

PNG was introduced in 1996.

PNG has been a standard since the mid-1990s.

Gif

A lossless format for image files that supports both animated and static images

A GIF image

Png

(computing) nodot=1; Portable Network Graphics, an open protocol for digital images.

Gif

A raster-based format for storing files of color graphics.

Gif

An image or animated clip recorded in such a format.

Gif

Alternative case form of GIF

Gif

Alternative case form of GIF

Gif

If.

Gif

The Graphics Interchange Format, one of the most popular standardized formats for storing graphic data in binary computer files. The standard has been revised several times, and includes provisions for interlacing and animating images. Its disadvantage is that it can store only 256 colors. Compare JPEG.

Gif

An image stored in GIF{1} format, or the file in which the image is stored; as, he sent three GIF's with lovely pictures of his children.

Common Curiosities

Can PNG images be animated?

No, PNG only supports static images.

How old is the GIF format?

GIF was introduced in 1987.

What's the main use-case for PNG?

PNG is used for high-quality, static web graphics.

Are GIFs suitable for professional graphics?

Not usually, GIFs have a limited color palette.

Is PNG widely used?

Yes, PNG is commonly used in web and graphic design.

What are GIFs commonly used for?

GIFs are often used for web animations and simple icons.

Does GIF support full color?

No, GIF has a limited color palette.

Which format is better for quality?

PNG is generally better for image quality.

Does GIF support animation?

Yes, GIF supports both static and animated images.

Which format is better for logos?

PNG is generally better for logos due to its high quality.

Which has smaller file sizes?

Generally, GIFs have smaller file sizes.

Can PNG handle transparency?

Yes, PNG supports alpha channel transparency.

When was PNG created?

PNG was introduced in 1996.

Can all browsers display GIFs and PNGs?

Yes, both formats are widely supported across browsers.

Which is more modern, GIF or PNG?

PNG is more modern, introduced in 1996.

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Author Spotlight

Written by

Tayyaba Rehman

Tayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.