How to make a GIF from a video
Open the video in Fileshaper, choose Make GIF, drag the two handles to the moment you want (2 to 6 seconds works best), pick a width and smoothness, and save. The GIF is made on your computer with no watermark.
Updated 11 November 2026 · Hollowbit
Do it right here
Step by step
- Download FileshaperInstall the free app for Windows or Mac.
- Drop the video and choose Make GIFMP4, MOV, MKV and WEBM all work.
- Pick the momentDrag the start and end handles under the preview, then play the selection to check it.
- Choose size and smoothness480 px wide at 15 frames per second is a good balance. Smaller and slower makes a lighter file.
- Click Make GIFThe GIF is saved next to the video.
Why GIFs get so big
A GIF stores every frame as a separate image with at most 256 colours. A few seconds is fine; 15 seconds or more quickly becomes many megabytes. Fileshaper builds a custom colour palette for each clip, which keeps colours accurate and files smaller.
Questions
How long should a GIF be?
2 to 6 seconds. Longer clips are better shared as a short MP4.
Is there a watermark?
No, never.
Can I make a GIF for Discord?
Yes. Keep it short and around 480 px wide so it stays well under the upload limit.
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