Discord is one of the most GIF-friendly platforms, but file size limits vary based on your account type. Creating GIFs optimized for Discord ensures fast uploads, quick loading, and smooth playback for all server members.

Discord GIF Requirements

Free Users

Max file size: 8MB
Recommended: 5-7MB
Any aspect ratio: Square, landscape, or vertical
Resolution: 480p-720p works well
Frame rate: 10-15 FPS ideal

Discord Nitro

Max file size: 50MB
Recommended: 20-30MB for high quality
Higher resolution: 1080p supported
Smoother motion: 20-30 FPS possible
Longer clips: 10-15 seconds feasible

How to Create Discord-Optimized GIFs

Upload Your Video

Open GifCraft's converter and upload your video. Supports all formats: MP4, MOV, WebM, AVI. Screen recordings, game clips, and reaction videos work great.

Select Discord Preset

Choose the Discord preset to automatically optimize for Discord's requirements:

Discord (Free)

• Targets 6-7MB
• 480-720p resolution
• 12 FPS
• Optimized quality

Discord (Nitro)

• Targets 25-30MB
• 720-1080p resolution
• 20 FPS
• High quality

Trim to Best Moment

Discord GIFs work best when they're short and punchy:

Free users: 2-5 seconds to stay under 8MB
Nitro users: 5-10 seconds possible with 50MB limit
Reaction GIFs: 1-3 seconds is perfect
Tutorials: 5-8 seconds for explanations

Tip: Shorter GIFs upload faster and play immediately. Long uploads can cause Discord to timeout.

Convert and Share

Click "Convert to GIF," wait for processing, then download. Drag and drop directly into Discord channels, DMs, or use as server emojis (if you have permissions).

Discord GIF Best Practices

Message GIFs

✓ Keep under 7MB (free) or 30MB (Nitro)
✓ Any aspect ratio works (1:1, 16:9, 9:16)
✓ 2-5 seconds ideal for reactions
✓ Make sure text is readable at small size
✓ Test on mobile - most Discord users are on phones

Server Emojis

✓ Max 256KB for custom emojis
✓ Square format required (128x128 or 256x256)
✓ Very short loops (1-2 seconds)
✓ Simple, clear visuals
✓ Heavily optimized compression needed

Common Discord GIF Use Cases

Reaction GIFs

Quick emotional responses, memes, and reactions to messages.

Settings: 1-3 seconds, 480p, 10 FPS, 2-4MB. Prioritize emotion and clarity.

Game Highlights

Epic plays, funny moments, or fails from gaming sessions.

Settings: 3-6 seconds, 720p, 15 FPS, 6-8MB (free) or 15-20MB (Nitro). Show the action clearly.

Tutorial/Explanations

Quick how-tos, bug demonstrations, or feature explanations.

Settings: 5-8 seconds, 720p, 15 FPS, 7-8MB (free) or 25-30MB (Nitro). Add text annotations.

Create Your Discord GIF Now

Use Discord presets for automatic optimization - free or Nitro

Start Creating

Related Guides

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Stay under Discord's 8MB limit

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