How to Resize a GIF Without Breaking It
Sourabh Choraria7 min readResizing a GIF sounds simple until it isn't. You shrink it and it gets blurry. You change one number and it stretches. You export again and the file size somehow gets bigger.
Here's how to resize a GIF without breaking it: keep the aspect ratio locked, resize in one clean step, and (if needed) optimize after.
Step 0: Pick a target size (don't guess)
The “best” size depends on where the GIF will live. If it's for chat or docs, you usually don't need full resolution. If it has tiny text, go a bit larger.
GIF resize calculator
Plug in your current dimensions and pick a target. We’ll keep the aspect ratio (unless you unlock it).
Source
Target
Result
480×270
Approx scale: 75%
Downscaling is the safest way to shrink file size and keep the GIF crisp.
Quick tip:
Resize first, then optimize. If you resize a GIF that’s already heavily dithered/compressed, the artifacts get “baked in” and the result can look rough.
Step 1: Resize with aspect ratio locked
This is the #1 rule. If you change width and height independently, you'll stretch the GIF. Lock aspect ratio and only change one dimension (usually width).
Best practice resize flow
- Crop first if you need a specific ratio (square, 16:9, etc.).
- Resize once to your final width (avoid repeated resizes).
- Export a new GIF (original stays untouched).
Step 2: Avoid the common “break it” mistakes
- Don't upscale unless you have to. GIFs rarely get sharper when you scale up—they just get bigger and blurrier.
- Don't resize after heavy dithering. If a GIF is already noisy/grainy, resizing can amplify artifacts. Resize first, then optimize.
- Don't distort. If your target box is a different shape, crop (or add padding) before resizing.
Resize your GIF now
Drop your GIF below. We'll take you straight into Edit GIF with your file loaded, so you can resize immediately.
Drop your GIF here
Or click to browse
GIF files only — Any size
Where is Resize in the editor?
In Edit GIF, open the Crop tab. You'll see width/height controls plus a “Maintain aspect ratio” toggle. Keep it on unless you intentionally want a stretched look (you don't).
Frequently asked questions
Downscaling can soften edges, especially on text/UI recordings. Resize in one step (not repeatedly), avoid heavy compression before resizing, and pick a slightly larger target width if the GIF contains small text.
That’s an aspect ratio issue. Keep “Maintain aspect ratio” on, and only change one dimension (usually width). If you must fit a specific box, crop first, then resize.
Usually, yes—fewer pixels per frame means less data. But some resizes can increase size if dithering/noise gets introduced. If size is still too big, use Compress GIF after resizing.
Yes. For chat, a width around 480–640px is usually enough. For email, smaller (320–480px) is safer. The best size depends on the platform’s limits and where the GIF will be viewed.
No. Export creates a new resized GIF. Your original stays untouched.