Quick Answer
Yes, you can send GIFs with WhatsApp. WhatsApp supports sharing GIFs in individual and group chats. To send a GIF, tap the clip icon in the text box when composing a message, then tap GIF to browse and select a GIF from the GIPHY library. You can search for specific GIFs or browse categories. Once you select a GIF, it will be inserted into your message automatically. WhatsApp reduces the file size of GIFs shared through the app, allowing them to send quickly even on slower connections.
Ways to Send a GIF on WhatsApp
Here are the main ways to send a GIF with WhatsApp:
Send a GIF from the Built-In Library
The easiest way to share a GIF is to use the built-in GIF library in WhatsApp:
- Open an individual or group chat in WhatsApp.
- Tap the clip icon next to the text box.
- Tap GIF to open the library.
- Browse GIF categories or search for a specific GIF using the search bar.
- Tap the GIF you want to send to select it.
- The GIF will be inserted into your message automatically.
- Tap send to share the GIF.
This will insert the GIF directly into your chat without needing to save it first.
Send a GIF from Another App
You can also share a GIF from another app:
- Open the app where you want to select the GIF, such as your Photos app.
- Find and select the GIF you want to share.
- Tap the share icon.
- Select WhatsApp from the share menu.
- Select the chat you want to share the GIF to.
This will attach the GIF to a WhatsApp message so you can share it.
Save a GIF to Your Photos and Share
Another option is to first save a GIF from the web or another app to your phone’s local storage or photo library. Then open WhatsApp and attach the saved GIF like any other photo:
- Save the GIF to your Photos app.
- Open WhatsApp and select the chat.
- Tap the attachment icon next to the text box.
- Select Photos and Videos.
- Tap the album with your saved GIF.
- Select the GIF file.
- Tap Send.
This will share the GIF like a regular photo attachment.
Tips for Sending GIFs on WhatsApp
Here are some tips to improve your experience sharing GIFs with WhatsApp:
Search for Relevant GIFs
Use the built-in GIF search on WhatsApp to find a GIF that matches your conversation or reactions. Searching makes it easy to find the perfect GIF quickly.
Browse GIF Categories
WhatsApp organizes its GIF library into categories like Reactions, Sports, Stickers, and more. Browsing categories can help you discover new and trending GIFs to use.
Use GIFs Sparingly
While GIFs can be fun, overusing them can be disruptive in a chat. Use GIFs occasionally when they fit the conversation.
Check File Size for Long GIFs
Very long, high-resolution GIFs will still take up significant space. If sharing a large GIF, check the file size first and consider compressing it to share more quickly.
Favor Short, Looping GIFs
Short looping GIFs typically convey emotions and reactions very effectively. Look for GIFs under 3MB in size for best results.
Make Sure GIFs are Relevant
Choose GIFs that make sense in the conversation context. Random or irrelevant GIFs can disrupt chat flows.
Use GIFs to Lighten the Mood
Injecting an amusing or uplifting GIF can help lighten the tone of a more serious conversation.
Troubleshooting GIFs on WhatsApp
Here are some common issues and fixes for sharing GIFs with WhatsApp:
Can’t Find the GIF Button
Make sure you have the latest version of WhatsApp installed. Open your app store, search for WhatsApp, and check for any available updates. Updated WhatsApp versions should have GIF support.
GIFs Not Animating
If your recipient sees still GIF images instead of animations, they may have an outdated WhatsApp version. Make sure they update to the latest WhatsApp release to support animated GIFs.
GIF Looks Pixelated and Low Quality
WhatsApp compresses GIFs which can reduce quality, especially for longer GIFs. For the best quality, try selecting shorter duration and lower resolution GIF sources. Avoid GIFs larger than 3-5MB.
GIF Not Displaying in Chat
Very large GIF files may fail to upload properly. Verify the GIF’s file size is under 5MB and reduce the length/resolution if needed before sharing. Also check your internet connection is stable.
Can’t Find the Right GIF
The built-in WhatsApp GIF library has a limited selection. For more options, download a dedicated GIF keyboard app or GIF finder tool to access millions of results to share.
FAQs about Sending GIFs on WhatsApp
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about using GIFs on WhatsApp:
Is there a size limit for GIFs on WhatsApp?
Yes, WhatsApp recommends keeping GIFs under 5MB in size and not exceeding 20MB maximum. Larger GIFs may fail to send or reduce in quality.
Does WhatsApp support GIF stickers?
Currently WhatsApp only supports standard GIFs. WhatsApp does not yet allow using GIF stickers or looping GIFs as profile photos or in statuses.
Can you send GIFs on WhatsApp Web/Desktop?
Yes, GIFs can be shared seamlessly across WhatsApp on iOS, Android, Web and Desktop apps by linking to the same account.
Why are my WhatsApp GIFs blurry?
WhatsApp slightly compresses GIFs to reduce file size before sending. Some quality loss is expected. Selecting shorter, lower-resolution GIFs will have the best results.
Can I use my own GIF for a WhatsApp profile photo?
No, WhatsApp does not currently support GIFs for profile pictures. Only standard static image formats like JPG, PNG and JPEG can be used.
Is there a way to send GIFs faster on WhatsApp?
Compressing the GIF before sharing can help speed up sending. Make sure to use shorter GIFs under 3MB for best performance, as WhatsApp’s compression can only do so much.
Why can’t my friend see the GIF I sent them?
If your friend is on an outdated WhatsApp version, they may not have GIF support enabled. Have them update to the latest WhatsApp release from their device’s app store.
Can I find and send 18+ or adult GIFs on WhatsApp?
No, WhatsApp’s built-in GIPHY library only includes PG-rated content. For adult content sharing, both the sender and recipient need to use a third-party app.
Conclusion
Sending GIFs on WhatsApp is easy and fun when you use the built-in GIF library or share GIFs from other apps. Pay attention to file size limits, choose shorter duration GIFs, and use high-quality sources for the best experience. With the right techniques, GIFs can add personality and humor to your WhatsApp conversations.