BMP
BMP raster imageUsed for pixel-based artwork, scans, and photographs.
- Family
- Images
- MIME
- image/bmp
Convert BMP to GIF online. See the real pixel decoding and image re-encoding behavior, preservation limits, and a format-specific acceptance test.
A broadly understood bitmap with straightforward pixel storage and little compression is decoded into a working pixel canvas first, then written back out under GIF's own color and compression model. Dimensions can stay exactly the same even as encoding, metadata, and fine detail change underneath. BMP input derives row direction, stride, pixel masks, palette, bit depth, compression mode, dimensions, and optional alpha from its bitmap headers. GIF output reduces frames to indexed palettes and binary transparency, so color selection, dithering, disposal, timing, loop seam, and absent audio define quality.
Decoded canvas - A broadly understood bitmap with straightforward pixel storage and little compression. Written image - A frame animation or indexed-color image limited to a 256-color palette.
Used for pixel-based artwork, scans, and photographs.
Designed for short animations and simple graphics.
GIF wins this route whenever its specific mix of compatibility, alpha, animation, and file size fits the destination better than BMP does.
BMP derivatives are often much larger than web images and may encode alpha or row order differently between apps.
Photographs and gradients can band, semi-transparent edges are reduced, and timing may be quantized.
The video-to-GIF path samples frames at 12 per second, caps width at 960 pixels, and drops audio entirely — GIF has no sound channel to carry it.
Confirm dimensions, color depth, orientation, and whether the receiving app reads transparency.
Play the full loop and inspect color banding, disposal between frames, transparency, and the loop seam.