From Video to Visual Storytelling: Crafting GIFs with YouTube Content

How to Create GIFs from YouTube Videos

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Who doesn’t love Gifs? They are one of the most entertaining means to communicate on the internet. But have you tried creating a GIF from YouTube videos? Generally, GIFs use humorous or relevant scenes from movies or shows to make them relatable to the situation. If you’re someone who wants to create GIFs from YouTube, this is for you.

The article below will show you how to create GIFs from YouTube videos on the desktop computers and mobile devices with some free online GIF makers and apps.

Part 1: How to Create GIFs from a YouTube Video on the Computer?

1. FreeGifMAKER.me

FreeGifMaker is a simple online tool that allows the creation of animated Gifs free of cost. A minimum of two pictures has to be uploaded out of ten. It’s super easy and takes a couple of minutes to make a GIF from a YouTube video.

Find out how to create GIFs using FreeGifMaker.me using these steps.

1. Open the website on your desktop by typing http://freegifmaker.me/youtube-to-gif/
2. Go to YouTube and copy the URL of the video you want to make a GIF. Paste it on the above-mentioned website.
3. Click on “Load YouTube Video” below the URL space and wait for a few seconds while the tool checks the video source.
4. After the YouTube video is loaded, finally enter the gif duration, start time and click on the “Make a GIF button” and it will redirect you to the result page.

2. VEED.IO

VEED is another easy way to make GIFs from YouTube videos. VEED allows you to copy a YouTube video link of your choice and paste it on VEED without any difficulty. VEED not only creates GIFs from YouTube videos but also gives few more facilities like trimming, adding text, cropping to the clip which helps in creating super-cool GIFs. VEED has both free and Pro versions and is a perfect browser software.

How to use VEED only in 3 steps, know about it below:

1. First, you need to copy the link to the YouTube video of your choice and paste it into VEED. From there the software will start importing the video into its project editor and you can start creating the GIF from there.
2. For the editing part, you need to trim the part of the video in which you want to make the GIF and crop the GIF. You can easily do that by choosing the canvas size menu available. After that, you can add text, font style, color, and size to your GIF.
3. In the last step, you just have to download the GIF which you have made in VEED.

3. Kapwing

Kapwing is a great stage for creating GIFs as well as videos and images. Kapwing is one of the most used and liked online video editors available. It provides one single step for all the things to do while creating a GIF – upload, editing, and sharing the file.

To create unique GIFs with Kapwing, follow these easy steps.

1. First, you need to open Kapwing video editor and copy the URL of the YouTube video of your choice and paste it on Kapwing to create your GIF from the video. Any video which is shorter than 30 minutes and less than 500 MB is supported by Kapwing.
2. Once you have uploaded the video, you will find the video appearing in the timeline. The section of the video that you want to make the GIF of needs to be cut with the sliders which are available at the end. A GIF can be usually of any length but to maintain good resolution, it is always advised to not make the segment more than 10 seconds.
3. You can preview the GIF you created after trimming the video which will allow you to see how the final output would be like. Other edits such as cropping, adding text, and experimenting with the speed can be done on Kapwing as well.
4. In the last and final step, you just need to export the GIF which you will find in the dropdown arrow available just beside the red “Export Video” button. Then click on the dropdown button and choose the option “Export as GIF”.

After processing the GIF, you need to save it by downloading it.

4. File-converter-online.com

This online free video editor can convert videos into GIF without any watermark and the maximum length of the GIF from the video clip can be 20 seconds, which can be set by you as needed. It provides a simple and free GIF maker that again offers special effects as well such as setting up the speed of the video.

You can create your desirable GIF from YouTube video in 3 easy steps.

1. First, provide the specific link of the YouTube video which you want to create the GIF of in the space given.
2. Apply the start time of the video by sliding with the given slider and then set the desirable duration of the GIF which is available in the next “Duration (seconds)” by sliding the seconds.
3. Next, you can choose the speed of the video which is optional, and then set the resolution from higher to lower as per your choice.
4. The final step involves creating the GIF which you can do by clicking on the red button “Create GIF from the video” available below the resolution option and finally the downloading will start after a short waiting on the next page.

5. Clideo

Clideo is one of the most reliable video converters available online. It can create an animated GIF from YouTube videos without much complication.

You can make GIF on your own by following the 3 easy steps mentioned below.

1. First, you need to copy your YouTube video that you want to create a GIF with. Come back on Clideo and you will find a dropdown menu beside “Choose file”, there paste the link that you have copied earlier in the URL space. You can also select Google Drive or Dropbox for the same.
2. After pasting the URL, you have to choose the ‘infinity sign’ given on the right side which will create an endless GIF without sound. Click on the ‘loop’ button available just below the panel on the right side.
3. After completing the steps, you can watch the preview of the GIF and go back to editing if you need to change anything. Else save the output on your PC or Mobile phone.

Part 2: How to Make a GIF from a YouTube Video on the Android and iPhone?

1. GIF Toaster – GIF Maker

Gif Toaster is one of the video editing apps which makes the work of creating Gif from YouTube video super-easy. It can convert photos, panoramas and, videos into GIFs easily. You just need to download the app to make GIFs of your own choice.

You need to follow a few simple steps to create GIFs on your own.

1. It is accessible on the iOS App Store and the Google Play for free so you need to install GIF Toaster on your device. Once done, tap the “Make GIF” option available below, you can also click “Combine GIFs” to combine more than one video. After completing, scroll down the dropdown menu beside “Video>GIF” and select the video which you want to convert into GIF.
2. Once the selection is done, you will be provided with various options like “Basic Option”, “Direction Option”, “Effect Option” where you can control the playback speed, range along with other options available. You also get the option to choose “Filters” for making the GIF.
3. After selecting the options of your choice, you have to scroll back to the top again and press “Convert” to quickly convert the video into GIF.
4. Once the GIF is ready, you will be able to see the final result and you just need to ‘Save’ the file.

Part 3: Bonus: How to Create GIFS from YouTube video on iPhone without installing any app?

It is now possible to convert YouTube videos into GIFs by using the 5SecondsApp available for iOS. To make this possible you just require few things in your iPhone – the device should be iOS 11 or more, YouTube in the browser or app, and the 5SecondsApp already available in the App store.

First, you need to find a video that is not more than 10 seconds then begin the screen recording on the iOS recording feature and go back to YouTube to play the video and record the portion you need. To make the GIF you have to launch the app and tap the plus option there. Later, trim the video as you see fit. After you’re done, crop the video with the help of the crop tool and finally save it.

Part 4: Why Should You Use GIFs?

1. GIFs don’t prevent web pages from loading quickly

GIFs which are animated becomes more popular for any website as it gives meaning compacted in a small video the website uses to boost its chances of getting more views. While GIF does not make a website much slow but for better performance, it can be converted into lossy optimizations which do not make a huge difference in front of the human eyes or it can also be converted into HTML5 videos which makes the GIF 95% smaller in size.

2. GIF is an integral part of communicating on social media

Using GIFs makes any communication bright and friendly. It delivers great messages through short animated videos and has become the spotlight for communication in the past few years. Almost everyone using social media is using GIF for communicating with their friends and family.

Final Thoughts

There are many apps and video editors available today available free of cost. You can easily make GIFs from your most-liked video on YouTube. It is smooth to create GIFs on your own with the help of these editors mentioned above. Each one of them is having a free version and easy to handle so do not forget to try them next time you are making a GIF from YouTube videos.

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Freely Accessible Cutting Edge Video Editor Tools

Best Free Video Editing Programs You Should Know

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

Check out our most updated guide on this topic: The Best Free Video Editing Software for YouTube - Top 8 Reviews .

Looking for free video editing software? Thanks to high-end smartphone cameras and affordable video recording equipment, it has never been easier to make great looking YouTube videos. However, many talented creators struggle to edit their videos without having to spend a lot of money. Fortunately, there are numerous free video editing software programs that can be used for this purpose, allowing content creators to complete and publish high-quality content even if they operate on a moderate budget.

Here is a list of great software that can be used free of charge:

1. Avidemux
2. Blender
3. Wondershare Filmii
4. Hitfilm Express
5. iMovie
6. Lightworks
7. Machete Video Editor Lite
8. Open Shot
9. Shotcut
10. Video Pad
11. VSDC Free Video Editor
12. WeVideo
13. Windows Movie Maker

1. Avidemux

Available for: Windows, Mac OS X, Linux

Perhaps the strongest argument in favor of Avidemux is its extreme flexibility. This free video editor is available for Windows, iOS, and Linux, and it supports a wide variety of formats and codecs. It is primarily intended for basic cutting, but in the hands of a capable editor, it can perform very well on more demanding projects. Avidemux is also known for its strong scripting capacities, which allow for faster execution of routine tasks and consequently a more streamlined video production process.

• Compatibility with multiple OS platforms
• Easy task automation
• Supports numerous video formats

2. Blender

Available for: Windows, Mac OS, Linux

When you need a reliable tool for 3D animation, Blender is your go-to solution. This open-source suite has a range of advanced functionalities, supporting the entire process of 3D creation, from modeling and rigging to video editing. As a public project that involved a large number of creative professionals during the design stage, Blender is truly a promising alternative to corporate products. This free creative suite is quite versatile and can be used for tasks such as game creation, video editing, post-production effects, and rendering.

• Primarily intended for 3D animation projects
• Allows great creative freedom on a wide range of tasks
• Customizable and user-friendly interface

3. Wondershare Filmii

Available for: Windowsx

As one of the most commonly used free video editing software packages, Wondershare Filmii deserves some consideration. It is famous for its beautiful video templates and attractive interface of software.

• Various types of templates to get started fast
• Auto-create functionality speeds up the editing process
• Customize videos with smart editing tools that allow you to add, remove, and adjust clips and effects with more flexibility

4. HitFilm Express

If you want your videos to have a cinematic look and feel, Hitfilm Express might be the right software for you. It can be used to cut scenes, adjust color levels, or apply filters and special effects. With an interface that resembles classic editing suites, it won’t take too long to learn how to import raw materials, arrange a timeline, or edit the images to best express your creative vision.

• Great cutting tools and audio/video filters
• Allows keying for green screen effects
• Support for 3D videos

5. iMovie

Available for: iOS, Mac OS

Video makers who prefer Apple hardware will be tempted to use iMovie for video editing purposes, and they certainly won’t go wrong. This free software has all it takes to produce a stunning-quality video, including ten cinematic filters. It is even possible to start editing the shots on your phone, then easily transfer them to your MacBook laptop to execute more precise operations and tweak the colors.

• Works on all Apple devices, including smartphones and iPods
• Supports 4K high-resolution videos
• Amazing filters for cinematic quality of your videos
• Easy sharing to social networks or directly to YouTube

6. Lightworks

Available for: Windows, Mac, Linux

This package is free for home use, and it comes with an impressive collection of tools that are typically found in professional suites. The timeline is very easy to manage, while users can take advantage of real-time effects and color correction tools to improve the look of the video. Admittedly, it might take some time to learn how to use this package, but that’s time well spent if you are an up-and-coming video creator or short film editor.

• Broad choice of preset video effects
• Imports raw material directly from a camera
• Support for work on dual monitors
• Frame rate adjustment

7. Machete Video Editor Lite

Available for: Windows

As a simplified version of a more comprehensive professional solution, Machete Lite has obvious advantages over other free video editing software products. It supports only two formats (AVI and WMS), so its range of applications is somewhat limited. On the positive side, most video and audio codecs are supported, while the interface is very intuitive. Overall, it’s a good choice for anyone looking to edit simple videos quickly.

• Support for Ultra HD 4K video
• Ability to merge separate video files in the same format
• Access to metadata (file tags)

8. OpenShot

Available for: Windows, Mac OS, Linux

A unique combination of simplicity and power sets Open Shot apart from similar products. Basic cutting and composing are surprisingly simple and quick, and more demanding users will discover a trove of advanced features. The program lets you work with unlimited layers so it is possible to add background video or multiple audio channels, while its video effects engine can achieve truly impressive results.

• Easy to learn, easier to use
• Excellent video cutting tools
• Visualization of audio files

9. Shotcut

Available for: Windows, Mac OS, Linux

Shotcut has a reputation as one of the most reliable editing tools you can download for free, and this reputation is well deserved. Cutting the video’s length down is easy as 1-2-3, while users who want to apply filters and effects will have plenty of choices to work with. A wide variety of video formats are supported, so you will be able to handle any task without changing the editor.

• Well designed UI
• A wide range of filters and effects
• Support for video streaming and web camera input

10. VideoPad

Available for: Windows, Mac OS, Android, Kindle

You don’t have to be a professional editor to take full advantage of Video Pad and its advanced features. This free package packs more than 50 amazing video effects and transitions, so it’s super easy to transform your home video into a visual masterpiece. The editor has no issues with any commonly used video format, and it can take direct input from a camcorder or a webcam. Image stabilization and color correction tools complete the package and guarantee great looking videos.

• Video effects that anyone can use with amazing results
• Drag-and-drop commands for simple editing
• Multi-track audio mixing

Available for: Windows

Broad compatibility is one of the greatest strengths of this software, as it supports practically any format or codec you can think of. However, it is also notable for non-linear editing capacities, great visual/audio effects, and the simple creation of masks. With the help of some color blending and a few filters, VSDC can be used to produce smooth, attention-grabbing YouTube videos, as well as a range of other video materials with absolute ease, even if you are new to filmmaking.

• Non-linear sequencing of shots
• Precise object positioning and/or masking
• Simple exporting of finished videos to social networks

12. WeVideo

Available for: Windows, Mac OS, iOS, Android

A very practical free tool that can be accessed from mobile platforms, WeVideo represents a solid choice for beginners as well as experienced video creators. Special effects and green screen effects are straightforward to use with an online solution that doesn’t require any downloads or software installation.

• Cloud-based solution with hosted storage
• Intuitive interface that allows easy access to all features
• Support for high-resolution 4K video files

13. Windows Movie Maker

Available for: Windows

Everyone knows about this editor since it’s been around for a long time. Microsoft stopped releasing new versions, but Windows Movie Maker remains relevant in 2018. It’s definitely not the most advanced product in the market and it is best suited for simple projects and beginner-level users. However, its cutting and editing tools are pretty solid, while transitions, animations, and visual effects are quite simple to pull off.

• Already included on many Windows-based computers
• Sourcing footage from a computer or camera
• Direct sharing to YouTube and other networks

Are you ready for something better?

As you can see, there is no shortage of free video editing software suites. However, free software does tend to be either very limited, or very specifically targeted (i.e. Blender is specifically for animators). Wondershare’s Filmora Video Editor is a great choice for YouTubers and other video creators who are starting to grow out of programs like Windows Movie maker. You can even try all the features for free, for as long as you like! Exports from the free trial do have a watermark, though.

What free video editing software have you tried?

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett