How to Download Pinterest GIFs (Keep Them Animated)

If you've tried to download a GIF from Pinterest, you've probably noticed something frustrating: the file you get is a video (.mp4), not an animated GIF (.gif). This happens because Pinterest stores most animated content as short video files rather than true GIF files.

This guide shows you how to download Pinterest GIFs and, if needed, convert them back to .gif format while keeping the animation intact. Works on Android, iPhone, Windows, and Mac.

Why Pinterest GIFs Download as MP4 Videos

Pinterest optimizes animated content by storing it as MP4 video files instead of traditional .gif files. This makes files smaller and faster to load, but it confuses users who expect a .gif when they download.

How to Download Pinterest GIFs (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Download the GIF as MP4

First, download the Pinterest GIF using the same process as downloading a video:

1. Open Pinterest and find the GIF you want
2. Tap the Share icon (three dots)
3. Select "Copy link"
4. Go to pinsavr.com
5. Paste the link and tap "Download"
6. The file downloads as .mp4

On Android: File goes to Downloads folder
On iPhone: File goes to Files app → Downloads
On PC/Mac: File goes to your default Downloads folder

Step 2: Convert MP4 to GIF (Optional)

If you need a .gif file (for example, to use in messaging apps, blogs, or presentations), convert the MP4:

Option A: Online Converter (All Devices)

1. Go to ezgif.com or cloudconvert.com
2. Upload your downloaded MP4
3. Choose output format: GIF
4. Adjust settings (keep default for best quality)
5. Click "Convert"
6. Download the .gif file

Pro tip: If the GIF file size is too large, reduce the dimensions (e.g., from 1080px to 480px width) before converting.

Option B: Android — Use GIF Maker App

1. Install "Video to GIF Converter" from Play Store (free)
2. Open the app and select your downloaded MP4
3. Trim if needed, then tap "Convert to GIF"
4. GIF saves to your Gallery

Option C: iPhone — Use Shortcuts App

1. Open Shortcuts app (pre-installed on iOS)
2. Search for "Make GIF" shortcut (or create one)
3. Select your downloaded MP4 video
4. Run the shortcut — it converts to GIF and saves to Photos

Option D: PC/Mac — Use Free Software

Windows: Use FFmpeg (command line) or GIMP (free image editor)

Mac: Use Gifski (drag-and-drop app, very simple)

Common Issues & Solutions

Why Is My Downloaded GIF Not Animating?

You downloaded it as an MP4 video, which most image viewers treat as a video file. To make it animate like a GIF:

• Convert it to .gif using one of the methods above
• Or play it in a video player (it will loop automatically)

Can I Keep the GIF as MP4?

Yes! MP4 files are often better quality and smaller file size than .gif. Most modern platforms (Discord, Slack, iMessage, WhatsApp) support MP4 and will play it as a looping animation.

How Do I Make the GIF File Size Smaller?

When converting MP4 to GIF, use these settings:

• Reduce width to 480px or 360px (down from 1080px)
• Lower frame rate to 15 FPS (instead of 30)
• Reduce colors to 128 or 64 (instead of 256)

This can cut file size by 70% while keeping the animation smooth.

Can I Download GIF Pins in Bulk?

Not directly. Each GIF must be downloaded one at a time. However, if the GIFs are in a Pinterest board, some tools support bulk board downloads (each Pin downloads individually). See our guide on bulk downloading Pinterest boards.

Best Tools for Converting MP4 to GIF

Related Guides

• How to Download Pinterest Videos
• Download Pinterest Idea Pins (All Slides)
• Save Pinterest Images in HD