Quick answer: Download the TikTok as MP4 with SLMtik, then open it in a free GIF maker (Shortcuts on iPhone, a GIF app on Android, or Ezgif in any browser), trim 2–4 seconds and export.
Step 1: get the MP4
Paste the TikTok link into the TikTok to MP4 converter. A clean file without the watermark makes a better-looking GIF.
Step 2: convert it
- iPhone: the Shortcuts app has a ready-made "Video to GIF" shortcut in its Gallery. Run it, pick the video, trim and save. The GIF goes to Photos.
- Android: Google Photos can create animations from photos; for video, a GIF maker from the Play Store does the job. Choose one with good reviews and no strange permissions.
- Any browser: Ezgif's "Video to GIF" tool takes an MP4 upload, lets you set start and end times, then exports.
Make it small and sharp
- Keep it short: 2 to 4 seconds. Every second adds a lot of size.
- Lower the width: 360 to 480 px wide is plenty for chats.
- Frame rate: 10 to 15 fps looks smooth enough for a GIF.
- Crop to the action: cut away the empty top and bottom of the vertical frame.
GIF or MP4?
A GIF is often 5 to 10 times bigger than an MP4 of the same clip, and has only 256 colours. Many apps, including X (Twitter), actually convert uploaded GIFs into MP4 behind the scenes. Use a GIF where only GIFs work, such as email signatures and some chat apps; otherwise a short MP4 looks better.
Saving GIFs from X
To save an existing GIF from X, use the Twitter GIF downloader. You will get it as MP4, which you can convert with the same steps.