how to add gif to outlook email

2025

3 min read 25-03-2025

Adding a GIF to your Outlook email can add a fun, engaging touch to your message. Whether you're sending a quick hello or celebrating a milestone, a well-chosen GIF can significantly enhance communication. This guide provides a straightforward, step-by-step approach for both the desktop and mobile versions of Outlook.

Adding GIFs to Outlook on Your Desktop

This method works for both Outlook.com and the desktop application for Windows and Mac.

Step 1: Locate Your GIF

First, find the GIF you want to insert. You can save GIFs from websites like Giphy, Tenor, or Imgur. Make sure the file is saved on your computer in a location you can easily access.

Step 2: Open a New Email or Reply to an Existing One

Compose a new email in Outlook or open an existing one you'd like to reply to. Position your cursor where you want the GIF to appear in your message.

Step 3: Insert the GIF

Method A: Insert Picture

Click the "Insert" tab in the Outlook ribbon at the top.
Click the "Pictures" button.
Navigate to the location where you saved your GIF.
Select the GIF and click "Insert".

Method B: Drag and Drop (Simpler!)

Locate the GIF file on your computer.
Drag and drop the GIF file directly into the body of your email.

Step 4: Send Your Email

Once the GIF is in place, review your email and add any additional text or formatting. When you're ready, click "Send."

Adding GIFs to Outlook on Mobile (Android & iOS)

Adding GIFs to Outlook on mobile is slightly different, as it relies on your device's capabilities and potentially third-party apps.

Step 1: Using the Built-in Features (If Available)

Outlook's mobile app might not support directly embedding GIFs. The easiest method is to check if your mobile Outlook app allows for image insertion. If so, the process is very similar to the desktop version.

Step 2: Using a Third-Party Keyboard (Most Reliable Method)

Many third-party keyboards include GIF integration. Popular options include Gboard (Google Keyboard) and SwiftKey.

Download and enable a GIF-capable keyboard: If you don't have one, download a keyboard app with GIF support from your app store (Google Play or Apple App Store). Make sure to enable it in your device's settings.
Compose your email: Open your Outlook email.
Access the GIF keyboard: Switch to your GIF-enabled keyboard. The method varies by keyboard, but typically involves tapping a GIF icon or button.
Search and Select: Browse GIFs or search for a specific one using keywords.
Insert the GIF: Tap to insert your chosen GIF into the email.
Send: Finish composing your email and send it as usual.

Step 3: Sending as an Attachment (Less Ideal)

As a last resort, you can send the GIF as an attachment. While this works, it's not as visually appealing as embedding it directly in the email body.

Locate the GIF on your mobile device.
In Outlook, tap the paperclip or attachment icon.
Select the GIF file from your device's storage.
Send the email.

Tips and Troubleshooting

GIF Size: Large GIFs can slow down email loading times. Consider using smaller GIFs to maintain a smooth experience for recipients.
Compatibility: Not all email clients perfectly support GIFs. Some older email clients might display them as a static image or not at all.
Alternative Text: Always consider adding alt text to your GIF for accessibility purposes. This text is read by screen readers for visually impaired users.

By following these steps, you can easily add GIFs to your Outlook emails and spice up your communication. Remember to choose GIFs that are relevant and appropriate for your audience and the context of your message.