Quick Answer
No, LinkedIn does not allow animated banners or GIFs in profile banners currently. LinkedIn only allows static image banners. However, there are some workarounds like using video banners or subtle animation effects that give the illusion of animation. But overtly animated GIF banners are not permitted.
What is an Animated Banner
An animated banner refers to a profile banner image that contains animation or is an animated GIF. This creates a dynamic and eye-catching banner as compared to a static image.
Some examples of animated banners:
- A banner with an animated logo that loops
- A banner with animated text or shapes
- A cinemagraph banner with partially animated elements
- A banner in full animated GIF format
Animated banners are quite popular on platforms like Twitter, YouTube, Twitch etc. But LinkedIn has restrictions when it comes to animated profile banners.
LinkedIn Rules for Profile Banners
Here are the key LinkedIn rules for profile banners that impact animated banners:
- File Size – Less than 8MB
- Image Dimensions – Minimum 1400 x 425 pixels
- Image Format – JPG, PNG, GIF (but not animated GIF)
- Color Mode – RGB
- Image Can’t be – Animated, have nudity, be offensive etc.
The relevant restrictions are on animation and the GIF format. While LinkedIn allows standard GIF files for banners, it explicitly disallows GIFs with animation.
This is why overtly animated banners and GIFs do not work on LinkedIn. If you try to upload them, LinkedIn would show an error.
Why LinkedIn Restricts Animated Banners
There are a few reasons why LinkedIn restricts animated profile banners:
- Professional Appearance – Animated GIFs may seem unprofessional.
- Distraction – Animation draws too much attention away from profile.
- Performance – Animations increase loading times.
- Mobile Experience – Animations don’t work well on mobile.
- Brand Guidelines – LinkedIn wants consistent professional appearance.
LinkedIn likely implemented these rules to preserve their clean and uniform professional aesthetic. Overt animations and GIFs could detract from that.
Workarounds for Animated Banners on LinkedIn
While overt animated GIFs are not allowed on LinkedIn, there are some workarounds to get an animated banner effect:
1. Video Banners
One option is to use a video banner instead of an image. This allows for full motion animation. Some tips for video banners:
- Use MP4 or MOV video format. Size less than 8MB.
- Dimensions at least 1400 x 425 pixels.
- Keep video lengths short, under 10 seconds.
- Add text/logos to aid branding.
- Prioritize presenting text/logos up front.
The video loops automatically while on your profile. This achieves a dynamic animated banner, but within LinkedIn’s rules.
2. Cinemagraphs
Cinemagraphs are photos with selective minor animation added. This could create a subtle animated effect on part of the banner. Some tips for cinemagraph banners:
- Use very subtle isolated animation like leaves blowing or water rippling.
- Ensure major parts like logos and text are static.
- Convert final animation to standard GIF or PNG format.
- Optimize file size by limiting colors and dithering effects.
This achieves a minor animation that likely complies with LinkedIn policies.
3. CSS Animation
For savvy users, CSS animations can be embedded into the banner code to create effects like:
- Fading in elements
- Sliding text
- Changing colors
- Scaling shapes
This won’t work on the LinkedIn mobile apps. But CSS animation effects applied sparingly may not attract negative attention.
Tools to Create Animated Banners
Here are some popular tools used to create animated banners and cinemagraphs:
Banner Animation Tools
- Adobe After Effects
- Adobe Animate
- Adobe Photoshop
- GIPHY
Cinemagraph Tools
- Flixel
- Plotograph
- Cinemagraph Pro
These tools allow you to create animated effects and cinemagraphs you can convert into banner formats acceptable for LinkedIn.
Examples of Animated LinkedIn Banners
Here are some examples of profile banners with animation effects on LinkedIn:
User | Banner Example | Description |
---|---|---|
Moz | Video banner with text animation | |
Neil Patel | Cinemagraph with animated background |
These demonstrate two ways animation is incorporated through video and cinemagraph banner formats.
Conclusion
While overt animated GIF banners are prohibited by LinkedIn, there are workarounds like video and cinemagraphs that can create subtle animated effects. The trick is keeping the animation very minor and non-distracting. With the right tools and creativity, you can have a unique animated profile banner on LinkedIn that complies with their policies.