Animation is a powerful tool that helps make your emails more lively, noticeable, and memorable.But it needs to be used wisely, so you don't turn your email into a heavy, annoying banner.In this article, we'll cover which animations work well for email, how to insert them, and what to keep in mind so they don't hurt your campaign.

Why use animation?

  • Grab attention (for example, to a discount or promotion)
  • Show the product in action (for example, a rotating 3D view)
  • Convey emotion (for example, a light heart or like animation)
  • Simplify an explanation (for example, how a feature works)

Important: animation should reinforce the email, not distract from the main point.

What types of animation work in email?

1. GIF animation

The most common and reliable format.✔ Works almost everywhere (even in Gmail and Outlook).✔ Easy to create (you can build one right in the Letteros editor or in Canva).

⚠ Limitations:

  • Don't overload the email — the total size should ideally stay under 150–200 KB.
  • Outlook displays only the first frame of a GIF (a fallback is needed).

2. CSS animation

Works only in some email clients (Apple Mail, iOS Mail).✅ Can create smooth transitions, gradients, and hover effects.❌ Not supported by Gmail or Outlook.

Recommendation: if you're not sure, don't rely on CSS animation — use a GIF instead.

How do you insert animation into an email?

In Letteros:1. Prepare a GIF (built-in editor or an external service).2. Upload it to the media library.3. Insert it into the email as a regular image.4. Check the preview.

How do you choose where to place the animation?

✔ In the first screen — to grab attention right away.✔ In key CTAs — for example, an animated arrow on a button.✔ In product demos — for example, switching between color options or features.

❌ Don't place animation in the footer or other low-visibility elements — it won't work there.

How do you avoid animation hurting your email?

❌ Don't overload the email — use a maximum of 1–2 animations.❌ Don't use harsh flickering (it can be irritating).❌ Keep an eye on file size (ideally under 1 MB, optimally ~300–500 KB).❌ Always provide a fallback — the first frame of the GIF should be informative.

Conclusion

Animation in emails is a great tool for boosting engagement, if used carefully and thoughtfully.With Letteros, you can easily add animations even without a developer, using the built-in editors and ready-made blocks.