EasyLottie Guide
Lottie JSON vs Lottie ZIP: What’s the Difference?
A clear explanation of when a plain JSON is enough and when a ZIP package prevents missing assets.
The short version
A Lottie JSON file contains the animation instructions: layers, shapes, timing, colors, transforms, and metadata. If the animation is purely vector-based or embeds every required asset, a single JSON can be enough.
A Lottie ZIP is a package. It usually contains the JSON plus image assets referenced by that JSON. ZIP is safer when an animation includes screenshots, logos, textures, avatars, or other raster files.
Why JSON files sometimes break
The JSON may reference an image path such as images/img_0.png. If that image is not included alongside the JSON, a viewer or app runtime cannot render it. The animation may play with blank areas, missing logos, or broken scenes.
This is why marketplace downloads and designer handoffs often arrive as ZIP files. The package keeps the JSON and asset folder together, which makes previewing and editing more reliable.
Which format should you use?
Use JSON when the animation is simple, vector-based, and already plays correctly in your target runtime. Use ZIP when images are involved, when you need to replace assets, or when you are not sure whether the JSON depends on external files.
For editing, ZIP is often the better handoff format. Image Replace can detect and update assets inside the package, then export a complete file set that developers can test immediately.
Quick checklist
- Use JSON for simple vector animations.
- Use ZIP for image-heavy animations.
- Preview before embedding.
- Keep asset paths intact.
- Export ZIP when replacing images.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lottie ZIP an official format?
ZIP packaging is a common practical way to keep a Lottie JSON and its referenced assets together.
Can I preview both JSON and ZIP?
Yes. EasyLottie Preview supports both.
Why are image assets missing?
The JSON likely references external images that were not included with the file.
Which format is best for developers?
The best format is the one that preserves all required assets. For image-based animations, ZIP is usually safer.