EasyLottie Guide
What Is a .lottie File? dotLottie vs Lottie JSON
You downloaded a .lottie file and are not sure what it is or how to open it. Here is the plain-English difference between dotLottie, Lottie JSON, and ZIP — and when to use each.
The short answer
A .lottie file — often called dotLottie — is a compressed ZIP-based package that bundles one or more Lottie animations and their assets (like images) into a single, smaller file. A plain Lottie JSON, by contrast, is a single human-readable text file. dotLottie exists to make Lottie files smaller and tidier to ship, especially when they include images or when you want several animations in one package.
dotLottie vs Lottie JSON vs ZIP
All three describe the same underlying animation data; they differ in packaging and size.
| Format | What it is | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| .json (Lottie JSON) | A single text file of animation data | Simple, vector-only animations with embedded or no images |
| .lottie (dotLottie) | A compressed package (ZIP-based) with animations + assets | Smaller downloads, image-heavy or multi-animation bundles |
| .zip | A folder of the JSON plus its image files | Handing off a JSON that references external images |
How to open or preview a .lottie file
You do not need special software. Drop the .lottie file into EasyLottie Preview and it renders locally in your browser — you can check playback, background, and file details right away. This is the fastest way to confirm a downloaded .lottie actually contains the animation you expected before you use or edit it.
Which one should you use?
If your animation is vector-only and small, a plain JSON is the simplest to work with. If it includes images or you are shipping several animations together, dotLottie keeps the download small and the assets bundled. ZIP is the practical middle ground when you just need to keep a JSON and its external images together for a handoff. Whatever you receive, previewing it first tells you what you are working with.
Quick checklist
- A .lottie (dotLottie) is a compressed package; JSON is a single file.
- Use dotLottie for smaller, image-heavy, or multi-animation bundles.
- Use ZIP to keep a JSON and its external images together.
- Drop any of them into Lottie Preview to open and inspect locally.
Frequently asked questions
What is a .lottie file?
A .lottie (dotLottie) file is a compressed, ZIP-based package that bundles Lottie animations and their assets into one smaller file.
What is the difference between .lottie and Lottie JSON?
A Lottie JSON is a single text file of animation data. A .lottie file is a compressed package that can hold that JSON plus images (and even multiple animations), so it is smaller and tidier to ship.
How do I open a .lottie file?
Drop it into EasyLottie Preview; it renders locally in your browser with no extra software.
Is dotLottie better than JSON?
It is better when you need smaller downloads or want to bundle images and multiple animations. For simple vector-only animations, a plain JSON is fine.