Image Dithering Tool
Apply retro dithering to images in your browser: Floyd-Steinberg and Atkinson error diffusion, Bayer 4x4 ordered, with 1-bit, Game Boy, and grayscale palettes.
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What is Image Dithering Tool?
Image Dithering Tool applies classic dithering algorithms to any picture directly on a canvas: Floyd-Steinberg and Atkinson error diffusion, or Bayer 4x4 ordered patterns, over 1-bit black-and-white, Game Boy green, and 4-level grayscale palettes, with scale control and instant PNG export - all in your browser.
Key Benefits
- Authentic retro looks from real algorithms, not Instagram-style filters
- Error diffusion preserves shading even in a 2-color palette
- Game Boy palette gives instant hand-held nostalgia
- Scale control trades detail for chunkier, more stylized dots
- Private and instant - rendering and export happen on your device
Common Use Cases
- •Creating retro thumbnails, album art, and lofi social posts
- •Preparing 1-bit graphics for e-ink displays or embedded projects
- •Generating print-style halftone patterns for posters and zines
- •Making game assets that match a limited retro palette
How to Dither an Image
- Choose an image: Pick a PNG, JPEG, GIF, or WebP file - it renders on the canvas immediately.
- Pick algorithm and palette: Try Floyd-Steinberg for smooth shading, Atkinson for a classic Mac feel, or Bayer for print patterns, then switch palettes.
- Scale and download: Adjust the scale for chunkier dots and download the finished PNG.
Key Features
- Floyd-Steinberg and Atkinson error-diffusion algorithms
- Bayer 4x4 ordered dithering for print-style patterns
- 1-bit black & white, Game Boy green, and 4-level grayscale palettes
- Scale control from 10% to 100% for finer or chunkier dots
- Live canvas rendering as you switch algorithm and palette
- One-click PNG download, processed entirely on your device
Frequently Asked Questions
What is dithering?
Dithering simulates more colors than a palette really has. Each pixel is snapped to the nearest palette color, and the leftover error is spread or patterned across neighbors so the eye blends the dots back into shading.
Which algorithm should I choose?
Floyd-Steinberg is the all-round default with smooth gradients. Atkinson (used in classic Macs) drops some error for a punchier, brighter look. Bayer 4x4 is ordered dithering with a regular crosshatch pattern.
What is the Game Boy palette?
The four green shades of the original Nintendo Game Boy LCD. It instantly gives photos that hand-held retro look.
Are my images uploaded anywhere?
No. All processing happens on a canvas in your browser - the file never leaves your device.