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Pixel Art & Retro Dither Converter
Pixel Art & Retro Dither Converter
What is this tool?
The Pixel Art & Retro Dither Converter first shrinks the image so each block of pixels is averaged into one, then snaps every colour to the chosen palette with optional dithering, and finally enlarges it again with hard edges so each pixel remains a crisp square. Ordered (Bayer) dithering gives the classic crosshatch look; Floyd–Steinberg diffuses the error for smoother gradients.
When to use it
- Making pixel-art avatars and profile pictures from photos
- Creating retro game sprites or backgrounds
- Giving images a Game Boy or 8-bit computer look
- Reducing an image to 1-bit black and white with dithering
- Designing posters and thumbnails with a nostalgic style
How to use it
- 1Drop one or more images
- 2Set the pixel size — larger numbers mean chunkier pixels
- 3Pick a palette and a dithering style
- 4Check the live preview and click Download — use PNG to keep the edges sharp
Frequently asked questions
Which palettes are included?
Game Boy (4 greens), 1-bit black and white, CGA, EGA (16), Commodore 64 (16), PICO-8 (16) and a sepia ink set, plus original colours and a posterize mode with adjustable shades.
What is dithering?
Dithering mixes the few available colours in patterns so the eye perceives in-between shades. Ordered dithering gives a regular pattern; Floyd–Steinberg gives a more organic, noisy one.
Does the output keep the original size?
Yes. The image is the same size as the original, but built from big square pixels. Choose a smaller image first if you want a tiny sprite.
Why does JPEG look worse?
JPEG compression blurs hard edges and can add colour noise. PNG keeps every pixel exact, so it is the best format for pixel art.
Is my photo uploaded?
No, the conversion runs entirely in your browser.