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Dithering Algorithms

Compare error diffusion, ordered dithering, blue-noise, and noise-based techniques before applying them in the PixelSynth editor.

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Floyd–Steinberg dithering preview

Floyd–Steinberg

Error Diffusion Dithering · classic

Diffuses the quantization error across 4 neighboring pixels. Produces smooth and detailed results with an excellent balance between quality and performance.

medium
Performance: 3 of 5
Robert W. Floyd & Louis Steinberg1976
Jarvis, Judice, and Ninke (JJN) dithering preview

Jarvis, Judice, and Ninke (JJN)

Error Diffusion Dithering · classic

Spreads the error over 12 pixels, creating smoother and more natural textures, though at a slower speed.

high
Performance: 4 of 5
J.F. Jarvis, C.N. Judice & W.H. Ninke1976
Stucki dithering preview

Stucki

Error Diffusion Dithering · classic

An optimized version of JJN with smaller weights. Produces sharper results with excellent detail preservation.

high
Performance: 4 of 5
Peter Stucki1981
Burkes dithering preview

Burkes

Error Diffusion Dithering · classic

A faster variant of Stucki with comparable quality. Uses diffusion across two lines for efficient processing.

medium
Performance: 2 of 5
Daniel Burkes1988
Sierra dithering preview

Sierra

Error Diffusion Dithering · classic

Balances quality and performance with a three-line diffusion. Produces natural and crisp textures.

medium
Performance: 3 of 5
Frank Sierra1986
Two-Row Sierra dithering preview

Two-Row Sierra

Error Diffusion Dithering · classic

Reduced version of Sierra using two diffusion rows. Faster execution with slight quality loss.

low
Performance: 2 of 5
Frank Sierra1986
Sierra Lite dithering preview

Sierra Lite

Error Diffusion Dithering · classic

Lightweight and fast variant of Sierra, ideal for real-time applications or previews.

low
Performance: 1 of 5
Frank Sierra1986
Atkinson dithering preview

Atkinson

Error Diffusion Dithering · classic

Creates crisp, retro-style dot patterns. Uses fewer diffusion pixels, resulting in a distinct stippled appearance.

low
Performance: 2 of 5
Bill Atkinson (Apple)1984
Bayer 2×2 dithering preview

Bayer 2×2

Ordered Dithering · classic

Smallest Bayer matrix. Produces visible patterns and a distinct pixelated look.

low
Performance: 1 of 5
Bayer1973
Bayer 4×4 dithering preview

Bayer 4×4

Ordered Dithering · classic

Common Bayer matrix. Strikes a balance between smoothness and perceptible patterning.

low
Performance: 1 of 5
Bayer1973
Bayer 8×8 dithering preview

Bayer 8×8

Ordered Dithering · classic

Larger Bayer matrix that minimizes visible patterns, resulting in smoother gradients.

medium
Performance: 2 of 5
Bayer1973
Clustered Dot (Halftone Ordered) dithering preview

Clustered Dot (Halftone Ordered)

Ordered Dithering · classic

Groups pixels to simulate offset printing. Ideal for ink-dot or halftone-style appearances.

medium
Performance: 2 of 5
Various Researchers1980s
Blue Noise dithering preview

Blue Noise

Ordered Dithering · modern

Uses a blue-noise matrix for balanced error distribution. Avoids visible patterns, producing a natural look.

high
Performance: 4 of 5
Ulichney1993
Random Dither dithering preview

Random Dither

Random / Noise-Based Dithering · modern

Applies purely random thresholds, producing a grainy texture with noticeable noise characteristics.

low
Performance: 1 of 5
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Void-and-Cluster dithering preview

Void-and-Cluster

Random / Noise-Based Dithering · modern

Generates a procedurally balanced distribution of dots and voids. Produces a smooth, organic texture.

high
Performance: 4 of 5
Ulichney1993