Sierra Lite dithering online
Try Sierra Lite, the simplest error-diffusion dithering kernel. Ultra-fast, crisp results. Free browser-based image dithering tool.
About Sierra Lite dithering
Sierra Lite (also called Filter Lite) uses only three neighbours and a divisor of 4, making it the cheapest error-diffusion kernel in common use.
Despite its simplicity it produces surprisingly good results, very close to Floyd–Steinberg, with a slightly grainier texture. Ideal for embedded displays and e-ink screens.
Diffusion kernel
* 2 1 1 (÷4)
“*” marks the current pixel; numbers show how much of its quantization error each neighbour receives.
Best for
- E-ink and microcontroller displays
- Very large images
- Grainy lo-fi look
How to dither an image
- Add your image. Click Upload image, drag a file onto the preview, or paste with Ctrl/⌘+V. JPG, PNG, WebP and GIF work.
- Pick an algorithm and palette. Error diffusion (Floyd–Steinberg, Atkinson…) for photos, Bayer for a retro crosshatch.
- Tune it. Raise pixel size for chunkier pixels; adjust brightness and contrast to control which tones become dark or light.
- Download. Export a lossless PNG at up to 8× with crisp nearest-neighbour scaling.
FAQ
What is Sierra Lite dithering?
Sierra Lite (also called Filter Lite) uses only three neighbours and a divisor of 4, making it the cheapest error-diffusion kernel in common use.
When should I use Sierra Lite?
Sierra Lite works best for: e-ink and microcontroller displays, very large images, grainy lo-fi look.
Is DitherImage free?
Yes. DitherImage is completely free with no sign-up, no watermark and no usage limits.
Are my images uploaded to a server?
No. All processing happens locally in your browser using JavaScript and the Canvas API. Your images never leave your device.