CGA image converter
Convert images to the iconic 4-color CGA palette (black, cyan, magenta, white) with dithering. Free 1980s PC graphics generator.
About the CGA palette
IBM's Color Graphics Adapter (1981) could show only four colors at once in its 320×200 mode. Palette 1 — black, cyan, magenta and white — became the unmistakable look of early DOS games.
Dithering is essential here: with only four garish colors, patterns are the only way to suggest other hues. Bayer 4×4 gives the most authentic period feel.
Colors
Best for
- 80s DOS game aesthetic
- Vaporwave & synthwave art
- Album covers
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 CGA palette dithering?
IBM's Color Graphics Adapter (1981) could show only four colors at once in its 320×200 mode. Palette 1 — black, cyan, magenta and white — became the unmistakable look of early DOS games.
When should I use CGA?
CGA works best for: 80s dos game aesthetic, vaporwave & synthwave art, album covers.
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.