Result looks blurry instead of blocky
Some tools apply a blur instead of averaging fixed blocks.
Fix: This tool uses a true pixelation algorithm (downsample then nearest-neighbor upscale) for hard, crisp block edges.
Pixelate Image
Apply a pixelation (mosaic) effect to any image with an adjustable block size — perfect for retro looks or quick redactions
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What is Pixelate Image
Written by Giorgos Kostas. Last reviewed:
A pixelate filter replaces blocks of pixels with their average color, producing the low-resolution mosaic look used in retro games and quick redactions.
Pixelate Image lets you dial in the block size from 2px (almost imperceptible) to 64px (blocky Minecraft-style) and export the result directly.
Why use it
- Create retro 8-bit or 16-bit game artwork from a modern photo.
- Roughly redact sensitive content for a screenshot or demo (pair with Censor Image for targeted redaction).
- Produce eye-catching social media thumbnails.
- All processing is in-browser — your images stay private.
Features
- Adjustable 2–64px block size
- True nearest-neighbor pixelation
- Live preview
- PNG and JPG export
- Transparency preserved
- Pixelation runs locally in your browser
How to use Pixelate Image
- Upload. Drop an image into the workspace.
- Pick a block size. Slide from 2px (subtle) to 64px (strong mosaic).
- Export. Click Download to save PNG or JPG.
Example (before/after)
Sharp photo
portrait.jpg (1080×1350, sharp, 480 KB)
Pixelated (block size 16px)
portrait.png (1080×1350, each 16×16 block replaced by average color, retro mosaic aesthetic)
Common errors
Pixelation is not strong enough to redact
Small block sizes can still be partially reversible via super-resolution AI.
Fix: For secure redaction, use the Censor Image tool with a large block size or a solid fill overlay.
FAQ
Is pixelation reversible?
In general, no — but at small block sizes, AI super-resolution can sometimes partially recover details. For sensitive redaction, use large blocks or a solid fill.
Is my image uploaded?
No. All rendering happens in your browser.
What's the max block size?
64px in the slider, which produces an extremely blocky look on most photos.
Does it support transparent PNGs?
Yes — transparency is preserved when you export as PNG.
Related tools
Related image tools: You can also browse the full Image Tools category for more options.
Censor Image (Blur & Pixelate)
Redact sensitive areas of an image by drawing a rectangle and applying pixelate or blur — everything stays in your browser
Grayscale Image
Convert any image to black-and-white grayscale in the browser with adjustable intensity and instant PNG/JPG export
Desaturate Image
Reduce the saturation of any image with a slider from full color to fully desaturated — runs entirely in your browser
Round Image Corners
Add rounded corners to any image with adjustable radius and transparent background — export as PNG
Flip Image
Mirror any image horizontally or vertically in the browser with a single click and export as PNG or JPG
Rotate Image
Rotate an image by any angle (including free-form degrees) with transparent fill — fast, browser-based
Resize Image
Resize any image to exact pixel dimensions or a percentage, with optional aspect-ratio lock and instant PNG/JPG export
Crop Image
Crop any image to a custom rectangle with precise pixel coordinates or preset aspect ratios — client-side only
Base64 to Image Converter
Paste any Base64 data URL or raw Base64 string, auto-detect the MIME type, and preview plus download the image
Image Cleaner
Clean up images in the browser: remove transparent padding, crop, make flat colors transparent, resize, and export PNG, JPG, or WebP.
Image Invert Colors
Invert colors of an image
Image Metadata Viewer
Inspect image dimensions, alpha support, and basic file metadata