Everything you need to know about Pixelate
Pixelate reduces your image to blocky, low-resolution pixels, creating mosaic effects, retro 8-bit video game aesthetics, or useful censoring for sensitive areas. Each output pixel represents the average color of a block of original pixels.
Parameters
- Pixel Size
Sets the size of each output pixel block in screen pixels (1–100px). At 1, no pixelation occurs. Small values (4–8px) create subtle texture. Medium values (16–32px) produce classic retro game aesthetics. Large values (50–100px) create bold mosaic effects or effective censoring.
How It Works
The filter divides the image into a grid of squares based on the pixel size. Each square is filled with the color sampled from its center point, creating uniform blocks that replace the original detail. This simulates how images appeared on low-resolution displays.
Pixel Size Effects
- 4–8 px – Subtle texture, slight retro feel
- 12–20 px – Classic 8-bit / 16-bit video game look
- 24–40 px – Bold mosaic, artistic abstraction
- 50–100 px – Heavy pixelation for censoring or extreme effects
Tips
- Use 8–16px with reduced colors (Posterize) for authentic pixel art style
- Apply to specific areas for privacy censoring (faces, license plates, etc.)
- Combine with saturation boost for vibrant retro game aesthetics
- Large pixel sizes work well for abstract, mosaic art effects