How to use Pixelate Image
- Choose a JPG, PNG or WebP image.
- Set the pixel block size and output format.
- Pixelate the image, check the preview and download the result.
Useful to know
Pixelation is a visual effect, not secure redaction. The whole image is processed and the downloaded copy keeps the source width and height.
Pixelate an entire image online
Pixelation reduces the image to a smaller colour sample and then enlarges that sample without smoothing. The result keeps the original width and height but displays deliberate square blocks. This can create an 8-bit or mosaic style, make a draft visually distinct from a final asset, simplify a busy background or give a photograph a clearly altered treatment.
Choose the pixel block size
Block size is measured against the source image. A value around 4–8 pixels creates a fine texture, 12–24 pixels produces obvious blocks, and larger settings remove much more visible detail. A setting that looks strong on a small image may look subtle on a high-resolution photo, so use the preview and adjust from the default.
The tool processes the whole image at one setting. It does not let you draw a selection around one face, number plate or paragraph. If you need the subject to occupy more of the frame, use the image cropper first. The downloaded file retains the source dimensions and contains the block effect in its pixels.
Pixelate versus blur
Pixelation creates hard-edged blocks and makes the edit visually obvious. Blur blends colours smoothly and usually suits backgrounds or gentle softening. Use the related blur image tool when you want a softer result rather than a retro or mosaic effect.
Pixelation is not secure redaction
Pixelation can make information harder to read, but it is not a guarantee that text, faces, codes or other sensitive details cannot be recognised or inferred. Small blocks may preserve shapes, and surrounding context remains visible. For legal, safety, medical or confidential material, remove the sensitive region completely with an appropriate redaction workflow and verify the finished file independently.
Private processing and output formats
The source is decoded, sampled and exported inside your browser, so Image Cosmos does not upload the selected image to its server. JPG suits most photographs and fills transparency with the selected background. PNG preserves transparency and can be larger. WebP is useful for modern web delivery. Quality changes JPG and WebP encoding but not the selected block size. Keep the original as your master and use the image compressor afterwards when a destination has a file-size limit.