Upload a photo or image
Open a JPG, PNG or WebP photo in the pixel art converter. A pet, portrait or single object with a clear outline is a good place to start.
✳ A LITTLE LESS DETAIL. A LOT MORE CHARACTER.
Pixel art converter with AI background removal
Turn any image or photo into pixel art for free. Choose your pixel size and colors, remove the background, and download a crisp, transparent PNG. No signup. Your images stay on your device.
100%YOURS TO
MAKE & KEEP
MAKE & KEEP
LOOKING GOOD, PIXEL BY PIXEL
✦✧
64 × 64 PX · TRANSPARENT
100%
A little pixel magic. All yours.
♥ MADE FOR YOUR NEXT LITTLE THING
Profile pictures✦Stickers & crafts✦Creative experiments
No signup. Just pixels. ↗THREE SMALL STEPS
How to turn an image into pixel art
Remove backgrounds with AI
Remove the background if you want to isolate the subject. Choose a grid size and color palette, then use the erase and restore brushes to touch up the cutout.
Download pixel art as PNG
Keep the background transparent or choose a solid color. Export at 1× for the original grid, or at 4× or 8× for a larger image with crisp pixel edges.
FIND YOUR LEVEL OF DETAIL
Pixel art sizes: 32×32, 64×64 and 128×128
A smaller grid creates a chunkier look. A larger grid gives faces and objects more room for detail. The export scale changes the PNG dimensions, not the number of pixels in your artwork.
| Grid | A useful starting point for | PNG at 8× |
|---|---|---|
| 32 × 32 | Simple objects, tiny icons and a chunky retro look | 256 × 256 |
| 64 × 64 | Pixel avatars, pet portraits and small static sprites | 512 × 512 |
| 128 × 128 | More detailed portraits and larger illustrations | 1024 × 1024 |
Choose Simple for an 8-color palette, Classic for 16 colors, or Rich for 32 colors. An added outline or solid background can introduce additional colors.
A FEW THINGS TO KNOW
Pixel art converter FAQ
How do I convert a picture to pixel art?
Choose a picture in the converter, pick a 32×32, 64×64 or 128×128 grid, and adjust the color palette. Preview your pixel art, optionally remove the background, then download the PNG. Start with 64×64 for a balance of recognizable detail and a pixelated look.
Is DrawPixel free to use?
Yes. Convert images and download PNGs for free, with no account and no watermark. You can try the built-in samples before choosing your own photo.
Are my photos uploaded to a server?
No. Image conversion, background removal and manual edge edits run in your browser. The first automatic cutout downloads a model to your device; your photo is not sent to a server for processing.
How do I make pixel art with a transparent background?
Choose an image, enable Remove background, and select Transparent under Canvas background. Use Refine edges to erase leftover background or restore missing parts of the subject, then download a PNG.
Which image formats and sizes can I use?
DrawPixel accepts JPG, PNG and WebP images up to 10 MB. The output is a square PNG with a 32×32, 64×64 or 128×128 pixel grid. The image is fitted into the square rather than stretched.
How can I enlarge pixel art without making it blurry?
Choose a 4× or 8× export before downloading. DrawPixel enlarges each pixel into a solid block without smoothing. For example, a 64×64 grid exported at 8× becomes a 512×512 PNG while keeping the same pixel detail.
Why does my converted photo look too busy?
Small grids cannot preserve every detail in a photo. Try a clearly lit subject, remove the background and turn on Fill the frame. Start with 64×64 and Classic colors, then use Simple colors for a more limited palette. Refine edges can help separate a subject from a cluttered background.
Is this an AI pixel art generator?
DrawPixel converts an existing image by reducing its resolution and colors. AI is used for optional background removal, not to generate a new character or redraw your photo. For precise game artwork, treat the result as a starting point and review the pixels before using it.
Can I make sprites or animated pixel art?
You can export a single transparent PNG for a static icon or sprite. DrawPixel does not currently generate animation frames, sprite sheets or game-ready character animations.