Algorithm guide

Sierra Dithering Online

Updated June 2026 · 6 min read

Sierra dithering online gives you a wider error-diffusion kernel than Floyd-Steinberg — finer texture on detailed scenes with a distinctive diagonal character. Diffused Editor includes Sierra free and Two-Row Sierra with Pro.

Quick answer: Sierra dithering online spreads quantization error across ten pixels in three rows for finer texture than Floyd-Steinberg. Use free Sierra in Diffused Editor for landscapes and detail; upgrade to Two-Row Sierra (Pro) for urban and portrait work.

What is Sierra dithering?

The Sierra family of error diffusion algorithms extends Floyd-Steinberg by distributing error to a wider neighborhood. Standard Sierra uses ten pixels across three rows, creating slightly finer dither patterns with more preserved micro-detail in complex scenes.

Two-Row Sierra (Pro in Diffused Editor) uses seven pixels across two rows — a popular choice for cityscapes and portraits where diagonal texture adds character without overwhelming the subject.

City scene with Sierra dithering online — diagonal error diffusion texture
Urban scene with Sierra — fine diagonal diffusion patterns.
Landscape with Sierra dithering online compared to smooth gradients
Landscape with Sierra — detailed error diffusion on gradients.

Sierra vs Floyd-Steinberg

AlgorithmNeighborhoodBest forTier
Floyd-Steinberg4 pixelsGeneral photos, default choiceFree
Sierra10 pixels, 3 rowsDetailed landscapes, complex scenesFree
Two-Row Sierra7 pixels, 2 rowsPortraits, urban night scenesPro

For a deeper comparison of dithering families, see error diffusion vs ordered dithering.

How to apply Sierra dithering online

  1. Open Diffused Editor and upload your image.
  2. Choose Sierra (free) or Two-Row Sierra (Pro) in the Style tab.
  3. Try intensity 90–110% and pattern size 1 for maximum detail.
  4. Download or compare against Floyd-Steinberg using the A/B divider.

Frequently asked questions

What is Sierra dithering?

Sierra is an error diffusion algorithm that distributes quantization error to ten neighboring pixels across three rows, producing finer texture than Floyd-Steinberg on detailed images.

Is Sierra dithering free online?

Yes. Standard Sierra is free in Diffused Editor. Two-Row Sierra requires Pro ($8/mo).

Sierra vs Floyd-Steinberg — which is better?

Floyd-Steinberg is the better default for most photos. Choose Sierra when you want finer diffusion texture on complex or highly detailed scenes.

Try Sierra dithering now — free tier includes standard Sierra.

Open Diffused Editor

Explore all algorithms in our image dithering guide.