01
Choose your image
Open a PNG, JPEG or WebP file. The tool reads the image in your browser and keeps its original dimensions within the displayed limits.
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Free image toolConvert an image to grayscale online
Turn a color photo into a grayscale image in your browser. Keep original dimensions, preserve PNG transparency and download PNG, JPEG or WebP.
No uploadNo signupOriginal dimensions
Make your photo black and white
PNG, JPEG or WebP · up to 20 MB, 16 megapixels and 8,192 px per side.
Choose an image to begin. No account is needed.
Your selected file is processed in this browser, without being uploaded by this tool. PNG preserves the converted pixels and alpha channel; JPEG and WebP exports may use compression. Camera metadata is not copied. Use a still image; animation is not preserved.
How to turn a color image into grayscale
02
Compare the result
See the original beside the grayscale version. The conversion changes color values while retaining PNG transparency.
03
Download your file
Choose PNG for transparency and lossless storage of the converted pixels. Choose JPEG for a photo with a white background.
Grayscale, black and white, or desaturated?
Grayscale keeps shades of gray
A grayscale photograph includes intermediate gray tones. This converter calculates a weighted value from the red, green and blue channels (0.299 R + 0.587 G + 0.114 B) and writes it to all three color channels.
A strict black-and-white threshold has only two colors. This tool produces grayscale, rather than a two-color stencil.
Choose the right workflow
Use this page for a single image. For a styled photo effect, try the Instagram-style filters. To process images from your application or backend, use the Grayscale Image API.
For print production, check the final file with your printer. A grayscale-looking RGB image is not a dedicated CMYK or grayscale print profile.
Grayscale conversion: before and after
Compare the original sample with the actual PNG exported by this converter. Both files keep the same 748 × 498 pixel dimensions.
Original color photo
Grayscale result
Frequently asked questions
How can I make a photo grayscale for free without uploading it?
Choose your image in the converter above. The selected image is processed locally in your browser and the download requires no account.
Can I convert a transparent PNG to grayscale without losing transparency?
Yes. Export as PNG to keep each pixel’s alpha value. Exporting as JPEG fills transparent areas with white because JPEG does not support transparency.
Does converting an image to grayscale reduce its size or resolution?
This tool keeps the original pixel dimensions within its stated limits. Downloaded file size can increase or decrease depending on format and compression; a smaller file is not guaranteed.
Is grayscale the same as black and white?
Grayscale includes shades between black and white. A two-color black-and-white image contains only black and white pixels. This converter creates grayscale.
Can I convert many images to grayscale automatically?
The free browser tool processes one image at a time. Use the Pixelixe Grayscale Image API from your application for a repeatable automated workflow; API access follows your account plan.
Can I use this on a phone?
Yes, in a modern browser that supports image decoding and canvas export. Large images can exceed mobile memory, so the tool limits files to 20 MB, 16 megapixels and 8,192 pixels per side.
Build on a reusable template
Explore the Pixelixe workflow that fits your production process.