Why this matters
Understand why different dithering algorithms distribute on/off dots differently and why there is no single best mode for every photo or material.
How it works
- Dithering approximates shades using patterns of laser-on and laser-off marks rather than continuously varying each pixel's tone.
- Different algorithms distribute error or dots differently, changing texture, edge detail and the look of smooth gradients.
- Material response, spot size and chosen line interval strongly affect how the dither pattern physically merges.
Practical workflow
- Prepare the image's crop and tonal range first.
- Choose two or three candidate dithering modes rather than testing every option blindly.
- Keep laser settings identical when comparing algorithms.
- Engrave small representative crops containing skin, texture, highlights and shadows if applicable.
- Choose the mode based on the physical result, not only the on-screen preview.
What to watch for
- Changing dithering and laser energy at the same time prevents a fair comparison.