ASCII Effect

Apply ASCII to images and videos online

Convert images and videos into ASCII art. Turn pixels into characters and create retro, terminal-style, or generative visuals directly in your browser.

Original image before applying ASCII effect Before
Image with ASCII effect applied After

Ideas for using the effect

Retro computer aesthetics

Recreate the look of old terminals, BBS systems, and early computer graphics using classic ASCII characters.

Generative typography visuals

Transform photos and videos into living text-based compositions with customizable character sets.

Cyberpunk and hacker visuals

Create command-line, matrix-style, or glitchy text visuals for motion design and video edits.

Artistic posters and covers

Use ASCII art as a stylistic choice for album covers, posters, editorial layouts, and experimental design.

Made with this effect

More inspiration on Instagram @effect_app

See more

Start creating with ASCII for free

Test out the app with no strings attached. No registration or credit card information is required.

Monthly Yearly -10%

Free

$ 0

Non-commercial use. Explore the core toolkit to test ideas and share quick drafts.

Launch app
  • Version history
  • Export up to 1080p
  • Export up to 10s video
  • Figma plugin

Pro

$ 12
/month billed monthly

Commercial license with full features. High-resolution exports, longer clips, and work without watermarks.

  • No watermarks
  • Animated videos from still images
  • 4k resolution export
  • 120s video export
  • Save & share up to 10 custom presets

Enterprise

Custom price

For teams with specific needs. Custom licensing, integrations, and priority support.

Contact us
  • Everything in Pro
  • Custom integrations
  • Priority support
  • Volume licensing

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ASCII effect?

ASCII converts images or videos into text-based visuals using characters instead of pixels.

Can I choose which characters are used?

Yes. You can select from different character sets to control detail, style, and visual density.

Does it support color?

Yes. ASCII can preserve color information or render monochrome text depending on your settings.

Can I use ASCII on videos?

Absolutely. The ASCII effect works in real time on both images and videos.

Can I combine ASCII with other effects?

Yes. ASCII pairs especially well with glitch, noise, blur, color grading, and distortion effects.