Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsPhotoshop’s Dissolve blending mode randomly replaces pixels with either the underlying (base) color or the applied (blend) color according to opacity. Unlike a smooth transparency effect, it does not mix both colors into a uniform intermediate color at each pixel, so the result can look speckled. You can choose Dissolve for a layer in the Layers panel or for a supported painting tool.
What does Dissolve do in Photoshop?
Adobe describes Dissolve as randomly replacing pixels with the base color or the blend color, depending on opacity. The base color is what lies underneath; the blend color is what the layer or painting operation applies. At reduced opacity, fewer pixels are replaced, rather than every pixel becoming a smooth mixture of the two colors. That random distribution explains the scattered or grainy appearance; by itself, it does not indicate a defect.
For Adobe’s definition and its notes on mode availability, see Blending mode descriptions in Photoshop.
How to use Dissolve on a layer
- In the Layers panel, select the layer or group you want to affect.
- Open the Blend Mode menu and choose Dissolve.
- Adjust the layer’s Opacity and preview the result. Changing opacity changes the proportion of pixels replaced.
Adobe documents layer opacity and blending controls in Set layer opacity and blending modes in Photoshop. Opacity affects the layer and its effects. Fill is a separate control: it affects layer content while preserving effects such as drop shadows and strokes, so it is not simply interchangeable with Opacity.
#1 Best Overall
- Shortcut Keys for Adobe Photoshop: Forget hunting through on-screen menus for common functions. We are collecting the most commonly used shortcuts on this keyboard. Only click the shortcut keys to perform simple actions such as Free Transform and Pen tool. (Note: Please make sure your device is under English(US) configuration so that this keypad will work properly.)
- Reliable 5.1 Bluetooth Connection: The strong and secure Bluetooth connection allows you to work efficiently with a 10m range. You only need to press “CONNECT” button to enter Bluetooth pairing mode.
- Backlit Keys for Any Lighting Environment: The keyboard with 7 colors and 3 levels of brightness allow you to type day or night. The backlit shortcut keys allow you to manually adjust the color and brightness of the keys.
- Wide Compatibility: The keypad is compatible with Windows, MacOS and iOS devices. The wide compatibility allows you to use the shortcut keyboard on ipad, imac, macbook, windows pc computer, etc.
- Long Lasting Rechargeable Battery: It can work up to 220 hours without backlighting thanks to auto-sleep power saving mode and an/off switch button. Note: The battery life may vary based on use and computing conditions.
How to paint with Dissolve
For a supported painting tool, choose Dissolve from the tool’s Mode options, then set Opacity and Flow as needed. The tool’s Mode determines how applied color blends; Opacity controls its transparency, while Flow controls how quickly paint builds toward the opacity limit as you move the pointer. These are painting-tool controls, distinct from a layer’s Blend Mode and Opacity. Availability and exact controls depend on the selected tool.
Adobe explains these painting controls in Painting tools in Adobe Photoshop.
Rank #2
- Built for Photoshop users who want to edit faster: Photoshop's most-used commands come pre-mapped one per key, named and color-coded so you can scan quickly while you work.
- Remap anything in KeyStudio, the browser-based remapping tool we built for Dash keyboard. Nothing to install, and the layout saves onto the keyboard so it works the same on every machine you use.
- 20 spare shortcut keycaps in the box: move the keys to match the way you actually cut and grade, rather than learning someone else's layout.
- The compact, low-profile design frees desk space and keeps your mouse within reach for better posture. Winner of the Red Dot Product Design Award in 2025 and designed in Vancouver, Canada. We've been building tools for creative work since 2009, and every Dash comes a 12 month warranty.
- Tri-mode connection across Mac, PC, iOS, iPadOS, Android and Linux: Bluetooth for three devices, 2.4GHz wireless or USB-C wired, on a 3500mAh battery good for 450 hours.
Why does Dissolve look grainy or speckled?
The speckles follow from the mode’s random pixel replacement: the result consists of base-color and blend-color pixels distributed according to opacity instead of a smooth color transition at every affected pixel. Lowering opacity reduces how many pixels are replaced; it does not turn Dissolve into conventional smooth transparency.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 💻 ✔️ EVERY ESSENTIAL SHORTCUT - With the SYNERLOGIC Reference Keyboard Shortcut Sticker, you have the most important shortcuts conveniently placed right in front of you. Easily learn new shortcuts and always be able to quickly lookup commands without the need to “Google” it.
- 💻 ✔️ Work FASTER and SMARTER - Quick tips at your fingertips! This tool makes it easy to learn how to use your computer much faster and makes your workflow increase exponentially. It’s perfect for any age or skill level, students or seniors, at home, or in the office.
- 💻 ✔️ QUALITY GUARANTEE - We stand behind our product! It’s made with outstanding military-grade durable vinyl and the professional design gives our stickers an OEM appearance. Our responsive and dedicated customer service team is here to promptly respond to your messages and resolve any issues you may have.
- 💻 ✔️ From BASIC to ADVANCED - Whether you are a seasoned computer professional or a beginner, the SYNERLOGIC Sticker will save you both time and frustration, guaranteed! You can easily reach a new level of computer proficiency using our convenient and affordable sticker.
- 💻 ✔️ Cross-platform compatibility. The sticker is specially designed to work for both PC and Mac computer keyboards.
Rank #3
- Bluetooth 5.0: Compared to the previous version, the Huion Keydial Mini keyboard is upgraded to support Bluetooth connection bringing you cable-free convenience. Never worry about annoying drop-offs or lag up to a 10m range.
- Easy-to-use Dial Controller: Change Adobe Photoshop brush size and navigate timelines with a simple turn of the Dial. It can be set up to 3 different functions and easily switch between them.
- 18 Programmable Keys: The 18 buttons on Keydial Mini all can be customized to any shortcut in the way you want, making even the most complicated shortcuts available in one tap. Custom shortcuts need to be set in the Huion driver
- Anti-ghosting Performance: Featuring new anti-ghosting technology of up to 5 keys, the Keydial Mini keypad offers you more shortcut key customization and reliable multi-key input.
- Setting Preview Function: Set up one button to "Setting Preview", then press it, and a popup will display the current function setting of each button and dial. And you can customize the names of each button whatever you want. No need to memorize shortcuts anymore.
What to check if Dissolve behaves unexpectedly
- Confirm whether you changed the layer’s Blend Mode or the painting tool’s Mode; they control different operations.
- Check the relevant Opacity setting, since layer opacity and painting-tool opacity are separate.
- If painting, check Flow as well; it affects how quickly color builds during a stroke.
- If Dissolve is missing, check the selected tool and document’s image color mode. Adobe says available modes depend on both, and its current descriptions include Dissolve for 32-bit images. That listing does not mean every tool or workflow exposes the mode in every document.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →
