What is the primary distinction between halftone and Ben-Day dots?

The primary distinction between halftone and Ben-Day dots is that halftone dots create a gradient effect. Halftoning refers to a printing technique that uses varying sizes of dots to simulate continuous tones in an image. By changing the density and size of these dots, a range of shades and gradients can be achieved, effectively representing the original image's tonal variations.

In contrast, Ben-Day dots utilize a specific arrangement of uniformly sized dots to create color and texture effects rather than gradual transitions. Ben-Day dots are often perceived as giving a more solid or patterned effect rather than a smooth gradient, as they are typically used in comic books and printing to produce flat areas of color or shading with a limited color palette.

Understanding this distinction is essential for differentiating the techniques used in print media and appreciating how visual artists manipulate these methods to achieve desired artistic outcomes.