How to scale up pixelated image without blurring it

To preserve existing pixel structure edges using nearest neighbour interpolation, scale in even multiples of the original such as 200% etc (where one pixel cleanly becomes four sharp, aliased pixels).

Any resampling will blur the pixel data. That's the second law of thermodynamics in pixel image editing. There's no way around it.

The only thing you can do is compensate with careful sharpening post-resample. I'd recommend the ACR filter because that gives you most control over edge artifacts (which you obviously want to avoid). View at 100% to see the actual pixel structure on screen. Don't overdo it.

Resampling never improves anything, ever. The important thing is to minimize the damage.

Yes, there are AI algorithms, but they get their seemingly impressive results by introducing new pixel data that weren't there in the original. Sometimes that's acceptable, but if integrity and authenticity are important, don't do it.

dylan, have you tried Ps 2026>

• Image>Generative Upscale?
• Filter>Neural Filters>Superzoom>Zoom Image?

Depending on how much you need to scale, it may not be possible. There are numerous AI upscale technologies, from both Adobe and others, but they can't perform miracles.

Post some sample images and the needed output sizes and we can advise you further.