In one embodiment, a device includes a first display element including: a first electrode; a transparent dielectric layer having recessed regions therein over the first electrode; a halftoned second electrode opposite the first electrode; and a fluid with colorant particles between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein a voltage signal applied between the first electrode and the second electrode controls movement of the colorant particles such that a first voltage signal provides a clear optical state by compacting the colorant particles into the recessed regions and a second voltage signal provides a grayscale optical state by attracting the colorant particles to the second electrode.