DaVinci Resolve Free vs Paid
Introduction
DaVinci Resolve is a powerful editing software that helps create cinematic masterpieces.
There are two versions of this software: DaVinci Resolve (free) and DaVinci Resolve Studio (paid), but what’s the difference between DaVinci Resolve free and Studio and more importantly, which one is better?
Objectives:
- What is DaVinci Resolve?
- DaVinci Resolve: Free
- DaVinci Resolve: Paid
- Hardware requirements
- Verdict
What is DaVinci Resolve?
DaVinci Resolve is a professional video editing software tool that is widely used in the TV and Film industry; the extensive features make it a powerful editing tool for those in the entertainment industry.
DaVinci Resolve boasts many interesting features, such as:
- Non-linear video editing; with flexible, non-destructive editing users can jump back and forth between frames without a problem.
- Colour grading and correcting; to achieve that cinematic look, DaVinci Resolve offers precise colour tools.
- VFX; create special effects, motion graphics, and more.
- Audio post-production; DaVinci features Fairlight, a professional audio editing software, allowing users to edit, mix, and restore audio post-production.
- Multi-user collaboration; DaVinci offers a collaborative workspace where multiple users can work on one project simultaneously.
DaVinci Resolve: Free
Pros:
- Completely free; no hidden extra costs anywhere! You get a suite of professional tools for free.
- Multicam editing; supports editing for projects with more than one camera angle.
- Fusion visual effects; includes a compositing tool for creating advanced visual effects and motion graphics.
Cons:
- Learning curve; as this is professional-grade software, the learning curve will be steeper.
- High system demands; users require powerful hardware to support this software.
- Limited export options; users are restricted to specific export resolutions. You are limited to 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) as your maximum export resolution option, whereas Studio has a maximum export resolution of 8K (7680 x 4320) as well as customised resolution options.
DaVinci Resolve Studio
Pros:
- Affordable one-time purchase; for a one-time purchase of £245 you have access to the full suite.
- Noise reduction; the paid version offers noise reduction tools, improving your image quality.
- Fairlight; these advanced audio features include immersive sound formats, and spatial audio.
Cons:
- System requirements; with such powerful tools, comes a need for more advanced hardware.
- Overkill; some basic tasks may be made overcomplicated due to the advanced features.
- Learning curve; as the software is so advanced, it takes a while to get a hang of.
Hardware Requirements:
As a powerful professional-grade suite of tools, DaVinci Resolve and DaVinci Resolve Suite both require powerful hardware, let’s discuss the kind of requirements needed to run DaVinci as well as possible.
Minimum requirements:
Operating System:
- Windows - Windows 10 or later, 64-bit
- macOS - macOS 11 Big Sur or later
- Linux - CentOS/RHEL or later
Processor (CPU)
- Windows/Linux - Intel Core i7 and AMD Ryzen 5 (quad-core or higher)
RAM:
- 16GB or 32 GB for intense graphic work
GPU:
- Integrated or discrete, with at least 2GB of VRAM
Media Storage:
DaVinci Resolve Studio:
In addition to the minimum requirements, DaVinci Resolve Studio also requires Mac 13.0 Ventura or later and the Blackmagic Design Desktop Video driver, version 10.4.1 or later.
For optimal performance:
For an even better editing experience, you can consider using a faster CPU, a GPU with more memory, and using multiple hard drives for your operating system, cache, media, project, and scratch files!
Verdict:
Two amazing versions of a cinematic editing software, but which is better?
The free version offers you plenty of professional-grade tools for no cost, it is an amazing choice for beginners and hobbyists looking to create smaller projects!
DaVinci Resolve Studio is a better choice for professionals and advanced editors, and those wanting to work on more complex pieces of media.
If you’re wanting to elevate your editing abilities and learn the ins and outs of DaVinci Resolve, we have courses available with our industry-professional trainers!
by Josie Daniel | 17 Jan 25
