Da Vinci Resolve is a popular video editing software for filmmakers and amateurs. The popularity of this powerful editing tool has been remarkable over the years. However, there are two versions: Studio and Free. How do you choose which version is best for you?
Da Vinci Resolve is well-known for its excellent colour-grading abilities, but many other great features make it an ideal choice for video editing. For beginners, it can be difficult to understand the difference between Studio and Free versions.
It is crucial to choose the right version of Da Vinci Resolve to be able to access all features required for video editing. This article will compare Da Vinci Resolve Free and Studio to help you better understand their differences to make an informed choice. This guide can help you choose the Da Vinci Resolve option that best suits your needs, whether you are a pro filmmaker or just beginning.
Da Vinci Resolve Free Vs Studio
1. Development
Blackmagic Design is an Australian company specialising in developing video editing software and hardware. The software was originally intended to be used for colour grading. However, it has evolved to become a complete video editing tool for Windows, macOS and Linux.
Blackmagic Versions of Da Vinci Resolve are available in 2 versions: Studio and Free. While the Studio version provides greater capabilities and a more basic edition, the Free edition has limited functionality.
2. Functionality
Da Vinci Resolve Studio and Free are very different software. The Studio version offers advanced editing capabilities, such as motion graphics and 3D editing.
Da Vinci Resolve offers a free version that allows for basic editing and color correction. You can export up to 4K resolution and have many options for export. However, the free version does not include collaboration tools, HDR Grading or noise reduction.
Da Vinci Resolve Studio has more advanced features such as motion graphics and 3D editing. It also includes collaborative capabilities, HDR Grading, Noise Reduction, and support up to 8K resolution. There are many export options.
3. Performance
GPU Acceleration. Studio and Da Vinci Resolve free have different GPU acceleration. Studio provides faster GPU acceleration, allowing it to perform more complex editing tasks. The Studio version also supports multiple GPUs, which increases its performance.
Neural Engine: Da Vinci Resolve Studio comes with the NeuralEngine, which is a machine-learning tool that automates repetitive tasks. The AI is capable of assisting with facial recognition, object removal and many other tasks.
Additional Differences
1. HDR Scopes and Color Grading
The most notable difference between them is the color grading and HDR scopes. Studio offers more advanced color grading tools including HDR grading and a wider range of color correction options. It also supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. However, the Free version has limited HDR support and basic color grading tools.
2. Pricing
The cost is another difference. As the name implies, the Free version can be downloaded and used for free. Studio requires payment, however. Studio can be purchased in several ways, including the following:
a. Tool Farm – Download Delivery
You can purchase Studio and then download it directly from Blackmagic Design’s website.
b. The Dongle
A physical dongle can be purchased, allowing you to use Studio with any computer plugged in.
c. App Store
Studio can be purchased through either the Windows Store or Mac App Store.
d. Activation Key
An activation key can be purchased to unlock Studio on your computer.
3. Lens Correction
Studio offers more advanced lenses correction tools. It supports popular formats of lens and allows you to make custom lens profiles. Only the basic tools are available in the Free version.
4. Editing
Both versions have non-linear editing capabilities, but Studio has better editing options, such as multi-cam editing and 3D editing. Studio also supports 120 frames per second.
5. Framerate and Resolution
Studio versions support higher frame rates and resolutions, such as 8K or up to 120 frames per seconds. You can only download the Free version at 1080p, and you will get 60 frames per second.
6. Delivery and Media
Studio offers more advanced media management tools including the ability manage multiple media projects and media pools. You also have more exporting options and delivery options, as well as support for DCP and IMF.
7. Motion Blurring and Noise Removal
Studio offers more advanced noise reduction and motion blur tools. Basic tools are available in the Free version for noise and motion blur reduction.
8. Audio and Visual Effects
Studio features more sound and visual effects, such as support for 3D audio or immersive audio formats. The Studio version also supports Fusion, which allows for more sophisticated visual effects.
9. Fusion and Fairlight
Studio includes Fairlight (an advanced audio editor) and Fusion (an advanced visual effects tool). These tools are not available in the Free version.
10. Collaboration Between Multiple Users
Studio allows multiple users to collaborate on the same project at once with multi-user collaboration tools. This feature is not available in the Free version.
Conclusion
The choice between DaVinci Resolve Studio or Free is ultimately up to each user and their individual goals and needs. The Free version provides basic editing capabilities and can correct color mistakes, but Studio offers more sophisticated tools for professionals. Both versions can produce high-quality results. It is important to note that they are both powerful and capable software. Users should evaluate their needs before choosing which version will best suit them.
