DaVinci Resolve Studio 17 vs 18 vs 19: Which Version is Right for You?
Here’s a comparison between the DaVinci Resolve Studio 17, 18, and 19 versions, focusing specifically on the Studio editions of each:
| Feature | DaVinci Resolve Studio 17 | DaVinci Resolve Studio 18 | DaVinci Resolve Studio 19 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance | Stable performance but slower with larger, more complex projects. | Better hardware optimization, faster rendering, and smoother playback. | Major performance improvements, especially with GPU optimization. Handles large projects effortlessly. |
| AI Tools | Basic AI tools for facial recognition, smart reframing, and scene analysis. | Advanced Magic Mask for automatic subject isolation and object tracking. | AI features refined with Scene Cut Detection and more precise Magic Mask capabilities. |
| Collaboration | Limited collaboration tools, basic multi-user workflows. | Introduced more robust collaboration, including shared timelines and real-time edits. | Full multi-user collaboration in real-time, cloud-based project syncing, and better team workflows. |
| Fusion (Visual Effects) | Fusion provides solid 2D/3D compositing but limited control for advanced VFX. | Fusion tools were expanded, but still limited for advanced 3D and effects work. | Major update to Fusion, offering an advanced 3D workspace, better integration with color grading, and powerful VFX tools. |
| Fairlight (Audio) | Good audio editing tools, but with basic automation and mixing. | Expanded Fairlight audio capabilities, including more control over automation and mixing. | Advanced audio tools with multichannel mixing, ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement) support, and more refined audio automation. |
| Cloud Integration | No cloud support or remote collaboration features. | Cloud-based features in beta, allowing limited project sharing. | Full integration with Blackmagic Cloud, enabling cloud storage, remote collaboration, and syncing across teams. |
| Customization & Control Panels | Basic control panel support and customization. | More customization options for control panels, still limited for advanced workflows. | Customizable control panels with remote access via tablet (iPad/Android) for more flexible workflows. |
| Color Grading | Powerful color grading tools, excellent for primary and secondary grading. | Expanded color grading tools, with better LUT control and added AI assistance. | Advanced color grading tools, including more precise HDR grading, enhanced AI-assisted grading, and improved controls. |
| Pricing | Same pricing structure with free and Studio versions. Studio offers advanced features like multi-user collaboration and cloud tools. | Same pricing model; Studio offers features for collaboration, advanced VFX, and audio tools. | Same model, Studio includes professional features like AI tools, cloud workflows, Fusion upgrades, and enhanced collaboration. |
| Best Suited For | Ideal for individual editors and smaller teams working on straightforward projects. | Best for medium-sized teams or individuals requiring advanced collaboration and improved workflows. | Best suited for high-end professionals and large teams requiring full-featured cloud integration, advanced VFX, and AI tools. |
Key Differences Between DaVinci Resolve Studio 17, 18, and 19:
-
DaVinci Resolve Studio 17 is ideal for solo editors or small teams working with standard video editing and color grading tasks. It has a strong foundation in color correction, but lacks the AI tools, collaboration features, and cloud support found in later versions.
-
DaVinci Resolve Studio 18 brings significant improvements in collaboration, making it a great choice for teams. The added Magic Mask feature makes it easier to isolate and track subjects, and enhanced Fairlight and Fusion tools offer more power for sound and visual effects.
-
DaVinci Resolve Studio 19 is the most feature-rich and professional option, with powerful cloud integration, advanced AI tools, a fully upgraded Fusion compositing suite, and real-time multi-user collaboration. Version 19 is ideal for large teams working on complex projects requiring cutting-edge tools and seamless workflows.
Conclusion
- DaVinci Resolve 17 Studio is perfect for those who need strong editing, color grading, and audio tools without the need for cloud support or advanced collaboration.
- DaVinci Resolve 18 Studio is a great choice for teams needing better collaboration and more powerful editing and audio tools.
- DaVinci Resolve 19 Studio is the best choice for large teams and professionals who need the latest in AI-powered tools, cloud workflows, and advanced visual effects and audio capabilities.
Which version you choose ultimately depends on the size of your team, the complexity of your projects, and whether you need advanced cloud or AI tools.
