The safest way to update DaVinci Resolve (tutorial)

We’ve all seen this message before: a new software update is available. While it may feel like a drag, a DaVinci Resolve update will ensure the best possible performance. It will also give you access to new features and bug fixes, so it’s worth doing. DaVinci Resolve updates are easy, and Motion Array will show you how to do one in this quick tutorial.

Part 1: How to update DaVinci Resolve software

Before updating DaVinci Resolve, it’s a good idea to back up your important files. This gives you a fallback if something goes wrong during the update and will keep your files safe in case of an error. Let’s see how to back up a database.

Step 1: Create a backup

1. Launch DaVinci Resolve.
2. In the Project window, select your database.  
3. On the top left of the Project window, next to Databases, select the first icon, Backup.
4. Select a location on your computer where you’d like the backup file to be stored and hit Save.
5. DaVinci Resolve will show a message indicating when the backup is complete. Note: If you have multiple databases, repeat this procedure for each database.
6. The database is now backed up!

Step 2: Update the DaVinci Resolve software

With your backup created and all your data safe, it’s time to update DaVinci Resolve. In this example, we’ll update DaVinci Resolve from inside the program. If you run into problems, you can also head to the Blackmagic Design website to download any updates.

1. Open a project in DaVinci Resolve.
2. Click on the DaVinci Resolve icon at the top left of the screen.
3. Select Check for Updates.
4. The website will prompt you to download the newest version if any updates are available. Go ahead and download the new update.
5. Once the download is complete, find the file on your computer. Check the downloads folder or the location you selected.
6. Double-click on the downloaded file to begin the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions.

Step 3: Upgrade the database (if required)

After the update, you may also need to upgrade DaVinci Resolve’s database file. The database is generally upgraded with major updates and new versions, but you can run one at any time.

1. Open DaVinci Resolve.
2. When the Project window opens, you’ll receive a message saying: ‘Would you like to upgrade the database (your database name)?’ Select Upgrade.
3. Once the database upgrade is complete, open a project and get back to creating.

While there are other fixes, a DaVinci Resolve update may help with render crashes as well.

Part 2: Learn all about DaVinci Resolve

Blackmagic Design constantly improves DaVinci Resolve and releases a major version almost every year. Version 14, 16, and 17 saw big changes, while versions 18 and 19 have focused on AI and collaboration tools.

Between major versions, Blackmagic Design improves the software and fixes bugs, so you’ll regularly see minor releases like 18.0.1. Sometimes, these smaller DaVinci Resolve updates add new features as well.

Updating DaVinci Resolve may also bring new security features and fix program issues. It’s always worth keeping your DaVinci Resolve updates current so you can work at your best.

So, what’s new in DaVinci Resolve?

Currently, most creators are using DaVinci Resolve 18. Here are the key new features this DaVinci Resolve update offered. Motion Array has also reviewed DaVinci Resolve 18 before if you’d like insider opinions.

Cloud collaboration

DaVinci Resolve 18 allows for real-time collaboration using Blackmagic Cloud. Projects can be hosted on a cloud server, letting multiple users work on the same project. Cloud project libraries have also been added.

New proxy workflow

DaVinci Resolve Update 18 automatically creates proxies when importing footage. These proxies are smaller, more manageable files that help you work with high-res files on less powerful systems. Proxies are automatically linked to their original media and can be swapped out as needed.

AI tools and upgrades

The version 18 upgrade to DaVinci Resolve boasted plenty of new AI features. Voice isolation, surface tracking, and many more AI-powered tools will help you work smarter, not harder.

Enhanced color grading tools

DaVinci Resolve 18 also brought AI-powered object masking and improved HDR grading to the table.

Fairlight audio improvements

DaVinci Resolve 18 saw some major improvements to the Fairlight Audio option. Enhanced bus routing for audio tracks provides more flexibility and control over audio mixes. New tools for adjusting dialogue tracks were also added.

Updated ResolveFX

DaVinci Resolve 18 introduced new ResolveFX, including new film grain, blur, and texture effects. It also enhanced existing effects like lens reflections and halation. You can explore fun DaVinci Resolve effects in this handy tutorial.

Improved third-party integration

This version also brought better integration with third-party plugins and workflows, including support for formats like Apple ProRes on Windows.

DaVinci Resolve Update 18 offered better performance and stability alongside these incredible new features. It optimized performance for GPU acceleration, especially for systems with multiple GPUs. The playback engine was also refined and improved for high-res formats like 8K.

If you’d like to know more about the latest DaVinci Resolve editions, visit their website for a full feature list. Remember that the DaVinci Resolve Update 19 is set to release soon! One of the most exciting things about DaVinci Resolve is that once you’ve bought a license, you get free upgrades for life when new versions are released.

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Motion Array hopes you found this tutorial helpful. DaVinci Resolve updates are quick and easy.  Remember to back up your databases and check for software updates often. This will ensure you have all the latest and greatest features to create amazing projects. Now, go out there and create something wonderful! These handy DaVinci Resolve tutorials may inspire you.