How to Download & Install DaVinci Resolve (2025 Guide)
DaVinci Resolve is one of the most powerful free video editors available today—professional-grade tools for editing, color, visual effects, and audio, all in one package.
But despite its strength, the installation process sometimes trips up new users. This guide walks you through getting Resolve up and running step by step, with clear instructions and solid tips to avoid pitfalls.
What You Need Before You Begin
Before you hit “Download,” make sure your system is ready. Installing a high-end video editor on underpowered hardware is asking for trouble.
Minimum recommended specs (2025):
Quad-core CPU (modern generation): Intel Core Ultra 7 265K / Core Ultra 9 285K, AMD Ryzen 7 9700X / Ryzen 9 9950X, or Apple M3.
16 GB RAM (32 GB preferred)
Dedicated GPU with up-to-date drivers: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti / 5080 / 5090 or AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT / RX 9060 XT (16 GB). These are current gen picks suited to Resolve’s GPU acceleration.
SSD with spare space (for cache, media, etc.): Samsung 990 Pro (PCIe 4.0) or Crucial T700 (PCIe 5.0) for faster media/cache.
Stable internet (the installer alone can be multiple GB)
If your setup falls short, you might face slow performance or installation failures. Better to know ahead of time.
💡 Pro tip: For editors working with large 4K or 8K projects, a workstation class system like the
VRLA Tech Threadripper Pro Workstation is an excellent choice.
It’s built for demanding creative workloads and handles professional software like DaVinci Resolve with ease. Workstation: VRLA Tech AMD Ryzen Threadripper Workstation for DaVinci Resolve
Step 1: Go to the Official Source
Avoid sketchy download sites. The best move is to go straight to Blackmagic Design’s official site. That way, you’re getting the genuine, latest release. On the site, look for “Download DaVinci Resolve” (or the “Free Download” option). Here
You’ll likely need to enter your name, email, and country before you can obtain the installer. It’s standard practice nothing shady.
Step 2: Select Your OS & Version
Once you’re on the download page:
- Choose your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
- Choose between the free version and Studio (paid) version.
- Click Download.
The size of the installer may vary with version expect somewhere in the gigabytes.
Step 3: Run the Installer
Here’s how it goes depending on your OS:
On Windows:
- Locate the
.exeinstaller (likely in your Downloads folder). - Right-click > Run as administrator (avoids permission issues).
- Follow the installation wizard: accept the license, pick the install folder, etc.
- Let the process complete.
On macOS:
- Open the
.dmgor.pkgfile you downloaded. - Drag Resolve to your Applications folder (or follow installer prompts).
- Accept any permissions macOS asks for (media access, storage, etc.).
On Linux: Blackmagic sometimes provides a .run installer or other package formats depending on distro. Follow the instructions on their site or user manual.
Step 4: First Launch & Configuration
When you open Resolve for the first time, you’ll be guided through a few quick setup steps to get everything ready:
- Accept any user agreements or permission prompts.
- Select your preferred language and workspace layout (if prompted).
- Choose default settings such as project resolution, cache location, and scratch disks.
Allow Resolve to complete its initial setup, which may include indexing media files and building internal caches.
Step 5: Test It Import, Edit, Export
To confirm everything is working:
- Import a short video file (MP4 or MOV works well).
- Add it to the timeline, apply a simple cut or transition.
- Do a test export using default settings.
- Verify the exported file plays correctly.
If that works, congratulations you’re good to go!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Problem | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| “Access denied” or installer fails | Permissions or antivirus blocking | Run as administrator; disable antivirus temporarily |
| Resolve crashes on launch | Outdated GPU drivers or OS | Update GPU drivers, run system updates |
| Studio features locked | Wrong version installed | Make sure you downloaded the “Studio” version and applied license code |
| macOS permission errors | Missing privileges (disk/media) | Go to System Preferences > Privacy & Security > grant permissions to Resolve |
If you hit any errors, note down the OS version, Resolve version, and any error messages. That info makes troubleshooting much easier.
FAQs
Q: Is DaVinci Resolve free?
A: Yes. The free version includes most tools for editing, color grading, and effects. The Studio version adds advanced features like HDR grading and noise reduction.
Q: Can DaVinci Resolve run on a laptop?
A: Yes, but you’ll need a dedicated GPU and at least 16 GB RAM for smooth playback.
Q: How big is the DaVinci Resolve installer?
A: Around 2–3 GB depending on version and operating system.
