Descript vs DaVinci Resolve: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Descript and DaVinci Resolve comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: DaVinci Resolve is our overall pick for video editing workflows. Pick Descript if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Descript
Edit audio and video like a doc
Best for you if:
- • AI video and audio editing
- • Edit media like a document
DaVinci Resolve
Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app
Best for you if:
- • All-in-one solution for video editing, color, VFX, motion graphics, and audio post-production.
- • Used by Hollywood professionals, offering high-quality tools and advanced features including AI.
| At a Glance |  Descript | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $16/moHobbyist | $295/moStudio |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Descript or DaVinci Resolve?
Choose Descript if
Edit audio and video like a doc
- Revolutionary editing approach
- Great AI features
- Good transcription
Choose DaVinci Resolve if
Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app
- Powerful free version
- Industry-standard color
- All-in-one solution
| Feature | Descript | DaVinci Resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 1,037 reviews | ★4.7/5 471 reviews |
| Categories | Video EditingAudio Editing | Video EditingAudio Editing |
In-Depth Analysis
Descript
Edit audio and video like a doc
Strengths
- +Revolutionary editing approach
- +Great AI features
- +Good transcription
- +Easy collaboration
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -Can be resource intensive
- -Limited features on free
Key features
DaVinci Resolve
Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app
Strengths
- +Powerful free version
- +Industry-standard color
- +All-in-one solution
Weaknesses
- -Steep learning curve
- -Hardware intensive
Key features
Pricing: Descript vs DaVinci Resolve
| Plan | Descript | DaVinci Resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $16 Hobbyist | $295 Studio |
| Tier 3 | $24 Creator | N/A |
| Tier 4 | $50 Business | N/A |
| Tier 5 | Custom Enterprise | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Descript pricing and DaVinci Resolve pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Descript
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Descript
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: DaVinci Resolve
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are video editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
DaVinci Resolve
- Higher user rating: 4.7/5 vs 4.6/5
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Descript
- Larger review base (1,037 reviews)
The Bottom Line
DaVinci Resolve is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Descript or DaVinci Resolve better?
DaVinci Resolve is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Descript and DaVinci Resolve used for?
Descript: Edit audio and video like a doc. DaVinci Resolve: Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app.
What does Descript cost vs DaVinci Resolve?
Descript is freemium (free tier + paid plans). DaVinci Resolve is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.