HitFilm vs DaVinci Resolve: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between HitFilm 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 HitFilm 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:
HitFilm
Free video editing and VFX software
Best for you if:
- • Professional video editing software
- • Hollywood-grade VFX and compositing
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 |  HitFilm | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $6.25/moCreator | $295/moStudio |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | - | - |
Choose HitFilm or DaVinci Resolve?
Choose HitFilm if
Free video editing and VFX software
- Free video editor
- VFX capabilities
- Good for YouTube
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 | HitFilm | DaVinci Resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.2/5 180 reviews | ★4.7/5 471 reviews |
| Categories | Video EditingAnimation | Video EditingAudio Editing |
In-Depth Analysis
HitFilm
Free video editing and VFX software
Strengths
- +Free video editor
- +VFX capabilities
- +Good for YouTube
- +Active community
- +Tutorials available
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -Resource intensive
- -Pro features paid
- -Export limitations
- -UI complex
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: HitFilm vs DaVinci Resolve
| Plan | HitFilm | DaVinci Resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $6.25 Creator | $295 Studio |
| Tier 3 | $11.6 Pro | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on HitFilm pricing and DaVinci Resolve pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: HitFilm
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: HitFilm
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 4.2/5
- Larger review base (471 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
HitFilm
- Choose if you want free video editing and VFX software
The Bottom Line
DaVinci Resolve is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HitFilm or DaVinci Resolve better?
DaVinci Resolve is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are HitFilm and DaVinci Resolve used for?
HitFilm: Free video editing and VFX software. DaVinci Resolve: Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app.
What does HitFilm cost vs DaVinci Resolve?
HitFilm is freemium (free tier + paid plans). DaVinci Resolve is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.