[2024] How to Update DaVinci Resolve In 3 EASY Steps

The Safest Way To Update DaVinci Resolve

As you probably already know, DaVinci Resolve is an industry leading color grading/correction software which is even used in Hollywood. Keeping your software up to date is crucial for several reasons. Software updates typically include new features, performance improvements, and bug fixes. But you're not here for a lecture on why updates are good; you want to know how to actually update DaVinci Resolve 17 or 18 on your macOS, Windows, or Linux device.

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Prerequisite: Backup your Files & Existing Software

Before you even think about hitting that "update" button on your DaVinci Resolve software, there's one thing that should be top of mind: creating a backup. Think of a backup as your safety net, ensuring that you won't lose hours, days, or even weeks of meticulous video editing. This holds true whether you're simply updating the software or transitioning from an older version like DaVinci Resolve 17 to a newer one like 18.

Locating the Project Manager

To start the backup process, launch DaVinci Resolve and locate the 'File' option on the upper-left corner. From there, navigate to 'Project Manager,' which is typically the first thing you see when the software boots up. For beginners who may not know, the Project Manager is essentially your command center for DaVinci Resolve. It houses all your project libraries and data connected to Blackmagic's cloud services [a secure space to store your files online].

The Backup Process

In the Project Manager window, you'll see a list of your existing projects. Right-click on the project you want to backup. Here, a context menu appears with several options, one of which is the backup option. Before proceeding further, ensure you've selected a destination folder for your backup data [think of it as a dedicated digital drawer to keep your files safe].

You might wonder, "Why can't I just pick any random folder?" Well, organization is key here. Choose a folder specifically designated for DaVinci Resolve backups; this ensures you can locate your backup easily should the need arise. Whether it's a folder on your desktop, an external hard drive, or a cloud storage option—just make sure it's accessible and spacious enough to handle the backup data, which could range from a few hundred megabytes to several gigabytes, depending on your project's complexity.

What Gets Backed Up

Now, what exactly does this backup include? It's not just the video clips you've imported; it’s all your edits, color corrections, effects, and even the project settings. Essentially, the backup will be a mirror image of your project, capturing all the changes you've made up to that point.

Cloud Data and Project Libraries

While we're on the topic, it's worth mentioning that the Project Manager also serves as your hub for Blackmagic cloud data. If you’re using Blackmagic's cloud services, your project list will include both local [saved on your computer] and cloud-based projects. It's advisable to backup cloud-based projects locally, providing an additional layer of data security.

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DaVinci Resolve Update Tutorial

So you've backed up all your essential files, and you're finally ready to level up your DaVinci Resolve software—awesome! This is a critical step in maintaining a high-functioning, smooth video editing experience, and lucky for you, DaVinci Resolve makes it pretty straightforward.

1. Navigating to Update Options

Kick off this process by directing your attention to the upper left-hand corner of your screen where you'll see the words "DaVinci Resolve." Go ahead and click that. This is essentially the brain center of your software, a menu offering various administrative options.

Right beneath the menu items like "Preferences" and "Keyboard Shortcuts," you'll find the golden ticket: a button labeled "Check for Updates." It's unmissable and strategically placed for easy access.

2. Understanding the Pop-Up Window

When you click "Check for Updates," a pop-up window will appear. This isn't just a standard message; think of it as a status report on your software's health. It will tell you whether you're up-to-date or cruising on an outdated version. In this scenario, we're working with DaVinci Resolve 18.1, so you'll be looking for that specific version number in the pop-up.

3. Automated Update Through Neural Engine

If your software isn't current, don't sweat it! A prompt will appear, offering to handle the updating legwork for you. It employs something called the "neural engine" [a set of algorithms designed to mimic the human brain, optimizing performance and functions] to manage the update.

4. Downloading and Installation

As soon as you give the go-ahead, the download will commence. It's all automated, which means you can sit back and relax or grab that coffee you've been yearning for. The software will neatly place the update file in your "Downloads" folder, making it super easy to locate.

Now comes the part where a tiny bit of manual effort is required: extraction. Right-click the downloaded file and choose the 'Extract' option. By doing so, you're essentially unpacking the digital box that houses your update. After extraction, the software should start the installation process automatically, completing your software update.

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Database Update - Essential After A Software Update

Alright, you're almost there! So you've updated DaVinci Resolve—now it's time to ensure that the backbone of your projects, the database, is also up-to-date. Think of the database as the keeper of your creative universe within Resolve: it stores all the vital project information, configurations, and essentially, your hard work. Ensuring it's compatible with the newest software version is non-negotiable.

In this area, you can manage existing databases or restore old ones. These databases can be anything from client projects to personal creative endeavors. 'Manage' isn't a word to gloss over here; it's an option that allows you to conduct various tasks like backup, restore, or even delete databases. That means all your digital eggs—color grading configurations, edited clips, audio settings—are in this basket, so handle it carefully.

If DaVinci Resolve has undergone an update, as soon as you fire up the software, you'll be greeted with a prompt asking you to upgrade your databases. This is Resolve's way of saying, "Hey, I've learned some new tricks, let's make sure your projects can take advantage of them!" The prompt ensures that your existing database aligns with the improvements and new features of the updated software.

Why Update DaVinci?

Staying current with software updates in the realm of video editing is about as crucial as keeping your camera lens clean—both can significantly impact the quality of your work. When we talk about updating video editing software, it’s not just about clicking 'yes' on a pop-up notification. There are concrete, often immediate benefits to doing so. So why exactly should you hit that 'Update Now' button when it comes to your video editing software like DaVinci Resolve? Let's get into the specifics.

New Features: A Creative Refresh

One of the most enticing reasons to update is the introduction of new features. It's like getting a tool upgrade in a video game; suddenly, you can do more, and you can do it better. Software developers are continually looking for ways to enhance their product, incorporating feedback from thousands of users and experts in the field.

New features could range from novel transition effects to support for unique video formats. For instance, an update might introduce a cutting-edge color grading option, allowing you to adjust the color curves in your video with greater precision [think of color curves like the equalizer on a music system, where you can boost or reduce colors the way you'd do with bass or treble in audio]. Or, perhaps, it's a new audio syncing feature that automatically aligns your separately recorded audio with the video, saving you hours of manual labor.

Bug Fixes: A Necessary Tweak

As much as software strives to be perfect, bugs and glitches are a reality. These errors can range from minor inconveniences to major issues that disrupt your workflow. For instance, imagine you're working on a crucial project with a tight deadline, and the software keeps crashing every time you try to apply a specific filter. Updates often address these problems directly, fixing known bugs and improving software stability.

Functional Adjustments: Making Good Better

Updates aren't just about adding new things or fixing what's broken; they often make what's already there even better. Say the software's render speed [the time it takes to finalize your video into a shareable format] improves by 20% after an update. That's a direct saving of your time and potentially more room for creative work.

Compatibility and Security: Staying in the Loop

Another essential aspect of updates is compatibility. As other software and hardware evolve, your video editing software needs to keep up. Failing to update can lead to compatibility issues down the line, affecting not just your software but potentially your entire computer system. Moreover, security patches are often included to protect against newly discovered vulnerabilities [weak spots that hackers could exploit].

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Fantastic, you've done it! Just by following a few simple steps, you're now running the latest and greatest version of DaVinci Resolve, all without spending a dime. It's remarkable how user-friendly this software is, making it easy for editors of all levels to stay updated with the most cutting-edge tools and features.

I sincerely hope this guide has been a helpful companion in navigating you through the update process. It's designed to keep you at the forefront of what DaVinci Resolve has to offer, ensuring you're never missing out on any new features or vital fixes.