AppBreakup

Free Video2X alternatives: 3 apps ranked by verified data

Facts checked Nov 8, 2026AppBreakup editorialHow we rank

3 of the 5 Video2X alternatives we track can be used for free (free, open source, or with a free plan). REAL Video Enhancer, Upscayl and DaVinci Resolve rank highest, with facts last verified Nov 8, 2026.

Quick comparison

#AppPricingVerified priceOpen sourcePlatformsVerified factsScore
1REAL Video Enhancer logoREAL Video EnhancerOpen source—YesLinux, Windows, macOS5 of 583.8
2Upscayl logoUpscaylOpen source—YesWindows, macOS, Linux4 of 451.2
3DaVinci Resolve logoDaVinci ResolveFree plan + paid$295 one-time for Studio (on sale for $236)NoWindows, macOS, Linux +16 of 650.0
  1. REAL Video Enhancer logo

    1. REAL Video EnhancerTop pick

    Best for: Linux users who want free, local AI frame interpolation and upscaling in one GUI

    Open sourceLinux, Windows, macOS

    83.8

    score / 100

    Why switch from Video2X

    Similar free model stack in a friendlier GUI, with native Linux, Windows and macOS builds.

    Pros

    • Free and open source under AGPL-3.0
    • Runs on Linux, Windows and macOS
    • Scene-change detection keeps cuts clean
    • Can enhance a video directly from a YouTube or video URL

    Cons

    • Needs a capable GPU for usable speeds
    • Fewer model and export options than paid tools like Topaz Video
    • Small project with documentation mostly in the README
    How this score is calculated
    Editorial fit ×0.3100
    Reviews ×0.363
    Clicks (90 days) ×0.15100
    Freshness ×0.15100
    Votes ×0.150

    0 counted reviews, 0 up and 0 down votes. Full formula

    Is REAL Video Enhancer a good Video2X alternative?

    Verified facts

    5 of 5 verified
    License
    AGPL-3.0
    Checked Oct 29, 2026github.com(opens source in a new tab)
    Platforms
    Linux, Windows, macOS
    Checked Oct 29, 2026github.com(opens source in a new tab)
    Features
    Interpolate, upscale, decompress, denoise
    Checked Oct 29, 2026github.com(opens source in a new tab)
    Scene detection
    Yes
    Checked Nov 8, 2026github.com(opens source in a new tab)
    Linux packages
    AppImage and Flatpak
    Checked Nov 8, 2026github.com(opens source in a new tab)
  2. Upscayl logo

    2. Upscayl

    Best for: Anyone who wants free, private AI upscaling on their own computer

    Open sourceWindows, macOS, Linux

    51.2

    score / 100

    Why switch from Video2X

    Free GUI for upscaling still images, a good fit if you mostly upscale stills or extracted frames.

    Pros

    • Free and open source on all desktop systems
    • Runs locally, nothing uploaded
    • Batch upscaling and custom models

    Cons

    • Upscaling only, no generation or editing
    • Needs a compatible GPU
    • Less creative detail than Magnific-style upscalers
    How this score is calculated
    Editorial fit ×0.341
    Reviews ×0.363
    Clicks (90 days) ×0.150
    Freshness ×0.15100
    Votes ×0.150

    0 counted reviews, 0 up and 0 down votes. Full formula

    Is Upscayl a good Video2X alternative?

    Verified facts

    4 of 4 verified
    License
    AGPL-3.0
    Checked Oct 29, 2026github.com(opens source in a new tab)
    Platforms
    Linux, macOS, Windows
    Checked Nov 8, 2026upscayl.org(opens source in a new tab)
    Price
    Free and open source
    Checked Nov 8, 2026upscayl.org(opens source in a new tab)
    Mac App Store edition
    Paid (direct download is free)
    Checked Nov 8, 2026upscayl.org(opens source in a new tab)
  3. DaVinci Resolve logo

    3. DaVinci Resolve

    Best for: Editors and colourists who want pro tools without a subscription

    Free plan + paidWindows, macOS, Linux, iOS

    50.0

    score / 100

    Why switch from Video2X

    The Studio version adds Super Scale upscaling and Speed Warp interpolation inside a full editor and grading suite.

    Pros

    • Free version is enough for most professional work
    • Industry-leading colour grading
    • Studio is a one-time purchase with free updates

    Cons

    • Steep learning curve across many pages
    • Needs a powerful GPU for smooth playback
    • Some AI and format features are Studio only
    How this score is calculated
    Editorial fit ×0.338
    Reviews ×0.363
    Clicks (90 days) ×0.150
    Freshness ×0.15100
    Votes ×0.150

    0 counted reviews, 0 up and 0 down votes. Full formula

    Is DaVinci Resolve a good Video2X alternative?

    Verified facts

    6 of 6 verified
    Free version
    Yes
    Checked Nov 8, 2026blackmagicdesign.com(opens source in a new tab)
    Free version limits
    Up to Ultra HD at 60fps
    Checked Nov 8, 2026blackmagicdesign.com(opens source in a new tab)
    Platforms
    Mac, Windows, Linux
    Checked Nov 8, 2026blackmagicdesign.com(opens source in a new tab)
    Studio extras
    AI Neural Engine, extra Resolve FX
    Checked Nov 8, 2026blackmagicdesign.com(opens source in a new tab)
    Starting price
    $295 one-time for Studio (on sale for $236)
    Checked Nov 8, 2026blackmagicdesign.com(opens source in a new tab)
    Free plan
    Yes, free version up to 60 fps
    Checked Nov 8, 2026blackmagicdesign.com(opens source in a new tab)