Are you ready to start editing with DaVinci Resolve 18 on your Windows computer? This step-by-step guide will walk you through the download and installation process for both Windows 10 and Windows 11. Whether you’re new to DaVinci Resolve or just updating to the latest version, you’ll find everything you need right here.
Key Takeaways
- Download DaVinci Resolve 18 from the official website and choose between the free and paid versions.
- Follow the installation steps, including extracting files and completing setup configurations.
- DaVinci Resolve offers a quick setup wizard to help you get started after installation.
Step 1: Download DaVinci Resolve 18
- Open Your Web Browser: Start by opening your preferred browser.
- Visit the DaVinci Resolve Download Page: Navigate to the official download page for DaVinci Resolve.
- Choose Your Version: Once on the page, scroll down until you find the option for DaVinci Resolve. You’ll see two versions:
- DaVinci Resolve: Free version
- DaVinci Resolve Studio: Paid version with extra features
- Select Your Operating System: Choose the Windows option, as this guide is focused on installing DaVinci Resolve on Windows 10 and Windows 11.
- Fill in the Registration Form: Before you can download the software, you’ll need to fill out a form with some personal details. Complete the required fields, and then click on Register and Download.
Step 2: Install DaVinci Resolve 18
- Wait for the Download to Finish: The DaVinci Resolve installer is approximately 2.5 GB, so the download may take a few minutes depending on your internet speed. If the download doesn’t start automatically, click the download button.
- Locate the Downloaded File: Once the download is complete, open your Downloads folder. You should see a compressed file.
- Extract the Files: Right-click on the downloaded file and select Extract All. Once extraction is complete, navigate to the new folder that was created.
- Start the Installation Process: Double-click the installer file to launch the DaVinci Resolve installation. The installation process will start by extracting the necessary files. Follow any prompts that appear, including user account control warnings.
Step 3: Complete the Installation
- Install Additional Components: During installation, you’ll be prompted to install extra components that DaVinci Resolve requires. It’s recommended to check all the boxes to install everything, and then click Install. The installation will continue for a few minutes.
- Finish the Setup Wizard: Once the components are installed, the DaVinci Resolve setup wizard will open. Follow the instructions:
- Accept the License Agreement
- Choose the Install Location: By default, DaVinci Resolve will install on your main drive, but you can change the location if necessary.
- Start Installation: Click Install to begin the installation process.
- Complete Installation: After the main installation is finished, DaVinci Resolve will install some additional components. Once complete, you’ll see a message that says “Installation Complete.” Click OK to close the setup wizard.
Step 4: First Launch and Setup
- Open DaVinci Resolve: After installation, you’ll see a DaVinci Resolve shortcut on your desktop. Double-click it to launch the software.
- Quick Setup Wizard: On first launch, DaVinci Resolve will guide you through a quick setup wizard. Here’s what to expect:
- System Check: DaVinci Resolve will check your operating system and graphics card to ensure everything is compatible.
- Project Defaults: Set up your default project settings, including resolution and frame rate.
- Media Location: Choose where you want your media files to be saved on your computer.
- Keyboard Layout: If you’re familiar with other editing software like Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro, you can adjust the keyboard shortcuts to match. Otherwise, leave it on the DaVinci Resolve default layout.
- Start Editing: Click on Start to complete the setup.
At this point, DaVinci Resolve should open up, and you can start creating your video projects!
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Installation Stuck or Fails
If the installation seems stuck or fails, try restarting your computer and running the installer again as an administrator. Make sure your system meets the minimum requirements for DaVinci Resolve.
DaVinci Resolve Won’t Launch
If DaVinci Resolve doesn’t launch properly, check your system’s graphics card drivers. Ensure they are up-to-date, as outdated drivers can cause compatibility issues.
For detailed instructions on installing or updating your graphics drivers, check out my tutorial on graphics driver installation for Windows 10/11.
Conclusion
Installing DaVinci Resolve 18 on your Windows 10 or 11 computer is a straightforward process. Just follow the steps outlined above, and you’ll be ready to start editing your videos in no time. Whether you’re new to video editing or switching from another software, DaVinci Resolve offers a powerful and free solution to meet your needs. Enjoy creating!
FAQs
1. Is DaVinci Resolve 18 free?
Yes, DaVinci Resolve offers a free version with plenty of features for video editing. However, there is also a paid version, DaVinci Resolve Studio, that includes additional tools and effects.
2. What are the system requirements for DaVinci Resolve 18 on Windows?
You’ll need at least Windows 10 or 11, 16GB of RAM (32GB recommended for intensive projects), and a dedicated GPU with at least 2GB of VRAM.
3. How long does it take to install DaVinci Resolve?
The download is about 2.5GB, so the time will depend on your internet speed. Installation itself typically takes 10-15 minutes, depending on your system’s speed.
4. Can I install DaVinci Resolve on both Windows 10 and 11?
Yes, DaVinci Resolve is compatible with both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
5. Do I need to uninstall previous versions of DaVinci Resolve before installing 18?
It’s generally recommended to uninstall older versions to prevent any conflicts, though in some cases, the installer will handle upgrades.
