Best GPUs for DaVinci Resolve
If you’re a DaVinci Resolve user, you know how crucial it is to have the right hardware to make your editing and color-grading experience as smooth as possible. That’s why we’re here to help you find the best GPUs for DaVinci Resolve to take your projects to the next level.
DaVinci Resolve is designed to take full advantage of your GPU, impacting playback, rendering, and overall performance. It’s important to keep in mind that the Studio Edition can support multiple GPUs (up to eight, although performance typically peaks around 3-4 GPUs) and includes GPU-accelerated H.264 encoding and decoding for even better performance with that type of media.
So, whether you’re just starting out with the Free Edition or have already upgraded to the Studio Edition, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore the best GPUs for DaVinci Resolve users to make sure your creative process is as seamless and efficient as possible. Let’s dive in!
Products at a Glance
Features and considerations
When searching for the best GPUs for DaVinci Resolve, there are a few key features and considerations to keep in mind. The performance of GPU-based hardware decoding in Resolve depends on various factors, including the video card, codec, bit depth, and chroma subsampling level of your footage. With so many variables at play, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your specific requirements and how different GPUs can help you achieve your creative goals.
To start with, you’ll need to decide between NVIDIA and AMD GPUs. From our experience, NVIDIA cards tend to offer better performance in DaVinci Resolve for the same price. Additionally, they have a reputation for being slightly more reliable in terms of hardware and driver stability. While AMD cards can also be a good choice in certain scenarios, we generally recommend NVIDIA GPUs unless there’s a clear advantage to using an AMD card.
When evaluating GPUs, consider the following factors:
- Compatibility: Ensure that the GPU you select is compatible with your system, including your motherboard, power supply, and cooling solution.
- Performance: Look for a GPU that can handle the codecs, bit depth, and chroma subsampling levels of your footage for smooth playback and efficient rendering.
- VRAM: DaVinci Resolve can benefit from having more VRAM, especially when working with high-resolution footage or complex projects. Aim for a GPU with at least 8GB of VRAM for optimal performance.
- Multi-GPU support: If you’re using the Studio Edition of DaVinci Resolve, consider the potential benefits of having multiple GPUs in your system for increased performance.
Best GPUs for DaVinci Resolve
- DLSS 3 is amazing
- Superb 3rd-gen Ray tracing
- Fastest GPU currently available
- Excellent for content creation
- Extreme pricing and power
When it comes to the best GPU for DaVinci Resolve, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 steals the show as the ultimate choice for those seeking top-notch performance. Perfect for streaming or gaming, this high-end card delivers outstanding visuals and unparalleled power for any task you need it for.
Built on a 5nm process, the RTX 4090 features the cutting-edge AD102 graphics processor and supports DirectX 12 Ultimate. This means it’s ready for the future, handling the latest games and upcoming features like hardware-ray tracing and variable-rate shading with ease. Packing 16,384 shading units, 512 texture mapping units, 176 ROPs, 512 tensor cores, and 128 ray tracing acceleration cores, this GPU is a force to be reckoned with.
The RTX 4090 comes with 24GB of GDDR6X memory and a 384-bit memory interface, providing plenty of memory bandwidth for high-resolution streaming and intense gaming sessions. The GPU runs at 2235 MHz, boosting up to 2520 MHz, while the memory operates at 1313 MHz (21 Gbps effective).
Don’t let the triple-slot design and 450W maximum power draw fool you – this GPU is a powerhouse. It requires a 16-pin power connector and offers 1x HDMI 2.1 and 3x DisplayPort 1.4a output options. Connecting via a PCI-Express 4.0 x16 interface, the card measures 304mm x 137mm x 61mm and features a triple-slot cooling solution.
With a price tag of $1599, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 might not be for everyone, but if you’re seeking the best of the best for DaVinci Resolve, it’s worth every cent. Simply put, this GPU is the cream of the crop for those who want to stay at the forefront of their creative game.
- The fastest AMD GPU
- Great power efficiency
- The chiplet design is amazing
- Weak Ray tracing and DLSS
For DaVinci Resolve users who prefer AMD GPUs, the Radeon RX 7900 XTX is a fantastic option, delivering stellar performance and AMD’s excellent encoding technology. As AMD’s flagship GPU from their latest generation, the RX 7900 XTX easily handles demanding streaming tasks without breaking a sweat.
The Navi 31 graphics processor, built on a 5nm process, powers the Radeon RX 7900 XTX and supports DirectX 12 Ultimate. This guarantees compatibility with current and future games, as well as upcoming features like hardware-raytracing and variable-rate shading. With 6,144 shading units, 384 texture mapping units, 192 ROPs, and 96 raytracing acceleration cores, this GPU packs a punch.
Featuring 24GB of GDDR6 memory and a 384-bit memory interface, the RX 7900 XTX provides ample memory bandwidth for seamless streaming and gaming. The GPU operates at 1855 MHz, boosting up to 2499 MHz, while the memory runs at 2500 MHz (20 Gbps effective).
The RX 7900 XTX is designed with a dual-slot cooling solution, sporting a 355W maximum power draw and requiring 2x 8-pin power connectors. The card offers 1x HDMI 2.1a, 2x DisplayPort 2.1, and 1x USB Type-C display outputs. Measuring 287mm x 110mm x 51mm, it connects to your system using a PCI-Express 4.0 x16 interface.
Priced at an MSRP of $999, the AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX is a more budget-friendly alternative to the RTX 4090 while still delivering exceptional streaming performance. In casual terms, this GPU is an ideal choice for streamers who prefer the AMD ecosystem and want top-tier streaming capabilities without breaking the bank.
- Cool and quiet
- Great performance
- Pricey
- High TDP
- Needs a 1440p or 4K display to shine
For DaVinci Resolve users on a budget, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 is an excellent choice that provides fantastic performance without burning a hole in your wallet. As a more affordable GPU from NVIDIA’s previous generation, the RTX 3080 still has the power and features to meet the demands of streaming and video editing tasks.
The RTX 3080 is built on an 8nm process, featuring the GA102 graphics processor and supporting DirectX 12 Ultimate. This ensures compatibility with modern games and upcoming features like hardware-raytracing and variable-rate shading. With 8,704 shading units, 272 texture mapping units, 96 ROPs, 272 tensor cores, and 68 raytracing acceleration cores, this GPU is more than capable of handling DaVinci Resolve.
Equipped with 10GB of GDDR6X memory and a 320-bit memory interface, the RTX 3080 provides ample memory bandwidth for smooth streaming and gaming performance. The GPU operates at 1440 MHz, boosting up to 1710 MHz, while the memory runs at 1188 MHz (19 Gbps effective).
The RTX 3080 is a dual-slot card with a 320W maximum power draw, requiring 2x 8-pin power connectors. It offers 1x HDMI 2.1 and 3x DisplayPort 1.4a output options. The card connects to your system via a PCI-Express 4.0 x16 interface and measures 285mm x 112mm x 39mm, featuring a dual-slot cooling solution.
Priced significantly lower than the flagship GPUs, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 is an excellent budget option for DaVinci Resolve users. In casual terms, this GPU is a great pick for those who want solid performance without spending a fortune, making it the perfect balance between price and performance.
- One of the fastest AMD GPUs
- Excellent efficiency gains
- Innovative chiplet design
- Great for gaming and content creation
- Weaker ray tracing and AI performance
The AMD Radeon RX 7900 XT, a slightly toned-down version of its XTX counterpart, delivers fantastic performance for those who need a potent GPU for DaVinci Resolve without opting for top-tier choices. This graphics card is perfect for streamers handling video games, content creation, or other tasks, providing exceptional performance across various applications.
Featuring the Navi 31 graphics processor and built on a 5 nm process, the RX 7900 XT supports DirectX 12 Ultimate, ensuring compatibility with the latest games and upcoming features such as hardware-raytracing and variable-rate shading. Equipped with 5,376 shading units, 336 texture mapping units, 192 ROPs, and 84 raytracing acceleration cores, this GPU delivers a smooth experience for all your streaming needs.
The RX 7900 XT boasts 20 GB of GDDR6 memory, paired with a 320-bit memory interface, providing ample memory bandwidth for demanding streaming tasks. Operating at a base clock of 1500 MHz and boosting up to 2394 MHz, the GPU’s memory runs at 2500 MHz (20 Gbps effective).
With a 300W maximum power draw, the dual-slot RX 7900 XT requires 2x 8-pin power connectors. It offers display outputs such as 1x HDMI 2.1a, 2x DisplayPort 2.1, and 1x USB Type-C. Connecting to your system via a PCI-Express 4.0 x16 interface, the card measures 276mm x 110mm x 51mm and features a dual-slot cooling solution.
Priced at a reasonable $899, the AMD Radeon RX 7900 XT provides excellent value and performance for DaVinci Resolve users who seek a powerful GPU without splurging on top-tier options. To put it casually, this GPU is an amazing choice for those wanting high-performance streaming capabilities without emptying their wallets.
How we picked the best GPUs for DaVinci Resolve
We started by researching and comparing the most popular GPUs from both NVIDIA and AMD. We looked at their specs, performance benchmarks, and user reviews to get a sense of which cards were delivering the best results in DaVinci Resolve.
Next, we paid close attention to real-world performance. We considered how each GPU handled different codecs, bit depths, and chroma subsampling levels to ensure we were recommending cards that could handle a variety of workflows.
In addition to raw performance, we considered the practical aspects of each GPU. We took into account factors like power consumption, heat output, and compatibility with various systems to make sure we were recommending GPUs that would be a good fit for a wide range of users.
Finally, we reached out to the DaVinci Resolve user community to gather feedback and insights from professionals and enthusiasts alike. We wanted to hear firsthand what GPUs people were using and loving, as well as any potential issues or limitations they’d encountered.
Our Verdict
In conclusion, a robust GPU is crucial for DaVinci Resolve users as it directly impacts rendering and playback performance, allowing for smoother streaming experiences and quicker processing times. Choosing the right GPU can make a significant difference in your workflow, and our top four recommendations cater to different needs and budgets.
The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 is the ultimate choice for those seeking unrivaled performance and top-of-the-line features. The AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX offers exceptional performance at a more budget-friendly price point for those committed to the AMD ecosystem. For users looking for the best budget option without compromising too much on performance, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 is an excellent choice. And finally, the AMD Radeon RX 7900 XT delivers outstanding value for those seeking a powerful GPU at a more accessible price.