D
DDaVinci Resolve vs Luminar Neo
Pricing, features, platforms and who each one suits — side by side.
D
Choose DaVinci Resolve if…
- you want a free plan to start with
- you work on Linux
- you're in its core audience: video editors, colorists
L
Choose Luminar Neo if…
- you work on iOS
- you're in its core audience: hobbyist photographers, professional photographers
Side by side
Feature DaVinci Resolve Luminar Neo
Pricing modelFreemiumPaid
Starting price——
Free plan
Free trial
API
Open source
Data retentionTypically as long as providing services, plus up to six yearsFacial images stored only temporarily as needed to return results
Security and complianceGDPRGDPR
NLE export—
PlatformsmacOS, Windows, LinuxmacOS, Windows, iOS
CategoryVideo EditingPhoto Editing
Rank in its category#2 of 5#5 of 5
CompanyBlackmagic Design Pty LtdShinyfields Limited
Based inAustraliaCyprus
Founded20012008
Part of——
Key features
D DaVinci Resolve
- Nonlinear editing with Cut and Edit pages, multicam support
- Primary and secondary color grading with HDR tools
- Node-based 2D/3D compositing in Fusion
- Fairlight audio post with up to 2,000 tracks
- Photo page with native RAW support and tethered capture
- AI Neural Engine: smart reframe, super scale, Magic Mask (Studio)
- AI voice isolation and music remixer
- Real-time multi-user collaboration via Blackmagic Cloud
L Luminar Neo
- One-slider AI enhancement with EnhanceAI
- AI sky replacement
- Portrait retouching with SkinAI and FaceAI
- Generative erase, swap and expand
- Upscaling, noise reduction and sharpening
- HDR merge, focus stacking and panorama stitching
- Raw support including CR3, NEF and RAF
- Plugin for Lightroom Classic and Photoshop
Plans and prices
From each vendor's site. Prices change — confirm before buying.
DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci ResolveFree
DaVinci Resolve Studio$236 (listed down from $295)
Luminar Neo
Desktop Only£89.00 (sale, was £377.00)
All Platforms£139.00 (sale, was £405.00)
Max£159.00 (sale, was £464.00)
Luminar Engine (business)Custom
Strengths and limitations
DaVinci Resolve
- Free version includes collaboration and HDR grading
- Studio is a one-time purchase, not a subscription
- Editing, color, VFX, audio and photo in one app
- Runs on Mac, Windows and Linux
- AI Neural Engine features require the paid Studio version
- Free version is limited to 8-bit, 60fps and Ultra HD
- No mobile or web version listed
Luminar Neo
- One-time purchase with no required subscription for the desktop app
- Desktop license covers 2 devices on macOS and Windows
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Works as a plugin for Lightroom Classic and Photoshop
- AI tools are included for only 1 year on perpetual plans
- Web version not yet available (listed as coming Fall 2026)
- Pricing page shows prices in GBP, with no USD prices listed
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Facts from each vendor's public pages, prices checked Oct 26, 2026. Editorial policy