In the world of iPad video editing, two names rise above the rest: LumaFusion and DaVinci Resolve. But which one should you choose in 2024?
Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional videographer, your choice of software can make or break your editing workflow!
With the power of iPads increasing year by year, the competition between these two apps has become fierce. Let’s dive into an in-depth comparison that will help you decide which tool is best suited for your creative journey.
Overview of LumaFusion and DaVinci Resolve for iPad
LumaFusion for iPad
Key Features and History
LumaFusion has been one of the top video editing apps on the iPad for a while now. Developed by Luma Touch, it has built a reputation for offering a professional-level editing experience in a mobile-friendly package.
Some of its standout features include a multi-track timeline (up to 12 layers), advanced keyframing options, color correction tools, and robust audio editing. It’s designed to be intuitive but doesn’t skimp on the depth of features for more advanced editors.
Target Audience and Use Cases
LumaFusion is targeted primarily at mobile content creators, including YouTubers, vloggers, and anyone who needs a powerful, portable editing tool.
Its ease of use makes it a great choice for beginners, but professionals can still take advantage of its advanced features.
This makes it a popular choice for on-the-go editing, where quick, high-quality results are necessary without the need for a full desktop setup.
Price and Subscription Model
One of LumaFusion’s big selling points is its pricing model. It’s a one-time purchase, which is increasingly rare in the app world.
You pay a one-time fee (usually around $29.99), and you get access to all the core features with no need for a subscription.
There are some optional in-app purchases, such as the FCPXML export feature for Final Cut Pro workflows, but these are not necessary for most users.
DaVinci Resolve for iPad
Key Features and History
DaVinci Resolve, created by Blackmagic Design, is a name that carries a lot of weight in the professional video editing world.
Known for its industry-leading color grading tools, the iPad version of DaVinci Resolve brings much of the same power to a tablet. Key features include a dedicated color page for detailed grading, Fairlight for professional audio post-production, and a high-performance video editing timeline.
While the iPad version isn’t as full-featured as its desktop counterpart, it still offers an impressive toolset.
Project Management Settings
DaVinci Resolve Project Management
While LumaFusion offers a straightforward approach to project management, DaVinci Resolve provides a more detailed and professional-level setup.
In addition to basic settings like timeline resolution and frame rate, DaVinci Resolve allows you to dive deeper into image scaling and color science settings. This means you can adjust how your project handles different color spaces, which is crucial for maintaining color accuracy across devices.
These advanced options make DaVinci Resolve a better fit for projects that require strict adherence to professional standards.
Target Audience and Use Cases
DaVinci Resolve for iPad is geared more toward professional editors and filmmakers who need advanced tools, especially in the area of color correction and post-production.
It’s also ideal for anyone who is already familiar with the desktop version of Resolve, as the transition to the iPad app feels relatively seamless.
While it might be overkill for a casual editor, it’s an excellent choice for those who need more than just the basics.
Price and Subscription Model
DaVinci Resolve offers both a free version and a paid version called DaVinci Resolve Studio.
The free version includes most of the core editing and color grading features, but if you want access to things like advanced HDR grading, noise reduction, and more collaborative tools, you’ll need to upgrade to the Studio version, which costs a one-time fee ($95 for the iPad).
The free version is surprisingly powerful, but the Studio version is where the full potential of Resolve shines.
LumaFusion vs DaVinci Resolve iPad Comparison Table
Here’s a table comparing the pricing models and what’s included in each version of LumaFusion and DaVinci Resolve:
| Feature | LumaFusion | DaVinci Resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | One-time purchase | Free version + One-time purchase for Studio |
| Cost | $29.99 (one-time) | Free for basic version; $95 for Studio (one-time) |
| Core Video Editing Tools | Included | Included (more advanced in Studio) |
| Audio Editing Tools | Basic tools included | Basic tools in free version; advanced Fairlight tools in Studio |
| Color Grading | Basic color correction and LUTs | Advanced color grading in both versions; full features in Studio |
| Multi-track Timeline | Up to 12 tracks | Included (with advanced timeline features) |
| Multicam Editing | Not included | Included (in both versions) |
| Collaborative Features | Not included | Included in Studio version (via Blackmagic Cloud) |
| Export Formats | Multiple formats including 4K, MP4, MOV, HEVC | Multiple formats including ProRes, DNxHR, HDR, DCI 4K |
| In-App Purchases | StoryBlock license – $9.99/mo, $69.99/yr FCPXML export for Final Cut Pro integration – $19.99 | No in-app purchases; full features available in Studio version |
| Hardware Integration (e.g., Speed Editor) | Not supported | Supported (with Studio version) |
| Supported Platforms | iPad | iPad |
| Updates | Included with purchase | Included for free version; Studio version updates included with purchase |
This table provides a clear overview of the key differences between LumaFusion and DaVinci Resolve in terms of pricing, features, and what you get with each version. You can place this table under the “Pricing and Value for Money” section of the article.
User Interface Comparison
LumaFusion’s User Experience
Customization Options
LumaFusion excels when it comes to customizing your workspace. You can easily adjust the timeline size, rearrange panels, and choose between light and dark themes, all of which allow you to tailor the interface to your workflow.
It’s not as deeply customizable as desktop software, but for an iPad app, it gives you more control than most.
Accessibility and Ease of Use
One of LumaFusion’s biggest strengths is its user-friendly design. The layout is clean and intuitive, with tools and features clearly labeled and easy to find.
Even if you’re new to video editing, you can get started with basic edits in no time. LumaFusion feels like it was built for touch, with everything being accessible through simple taps or gestures.
For more complex editing, the app supports keyboard shortcuts if you’re using a keyboard with your iPad.
Multi-Touch Gestures
LumaFusion makes excellent use of the iPad’s multi-touch capabilities. You can pinch to zoom on the timeline, swipe to scrub through footage, and drag-and-drop clips into place.
These gestures make editing fast and fluid, especially for users who are accustomed to touch interfaces. It’s one of the reasons LumaFusion feels like a native iPad app, designed specifically with mobile editing in mind.
DaVinci Resolve’s User Experience
Multi-Pane Interface
DaVinci Resolve’s iPad interface is a bit more complex, but it closely mirrors the desktop version, which is great if you’re already familiar with the software.
It uses a multi-pane layout, so you can see your timeline, media pool, and effects panels all at once. This can be overwhelming for beginners, but for professional editors, having everything visible is a huge advantage.
The app’s design makes it clear that this is a tool for serious editing, not just quick projects.
Learning Curve for Beginners
Unlike LumaFusion, DaVinci Resolve has a steeper learning curve. The interface is packed with tools and options that aren’t immediately obvious, and the terminology can be daunting for someone new to video editing.
However, if you’re willing to invest the time, the layout becomes more intuitive as you get used to it. For those coming from the desktop version, the familiarity is a huge plus, but beginners might find the UI a bit overwhelming at first.
Customization Options
Resolve doesn’t offer as much workspace customization on the iPad as its desktop version, but you can still adjust certain panels and windows.
For example, you can resize the timeline and media pool, hide or show different panels, and choose between light and dark modes.
It’s not as flexible as LumaFusion in this regard, but there’s still enough customization to improve your workflow if you spend some time setting it up.
Features Breakdown: LumaFusion vs DaVinci Resolve
Editing Tools
Clip Management
LumaFusion makes clip management simple. You can easily import media from a variety of sources, including cloud storage, external drives, and even directly from your iPad’s photo library.
Organizing your clips is straightforward, with options to tag, filter, and sort media.
On the other hand, DaVinci Resolve offers more advanced clip management options. You have a full media pool where you can organize clips into bins, apply metadata, and even preview them before adding to the timeline.
This level of detail is aimed more at professional users who need precision in large projects.
Timeline Control
LumaFusion’s timeline is flexible, allowing you to stack up to 12 tracks of video and audio. The drag-and-drop functionality makes it easy to rearrange clips, and the magnetic timeline helps keep everything in sync.
However, DaVinci Resolve offers a more traditional NLE (non-linear editing) timeline with more granular control. Resolve’s timeline allows for more advanced editing techniques, like trimming, slipping, and sliding clips with greater precision.
It also supports multiple timelines within the same project, which is a game-changer for larger edits.
Multicam Editing
Multicam editing is one area where DaVinci Resolve shines on the iPad. You can sync multiple camera angles and switch between them seamlessly while editing, a feature that LumaFusion lacks.
While LumaFusion is great for single-camera setups, if you’re working with multiple camera angles, Resolve’s multicam functionality is far more robust.
Audio Tools
Sound Editing Capabilities
Both LumaFusion and DaVinci Resolve offer strong sound editing features, but they cater to different levels of expertise.
LumaFusion provides basic audio editing tools such as keyframing, mixing, and simple filters to clean up sound. It’s great for casual projects or quick edits on the go.
DaVinci Resolve, however, takes audio editing to a professional level with its Fairlight page. Here, you can dive into advanced audio post-production, including precise equalization, dynamic range adjustments, and noise reduction.
Audio Syncing
LumaFusion doesn’t have built-in tools for syncing separate audio tracks automatically, which can be limiting if you’re working with external audio recordings. You’ll have to manually sync audio to video.
DaVinci Resolve, on the other hand, includes an automatic audio sync feature, making it much easier to match external sound with your footage. This is especially useful for projects involving external mics or multi-camera setups.
Built-in Audio Effects
LumaFusion offers a range of built-in audio effects such as reverb, EQ, and basic compression. These tools are enough for most mobile editors, but DaVinci Resolve takes it a step further.
The Fairlight audio engine offers a vast array of professional-grade audio effects, including advanced noise reduction, multi-band EQ, and even surround sound mixing. If your project requires high-end sound design, Resolve has a clear advantage.
Color Grading
Does LumaFusion Have Color Grading?
LumaFusion includes basic color correction tools, allowing you to adjust brightness, contrast, saturation, and apply LUTs (Look-Up Tables). While these features are sufficient for most users, the level of control is limited.
You can achieve decent results with LumaFusion, but it’s not designed for complex color grading workflows.
DaVinci Resolve’s Famous Color Correction Features
DaVinci Resolve’s color grading tools are legendary, and the iPad version maintains much of that legacy.
The dedicated color page gives you full control over your image, with advanced tools like curves, qualifiers, power windows, and secondary color correction. You can also use DaVinci’s renowned node-based grading system, which allows for non-destructive, layered adjustments.
For serious colorists and filmmakers, there’s no comparison—Resolve offers industry-standard color correction that far surpasses what LumaFusion can provide.
Special Effects
DaVinci Resolve Special Effects
DaVinci Resolve on the iPad offers a wide array of special effects, far beyond what is available in LumaFusion. For instance, Resolve includes advanced keying tools, which are essential for working with green screen footage.
You also have access to effects like glow, beauty filters for refining facial features, and various color effects that can dramatically alter the look of your footage. Each effect in Resolve comes with a detailed set of parameters that you can adjust, giving you precise control over the final outcome.
This level of customization is unmatched by LumaFusion and is a key reason why professionals might prefer Resolve for more complex editing tasks.
Performance on iPad Models
LumaFusion Performance
Speed and Rendering Times
LumaFusion is optimized for the iPad, which means it performs exceptionally well, even on older models. The app is designed to take full advantage of the iPad’s hardware, resulting in smooth playback and quick edits, even when working with multiple video tracks.
Rendering times are generally fast, though the speed can vary depending on the complexity of your project and the resolution of your footage (4K vs 1080p). For most users, LumaFusion will handle rendering efficiently without causing significant slowdowns.
Impact on Battery Life
LumaFusion is known for being relatively light on battery usage, particularly when compared to more resource-intensive apps like DaVinci Resolve.
That being said, if you’re working on a large project or rendering in 4K, you will notice a faster drain on your battery. However, for day-to-day editing, the app is well-optimized, and you should be able to get several hours of work done without having to recharge your iPad constantly.
Performance on Different iPad Models
One of the best things about LumaFusion is that it runs well on a wide range of iPads, from the base models to the latest iPad Pros. Even if you don’t have the newest, most powerful iPad, LumaFusion remains responsive and stable.
While you might experience slightly slower rendering times on older devices, the app is still perfectly usable for most editing tasks. On newer iPads with the M1 or M2 chips, the performance is even more impressive, with near-instant rendering and playback.
DaVinci Resolve Performance
Rendering and Export Speeds
DaVinci Resolve is more demanding on hardware, and this is noticeable in rendering and export times.
While the iPad version is well-optimized, it still requires significant processing power to handle the more advanced editing tools and high-quality footage.
On an M1 or M2 iPad Pro, Resolve performs impressively well, with fast rendering times even for complex projects with multiple color grading nodes and high-resolution footage.
However, on older iPads or base models, you’ll notice slower rendering and export speeds, particularly when dealing with 4K or higher resolutions.
iPad Pro vs Standard iPad Performance
The difference in performance between an iPad Pro and a standard iPad when using DaVinci Resolve is significant.
While the app runs on both, the iPad Pro’s more powerful hardware, especially with the M1 or M2 chips, delivers a much smoother experience. You’ll find faster rendering, better real-time playback, and more fluid editing on the iPad Pro.
On a standard iPad, you can still use Resolve, but you’ll likely experience longer rendering times, slower exports, and occasional lag when working with more demanding projects.
Does It Need M1/M2 Chips for Smooth Operation?
While DaVinci Resolve can technically run on older iPads, it really shines on models equipped with the M1 or M2 chips. The processing power of these chips allows Resolve to handle its most complex tasks—such as advanced color grading and multicam editing—without slowing down.
If you’re serious about using DaVinci Resolve on an iPad, an M1 or M2-equipped iPad Pro is the best option to ensure smooth operation. Without these chips, you may run into performance bottlenecks, especially when working on high-resolution or complex projects.
Collaboration and Exporting
Collaborative Features
Is Collaboration Possible on LumaFusion?
LumaFusion is primarily designed for individual editing workflows, so its collaboration features are limited. It doesn’t have built-in tools for multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously.
However, you can share project files with others via cloud services or external drives, allowing team members to work on separate stages of the project. This isn’t real-time collaboration, but it’s a workaround for smaller teams or solo editors who need to hand off projects.
It works well for less complex projects, but for real-time collaborative workflows, it can be cumbersome.
DaVinci Resolve’s Remote Collaboration Tools
DaVinci Resolve, on the other hand, is built for collaboration—even on the iPad. Using Resolve’s collaborative tools, multiple editors, colorists, and sound designers can work on the same project in real-time.
This feature is a standout in the video editing world, especially for professionals working in teams. The iPad version integrates with Blackmagic Cloud, allowing remote users to contribute to the project simultaneously.
This makes Resolve an excellent choice for larger teams or projects that require constant back-and-forth between different departments.
Media Organization
LumaFusion Media Organization
LumaFusion’s media organization is simple but somewhat limited. The app relies heavily on how your files are organized in external folders or linked apps like Frame.io.
This approach works well if your files are already neatly arranged, but it doesn’t offer much flexibility within the app itself.
You can’t create bins or folders within LumaFusion to further organize your clips, which could be a drawback if you’re managing a large number of files.
DaVinci Resolve Media Organization
In contrast, DaVinci Resolve provides a more robust media organization system. You can create bins within your project to categorize different types of footage, such as separating B-roll from interview clips or organizing assets by scene.
This ability to organize media within the app itself gives you much more control, especially on larger projects. The bin system is a standard feature in professional editing software, and having it on the iPad version of Resolve makes it feel like a true extension of the desktop experience.
Export Options
Formats and Quality Settings in LumaFusion
LumaFusion offers a variety of export options, making it versatile enough for different types of projects. You can export videos in multiple resolutions, frame rates, and aspect ratios, including 4K.
It also supports a variety of file formats such as MP4, MOV, and can export in HEVC for efficient, high-quality compression. There are built-in presets for YouTube, Vimeo, and other platforms, so sharing your work online is seamless.
While LumaFusion covers most needs for mobile editors, its export flexibility is not as comprehensive as professional desktop-level software.
Export Flexibility in DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve’s export options are more extensive. You can export projects in a wide range of formats, from industry-standard codecs like ProRes and DNxHR to web-friendly formats like MP4.
Resolve gives you precise control over output settings, including bit rates, resolution, and frame rates, making it ideal for professional projects that require specific delivery standards.
Additionally, Resolve supports exporting to higher-quality formats that are often required in professional post-production workflows, such as HDR and DCI 4K. This level of flexibility is essential for professionals who need to deliver content across various platforms or media formats.
Pricing and Value for Money
LumaFusion Pricing
Is It a One-Time Purchase?
Yes.
LumaFusion operates on a one-time purchase model, which is one of its biggest appeals for users who want a professional editing app without recurring costs.
Once you pay the upfront cost (around $29.99), you have access to the full suite of LumaFusion’s features.
This model is especially attractive for hobbyists, independent creators, and anyone who wants to avoid the subscription fatigue that comes with many other professional apps.
What Are the In-App Purchases?
While LumaFusion gives you a lot of features for the initial purchase, there are a few optional in-app purchases.
The most notable is the FCPXML export option, which allows you to export your project files into Final Cut Pro for further editing. This feature is useful if you’re working with a team that uses Final Cut Pro as part of their workflow, but it’s not essential for the majority of users.
Aside from that, very few additional purchases are required, which keeps the overall cost low.
DaVinci Resolve Pricing
Free vs Paid Versions
DaVinci Resolve offers a free version and a paid version called DaVinci Resolve Studio. The free version is highly capable, with access to nearly all of the essential editing, color correction, and audio tools.
This makes it an incredible value, especially for beginners or professionals who don’t need every advanced feature. However, if you need more high-end tools—such as advanced noise reduction, HDR grading, and collaborative features—you’ll need to upgrade to the Studio version.
Subscription Models or One-Time Payment?
DaVinci Resolve Studio uses a one-time payment model for the iPad, similar to the desktop version. The cost of the Studio version for iPad is around $95.
While this is a higher upfront cost compared to LumaFusion, it’s still considered excellent value given the level of professional features available in the Studio version.
The absence of a subscription model is another big plus, especially for professionals looking to avoid ongoing fees for software that will be used long-term.
The free version alone is often sufficient for many users, but the Studio version unlocks its full potential.
Who Should Choose LumaFusion?
Best for Beginners and Mobile Editors
LumaFusion is a fantastic option for beginners and those new to video editing. Its intuitive interface, combined with powerful but easy-to-use tools, makes it accessible for users at all skill levels.
If you’re just starting out with video editing or want to learn the basics without being overwhelmed by complex features, LumaFusion is a perfect fit.
It’s designed to offer professional results without the steep learning curve of desktop software like DaVinci Resolve.
Budget-Conscious Users
For users looking to keep costs down, LumaFusion’s one-time purchase model is a significant advantage. At around $29.99, you get a fully capable video editing tool without the ongoing subscription fees that many other apps charge.
This makes it an excellent choice for hobbyists, students, or anyone who wants professional editing capabilities without breaking the bank.
Quick Edits and On-the-Go Projects
LumaFusion is optimized for mobile workflows, making it ideal for quick edits and projects that need to be completed on the go.
Its streamlined design allows you to work efficiently, whether you’re editing a vlog, a short film, or content for social media.
If you need to make fast edits while traveling or out in the field, LumaFusion’s responsive interface and multi-touch gestures make it a perfect mobile editing solution.
Who Should Choose DaVinci Resolve?
Professionals Needing Advanced Color Grading
If color grading is a crucial part of your workflow, DaVinci Resolve is the clear choice.
Its advanced color correction tools are unmatched, and the iPad version retains much of the functionality that has made DaVinci Resolve a favorite among professional colorists.
From node-based grading to precise control over shadows, highlights, and midtones, Resolve offers the power and precision needed for high-end color correction tasks that are out of reach for most mobile editors.
High-End Video Production
For professional filmmakers, documentary producers, and video editors working on large, complex projects, DaVinci Resolve provides the depth and control necessary to handle high-end production.
Its multicam editing, audio post-production tools, and seamless integration with desktop workflows make it ideal for professionals who require more than just basic editing.
If you’re working on a project that demands detailed attention to every aspect of post-production, Resolve is equipped to handle it all on the iPad, particularly if you’re using the M1/M2 iPad Pro.
Those Requiring Desktop-Class Features on an iPad
DaVinci Resolve brings desktop-level features to the iPad, offering a full suite of tools for video editing, color correction, and audio design.
If you’re already familiar with the desktop version of Resolve, the iPad version will feel like a natural extension of your workflow. This makes it a great choice for professionals who need powerful editing tools but prefer the portability and flexibility of an iPad.
If you want to carry a full editing suite in your bag without sacrificing advanced functionality, Resolve delivers on this promise.
Integration with External Hardware
DaVinci Resolve’s Hardware Integration
One unique advantage of DaVinci Resolve on the iPad is its ability to integrate with external hardware like the DaVinci Resolve Speed Editor.
This Bluetooth-connected device allows you to control the timeline, make cuts, and adjust other settings without relying solely on touch controls.
For editors who are used to working with physical controls, this can significantly speed up the editing process.
The Speed Editor’s compatibility with the iPad version of Resolve shows how Blackmagic Design is committed to bringing a desktop-class editing experience to mobile devices, further distinguishing Resolve from LumaFusion in terms of professional usability.
Conclusion
When it comes to video editing on the iPad, LumaFusion and DaVinci Resolve offer powerful tools, but which one is right for you depends on your needs.
LumaFusion is perfect for beginners and casual editors, while DaVinci Resolve is a powerhouse for professionals looking for advanced features.
Both apps have their strengths and limitations, so the choice boils down to your project requirements and workflow.