Starts atFree
- Free option listed
- No watermark on free exports
Head-to-head
LumaFusion vs DaVinci Resolve: which editor for iPad and desktop?
At a glance
Starts at$29.99 one-time
- No free option listed
LumaFusion is a mobile editor for iPhone, iPad and Apple silicon Macs, at $29.99 one-time. DaVinci Resolve is a free desktop editor for Mac, Windows and Linux, with Studio at $295 one-time. Pick by device: LumaFusion for touch editing, Resolve for a desktop.
Quick verdict
- Choose LumaFusion if you edit on an iPad or iPhone.
- Choose DaVinci Resolve if you edit on a computer and want pro color tools for $0.
- Neither needs a subscription for the core app.
Side-by-side comparison
| Detail | LumaFusion | DaVinci Resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $29.99 one-time. Creator Pass: $9.99/month or $69.99/year | Free. Studio: $295 one-time |
| Add-ons | Multicam Studio, Speed Ramping and Keyframing, FCPXML Export: $19.99 each | None needed for free version |
| Tracks | 6 video/audio tracks plus 6 audio. 12 + 12 with Creator Pass | Not confirmed: LumaFusion's product page did not load for us (checked 16 Oct 2026) |
| Max export | Up to 8K on newer iPads and iPhones | Free: 3840 x 2160 at 60 fps. Studio: 32K at 120 fps |
| Watermark | Not on the App Store listing (Oct 2026) | No |
| Platforms | iPhone, iPad, Mac (M1 or later), Vision Pro | Mac, Windows, Linux |
| Best for | Editing on iPad | Desktop editing and color grading |
For Shorts, TikTok and Reels
If you film on an iPhone and edit on an iPad, LumaFusion keeps everything on one device. Six video tracks is enough for most vertical edits with text and B-roll.
Resolve is better for long YouTube videos you also cut into Shorts. You need a computer, but you get 4K 60 fps for free.
How to choose
- Check which device you edit on most.
- On a computer, start with Resolve free.
- On an iPad, buy LumaFusion for $29.99 and add only the add-ons you need.
- Note: Resolve also has an iPad version, not covered on the Studio page we checked.
Common questions
Is LumaFusion a one-time purchase?
Yes. The app is $29.99. Creator Pass ($9.99/month or $69.99/year) and some add-ons cost extra.
Is DaVinci Resolve free?
Yes, up to 3840 x 2160 at 60 fps. Studio is $295 one-time.
Does LumaFusion run on Mac?
Yes, on Macs with an Apple M1 chip or later, per the App Store listing.
Related: phone video editors, desktop video editors.
Sources: apps.apple.com/us/app/lumafusion/id1062022008, blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve/studio. Checked on 16 October 2026. Based on published plans and terms, not a hands-on test.