Accidentally Downloaded the Free Version of DaVinci Resolve? Here’s How to Fix It

Accidentally Installed the Free Version of DaVinci Resolve? Here's What to Do

You’ve just purchased DaVinci Resolve Studio, excited to unlock its advanced color grading tools, AI features, and more. But after downloading and installing the software, you notice something strange—there's no activation prompt, and instead, it’s asking you to pay $299 again. What happened?

Buy DaVinci Resolve Studio Here

Don’t worry. This is a common mistake—and an easy one to fix.

What’s Going On?

Blackmagic Design offers two versions of DaVinci Resolve:

• DaVinci Resolve (Free Version)

• DaVinci Resolve Studio (Paid Version)

Both versions look very similar, but only the Studio version will prompt you to enter your activation key. If you accidentally download and install the free version, the app won't give you the option to activate, and it may prompt you to buy it again when you try to access Studio-only features.

How to Know You Installed the Free Version

If you're seeing messages like:

“Upgrade to DaVinci Resolve Studio for $299”
or
“Some features are disabled in this version”

…then you're using the free version, even if you already bought a Studio license.

How to Fix It

Follow these steps to install the correct version:

1. Uninstall the free version of DaVinci Resolve from your computer.

2. Download the Studio Version:
   Go to the official Blackmagic Design website’s support page:
   👉 Download DaVinci Resolve Studio

3. Choose the Correct Installer:
   Make sure you select DaVinci Resolve Studio, not the free version. You’ll need to register with your name and email to access the download.

4. Install the Studio Version on your system.

5. Launch the App. On first launch, you should now see the activation window.

6. Enter Your Activation Key:
   This key is typically found inside the physical product box or in your digital order confirmation email. It’s a 25-digit License Key.

What If You Still Don’t See the Activation Prompt?

Make sure you’re launching the correct version (Studio). If the issue persists:

• Reboot your computer and launch DaVinci Resolve Studio again.

• Double-check that you didn’t re-download the free version by mistake.

• Contact support if needed (see below).

Final Tip

Once installed and activated, DaVinci Resolve Studio can be used on up to two computers. You can move your license anytime by deactivating it on the old device.

Pro Tip: Bookmark the Studio download page in case you ever need to reinstall.