9 Most Useful New Features, Tools & Effects in DaVinci Resolve 20 (That Actually Matter)
DaVinci Resolve 20 is here, and while the number itself sounds cooler, there’s more to be excited about than just the name. Blackmagic Design has introduced major updates in this version. While not every new feature will apply to everyone, there are a handful that many regular editors will use daily.
Important Disclaimer: At the time of writing, Resolve 20 is still in beta. If you have active projects on Resolve 19, you might want to hold off upgrading just yet. Once you open a project in Resolve 20, it gets upgraded and can’t be opened again in older versions. Proceed with caution.
For more information on the latest updates and features, you can visit the official DaVinci Resolve website.
Here are 9 new tools and improvements in DaVinci Resolve 20 that are actually worth your time:
- A New, Proper Keyframe Editor
Now, there’s a dedicated keyframe editor window, and it includes the curve editor in the same place. That means more control, faster animation workflows, and better visibility across your keyframes—even for Resolve FX. This is particularly useful for creating smooth transitions or complex animations. One caveat: you can no longer see keyframes directly on clips in the timeline like before. Check out the Resolve FX effects for more details.
- Magic Mask v2 – Smarter, Cleaner, Better
Magic Mask has been redesigned. The AI is smarter, pattern recognition is better, and you no longer need to draw strokes. Just click, and you’re good to go. This makes it easier to isolate objects or people in your footage. A handy little paint tool was also added for manual touch-ups. Learn more about the DaVinci AI Neural Engine.
- AI Beat Detection – Edit on Rhythm
DaVinci can now detect music beats automatically. You’ll see the beats of your music track visualized, which makes syncing cuts to the rhythm incredibly easy. This feature is perfect for creating engaging social media clips or music videos. For more on how AI is enhancing video editing, check out the DaVinci Resolve Studio features.
- Music Editor – No More Cutting and Looping Manually
The new Music Editor intelligently shortens or extends beat-driven tracks to match your video. It works well with pop, dance, and similar styles. Still, a huge time-saver if you’re editing social content or YouTube videos. Explore more on DaVinci Resolve’s audio features.
- IntelliScript – Script-Based Editing
IntelliScript lets you upload a text script, and Resolve will automatically cut and align your footage based on that script. Just transcribe your clips, feed in your script file, and let AI handle the structure. Perfect for interviews, courses, and documentary-style content. Learn more about IntelliScript and other AI tools.
- Smarter Silence Removal
Silence trimming got a major glow-up. You no longer need to fiddle with transcriptions and manually trim quiet spots. Just set a range, right-click, select “Remove Silence,” tweak the sensitivity, and you’re done. Check out the training resources for more tips.
- Animated Subtitles Are Finally Here
You can now generate subtitles directly in the timeline and apply animated title styles to them. For editors who like their captions with flair, this opens up a lot of creative freedom. Explore more on DaVinci Resolve’s visual effects capabilities.
- Vertical Video Layout Mode
Working on TikTok or Reels content? Resolve now has a dedicated vertical video layout. When you switch your timeline settings to vertical, the UI adjusts automatically. Learn more about collaboration features in DaVinci Resolve.
- Text Wrapping in the Inspector
Now, there’s a simple “Wrap to Text Box” setting, so you can format and preview your text properly inside the inspector.
Additional Changes: Stacked Timelines
Stacked timelines are now organized as lists, not tabs. You need to click on a dropdown menu to select which timeline you want to move to.
Final Thoughts
These updates show just how seriously Blackmagic Design is taking workflow and user experience. But remember: Resolve 20 is still in beta, so maybe don’t risk your mission-critical projects just yet. Still, these features already show huge promise.
For more information on DaVinci Resolve and its features, you can visit the official Blackmagic Design website. If you’re interested in learning more about the latest updates and how to use them effectively, check out the DaVinci Resolve training resources.
