HitPaw Video Enhancer vs Topaz Video AI Shootout: A Comprehensive Comparison
In the world of video editing, enhancing and upscaling footage has become an essential step in producing high-quality videos. With the advent of AI-powered video enhancers, the process has become more efficient and effective. In this article, we will compare two popular video enhancers, HitPaw Video Enhancer and Topaz Video AI, to determine which one performs better in terms of upscaling, render time, and ease of use.
About the Software
HitPaw Video Enhancer is an easy-to-use software that enhances and upscales video footage. It is capable of producing high-quality results with minimal effort required from the user. On the other hand, Topaz Video AI is a more advanced software that not only enhances and upscales video but also stabilizes footage and produces 8K enhancements. However, it cannot colorize old footage, which is a significant limitation.
Comparison of Results
We tested both software on different types of original footage, including old SD footage, 720p, and 1080p. We upscaled the footage to 4K and 8K using Topaz Video AI and compared the results with those produced by HitPaw Video Enhancer. The results showed that HitPaw Video Enhancer produced a very pleasing conversion, especially when using the colorize model to convert the footage to a more pleasing color tone.
The Role of AI
AI plays a significant role in video enhancement by improving video quality without upscaling. It can find additional data not already in the video file, making it an essential tool for video editors. As technology continues to evolve, AI will become even more critical in making video better.
Comparison of Topaz and HitPaw Enhancer for Video Upscaling
We tested both software on old 768x576 footage to determine which one performs better. HitPaw Video Enhancer took some time to process, but the result was a very pleasing conversion. We then used the face model without upscaling, which smoothed out plane surfaces but made some faces appear overdone. Finally, we used the general De-noise model to upscale the footage to 1080p, which gave a much more pleasing enhancement.
Limitations and Suggestions
One limitation of HitPaw Video Enhancer is that it would be ideal to use the colorize and general models together, but unfortunately, this is not possible. We suggest coloring the footage and then running it through the conversion again with the general model.
Topaz Video Enhance AI Test Results
We tested Topaz Video Enhance AI with 720p to 1080p upscaling, without stabilization. We selected the Artemis model after checking the Proteus model and tried blurring, but the enhancement looked better without it.
Comparison with HitPaw
We compared the results of HitPaw with 720 to 1080p upscaling and 720 to 4K upscaling with those produced by Topaz Video AI. The results showed that HitPaw Video Enhancer produced better results, especially with old SD footage.
Conclusions
We were impressed with the colorized version of old SD footage from HitPaw Video Enhancer. Topaz Video AI has nothing to match HitPaw's performance for old footage. The exported file was 29 seconds long.
Video Upscaling Software Comparison
We compared the render times and ease of use of both software. HitPaw Video Enhancer took 52 minutes to render 29 seconds of SD footage to 8K, while Topaz Video Enhancer took 56 minutes to convert the same footage to 8K. HitPaw Video Enhancer is simple to use and easy to learn, with a reasonable price of $69.99. Topaz Video Enhancer requires setting parameters and tweaking for better results, but it has an added inconvenience.
Determining the Best Video Upscaler Software
The best software is the one that meets your specific needs and preferences. Consider the trade-off between ease of use and the ability to tweak settings for better results. HitPaw Video Enhancer is a good option for those looking for a simple and easy-to-use upscaler, while Topaz Video Enhancer is suitable for those willing to invest time and effort into getting the best results.
Conclusion
Both HitPaw and Topaz Video Enhancers are capable of producing good results, with the best choice depending on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the pros and cons of each software, including ease of use, rendering time, and features, before making a decision. As a video editor, investing in a video enhancer can be a valuable tool for improving the quality of your footage.