CupScale in 2026: What It Is, How to Use It, and the Best CupScale Alternative

Part 1. What is CupScale?

CupScale is an open-source image upscaling GUI for Windows that relies on AI models, mainly ESRGAN, to increase image and video resolution while preserving or enhancing visual detail. It supports both image and video workflows, basic comparisons, and GPU acceleration. As of 2026, the project is widely considered dormant, since the original developer nmkd or n00mkrad has not released significant updates for several years. Despite this, many users still experiment with CupScale AI for legacy workflows and offline upscaling tasks.

Key Features of CupScale Enhance Quality

• High-Quality Upscaling: Uses AI models to enhance details instead of simply enlarging pixels.
• Model Flexibility: Supports chaining multiple AI models for customized upscaling results.
• Format Support: Works with GIF, JPEG, PNG, WEBP, DDS images, and MP4 video files.
• Batch Processing: Processes multiple images or frames at once to save time.
• Hardware Acceleration: Supports NVIDIA CUDA and Vulkan for faster performance on compatible GPUs.
• Comparison Tools: Offers side by side views, 50 50 comparisons, and animated previews.

Why CupScale Is Considered Dormant?

• No major updates or feature releases in several years
• Limited compatibility with newer GPUs and drivers
• Increasing stability issues during video preview and export
• Manual model management that feels outdated compared to modern tools
• Strong competition from actively developed AI video enhancers

Part 2. How to Download and Use CupScale to Enhance Video Quality?

A CupScale download and setup process is relatively simple but requires careful attention to folders, dependencies, and models. While CupScale quality enhancer features can still improve video resolution, users must follow specific steps to avoid crashes or broken previews. This workflow suits advanced users who are comfortable managing AI models manually and troubleshooting occasional errors.

1. Download CupScale from the official GitHub repository at https://github.com/n00mkrad/cupscale.

   
2. Extract the folder to any location you prefer. Avoid placing it in Program Files.
3. Run CupScale.exe to launch the application.
4. Install any required prerequisites listed in the documentation if prompted.
5. Open settings and specify a dedicated models path.
6. Download AI models from the Game Upscale Wiki or the official Discord server.
7. Place downloaded models into the selected models folder.

8. Click the Upscale Videos tab at the top of the interface

   
9. Drag and drop your video file into the workspac. Select an AI model under Model 1 on the left panel
10. Click Upscale and Save in the bottom right corner. Avoid using preview buttons during video upscaling, as this may crash the program

Part 3. CupScale Dead? A More Reliable AI Video Enhancer Choice

As CupScale development has stalled, many users now seek a more stable and modern CupScale video enhancer alternative. HitPaw VikPea is designed specifically for improving video quality using advanced AI models, without requiring manual model downloads or complex configuration. It supports higher resolutions, delivers consistent results, and continues to receive updates in 2026. For users who want professional-grade enhancement with minimal technical effort, it offers a far smoother experience than CupScale AI.

• AI-driven video upscaling with sharper textures and reduced visual artifacts
• Dedicated video repair model for damaged or compressed footage restoration
• Portrait enhancement model optimized for faces and human details in motion
• Advanced sharpening model to improve clarity without over sharpening edges
• Support for 4K and 8K resolution upscaling with stable export performance
• Simple workflow requiring no manual AI model downloads or configuration

• Step 1.Download and open HitPaw VikPea on your computer, then select Video Enhancer. Import your video or drag it directly into the enhancement workspace.

  

• Step 2.Choose an AI model such as General, Sharpen, Portrait, or Video Quality Repair.

  

• Step 3.Set your desired output resolution, up to 4K or 8K. Preview the enhanced result and export the video if satisfied.

  

Part 4. Frequently Asked Questions on CupScale

Conclusion

CupScale remains an interesting open-source experiment in AI upscaling, but its inactive development limits reliability and future potential. While a CupScale download can still serve niche use cases, most users seeking consistent results and higher quality video enhancement in 2026 will benefit from modern solutions like HitPaw VikPea Video Enhancer.