12 Best Video Upscalers to Turn Blurry Videos into Sharp 4K and 8K

Last Updated: 2025-09-05 10:19:43

A video upscaler uses software and AI to increase video resolution and restore lost detail. Modern AI video upscaler tools can remove noise, sharpen edges, and reconstruct texture so older or low resolution clips look great on large screens. Whether you want a free video upscaler for quick fixes or the best video upscaler for professional restoration, this guide covers desktop, online, and mobile solutions so you can choose the right workflow and reach 4K or 8K quality.

Part 1. Best AI Video Upscaler to Upscale Video to 4K/8K

HitPaw VikPea is a dedicated AI video upscaler and enhancer that focuses on restoring old footage and upscaling modern clips to 4K or 8K using multiple AI models. It provides options for sharpening, color repair, noise reduction, and frame interpolation so creators can get clean upscaled video with side by side previews. HitPaw positions VikPea as a full featured desktop enhancer and also offers an online 4K video upscaler alternative for quick jobs.

4K video upscaler alternative for quick jobs.
Upscale video to 4K or 8K with AI driven reconstruction.
Multiple AI models for portraits, sharpening, and general improvements.
Noise reduction and video quality repair for compressed footage.
Side by side preview so you can compare before and after.
Batch processing for faster handling of many files at once.
HDR color module and SDR to HDR conversion options.

Step 1.Download and Launch HitPaw VikPea on your computer. Import your video by clicking on "Choose file". The drag and drop method also works for importing video to the software menu.
Step 2.This software offers multiple AI models such as General Model, Sharpen Model, Portrait Model and Video Quality Repair Model. Select a suitable model based on your needs.
Step 3.Under Export Settings, choose your desired resolution. VikPea supports upscaling up to 4K or 8K. Preview the changes to see a side by side before and after comparison. Click on "Export" to transfer your color balanced video to your computer.

Part 2. Free Video Upscaler to Upscale Video to 4K Free

If you want a free video upscaler, there are solid open source and free tools that can enhance footage for hobby projects or archival work. Free solutions range from general transcoders that perform basic upscaling to open source AI pipelines that use Real-ESRGAN, Waifu2x, or Anime4K for better detail restoration. Expect trade offs in speed, user friendliness, and GPU requirements.

1. HandBrake

HandBrake is a free, open source video transcode tool that can resize and reencode video. While not an AI upscaler, it allows controlled upscaling, bitrate tuning, and advanced encoder settings so you can prepare files for streaming or playback at higher resolutions. HandBrake is ideal for format conversion and light resizing tasks.

Pros

Completely free and open source for all users.
Precise control of bitrate and encoder settings.
Supports many formats and batch queue processing.

Cons

Does not add new fine detail like AI upscalers.
Upscaling often increases file size without improving detail.
Not optimized for AI driven restoration workflows.
Limited presets for cinematic enhancement tasks.

2. Video2X

Video2X is an open source pipeline that chains engines like Real-ESRGAN, Anime4K, and RIFE to upscale video or GIFs. It is powerful for users comfortable with configuration and who can supply GPU resources. Video2X can produce high quality results for both animation and live action with the right models.

Pros

Uses multiple AI engines for high quality upscales.
Free and community maintained open source software.
Supports batch upscaling and advanced model choices.

Cons

Complex setup and steep learning curve for beginners.
Requires a capable GPU for reasonable render times.
Can be slow depending on chosen AI models and settings.
Occasional compatibility issues across driver versions.

3. Waifu2x

Waifu2x originated as an image upscaler for anime style art but has been adapted for video via wrapper GUIs and pipelines. It excels at preserving edge clarity for drawn or stylized content and is commonly used in anime restoration workflows. GUI wrappers make the tool accessible for video frames and batch processing.

Pros

Excellent at denoising and preserving drawn edges.
Lightweight and works well on many platforms.
Many GUI front ends for easier video usage.
Free and open source with active community support.

Cons

Not ideal for natural live action footage restoration.
May oversharpen or create artifacts on faces.
Limited color reconstruction for complex footage.

4. Anime4K

Anime4K is an open source real time upscaling algorithm designed for anime and animated content. It provides very fast results and can be used in players as a shader or in pipelines for batch processing. Anime4K is ideal when you need quick, clean upscales with minimal hardware cost.

Pros

Very fast real time upscaling for animation playback.
Open source and easy to integrate with players.
Low hardware requirements compared with heavy AI models.
Good balance between speed and visual improvement.

Cons

Not designed for live action footage enhancement.
Produces simpler detail reconstruction than deep learning.

Part 3. Best Free Video Upscaler Online to Upscale Video

Online AI video upscalers make it convenient to upscale short clips without installing software. Free online upscaler services often include trial limits for video duration or output resolution, and some add watermarks unless you upgrade. They are perfect for quick tests or small social media clips, especially when you need a free video upscaler option.

1. HitPaw Online AI Video Enhancer

HitPaw Video Enhancer Online is a browser based 4K video upscaler that provides multiple models and a no signup trial for small jobs. It is handy when you need a fast online 4K video upscaler without installing desktop software, though advanced features require a paid plan.

Pros

No signup required for quick trial upscales.
Offers multiple AI models for different improvements.
Supports 4K upscaling via the online tool.
Simple drag and drop uploader for fast processing.
Side by side preview for immediate comparisons.

Cons

Advanced functions and larger files need paid upgrade.

2. CapCut Video Upscaler

CapCut provides an AI video upscaler that is integrated with its editing suite. The tool is easy to use, suitable for creators who already work inside CapCut, and can upscale clips to higher resolutions including 4K for short clips and social content.

Pros

Built into a popular free video editor and mobile app.
One click upscaling for quick social media clips.
Supports multiple resolutions including 4K exports.
Simple workflow for non technical creators.
Provides additional editing and effects inside the same app.

Cons

File size and duration limits for free users.
Upscale results vary with source quality and compression.
Some advanced export options reserved for paid tiers.

3. Nero AI Video Upscaler

Nero provides an AI upscaler solution focused on easy 4K conversion and noise reduction. It is positioned as a paid product with a straightforward interface for users who want a no fuss desktop or integrated package for batch conversions.

Pros

One click upscaling and noise reduction for quick results.
Optimized for cartoon and anime style content.
Simple interface for non technical users.
Good batch processing for multiple files.

Cons

Paid license required for full featured usage.
Limited advanced model customization options.

4. Vmake AI Video Upscaler

Vmake offers an online upscaler tailored to mobile created clips and quick marketing assets. It focuses on sharpening, denoising, and boosting resolution to 4K in a web based flow with simple upload and download steps. Results are convenient for social sharing but may require paid plans for long videos.

Pros

Fast online upscaling for mobile created clips.
Easy upload interface for quick testing and sharing.
AI sharpening and denoise in one pass.
Supports popular formats like MP4 and MOV.

Cons

Processing limits on free tier cause queue delays.
Quality varies for heavily compressed sources.
Advanced controls are only available for paid users.

Part 4. Best Video Upscaler to Upscale Video on Android and iPhone

Mobile video upscalers let you improve clips on the go. Apps vary from full editors with AI modules to single purpose upscalers. Mobile upscaling is convenient for short clips, but expect longer processing times and possible file size restrictions compared with desktop GPU accelerated workflows. Below are top mobile options for Android and iPhone.

1. VikPea Video Upscaling App

VikPea App is HitPaw's mobile app that brings AI enhancement, sharpening, colorize, and upscaling to phones and tablets. It supports one tap enhancement and generation tools while offering in app purchases for higher quality exports. VikPea works well for quick mobile fixes and social clips.

Pros

One tap enhancement for fast mobile improvements.
Sharpen, colorize, and upscale to higher resolutions.
Integrated AI generator and editing features.
Supports popular mobile video formats easily.
Free download with optional in app purchases.

Cons

Higher quality exports often require paid options.

2. KineMaster

KineMaster is a feature rich mobile editor with pro level tools and a Super Resolution feature. It is a great choice if you want editing plus basic upscaling tools in one app and it supports cloud project saving across devices. KineMaster offers both free and premium tiers.

Pros

Professional timeline editor on mobile devices.
Cloud project save and cross device editing.
Many effects, transitions and compositing tools.

Cons

Free version includes watermark on exported videos.
Some advanced features require subscription.
Performance varies on older mobile devices.
Exporting very large files can be slow on mobile.

3. PowerDirector

PowerDirector by CyberLink offers AI video enhancements and upscaling capabilities inside a mobile friendly editor. It provides fast editing tools and AI powered filters to sharpen and improve video quality before export. PowerDirector also supports desktop versions for heavier work.

Pros

AI video enhancement built into the editor.
Desktop and mobile cross platform workflow.
Wide range of export formats and settings.

Cons

Subscription required for full feature set.
Mobile performance depends on device horsepower.
Some advanced filters locked behind paywall.
Large projects may slow or crash on old phones.

Frequently Asked Questions on Video Quality Enhancer App

1. What is the best video upscaler?

The best video upscaler depends on needs. For professional results choose a desktop AI tool; for quick tests use an online free video upscaler. HitPaw VikPea is a strong all around choice.

2. Does upscaling improve video quality?

Upscaling can improve perceived quality by reconstructing detail, reducing noise, and sharpening edges. Results depend on source quality and the AI model used. Good upscalers add plausible detail rather than magic.

3. Is there a free AI upscaler for video?

Yes. Tools like Video2X, Waifu2x wrappers, Anime4K, and trial online upscalers let you try AI upscaling free, though restrictions and GPU needs vary.

4. Can I use free video upscalers on Mac?

Yes. Many open source pipelines run on Mac with the right dependencies, and online upscalers work in browsers. Desktop paid apps often provide Mac builds as well. Check system requirements first.

Conclusion

Choosing the right video upscaler means balancing quality, speed, cost, and ease of use. For the best video upscaler experience with deep editing control and 4K or 8K outputs, desktop AI tools such as HitPaw VikPea are compelling. If you prefer no install and quick tests, free online video upscalers and mobile apps are convenient. For open source power users, Video2X, Waifu2x, and Anime4K provide high quality free options when you accept a steeper setup and hardware needs. Start with a sample clip, compare side by side results, and pick the tool that meets your final resolution and quality goals.