# What is AI video upscaling?

> AI video upscaling makes a low-resolution clip larger by predicting extra detail. See a worked pixel example, which tools do it and what to check.
- **Author**: Marxx
- **Published**: 2026-11-07
- **Category**: Video editing
- **URL**: https://marxx.ai/library-glossary/ai-video-upscaling

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AI video upscaling makes a low-resolution clip larger by predicting extra detail, instead of only stretching the pixels. Use it when a clip is smaller than the size you need.

## A worked example

Say your clip is 720 x 1280. Google Ads recommends 1080 x 1920 for Shorts ads and sets 720 x 1280 as the minimum (checked 3 Nov 2026).

- Each side grows by 1,080 / 720 = **1.5 times**.
- Pixels go from 921,600 to 2,073,600, which is **2.25 times** as many.
- 1 − (1 / 2.25) = about **56%** of the new pixels did not exist in your clip.

The AI must predict that 56%. This is why you must check the result closely. See [video resolution](/glossary/video-resolution).

## Tools that upscale

| Tool | Upscaling |
|---|---|
| DaVinci Resolve | SuperScale, among the Studio edition's extra effects |
| Runway | 4K upscaling on Standard, unlimited 4K upscaling on Pro and Max |

Features are from the makers' pages (checked 3 Nov 2026).

Marxx's [AI video editor](/features/ai-video-editor) can upscale a clip in its Generate tab, and this uses credits. Upscaling sits on the Match plan, $29 a month at launch prices (checked 3 Nov 2026). We make Marxx.

## What to check

1. Watch at full size, not in a small preview.
2. Look at faces, hands and any text. These are where predicted detail goes wrong.
3. Compare with the original. If the upscale looks worse, keep the original.
4. Start from the sharpest source you have.

## FAQ

### Can upscaling fix a blurry clip?

It can add sharpness. It cannot restore detail that was never recorded, because it predicts the detail.

### Is upscaling the same as exporting at a higher resolution?

No. Exporting a small clip at a larger size only enlarges the pixels. Upscaling predicts new ones.

### Do I need it for Reels ads?

Only if your footage is smaller than the size you need. For tools that do more, see [the best AI video editing apps](/best/best-ai-video-editing-apps).

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- [More Video editing articles](https://marxx.ai/library-glossary/category/video-editing)
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