Whether you’ve just wrapped up editing your first video or you’re a seasoned creator, exporting your final project in DaVinci Resolve can feel overwhelming at first. With all the options in the Deliver tab, it’s easy to get lost.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to export your video in DaVinci Resolve — with the best settings for YouTube and other platforms.
Let’s break it down:
🎬 Step 1: Finalize Your Edit
Before you even think about exporting, double-check that everything in your timeline is exactly how you want it:
• Are all your cuts clean?
• Is your audio balanced and synced?
• Did you apply any color correction or grading?
Once you’re confident with the final edit, it’s time to move to export.
📤 Step 2: Open the Deliver Tab
At the bottom of DaVinci Resolve, you’ll find several workspace tabs. Click on the Deliver tab — this is where you’ll handle all things export
This area may look complex, but don’t worry — we’ll guide you through the exact settings you need.
⚙️ Step 3: Choose an Export Preset
DaVinci Resolve makes it easier by offering built-in export presets. You’ll see options like:
• YouTube (1080p, 4K)
• Vimeo
• Custom
If you’re exporting for YouTube (which most creators are), the YouTube preset is a great place to start. It will automatically set most of the important settings for you — including resolution, format, and codec.
🎛️ Step 4: Adjust Export Settings (If Needed)
Here are the key settings you should be aware of:
• Format: Choose MP4 for best compatibility and performance.
• Codec: Stick with H.264 — it balances quality and file size well.
• Resolution: Match your project (usually 1920×1080 for Full HD or 3840×2160 for 4K).
• Frame Rate: Match your project’s frame rate (usually 24, 30, or 60 fps).
• Bitrate: A higher bitrate gives better quality, but increases file size. For YouTube:
• 1080p = ~10,000 kbps
• 4K = ~35,000 kbps
📁 Step 5: Name Your File and Choose Where to Save It
Click the “Browse” button to select where your video will be saved.
👉 Pro Tip: Give your file a clean, descriptive name like MyYouTubeTutorial_Final.mp4. Avoid names like Untitled1.
✅ Step 6: Add to Render Queue and Export
Now that everything’s set:
1. Click “Add to Render Queue”
2. On the right-hand side, hit “Render All”
DaVinci Resolve will now export your video — this could take a few minutes or longer depending on your computer and project size.
🛠️ Troubleshooting Export Issues
If something goes wrong during export, here are a few things to check:
• Low Disk Space: Make sure you have enough free storage.
• Wrong Codec: Not all platforms support every codec — H.264 is the safest choice.
• Audio/Video Sync Issues: Make sure your project settings match the export settings.
• Render Fails: Try exporting to a different location or restarting Resolve.
🎉 You’re Done!
Once rendering is complete, your video is ready to upload or share! Whether you’re posting to YouTube, saving it for a client, or archiving it for later — you’re now in control of your exports.
📺 Watch the Full Video Tutorial
💡 Final Thoughts
DaVinci Resolve is an incredibly powerful tool — and while the export process may seem complex at first, once you’ve done it a few times, it becomes second nature.
Stick with it, keep creating, and feel free to bookmark this guide so you can come back to it anytime.
📘 Featured Tool:
DaVinci Resolve by Blackmagic Design
✅ Download DaVinci Resolve for Free
One of the best free editing tools for creators, filmmakers, and video pros.
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