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Nvidia DLSS Video Upscaling Review: Capabilities, Limits & Tested AI Alternatives

Alex Render Alex Render Last Updated: Aug 13, 2025AI Video Enhancer
Dlss Video Upscaling

NVIDIA's Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) is a popular upscaling technology. It uses artificial intelligence to make higher-resolution images. This costs less to process. DLSS was first made for real-time games. But now, video editors want better ways to improve recorded videos. So people wonder: Can DLSS video upscaling effective? If not, what other option exists?

Part 1. Understanding DLSS Video Upscaling

DLSS video upscaling is a technology created by NVIDIA. Rather than relying on traditional interpolation methods, it utilizes deep learning and AI-trained neural networks to predict and generate higher-resolution frames from lower-resolution inputs.

Use Cases of DLSS

DLSS was built with one primary purpose in mind: real-time graphics rendering, especially for video games. It allows lower-end hardware to deliver high frame rates while still achieving 4K-level visual fidelity. Key use cases include:

• Real-time video game rendering

• Virtual reality applications

• Live simulation and 3D animation

DLSS Video Upscaling vs. General AI Video Upscaling

Feature DLSS General AI Video Upscaler
Target Use Real-time rendering (gaming) Pre-recorded video enhancement
Platform NVIDIA RTX GPUs Cross-platform, often cloud-based
Input/Output Game frames Video files (MP4, AVI, MOV)
Training Focus 3D scenes & motion prediction Diverse video textures
(faces, nature, architecture)
Flexibility Low for custom content High
(supports multiple formats and types)

While DLSS video upsclaing excels in dynamic rendering, it’s not optimized for static, frame-by-frame video enhancement.

Part 2. Can DLSS Upscale General Videos?

In a technical sense, no—general video content such as home recordings, vlogs, movies, and tutorials cannot be elevated using DLSS. It is integrated into game engines like Unreal Engine and Unity as well as NVIDIA's driver ecosystem. It requires:

• NVIDIA RTX hardware

• Real-time rendering environments

• Developer integration with DLSS SDK

This makes DLSS inaccessible to content creators who simply want to upscale a 720p video to 4K for YouTube or improve old archival footage.

Part 3. Best DLSS Video Upscaling Alternative: AI Video Enhancer Software

1. Vidhex Video Upscaler

Unlike DLSS video upscaling, Vidhex Video Upscaler is designed specifically for general video upscaling and is accessible through any modern web browser. Whether you’re restoring old family videos, upgrading corporate training footage, or improving video quality, Vidhex delivers studio-grade quality through automated AI enhancement.

Features

• AI Super Resolution

• Noise Reduction

• Motion Enhancement

• Color Enhancement

• User-Friendly Interface

Steps

Step 1. First, click on Video Enhancer, and choose Add File(s).

Vidhex Add Files

Step 2. Then, click on General Enhancement Model to let Vidhex automatically process the video. After finishing it, you can choose Preview to see the final result.

Vidhex Enhancement

Step 3. Finally, click on Export All to download your delicately processed video.

Vidhex Export

2. Topaz Video AI

Topaz Video AI is widely acknowledged for delivering the cleanest and sharpest results and brightening videos among AI upscalers

Pros

  • Local processing offline (no internet)
  • granular control over enhancement settings (noise reduction, stabilization)
  • Upscales up to 8K/16K at 60 FPS
  • Excellent detail reconstruction and face optimization

Cons

  • High one‑time cost (~$299 standard; $1,099/year pro)
  • Extremely high GPU/CPU demands
  • Steep learning curve, no cloud option

Steps

Step 1. Click on Upload a Video to upload the video you want to upscale.

Topaz Upload

Step 2. Click on the button to open the Frame rate boost, and then choose Preview to see if you are satisfied with the final effect.

Topaz Preview

Step 3. If you are satisfied with the result, click on Upscale to 4k and download the final result.

Topaz Upscale

3. Hitpaw AI Video Enhancer

Due to fast and high-quality results and intuitive UI, Hitpaw AI Video Enhancer is a very popullar. Here are its pros and cons.

Pros

  • Supports upscaling to 8K, low‑light enhancement, noise removal, frame interpolation
  • Simple UI; preview before full render
  • Offers free trial

Cons

  • Free trial limited in duration/length
  • Plans can be expensive (≈ $9 per 10 min)
  • Slight residual blur or artifacts in some cases

Steps

Step 1. Choose Video Enhancer, and click on Choose File to upload the video.

Hitpaw Video Enhancer

Step 2. Click on Resolution to adjust the video parameter you want.

Hitpaw Resolution.

Step 3. Choose Preview to see if you are satisfied with the final video.

Hitpaw Preview

Step 4. Choose Export to download the final video.

Hitpaw Export

Part 4. FAQs about DLSS Video Upscaling

Is DLSS suitable for non-gaming video content?

No. DLSS is designed for real-time rendering in games and cannot process pre-recorded videos like traditional video upscaling software.

Does Vidhex require any technical knowledge?

Not at all. Vidhex is beginner-friendly and requires no video editing experience. Its AI handles all enhancements automatically.

How long does video processing take in Vidhex?

Processing time depends on video length and chosen resolution, but most enhancements are completed within minutes.

Conclusion

DLSS video upscaling excels in gaming graphics but isn't ideal for general footage. Content creators, marketers, and editors seeking fast, professional upscaling should consider Vidhex, Topaz, or Hitpaw as superior alternatives.

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