Sometimes, you may want to swap a clip in your timeline without losing all your edits, effects, transitions, or color grading. In DaVinci Resolve, this is called replacing a clip, and it’s a huge time-saver.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to replace a video in DaVinci Resolve Free Version while keeping all your original timeline settings intact — perfect for editors working on client projects, YouTube videos, or films.
Why Replace a Video Instead of Re-Editing?
- Saves time by keeping your existing cuts and effects.
- Maintains color grading, transitions, and keyframes.
- Avoids having to re-align audio or graphics.
Step 1 – Import the New Video
- Open DaVinci Resolve.
- Load your project.
- Go to the Media Pool.
- Drag the new video file into the Media Pool.
Pro Tip: Make sure your new video has the same resolution and frame rate as the original clip to avoid scaling or sync issues.
Step 2 – Locate the Original Clip
- In the Media Pool, find the clip you want to replace.
- This is the file currently used in your timeline.
Step 3 – Replace the Clip
- Right-click on the old clip in the Media Pool.
- Select Replace Clip.
- Browse and select the new video file.
- Click Open — the clip in your timeline will now be replaced, but all edits and effects remain.
Alternative Method – Manual Replace in Timeline
If you don’t want to replace all instances in the project:
- Select the clip in the Timeline.
- Hold Alt (Windows) / Option (Mac).
- Drag the new clip from the Media Pool onto the old clip.
- This replaces only that single timeline instance.
Step 4 – Check and Adjust
- Play the timeline to confirm everything is in sync.
- Adjust color, crop, or scaling if the new clip’s framing is slightly different.
Pro Tips for Replacing Clips
- If the new video is shorter, extend its duration with Freeze Frame or extra footage.
- For multi-camera edits, replacing one clip won’t affect other camera angles.
- Always check audio sync after replacing.
Final Thoughts
Replacing a video in DaVinci Resolve Free Version is quick and efficient. Whether you’re swapping in higher-quality footage, updating a client’s asset, or fixing a mistake, this method keeps your edits, transitions, and effects safe — saving hours of rework.
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