10 Best 1080p to 4K Upscalers of 2026 [Windows, Mac & Online]
- Updated on 2026-01-28
- 527
Table Of Content
Quick Verdict — How to Choose 1080p to 4K Upscaler
- Best overall (most users): UniFab Video Upscaler AI — best balance of detail recovery, speed, and ease of use across typical 1080p footage (talking-head + handheld + streaming compression).
- Best for maximum detail & pro tuning: Topaz Video AI — strongest model controls and recovery, but typically heavier GPU demand and longer render times.
- Best value/performance: VideoProc Converter AI — lightweight, fast workflow and broad format support for budget users.
- Best online (no install): TensorPix / CapCut — quick cloud/web upscaling for short clips and social workflows.
- Best for editing workflows: Adobe Premiere Pro — best when you must upscale inside an NLE timeline.
- Best free/basic: VLC — basic scaling/filters; useful for quick preview but not true AI reconstruction.
UniFab 1080p to 4K upscaler
- Best overall 1080p to 4K upscaling solution
- Balanced quality, speed, and usability
- Ideal for most everyday video upscaling
- Reliable AI upscaling with minimal effort
UniFab Video Upscaler AI
What Is a 1080p to 4K Upscaler?
A 1080p to 4K upscaler is a tool that increases video resolution from 1920×1080 (Full HD) to 3840×2160 (Ultra HD). Modern upscalers use AI-based reconstruction rather than simple interpolation, predicting missing pixels frame by frame to improve sharpness, textures, and perceived detail.
AI-powered 1080p to 4K upscalers generally outperform traditional scaling by:
- Rebuilding edges instead of stretching pixels
- Reducing noise and compression artifacts
- Preserving faces, text, and motion clarity
How Does AI-Based 1080p to 4K Upscaling Work?
Unlike traditional upscaling methods that simply enlarge pixels, AI-based upscalers analyze the content of the video, identifying patterns, textures, and details that should be present in the higher resolution. These algorithms use vast amounts of training data to predict and create missing pixels, ensuring that the final 4K output retains sharpness, clarity, and natural-looking textures.
Here's how the process works:
- Analysis of Original Video: The AI first examines the 1080p video to understand the structures, shapes, and textures of the image. It identifies edges, faces, and important visual features.
- Pixel Prediction: Using neural networks, the AI predicts the additional pixels required to scale the video up to 4K. It fills in gaps by understanding what the missing information should look like based on similar data from thousands of images.
- Smoothing and Refining: The AI applies smoothing and anti-aliasing techniques to ensure the upscaled video looks natural, without pixelation or artifacts, even on larger screens.
- Output at 4K Resolution: The final result is a video that retains the original details, but with much higher resolution, offering clearer visuals and sharper textures when viewed on 4K displays.
AI upscaling delivers superior quality compared to traditional methods by leveraging advanced algorithms that predict missing data, making it ideal for converting 1080p content to 4K with minimal loss in quality.
How We Tested These 1080p to 4K Upscalers
To fairly compare each 1080p to 4K upscaler, we evaluated them using the same workflow and criteria.
Review process:
- We research both market demand and popularity to identify tools worth testing.
- Every software to upscale 1080p to 4Kfeatured here has been independently tested by our content team for quality, performance, and ease of use.
- We evaluate key factors such as performance, features, and attractions.
- Our reviews also consider user feedback from popular platforms and communities, combining expert analysis with real-world experiences.
Test setup:
- Source resolution: 1920×1080
- Output resolution: 3840×2160 (4K UHD)
- Video types tested: 1) Talking-head footage (face and skin detail); 2) Fast-motion scenes (sports, handheld shots); 3) Low-light and compressed footage (noise and artifacts)
Evaluation criteria:
- Detail recovery and edge clarity
- Face enhancement accuracy
- Noise reduction vs. over-sharpening
- Motion consistency (ghosting, flicker)
- Processing speed and hardware efficiency
- Batch processing and format support
Comparison Table: Best 1080p to 4K Upscalers (Desktop & Online)
| Tool | Type | Supported OS | Best For | Key Strengths | Limitations | Pricing |
| UniFab Video Upscaler AI | Desktop (AI) | Windows, Mac | Best overall for most users | 4 AI models (Quality, Anime, Texture, Speed); repairs compression artifacts, noise, blur, jagged edges; supports up to 4K/8K/16K; balanced quality & speed | Requires local installation | Free trial (no watermark); $99.99/year; $129.99 lifetime |
| AVCLabs Video Enhancer AI | Desktop (AI) | Windows, Mac | Old, low-quality & B/W videos | Multi-frame enhancement; noise & blur removal; frame interpolation; colorization for B/W footage | Slow processing; relatively expensive | $119.95/year |
| Topaz Video AI | Desktop (AI) | Windows, Mac | Maximum detail & pro control | Advanced AI models for noise, blur, shake; strong artifact removal; face recognition; cinematic results | Very hardware-intensive; limited free trial | $299 (one-time) |
| Adobe Premiere Pro | Desktop (NLE) | Windows, Mac | Professional editing workflows | Detail-preserving upscale; advanced color grading; full editing & AI-assisted tools | Steep learning curve; high system requirements | $263.88/year |
| VideoProc Converter AI | Desktop (AI) | Windows, Mac | Best value & fast batch upscaling | Level-3 GPU acceleration; batch processing; 370+ input & 420+ output formats; compression & stabilization | Limited advanced editing modes; weak customer support | $25.95 |
| VLC Media Player | Desktop (Traditional) | Windows, Mac, Linux | Free/basic upscaling | Free & open-source; adjustable filters; thread control; basic color & effect tuning | No true AI upscaling; inconsistent results on low-quality video | Free |
| TensorPix | Online (AI) | Web | Online batch upscaling | No installation; batch processing on mobile/tablet; multiple AI filters; instant download | No editing during upscaling; struggles with very low-quality footage | $27/month |
| CapCut AI Video Upscaler | Online (AI) | Web (App available) | Quick & free online use | Free; fully automated; supports various formats; good for short videos | Unnatural AI look; limited advanced features; occasional glitches | Free |
| HitPaw Online AI Video Upscaler | Online (AI) | Web | Face & anime enhancement | AI face model; noise removal; anime upscaling; colorizes old footage; batch processing | Watermark on free version; advanced features paid | $179.99/year |
| Media.io AI Video Upscaler | Online (AI) | Web | Simple AI upscaling & format flexibility | Adds missing details; zoom preview; multiple formats; 2×/4× control | No advanced editing; lacks denoise & stabilization | $17.99/month |
Best 1080p to 4K upscaler
- Flexible customization with four distinct AI models.
- User-friendly interface suitable for beginners and pros alike.
- Faster processing with support for modern GPUs.
- 30-day full-feature free trial allowing risk-free evaluation.
- Competitive pricing compared to high-end rivals like Topaz Video AI.
UniFab Video Upscaler AI
Desktop 1080p to 4k Upscaler
Desktop Applications: Software like UniFab Video Upscaler for both Windows and Mac allows you to upscale 1080p to 4K locally without needing an internet connection. With these tools, you can achieve the best results by utilizing advanced algorithms that improve video quality while maintaining the original video's integrity. They often include AI features that make the upscaling process more accurate and efficient.
UniFab Video Upscaler AI
UniFab Video Upscaler, powered by advanced AI technology, is the ultimate solution for high-quality video upscaling, supporting resolutions up to 4K, 8K, and even 16K. It features 4 models: Quality-Optimized Model, Anime-Optimized Model, Texture Enhanced Model, and Speed-Optimized Model.
UniFab intelligently analyzes videos to detect and repair common quality issues, including compression artifacts, detail loss, noise, excessive sharpening halos, jagged edges, and blurriness, ensuring a sharper, clearer, and more visually stunning output.
Supported OS: Windows & Mac
Price: 30-day Free Trial without watermark; 99.99/Year; Lifetime Plan $129.99
In our testing, UniFab delivered consistent improvements across different video types, especially:
- Clearer facial features without plastic-like artifacts
- Balanced noise reduction on compressed footage
- Stable motion handling with fewer flickering issues
Unlike heavily technical tools, UniFab focuses on an efficient, one-click workflow, making it suitable for creators who want high-quality results without deep AI parameter tuning.
AVCLabs Video Enhancer AI
AVCLab Video Enhancer AI is a very user-friendly option for upscale any video from 1080p to 4K resolution. Using this best 1080p to 4K upscaler, you can transform any SD video to 4K with multi-frame enhancement and super-resolution support. While offering colorization to any black-and-white video, it provides multiple video-enhancing functions such as frame interpolation, upscaling, enhancing, etc.
Supported OS: Windows & Mac
Price: Annual Plan $119.95
Pros
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It uses an AI algorithm to enhance video quality using single or multi-frame enhancement option.
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TV shows, anime, or homemade video, anything will become crisp & clear with naturalistic appeal.
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Enhance video by removing noise, blur, and compression artifacts by adjusting brightness, contrast, saturation, color, etc.
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You can explore motion effects with slow motion using the frame interpolation function.
Cons
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Comparatively expensive software.
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The video upscaling process is slow.
Topaz Video AI
In the 1080p to 4K converter list, Topaz Video Enhance AI will give cinematic satisfaction to any average-quality video while upscaling it up to 4K. It offers an ultra-sharp, smooth, and steady look to any upscaled video. This AI tool upscales any poor-resolution video automatically with natural effects. It offers dedicated models for adjusting frame rates and exploring slow motion without changing camera settings.
Supported OS: Windows & Mac
Price: $299
Pros
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Upscale video by fixing compression artifacts.
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It preserves video minute details by removing digital noise.
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It supports various models to tackle blur, noise, haze, shake etc.
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It offers instant & automatic face-recognition techniques.
Cons
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It requires lots of power & resources from your system & makes your system slow.
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Very limited features are available in a free trial.
Adobe Premiere Pro
To experience seamless video upscaling with AI automation, Adobe Premiere Pro is one of the most common 1080p to 4K converters. With extensive video editing, trimming, crafting, and other flexible functions, this tool will offer maximum customization in your video upscaling process. The advanced color correction and grading tool will make your canvas with curve control and frame adjustment.
Supported OS: Windows & Mac
Price: Annual Plan $263.88
Pros
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Explore AI features with audio ducking, color matching, speech enhancing, etc.
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Transcript auto-generation with text adding & clip trimming option.
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Explore three-point editing with ripple, roll, slip, or slide.
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Try hundreds of built-in transitions, video effects, stylish templates.
Cons
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It requires a potent system for smooth operation.
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The steep learning curve is not beginner-friendly.
VideoProc Converter AI
To follow the most hassle-free method of upscaling 1080p to 4K with maximum customization and flexibility, nothing would be better than the VideoProc Converter AI. It lets you explore 4K upscaling with Level 3-Acceleration. From video compression, editing, and recording to shake stabilization, sharpening, and denoising, this tool will give you an all-around video upscaling experience with various customizable functions.
Supported OS: Windows & Mac
Price: $25.95
Pros
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It handles all types of videos with different quality, format & file size.
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It offers 370 input & 420 output format.
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Upscale 1080p or low-resolution video to 4K in batches.
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Reduce file size of upscaled video with lossless compression.
Cons
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It's difficult to add night mode, landscape, portrait, etc.
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Very poor customer service.
VLC Media Player - Free 1080P to 4K Upscaler
VLC Media Player is a free 1080P to 4K upscaler. Before sharing any average, grainy, or low-quality video with your friends or any social media platform, you must use this free, open-source video upscaler to upscale video to 4K. It supports multiple functions such as video quality editing, color customization, previewing, etc. VLC lets you increase cache size from 300 to 20,000 to enhance video quality.
Supported OS: Windows, Mac & Linux
Price: Free
Pros
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This 1080p to 4K converter lets you lets you increase the number of threads to upscale video.
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Try the Essential Effects filter to adjust brightness, contrast, saturation, etc.
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Video Effects filters to handle more complex settings with color adjustment, crop settings, etc.
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Enhance video quality by adjusting output settings.
Cons
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Some VLC supported format needs additional codecs to be appropriately installed to play.
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Poor-quality video creates issues during playback.
Online 1080p to 4k Upscaler
Online and Real-Time Options: Online 1080p to 4K upscalers provide convenient, accessible enhancement of video quality without needing complex software installation. They use AI technology to improve sharpness and detail, delivering a better viewing experience on 4K displays.
TensorPix 1080p to 4k Upscaler Online
Last but not least, TensorPix gives very tough competition to the top 1080p to 4K upscaler online. Without installation hassle, you can use this online on any device or platform to upscale any low video quality up to 4K. To use this AI-powered online upscaler, you don't need any technical skills or prior experience.
Supported OS: Web
Price: Premium Monthly Plan $27.00
Pros
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Upscale video while fixing low resolution, compression artifacts, or blurry footage.
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Upscale multiple videos in one go with batch upscaling on a smartphone or tablet.
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It offers multiple AI filters such as decompressor, Film cleaner, deinterlacer, color restorer, etc.
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Instant downloading after upscaling.
Cons
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It won't let you edit video while upscaling.
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It cannot handle very low-quality video footage.
CapCut 4k Upscaler Online
To search for the 1080p to 4K upscaler online, CapCut AI Video Upscaler is a great option. It upscales video to 4 K with sharpening, deblurring, etc. Using this free online tool, you can upscale video while maintaining its original details. While it offers web browser support for easy access on any device, it is also available in an app version.
Supported OS: Web
Price: Free
Pros
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Add professional appeal to any upscaled video while removing blur.
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This 1080p to 4K upscaler is all set to handle any video with various resolutions, contexts, formats, etc.
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It gives new life to any historical footage.
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It offers a smooth & seamless video upscaling experience with full automation.
Cons
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The video enhancement quality is poor, unnatural, and has a strong artificial AI look.
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Limited track-adding option.
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Some features like removing background or body effect functions come with glitches.
HitPaw Online AI video Upscaler
HitPaw Online AI Video Upscaler is a very easy-to-use 1080p to 4K upscaler online. From beginners to professionals, this tool is for everyone, including anime fans, social media users, film lovers, video creators, etc. It upscales any poor-quality, old, damaged video to 4K resolution while restoring its original details, data, and color. With the batch processing function, you can process multiple videos in batches.
Supported OS: Web
Price: Annual Price $ 179.99
Pros
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AI-face model for automatic face detection & enhancement.
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Remove background noise instantly & automatically.
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Upscale any anime video to 4K with professional appeal.
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Add color to any vintage, historic, or black-and-white video footage.
Cons
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In the free version, you will get an upscaled video with a watermark.
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Maximum advanced features are available in the paid version.
Media.io 1080p Upscaled to 4k Tool Online
To explore maximum flexibility and customization in your video upscaling requirements, Media.io is a renowned 1080p to 4K converter with realistic appeal and professional perfection. With AI automation, you can upscale your video with a few clicks. Along with cross-platform online service, this tool has a dedicated desktop version.
Supported OS: Web
Price: Monthly Plan $17.99
Pros
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This tool will add the missing details to your video footage while upscaling it.
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It supports a zooming function for clear viewing of any part or object of your video.
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It provides multiple file format support with MP4, MOV, AVI, etc.
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You can select 2X or 4X options to control the video upscaling speed.
Cons
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There is no dedicated video editing option.
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Denoising, sharpening, shake stabilization, etc., are not supported.
Best 1080p to 4K Upscalers by Use Case
| Use Case | Best Choice | Why It's Best |
| Overall best quality | UniFab Video Upscaler AI | Strongest AI models, restoration accuracy, supports up to 16K |
| Best for anime | UniFab (Anime Model) | Smooth edges, vivid color restoration |
| Best value | VideoProc Converter AI | Lightweight, affordable, supports many formats |
| Most professional | Adobe Premiere Pro | Precise editing controls + AI enhancements |
| Best online | TensorPix | Cloud-based, quick results |
| Best free option | VLC | Free filters and basic enhancement |
Verdict: Among all tools tested, UniFab Video Upscaler AI stands out as the best overall solution thanks to its four advanced AI models, superior restoration quality, and excellent value. Whether you need professional results, online convenience, or a free option, this guide provides the best choices for every scenario.
Final Verdict — Which One is the Best 1080p to 4K Upscaler
A 1080p to 4K upscaler enhances video resolution from 1080p to 4K using advanced algorithms like AI and interpolation. Among the top contenders, UniFab Video Upscaler stands out for its fast processing speed, high-quality output, and GPU acceleration support, making it the best choice for users seeking the most reliable 1080p to 4K conversion. Based on hands-on tests, UniFab offers superior balance between speed and visual quality. While other upscalers like Topaz and HitPaw also deliver solid results, UniFab delivers the most consistent performance across varying hardware setups. If you prioritize quality and efficiency, UniFab Video Upscaler is the top recommendation.
FAQs about 1080P to 4K Upscaler
Does 1080p upscaled to 4K look good?
1080p upscaled to 4K can look significantly better than the original, especially when using an AI-powered UniFab 4K upscaler. However, while the quality improves, it may not be as sharp as native 4K content.
What is the best 4K upscaler?
The best 4K upscaler depends on use case. For most users, a desktop AI upscaler like UniFab Video Upscaler AI offers the best balance of quality, speed, and ease of use, while advanced users may prefer tools like Topaz Video AI for deeper control.
Can lossless scaling upscale from 1080p to 4K?
Lossless scaling can technically scale 1080p to 4K., but it does not add new visual detail. For meaningful quality improvement, AI-based upscalers are more effective than lossless or interpolation-only scaling methods.
Is a 4K upscaler worth buying?
A 4K upscaler is worth buying if you frequently work with videos, restore old footage, create content for large screens, or want consistent high-quality enhancement. AI-based upscalers offer better detail recovery and artifact removal than built-in TV upscalers, making them valuable for creators, editors, and anyone wanting sharper 4K playback.
Is 4K really 4 times 1080p?
Yes. In terms of pixel count, 4K is exactly four times the resolution of 1080p.
- 1080p = 1920 × 1080 = 2.07 million pixels
- 4K = 3840 × 2160 = 8.29 million pixels
More pixels allow 4K to display finer detail, smoother edges, and clearer images than 1080p.