10 Best 1080p to 4K Upscalers of 2025 [Windows, Mac & Online]
- Updated on 2025-11-17
- 913
Table Of Content
Upscaling a 1080p video to 4K has become significantly more effective in recent years thanks to deep-learning models that restore textures, recover details, and remove artifacts. Whether you’re upgrading old footage, improving smartphone videos, or preparing content for YouTube, an AI-powered 4K upscaler can dramatically enhance video quality.
This guide reviews the 10 best 1080p to 4K upscalers of 2025, covering desktop apps, online tools, and free options, along with real test insights, use-case recommendations.
What Is a 1080p to 4K Upscaler?
A 1080p to 4K upscaler is a tool—software, algorithm, or online service—that increases video resolution from 1920×1080 to 3840×2160. AI-based upscalers do more than enlarge pixels: they reconstruct missing detail, restore textures, remove blur, enhance edges, and reduce noise to make footage appear much closer to native 4K.
How Does AI-Based 1080p to 4K Upscaling Work?
AI upscaling typically performs four steps:
- Frame Analysis – Detects textures, motion, faces, edges, and artifacts.
- Super-Resolution Prediction – Adds predicted high-resolution detail.
- Artifact Removal – Eliminates noise, halos, compression blocks, and blur.
- Reconstruction – Rebuilds frames at 4K with restored clarity and color depth.
This four-step workflow enables modern AI tools to outperform traditional upscalers by a wide margin.
Snapshot of 3 Best 1080P to 4K Upscalers
When selecting the best 1080p to 4k upscalers for 2025, we follow a clear review process to ensure accuracy and trustworthiness:
- We research both market demand and popularity to identify tools worth testing.
- Every software to upscale 1080p to 4k featured 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.
Keep reading to get a comparison table of the 3 best 1080p to 4K upscalers with their highlights and advanced functions.
| 1080 to 4K Video Upscaler | UniFab Video Upscaler AI | TensorPix | VLC Media Player |
| Type | PC | Online | Open Sourch |
| Best For | Maximum control on customization | Browser based access on any device | sharing video on social media platform |
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| Attractions |
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| Supported OS | Windows/ Mac | Web | Windows, Mac & Linux |
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; 69.99/Year; Lifetime Plan $139.99
Quality-Optimized Model: Balances speed and quality, recommended for everyday use.
- Clarity and Details: Improves video clarity effectively and restores details.
- Colorization: The color contrast and saturation have been enhanced, bringing it closer to natural tones.
Anime-Optimized Model: Specially tailored for anime-style image enhancement.
- Detail Restoration: After 4K enhancement, the textures of plants and wall details become clearer, especially with more even and natural colors on the bushes.
- Color Processing: The image colors are more vibrant, especially the green plants and cartoon characters. The increased saturation makes the scene look more lively and vivid.
- Edge Smoothing: The edges are smoother and sharper after enhancement, giving the overall image a cleaner look.
Texture Enhanced Model: Specifically designed to strengthen video textures, significantly improving visual details and clarity.
Speed-Optimized Model: Delivers the fastest results, ideal for quick processing.
Here is a guide about how to upscale 1080p to 4K with UniFab Upscaler AI
30-day Free Trial with full feature access!
Open UniFab on your Windows or Mac system, select the “Upscaler” mode, and load your desired 1080p or lower quality video file to the main interface.
Customize the output upscaled video with format, resolution, quality, codec, etc.
After completing the customization process, select the “Start” option to upscale the video from 1080p to 4K.
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
To upscale 1080p to 4K, VLC Media Player is a very reputed option. 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.
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
FAQs about 1080P to 4K Upscaler
Can a 1080p video be upscaled to 4K?
Yes, a 1080p video can be upscaled to 4K using a 1080p to 4K upscaler, which enhances the resolution by adding extra pixels. AI-based UniFab 1080p upscaled to 4K tool provides the best results by improving sharpness and detail.
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.
Is it worth upscaling a video to 4K?
Yes. Upscaling a video to 4K is worth it when the original footage is 1080p or higher and you view it on a 4K display. AI upscaling improves sharpness, restores lost details, reduces noise, and makes old or soft footage look noticeably clearer. While it won’t match true native 4K, modern AI models can produce results that are very close.
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.