Open Source Video Upscaling in 2026: A Complete AI Upscaler Review

If you have ever watched an old or low-resolution video and wished it looked clearer, you are not alone. Many users deal with blurry clips, pixelated recordings, or videos that do not look good on modern screens. This is where an open source AI video upscaler can help. In this article, you will learn what video upscaling is, how open source tools use AI to improve video quality, and which options are worth trying. You will also see an easier alternative if technical tools feel overwhelming.

Part 1. What Is Open Source Video Upscaler

An open source video upscaler is a tool designed to increase video resolution using publicly available source code. This means anyone can inspect, modify, or improve how the software works. Most open source upscalers are developed by researchers and independent developers who want to enhance video quality without restricting users to paid or closed systems. When upscaling a video, such as converting 480p to 720p or 1080p, traditional methods simply stretch the image, often resulting in blur. In contrast, open source tools usually rely on AI models that analyze each frame and attempt to reconstruct missing details.

Many people prefer an open source AI video upscaler because it offers greater control and flexibility. Users can tweak settings, understand how the process works, and avoid forced subscriptions. This makes these tools especially useful for restoring old videos, anime clips, low-resolution recordings, or archived footage. Transparency is another major advantage. Since the code is public, users can trust what the software is doing on their system. For developers, these tools also serve as valuable learning resources for studying and experimenting with AI upscaling techniques.

However, open source video upscalers do come with drawbacks. Many are not beginner-friendly and may require command-line knowledge or complex setup processes. High-quality results often demand powerful GPUs, and there is usually no official customer support. While these tools are undeniably powerful, they are not always the most convenient choice. Understanding both their strengths and limitations can help you decide whether an open source video upscaler is the right solution for your needs.

Part 2. 5 Best Open Source Video Upscaler Online/Offline

Below are some of the most commonly used open source video upscaling tools today. Each one has strengths and weaknesses. The best choice depends on your experience level and your hardware.

1. Video2X

Video2X is a popular open-source tool designed for upscaling videos by utilizing AI models like Waifu2x and Real ESRGAN. It supports various formats and allows batch upscaling, providing flexibility for users. However, the setup process can be tricky for beginners, and it requires Python to run.

2. Waifu2x

Initially built as an anime-focused image upscaler, Waifu2x has expanded to video processing, emphasizing denoising and sharper line work. It excels with animated material, though real-world footage often sees weaker gains. Despite available GUIs, many users depend on command-line scripts, which may feel intimidating for beginners today.

3. Real ESRGAN

Real ESRGAN is an open-source video upscaling tool that delivers impressive results for both images and videos, especially for real-world footage. While its performance is remarkable, it demands a powerful GPU and requires a complex installation process involving Python and the command line.

4. Cupscale

Cupscale is a community-driven GUI that connects various AI video upscaling models, making the process more accessible. Though it simplifies the process compared to command-line tools, it's still experimental and may not be stable on all systems.

5. Anime4K

Anime4K is an open‑source real‑time video upscaler originally designed to improve anime playback by using fast edge‑aware scaling algorithms instead of heavy AI models. It can be used in players like MPV or integrated into workflows to upscale video on the fly with minimal lag, especially for 2D content. While it's not a deep‑learning super‑resolution model like Real ESRGAN, it's one of the few true open‑source video upscalers that works smoothly for many types of animation and some live‑action footage.

Part 3. Best Video Upscaler to Enhance Video Quality in One Click

Most open-source AI upscalers lack a truly user-friendly interface, often requiring complicated setups and technical know-how. That's why using software that works with just a few clicks can make a huge difference when upscaling videos. If you're looking for something simple yet powerful, we have the right solution for you.

Tipard Video Converter Ultimate is a solid choice if you want to improve video quality using the upscaling tool. The whole process is very straightforward and only takes a few clicks, so even if you have no technical background, it's easy to get started. You just pick the video you want to enhance, and the software does the work for you.

If you want your video to look sharper but don’t want to deal with complicated controls, this tool makes upscaling quick and simple. On top of upscaling, Tipard Video Converter Ultimate also includes handy extras like a 3D maker, DVD tools, and built-in video and audio editors, making it a convenient all-in-one solution for everyday use.

How to Use Tipard Video Converter Ultimate:

Step 1 To acquire the software, simply click the Free Download button below. Double-click the downloaded file to install it on your device. Launch it afterward.

Step 2 On the main interface, go to the More Tools tab and select Video Enhancer. Click the Plus button to add the video you want to upscale, or simply drag and drop the file directly into the interface.

Step 3 In the Upscale Resolution section, check the box to enable upscaling or manually select your preferred output resolution. Click Preview to view the result, then click Enhance to start the upscaling process.