Topaz Video vs Astra

Both apps use AI to enhance video quality. While they share some AI models, each app also includes models exclusive to that app — and they are built for different environments and workflows.

This page explains the key differences between the two apps and answers frequently asked questions to help you understand how they compare and which best fits your workflow.

Platform

🟢 Topaz Video:

⚫ Astra:

  • Web-based only — no installation required
  • All processing happens in the cloud using cloud credits
  • Requires an Astra or Topaz Studio subscription; additional credits may be purchased if needed

Models

🟢 Topaz Video:

  • Large library of models covering enhancement, frame interpolation, stabilization, motion deblur, SDR to HDR, and Denoise
  • Many models support manual parameter adjustments for fine-tuning results — for example, Proteus includes individual sliders for sharpening, reducing noise, and more
  • See full list of filters and models here

⚫ Astra:

  • Includes enhancement and frame interpolation models
  • Precise 2.5 and Creative models are exclusive to Astra
  • Simple one-click enhancement models — no adjustments needed
  • See full list of modes and models here

Processing

🟢 Topaz Video:

  • Local processing available
  • Cloud rendering is available and consumes cloud credits when used

⚫ Astra:

  • All processing runs in the cloud and consumes cloud credits
  • Supports scene detection for videos up to 18000 frames

Supported Formats

🟢 Topaz Video:

  • Supports a wide range of input formats including video files and image sequences. See full list here.
  • Local exports offer a broad range of encoders and containers. See full list here.
  • Cloud rendering outputs: AV1, H264, H265, VP9 — MP4 container
    • Note: Starlight models output H264, MP4 only

⚫ Astra:

  • Supported inputs: AV1, VP9, H.264, H.265 — MP4 container
  • All exports: H264, MP4

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: "Can I use both Topaz Video and Astra?"

A: Yes. They are separate tools that complement each other. Topaz Video handles video enhancement locally on your desktop, while Astra is a web-based platform with its own set of models — including some not available in Topaz Video.

Q: "Do I need a separate subscription for Astra?"

A: Astra requires an active Astra or Topaz Studio subscription with available cloud credits. A Topaz Video subscription alone does not include access to Astra. You can check your current subscriptions on your Studio Account Page.

Q: "Which one should I use?"

A: This depends on your workflow and hardware.

Use 🟢 Topaz Video if:

  • You prefer local processing on your desktop
  • You want access to the Topaz Video model library
  • You need plugin support for host applications like DaVinci Resolve or After Effects

Use ⚫ Astra if:

  • You want browser-based access without installing software
  • You need access to Astra-specific models
  • Your system does not meet local processing requirements

Q: "How many cloud credits do I need?"

A: Credit usage varies depending on the model used, as well as the resolution and frame rate of your video. See the cloud rendering page for details.

Q: "Why aren't all of Astra's models available in Topaz Video?"

A: Some of Astra's models are too resource-intensive to run on local consumer hardware, so they are only available as cloud-based processing through Astra.