How to install PixelTools in DaVinci Resolve
The fastest way to install your DCTLs, PowerGrades, and OFX plug-ins is the PixelTools Installer App — one click, no folder hunting. Prefer to do it by hand? The manual steps for each format are below.
Install everything with the Installer App
The PixelTools Installer App puts every tool you own into the right DaVinci Resolve folders automatically.
- Installs DCTLs, PowerGrades, and OFX plug-ins in one click
- No unzipping, no folder hunting, no manual re-installs on updates
- Account-based licensing with automatic update delivery
- macOS 12+ and Windows 10+ · DaVinci Resolve Studio 20+
Prefer to install manually?
You can install any format by hand. Pick what you're installing.
How to install PixelTools PowerGrades
- Launch DaVinci Resolve.
- Navigate to the Color page.
- Open the Still \ PowerGrade Albums list by clicking the square button in the top-left of the Gallery.
- Right-click and select Add PowerGrade Album to create a new PowerGrade Album.
- Drag & drop your .drx files into the album.
How to install PixelTools DCTLs
- Click the Gear icon in the bottom-right corner to open Project Settings.
- Go to Color Management, then Lookup Tables.
- Click Open LUT Folder to open the LUT folder in Finder \ Explorer.
- Drag & drop the PixelTools folder into the DaVinci Resolve LUT folder you just opened.
- Restart DaVinci Resolve.
Need help?
If you run into any installation difficulties, please contact us or email info@pixeltoolspost.com.
Install FAQ
Do I need DaVinci Resolve Studio?
PixelTools DCTLs (delivered as encrypted .dctle files) require DaVinci Resolve Studio, and the Installer App needs Studio 20+. Tools that also ship as an OFX plug-in run in both free and Studio Resolve.
Which platforms does the Installer App support?
The Installer App runs on macOS 12+ and Windows 10+. The plug-ins themselves also work on Linux, but on Linux and iPad you install manually using the steps above.
Where does the Installer App put my files?
It places everything in the correct DaVinci Resolve locations automatically — DCTLs in your LUT folder and PowerGrades into your albums — so there's no unzipping or folder hunting.
Do I have to reinstall when tools are updated?
No. The Installer App delivers updates automatically and reinstalls the latest versions for you. Manual installs need the updated files dropped in again.
My DCTLs don't show up — what do I do?
Restart DaVinci Resolve after installing. Confirm you're running Studio, and that the PixelTools folder sits inside Resolve's LUT folder. They'll appear in the DCTL menus once Resolve restarts.
What is a .dctle file?
Every PixelTools DCTL — free and paid — ships encrypted as a .dctle file. You install it exactly like a regular .dctl; the encryption changes nothing about the steps.
Where are PowerGrades installed?
In Resolve's Color page, under PowerGrade albums — drag the .drx files into an album. The Installer App can also place them for you in one click.
Can I install everything manually?
Yes. Use the PowerGrades and DCTLs steps above. The Installer App is just the faster, update-aware option.