HitPaw VikPea 5.1 in practical testing: Creating & improving AI videos

HitPaw VikPea (formerly HitPaw Video Enhancer transforms from a pure upscaling tool into a comprehensive, locally running AI video production suite.

Are the new features of the "AI Video Generator" just a gimmick or a genuine, privacy compliant alternative to cloud tools like Sora ? In this review, we analyze the real-world performance on current hardware, compare the image quality with the market leader Topaz, and show you how to get the most out of the new AI models.

What is HitPaw VikPea? (The new standard for AI video tools?)

HitPaw VikPea (formerly known as HitPaw Video Enhancer all-in-one AI video production suite in 2025 .

The tool is based on state-of-the-art deep learning algorithms and was primarily designed for content creators, marketing professionals, and film restorers. While the software was originally known for sharpening and upscaling videos, the current version 5.1 now also integrates generative AI functions.

The core competencies at a glance:

• AI video enhancer: Transformation of low-resolution content (e.g., 480p or 720p) into crystal-clear 4K or even 8K .
• AI video generator: Direct creation of video sequences from text prompts or images (text-to-video / image-to-video).
• Specialized repair models: dedicated algorithms for facial restoration, noise reduction (denoise) and the colorization of black and white images.
• Hybrid workflow: VikPea enables the use of local GPU power for maximum privacy as well as optional cloud rendering for computationally intensive large projects.

The most important new features in HitPaw VikPea 5.1

The update to version 5.1 is not a cosmetic patch, but a fundamental overhaul of the rendering engine. HitPaw has specifically responded to feedback from power users who demanded both higher quality and shorter rendering times.

The “General Denoise Model 2.0”

The core of the video enhancement was trained using a larger dataset.

• Artifact elimination: The AI ​​now recognizes the difference between natural film grain and digital compression noise (H.264 artifacts). The result is a cleaner image without losing fine details such as pores or fabric textures.
• Low-Light Recovery: Specifically for shooting in low light, color accuracy in shadow areas has been improved to minimize the dreaded “color noise”.

Generative AI: Text-to-video integration

The most spectacular new feature is the module for generative content.

Local diffusion models: While competitors like Sora operate purely cloud-based, VikPea allows local generation . This means that your prompts and the resulting videos never leave your computer – a crucial factor for Privacy (GDPR) .

Workflow optimization: The new interface logic

The user interface has been streamlined. Switching between improving existing videos and generating new content is now seamless via a tab system.

The AI ​​video generator put to the test

semantic coherence was particularly impressive . While many US models struggle with German terms like 'Alpenglühen' (alpine glow), VikPea 5.1 correctly interprets the lighting mood. One minor weakness: The AI ​​occasionally reaches its limits with very fast movements in the prompt (e.g., 'rennender Hund' - running dog), which can be corrected by reducing the motion intensity in the settings.

Instructions: Create video from text with VikPea 5.1

Follow these instructions to achieve professional results:

Step 1: Select the module:

Start HitPaw VikPea 5.1 and select the “Video Generator” tab in the left menu.

Step 2: Prompt Engineering (Text Input)

Pro tip: Use adjectives like “hyperrealistic”, “cinematic” or “macro shot”.

Step 3: Choose style and aspect ratio

Choose between styles such as Realistic, Anime, Oil Painting , or 3D Render . For YouTube, select 16:9 ; for TikTok or Instagram Reels, 9:16 .

Step 4: Generation and Upscaling

Click on “Generate”. Once the preview is ready, you can directly upscale the video to 4K using the integrated AI Enhancer to eliminate AI compression artifacts.

Step 5: Post-Processing

After generation, we use batch mode to smooth the video to 60 FPS using the 'interpolation model'. This removes the typical AI stuttering and makes the look more professional.

Pro tip: For cinematic camera movements, use the keywords 'Dolly Shot' or 'Orbiting' to fully exploit the dynamics of the local AI engine.”

Video Enhancer: Old material in a new light

VikPea remains the king of video restoration. In version 5.1, the models for specific scenarios have been refined:

• Facial model: In version 5.1, the skin texture reconstruction . Unlike version 5.0, fine pores are preserved (no 'wax doll effect').

• Animation model: “Ideal for anime fans: The model now effectively reduces JPEG artifacts in old 480p streams.”
• Color correction : Transforms black and white recordings into realistic color videos.

Comparison: HitPaw VikPea 5.1 vs. Topaz Video AI

feature	HitPaw VikPea 5.1	Topaz Video AI
AI Video Generator	Yes (text-to-video)	No (focus only on enhancement)
User-friendliness	Very high (one-click solutions)	Medium (Requires specialist knowledge)
Price	More affordable subscription/lifetime model	More expensive one-time purchase model
speed	Optimized for consumer GPUs	Extremely resource-hungry
Privacy	Excellent (Local)	Excellent (Local)

Conclusion: Is the upgrade to 5.1 worth it?

HitPaw VikPea 5.1 combination for content creators, marketing agencies, and amateur filmmakers. Terms & Conditions

• Advantages: Excellent video enhancement, incredibly easy AI generation, local processing and fair pricing.
• Disadvantages: High hardware requirements for fast generation; the AI ​​preview sometimes requires 2-3 attempts for the perfect look.
• Our recommendation: If you are looking for an all-in-one solution to rescue old videos AND create new content using AI, there is currently no way around VikPea 5.1.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about HitPaw VikPea 5.1

Is there a free trial version of HitPaw VikPea 5.1?

Yes. You can download the software for free and preview all its features, including the AI ​​generator. However, an activated license is required for exporting without a watermark.

Does the software support professional codecs such as ProRes or DNxHR?

Yes. For professional post-production workflows, VikPea 5.1 supports high-quality codecs. This enables lossless post-processing in editing programs such as DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere Pro, or Final Cut.

Am I allowed to use videos created with HitPaw VikPea 5.1 for commercial purposes?

Yes. With a valid license, you have full usage rights for YouTube, commercial advertising, and social media. A major advantage: Since processing locally on your GPU , the workflow is 100% GDPR compliant – ideal for businesses and agencies.

Are AI-generated videos protected by copyright?

In Germany, purely AI-generated works are currently not protected by copyright. Use AI as a basis and enhance the clips with your own editing to be legally compliant.