Custom options in DaVinci Resolve Fusion UI let you tailor curves, toolbar layout, and keyboard shortcuts precisely to your editorial habits. These settings reduce clicks, speed up node building, and keep your interface focused on the tasks you do most.
Below is a quick scan of the most impactful customization choices you can make, followed by deeper dives into each area.
| Custom Option | Where to Find It | Impact on Workflow | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toolbar & Tool Shortcuts | View > Toolbars > Customize Toolbars | Add only the tools you use, remove clutter | Node-based colorists and VFX artists |
| Keyboard Mapping Presets | Settings > Keyboard > Load/Save Preset | Switch between Resolve and Nuke-style or Avid-style keys | Multi-app editorial teams |
| Node Graph UI Layout | Node Graph > View & User Presets | Save preferred backdrops, tabs, and overlay modes | Complex Fusion comps and consistent lookdev |
| User Presets & Macro Scripts | Fusion > User Presets & Script Editor | Reuse node chains with one click | Batch workflows, template-driven pipelines |
| Workspace Layouts & Docking | Window > Save Workspace > Manage Layouts | Keep Viewer, Inspector, and Timeline exactly where you want | Multi-monitor editorial suites |
Customize Toolbar and Quick Access for Speed
The Toolbar is the first place to streamline in the Fusion UI. By removing rarely used tools and pinning only your daily operators, you cut mouse travel and keep focus on the graph.
Use View > Toolbars > Customize Toolbars to drag and drop buttons into the areas that feel most natural for you. Combine this with keyboard shortcuts for tools like Merge, Blur, and Transform to keep your hands on the keyboard.
Set Up Keyboard Mapping and Shortcuts
DaVinci Resolve ships with multiple keyboard mapping presets. Switching to a layout that matches your Nuke or Flame background reduces learning curves when moving between tools.
Head to Settings > Keyboard to review function keys, tool keys, and macro bindings. Save a dedicated Resolve-Fusion custom preset so grading and comp work remain isolated and consistent.
Optimize Node Graph UI and Preferences
The Node Graph UI options let you control backdrop styles, default overlay modes, and which panels auto-populate. A stable, predictable layout keeps your focus on the image instead of hunting for settings.
Within the Node Graph, configure default preferences such as Show Node Label, Backdrop size, and Merge previews. Save these as a User Preset so every new comp starts in your preferred state.
Build and Use User Presets and Macros
User Presets in Fusion turn long node chains into single-click assets. Whether it is a reformat chain, a noise cleanup stack, or a stylized grade, presets remove repetitive setup work.
Use the Script Editor to create macros that run sequences of operations across selected nodes. This is especially powerful when you need to apply the same setup to multiple clips or shots in a timeline.
Refine Your Fusion UI for Long Sessions
Fine tuning the custom options in DaVinci Resolve Fusion UI pays off across an entire project. The less you fight the interface, the more mental energy you can spend on creative decisions.
- Audit your toolbar once per project and remove tools you did not use in the last three sessions.
- Save a baseline workspace layout before tackling complex node networks.
- Create at least one keyboard preset that mirrors your preferred grading or comp workflow.
- Use User Presets for common node chains to keep timelines clean and consistent.
- Back up your custom mappings and settings after major updates or workstation changes.
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I prevent the toolbar from hiding icons on small monitors?
Switch to the Compact or Icons + Text layout in Customize Toolbars, and lock the toolbar position so it does not collapse while you work.
Can I load different keyboard maps for grading and Fusion tasks?
Yes, create two dedicated presets in Settings > Keyboard and swap them manually or with a simple script when you move between the Color page and the Fusion page.
What is the fastest way to restore a default Fusion UI if I over customize it?
Use Manage > Reset all user presets and layout, or create a second workspace layout before major changes so you can revert quickly without losing project data.
How can I back up my custom toolbars and keyboard mappings?
Export your keyboard preset and toolbar configuration files from Settings and User Presets folders, then reimport them on a new machine or after a reset.