Got a 30fps clip and want it smooth like 60 or 120? Boosting your video FPS is now possible with AI, and a free tool called Flowframes does it right on your PC. In this guide I show you how, when it is worth it, and when it is not, with a hands-on video.
Frame interpolation means the tool generates new frames between every two real frames, so the video looks smoother. Flowframes uses an AI technique called RIFE that predicts the motion between frames and fills it in, turning a 30fps source into 60 or 120fps.
The tool is completely free and open source. But there is one important condition before you get excited: it needs a strong GPU, ideally NVIDIA, because RIFE relies on CUDA. A weak GPU works but very slowly.
When is boosting video FPS worth it?
Not every video needs a frame boost. It is best used for:
- Anime: this is where it shines, making motion incredibly smooth.
- Gaming clips: take a 30fps recording up to 60 and feel the difference.
- Slow motion: slow a clip down without stutter because you have more frames.
Let me be honest: for cinematic movies it is usually not recommended, because it creates the “soap opera effect” that makes a film feel cheap, and many people dislike it. Try it and judge for yourself.
How to boost video FPS with Flowframes
I explain the full method in the video. Watch it, then read on for the details:
The steps in short:
- Download Flowframes from its official site (GitHub) and open it.
- Drag your video into the app.
- Pick the AI model (RIFE is the best and fastest).
- Set the target fps (60 or 120) and hit Run.
- Wait until it finishes (depends on your GPU and clip length).
Note: the output video will be larger in size because it has more frames. If it gets heavy, you can shrink it with HandBrake to reduce video size without losing quality.
Flowframes alternatives
- SVP (SmoothVideo Project): boosts frames in real time while watching, not on export.
- DaVinci Resolve: an editor with built-in frame boosting (Optical Flow), but heavier.
- Topaz Video AI: excellent results but paid and expensive.
Flowframes stays the best free option if you have an NVIDIA GPU.
FAQ
Does boosting FPS need a GPU?
Yes, ideally a strong NVIDIA GPU since RIFE relies on CUDA. It runs on weak GPUs but very slowly.
Does it ruin video quality?
It does not reduce sharpness, it just adds generated frames. The only issue is the “over-smoothness” in cinematic content, which is personal taste.
What is the best model in Flowframes?
RIFE is the best and fastest for most cases. There are other models to try but RIFE is enough.
Is Flowframes free?
Yes, completely free and open source, no watermark and no limits.
Bottom line
Boosting video FPS from 30 to 60 or 120 is now easy and free with Flowframes, especially for anime and gaming clips. Just remember: you need a strong GPU, and avoid it on movies if you do not like the over-smooth look.
