How to Create a Countdown Timer & Stopwatch in DaVinci Resolve - No Fusion Tab or Plugins Needed!

Creating a timer or stopwatch in DaVinci Resolve is straightforward using the Text+ element. Here’s how you can do it:

Step 1: Add the Text+ Element

1. Go to Effects > Titles > Text+ and place it in your timeline.
2. Open the Inspector tab, right-click in the text box, and select Timecode.
This generates a stopwatch starting at zero.

Step 2: Adjust the Display

- To remove hours and frames:
Use the Text Inspector to crop the text box from left to right for hours and right to left for frames.
- Fix jittering:
Select a monospaced font or adjust the H Anchor to fix the alignment.

Step 3: Styling

- Choose your desired font. Avoid jittering by either using monospaced fonts or adjusting the alignment.
- Position the timer anywhere on the screen.

Step 4: Convert Stopwatch to Timer

1. Extend the Text+ element to the desired duration (e.g., 20 seconds).
2. Right-click on the element, create a New Compound Clip, and reverse it:
- Go to Video > Speed Change and select the reverse option.

Step 5: Edit Timer or Stopwatch

To modify the timer (e.g., font or color), right-click the compound clip and select Open in Timeline. Make your changes and return to the main timeline.

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Now you have a customizable stopwatch or timer for your projects!