Elementor Pro is not required. Velox Featured Image for Elementor was created specifically to make this common dynamic-image workflow available without requiring a large addon suite or Pro solely for this task.

With Elementor Free

Use the Velox Featured Image and Featured Hero widgets, plus Featured Image Background on supported layout elements.

With Elementor Pro

Velox can coexist with Pro. If your site already uses Pro dynamic features, choose one clear method for each layout rather than layering multiple systems on the same element without a reason.