Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS (3.6mm) 3K ColorVu Mini Bullet Camera
The Hikvision DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS (3.6mm) is a compact, hybrid‑light mini bullet camera designed for analogue and HD‑TVI surveillance systems. Marketed as a 3K ColorVu bullet, it delivers full‑time colour imaging in very low light thanks to an F1.0 aperture and a built‑in white‑light illuminator. The camera supports 4‑in‑1 switchable video output (TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS), offers built‑in audio over coax via a microphone, and carries an IP67 weatherproof rating for reliable outdoor deployment. At a suggested retail price of about $59.99, this model aims to provide a strong balance of night‑time visibility, flexibility, and value for small to medium installations.
Key features at a glance
- 3K full‑time colour imaging— 2960 × 1665 resolution for sharper detail than standard 1080p analogue cameras.
- Exceptional low‑light performance— bright F1.0 aperture and sensitivity to 0.001 Lux; 0 Lux with the white light on.
- Hybrid illumination— smart combination of IR and white light to maintain colour imaging in the dark up to around 20 m.
- Audio over coax— built‑in microphone enables local audio capture without separate cabling (effective pickup ~5 m).
- 4‑in‑1 switchable output— supports HDTVI, AHD, CVI and legacy CVBS for easy integration into many analogue systems.
- Weatherproof and robust— IP67 rating and wide operating temperature range for outdoor use.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the technical specifications helps explain why this camera performs well in real world scenarios.
- Image sensor:3K CMOS sensor capable of 2960 × 1665 resolution, providing more detail than 2MP sensors commonly used in analogue systems.
- Lens:Fixed 3.6 mm M12 lens with an approximate horizontal field of view of 80°, vertical 50°, diagonal 112° — a practical wide view for entrances, driveways and general surveillance.
- Aperture and low light:F1.0 aperture and 0.001 Lux sensitivity deliver excellent low‑light performance. When the camera’s white light activates, it provides 0 Lux imaging in colour at close ranges.
- Hybrid IR + white light:The camera combines infrared and white light illumination. The smart hybrid illumination preserves natural‑looking colour images at night where possible and switches to IR or white light as required up to roughly 20 m for identification‑level detail.
- Day/Night:ICR (infrared cut filter) with Auto/Colour modes lets the camera maintain colour performance in low light and switch to appropriate mode when needed.
- WDR and noise reduction:Digital WDR (DWDR) and 2D DNR (digital noise reduction) help manage scenes with varying brightness and reduce grain in low light.
- Audio:Built‑in microphone with audio‑over‑coax capability simplifies installations by avoiding separate audio cables. Microphone pickup is approximately 5 m in typical conditions.
- Video output:One BNC connector supports switchable TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS outputs, making the camera compatible with many DVRs and systems without changing cabling.
- Power consumption:12 V DC, ≤ 3.9 W — a low power draw that suits many outdoor power supplies.
- Ingress protection:IP67 rating for resistance to dust and water, suitable for exposed outdoor locations when installed correctly.
- Operating temperature:Approximately −40 °C to +60 °C, enabling use in harsh climates.
- Size and weight:Compact dimensions (~161.1 × 70 × 70 mm) and a weight of about 400 g allow discreet mounting on walls or ceilings.
Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels
The DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS is tailored to installations where continuous colour imaging, flexible integration and outdoor durability are priorities. Typical scenarios include:
- Residential entrances and driveways:The camera’s wide field of view and colour night capability help capture identifying details, such as clothing colour and vehicle paint, that IR only cameras may lose.
- Small business storefronts and car parks:Colour imaging during nighttime events improves evidence quality for incidents, and built‑in audio captures additional context where permitted.
- Upgrade projects on analogue coax infrastructure:For users with existing coaxial cabling, the 4‑in‑1 switchable output supports a straightforward swap to higher resolution, colour‑capable cameras without re‑wiring.
- Indoor areas requiring discreet outdoor form factor:Compact mini bullet design fits offices, lobbies and passageways where a weatherproof external camera is preferred for aesthetics and durability.
How it compares with similar products
When evaluating the DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS, consider the camera’s strengths relative to typical alternatives:
Many analogue bullet cameras rely solely on infrared illumination and produce monochrome images at night. The ColorVu camera’s hybrid white light and large aperture deliver full‑colour imaging in very low light, making identification easier. This is a clear advantage for environments where colour detail is important for incident resolution.
IP cameras with PoE typically offer advanced analytics, higher resolutions and networked convenience but require network infrastructure and often cost more. The DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS is attractive for budget‑conscious projects or where coax cabling remains in place — it provides many of the visual benefits (colour night capture and higher resolution than 2MP analogue) without the cost and complexity of a full IP migration.
Within Hikvision’s ColorVu range, this mini bullet balances performance and price. Some ColorVu models offer wider focal length options, integrated analytics or higher resolutions; others may provide a more compact or vandal‑resistant housing. Choose this model when you need a compact, weatherproof bullet with hybrid illumination and audio over coax at a competitive price point.
Customer testimonials and typical user feedback
Official customer testimonials for a specific SKU may vary by retailer and region. In general, feedback from users of Hikvision ColorVu cameras highlights a few recurring points:
- Users often praise the camera’s ability to retain colour information at night — making it easier to identify clothing and vehicle colours compared with IR‑only systems.
- Installers appreciate the 4‑in‑1 compatibility for simplifying upgrades on existing coax systems.
- The built‑in microphone and audio over coax are noted as convenient features for adding context without extra cabling.
- Some users caution about placement and configuration: aggressive white light activation can startle people or be too bright for nearby windows, so careful tuning and positioning are recommended.
If you plan to rely on audio recording, verify local laws and privacy requirements, and ensure signposting or consent where required.
Conclusion: Why the DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS is a strong choice
The Hikvision DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS (3.6mm) 3K ColorVu mini bullet camera represents a practical, cost‑effective option for those seeking superior low‑light colour imaging on analogue or hybrid systems. Its combination of a high‑resolution 3K sensor, bright F1.0 aperture, hybrid IR/white light for colour at night, and audio‑over‑coax capability delivers tangible benefits over older IR‑only analogue cameras. The 4‑in‑1 switchable output and IP67 weatherproofing increase versatility for both retrofit and new installations.
For homeowners, small businesses and installers working with existing coax cabling, this camera offers a compelling upgrade path: better identification details at night, simplified integration, and reliable outdoor performance — all at a price point that provides strong value. As with any security equipment, proper installation, alignment and adherence to local regulations will maximize performance and ensure the system meets your operational and legal requirements.
