Introduction to the Hikvision 3K ColorVu Bullet Camera (DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS)
Hikvision DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS — 3K ColorVu mini bullet camera (2.8 mm)is a compact analogue CCTV camera designed to bring 24/7 full‑colour imaging to residential and light commercial projects. Combining a high‑resolution 3K sensor (2960 × 1665), a fast F1.0 lens, and a Smart Hybrid illuminator (IR + white light), this mini bullet aims to deliver clear colour detail even in very low‑light conditions. With switchable 4‑in‑1 analogue outputs (TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS), a built‑in microphone with audio‑over‑coax capability, and rugged IP67 weatherproofing, it’s positioned as an installer‑friendly upgrade option for existing analogue DVR systems and new small‑site deployments.
- 3K effective resolution (2960 × 1665) for sharper detail than typical 1080p analogue cameras.
- F1.0 aperture and 2.8 mm fixed lens (≈105–110° horizontal FOV) for wide scene coverage and superior low‑light sensitivity.
- Smart Hybrid illuminator: white light + IR with colour imaging to 0 Lux when the white light is active; illumination range up to ~20 m.
- Built‑in microphone with audio‑over‑coax support (approx. 5 m pickup radius).
- 4‑in‑1 analogue output via BNC (TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS) for flexible compatibility with many DVRs.
- Rugged outdoor housing (IP67) and wide operating temperature range (−40 °C to 60 °C).
Detailed specifications and benefits
- Specification: 3K CMOS sensor (2960 × 1665) — effective resolution 3K.
- Benefit: Higher pixel count yields more detail for identifying faces, license plates at oblique angles, and clothing or object colours compared with 1080p cameras. The 3K resolution provides a useful middle ground between full HD and higher‑end megapixel modules while staying compatible with analogue workflows.
- Specification: Fixed 2.8 mm M12 lens; ≈105–110° horizontal field of view.
- Benefit: Wide coverage makes it ideal for monitoring driveways, front yards, shop fronts, and small parking areas with fewer cameras. The compact mini bullet form means easier, unobtrusive mounting points.
- Specification: F1.0 aperture; 0.001 Lux (AGC on); 0 Lux with white light active. Hybrid illuminator combines IR and white LEDs with approx. 20 m range.
- Benefit: The fast aperture and high sensor sensitivity capture clearer colour imagery at dusk and in low‑light conditions. When the scene requires, the built‑in white light can illuminate areas to maintain full‑colour footage, improving recognition of clothing and vehicle colours at night. The IR still provides covert illumination when colour light is not desired.
- Specification: Built‑in microphone with audio‑over‑coax support; pickup radius around 5 m. Video output is 1 × BNC, switchable TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS.
- Benefit: On‑camera audio reduces the need for a separate microphone in many installs, capturing contextual sound such as voices, doors, and vehicle noise. The switchable analogue outputs make the camera a versatile choice for installers who need to support various DVR brands and signal formats during upgrades.
- Specification: 12 VDC (±25%); maximum power approx. 3.9 W. Dimensions 161.1 × 70 × 70 mm; weight ~400 g. IP67 ingress protection; operating temperature −40 °C to 60 °C; humidity ≤ 90% non‑condensing.
- Benefit: Low power draw simplifies power supply planning and supports common 12 VDC systems. IP67 weatherproofing and a broad temperature range allow reliable outdoor use in most climates. The compact size eases concealment and reduces visual impact on properties.
Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels
- Residential perimeter and driveways:The wide field of view and colour at night make it well suited to capture visitors, deliveries, and vehicles entering a property. The built‑in microphone provides audio context that can be helpful when investigating disturbances.
- Retail and small business storefronts:For shop fronts, convenience stores, and cafes, the camera’s night colour capability helps identify customer clothing and vehicle colours during evening hours — useful for loss prevention and incident review.
- Parking lots and multi‑unit properties:With ≈20 m illumination and a broad view, a few strategically placed cameras can cover entrances and smaller parking areas. The rugged housing stands up to outdoor exposure.
- Analogue DVR upgrades and retrofit projects:Installers replacing older 720p cameras or improving night‑time evidence capture will find the switchable TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS outputs and audio‑over‑coax helpful for working with a range of existing systems.
- Temporary and remote sites:Low power consumption, simple 12 VDC wiring, and easy surface/wall mounting make rapid deployments straightforward for construction site monitoring or short‑term events.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When comparing the DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS to other cameras, consider three main axes: image quality, illumination strategy, and system compatibility.
- Standard IR cameras switch to monochrome at night and rely solely on IR illumination. The ColorVu hybrid approach preserves colour in many low‑light scenarios when white light is used, which helps identification. However, white light may be visually intrusive in some settings — IR remains available for covert monitoring.
- IP ColorVu cameras often offer higher resolutions, onboard analytics, and PoE power. The DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS trades some of those advanced features for simpler analogue compatibility, lower per‑camera cost, and reduced bandwidth/storage demands on legacy DVRs. For sites already committed to IP, an IP ColorVu model may be preferable; for analogue upgrades, this Hikvision mini bullet is a pragmatic choice.
- Compared to other metre‑class analogue ColorVu cameras, the DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS balances high effective resolution (3K) and a wide FOV with a compact form factor and mic. For very long‑range scenes, a different lens focal length or a larger housing with stronger illuminators would be better; for budget‑conscious wide‑angle needs, this model is competitive.
Customer feedback and installer observations
There are no verified public customer reviews provided with this product brief, but installer and buyer feedback for similar Hikvision ColorVu analogue cameras commonly highlights a few consistent points:
- Positive: Clear night‑time colour footage when white light engages, noticeably improved identification over legacy IR‑only cameras, and straightforward compatibility with a variety of analogue DVRs via the switchable BNC output.
- Positive: Built‑in microphone is a useful addition for many small sites, reducing the need for a separate audio cable and mic device.
- Caution: The white light is effective but can be bright and noticeable; paying attention to activation thresholds and placement helps avoid nuisance lighting or privacy concerns for neighbours.
- Caution: For customers seeking advanced video analytics, edge recording, or PoE convenience, an IP camera platform may better match requirements despite higher system complexity and cost.
Conclusion — why choose the DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS?
The Hikvision DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS mini bullet camera offers a practical, cost‑effective way to add high‑quality, full‑colour imaging to analogue CCTV systems. With 3K resolution, an F1.0 lens, Smart Hybrid illumination and a built‑in microphone, it addresses common pain points of older analogue installations: poor night‑time identification and limited audio context. Its switchable TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS output and modest power requirements simplify retrofits, while IP67 weatherproofing and a broad operating temperature range make it suitable for most outdoor applications.
At a suggested retail price of around 54.99 (supplier cost approximately 40.04), this camera delivers a compelling feature set for homeowners, small business owners, and installation professionals looking to upgrade analogue systems without a full migration to IP. If your priority is improved colour detail at night, wide coverage, and simple compatibility with existing DVRs, the DS-2CE10KF0T-LFS is a strong contender.
Tip:Always follow manufacturer installation guidance and local regulations. For permanent or complex installations involving mains wiring, engage a qualified installer or electrician and consult the official datasheet for full compliance details (CE/UKCA, certifications and technical limits).
