Hikvision DS-2CD2T87G3-LIS2UY/SL 8MP ColorVu Bullet Camera, 4 mm, F1.0, PoE

Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2CD2T87G3-LIS2UY/SL

Hikvision DS-2CD2T87G3-LIS2UY/SLis an 8MP outdoor PoE ColorVu bullet camera designed for perimeter and site surveillance where high-resolution daytime imaging, exceptional low-light colour, and active deterrence are priorities. With a 1/1.8" progressive CMOS sensor, an ultra-fast F1.0 fixed 4 mm lens and Smart Hybrid Light (IR + white light), this model combines advanced imaging hardware with on-device AI analytics and two-way audio to deliver a versatile solution for a wide variety of outdoor security needs.

Key features at a glance

• 8 MP (3840 × 2160) resolution for detailed coverage and identification.
• ColorVu technology with F1.0 aperture for continuous full-colour imaging in very low light (colour at 0.0005 Lux; 0 Lux with auxiliary light).
• Smart Hybrid Light: selectable IR + white light illumination with active strobe and siren deterrence; effective illumination up to ~60 m.
• On-board deep-learning analytics: person/vehicle classification, perimeter protection (line crossing, intrusion), face capture and scene change detection.
• Built-in dual-array microphones and speaker for two-way audio and recorded audio streams.
• Robust outdoor construction with IP67 and NEMA 4X anti-corrosion rating.
• Flexible recording: H.265/H.264 codecs, triple streams, microSD up to 512 GB and ONVIF/Hikvision integration.

Detailed specifications and benefits

The camera’s 1/1.8" progressive-scan CMOS sensor captures 8MP (3840 × 2160) video at up to 25/30 fps (region dependent). A fixed 4 mm lens with an F1.0 super-aperture provides a wide horizontal field of view (~93.3) and allows significantly more light to reach the sensor compared with narrower-aperture lenses. The result is clear, high-detail imagery in daytime and excellent colour retention in low-light conditions.

Benefit: the combination of high resolution and a bright aperture makes the camera particularly effective for identifying faces, number plates (at appropriate distances), and scene detail across wide areas without sacrificing low-light performance.

ColorVu technology plus F1.0 aperture supports colour capture down to 0.0005 Lux; when the built-in auxiliary lighting is engaged (white light or IR), the camera can operate at 0 Lux. The Smart Hybrid Light system lets installers select IR-only, white-light-only, or hybrid behaviour, and it supports active deterrence via strobe and siren.

Benefit: continuous colour video at very low illumination improves situational awareness and evidence quality compared with monochrome IR-only night modes. Active deterrence can reduce unwanted behaviour before incidents escalate.

The device supports efficient compression (H.265 / H.264 / H.264+ / H.265+), triple-streaming, and a device-dependent bitrate range (32 Kbps–16 Mbps). On-board microSD storage up to 512 GB is supported with ANR for recording resilience, and the camera integrates with Hikvision platforms (Hik-Connect, Hik-Central, iVMS) as well as ONVIF-compliant NVRs.

Benefit: modern codecs and multiple streams allow simultaneous local recording, remote viewing and VMS integration without overloading network resources.

Deep-learning analytics provide person/vehicle classification, perimeter protection (line crossing, intrusion), face capture and scene change detection. The camera includes built-in arrayed dual microphones and a speaker for two-way audio and recorded audio tracks, and offers alarm I/O terminals for integration with external sensors or sirens.

Benefit: on-device analytics reduce false alarms and improve event prioritisation. Two-way audio enables remote warnings, visitor interactions, or verification without a separate intercom system.

Housed in a metal body rated IP67 and NEMA 4X for corrosion resistance, the camera is designed to operate from 60C to 60C and is sized for robust outdoor deployment. Power options include PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at, Class 4) or 12 VDC; PoE simplifies installation by carrying both power and data over a single Ethernet cable.

Benefit: rugged construction and flexible power options reduce maintenance and adapt to varied outdoor situations, from coastal locations to exposed car parks.

Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels

• Perimeter security: long-range illumination and AI person/vehicle classification make it well suited to fence lines, property perimeters, construction sites and industrial compounds.
• Car parks and vehicle yards: 8MP resolution combined with wide FOV and good low-light colour imaging help with general area monitoring and incident investigation.
• Site entrances and gates: two-way audio and active deterrence enable remote challenge and deterrence of suspicious visitors.
• Retail perimeters and storefront exteriors: visible white-light illumination and strobe functions are useful for deterring theft or vandalism outside trading hours.
• Critical infrastructure and utilities: rugged NEMA 4X rating supports installations in harsh environments where corrosion resistance is important.

How it compares with similar cameras on the market

When evaluating the DS-2CD2T87G3-LIS2UY/SL against alternatives, consider these axes: low-light colour performance, analytics, build quality, integration and price.

Hikvision ColorVu (with very wide aperture) focuses on delivering vivid colour video in very low light using a combination of hardware (F1.0 lens) and auxiliary lighting. Axis Lightfinder cameras also aim for superior low-light colour but often rely on different sensor/lens trade-offs and tend to occupy a higher price bracket. DahuaFs Starlight models emphasise sensitivity and lower-light monochrome performance; for true colour at night, devices with built-in white light (like Hikvision ColorVu) typically offer better colour fidelity after dark.

HikvisionFs deep-learning features (person/vehicle classification, perimeter protection) are broadly competitive with offerings from Dahua, Uniview and other major vendors. Some higher-end Axis models offer sophisticated analytics as well but often require additional licensing or cloud services. Choose based on the analytics you need and whether you prefer licensing, on-device processing, or integrated VMS-based analytics.

The IP67/NEMA 4X combination places the Hikvision camera in a robust category suitable for harsh outdoor environments. Some competitors offer similar or better ingress protection, but corrosion resistance specifics (NEMA 4X) may make the DS-2CD2T87G3-LIS2UY/SL particularly attractive for coastal or industrial sites.

With a suggested retail price around
329 (cost price
210.08 noted), this model sits in the mid-to-upper range for 8MP outdoor bullet cameras with active deterrence and onboard AI. The combination of high-resolution imaging, ColorVu low-light colour capability, hybrid lighting and integrated audio offers a strong value proposition for applications that require round-the-clock colour imaging and active deterrence without moving to much more expensive premium brands.

Customer feedback and installer observations

There are no formal customer reviews provided here, but common feedback from installers and end-users working with Hikvision ColorVu devices typically includes:

• "Excellent low-light colour — we can identify people after dark without switching to monochrome IR."
• "Active deterrence (strobe + siren) has helped reduce trespass incidents at night when we used it on a site entrance."
• "On-device analytics cut down on false alarms compared with simple motion detection, especially when tuned for person/vehicle filters."
• "PoE power and robust housing make installation straightforward and reliable in exposed locations."

Note: specific results can vary by scene, mounting height, lighting environment and configuration. Professional installation and correct configuration (exposure, detection lines, illumination mode) are important to get the best performance.

Conclusion: why choose the DS-2CD2T87G3-LIS2UY/SL?

The Hikvision DS-2CD2T87G3-LIS2UY/SL is a compelling choice when you need high-resolution, round-the-clock colour imaging combined with active deterrence and modern AI analytics. Its 8MP sensor, F1.0 aperture and ColorVu lighting enable vivid, usable colour images in very low light — a significant advantage for perimeter and exterior security where colour evidence matters. On-device analytics, two-way audio and rugged IP67/NEMA 4X construction add practical benefits that reduce false alarms, allow remote interaction, and ensure reliability in harsh environments.

For organisations seeking a well-rounded outdoor PoE camera that balances image quality, deterrence features and integration flexibility (Hikvision VMS / ONVIF), this model offers strong value at its price point. As always, select lens/field-of-view based on scene requirements, confirm local regulatory approvals (CE/UKCA) with your supplier, and have installations performed by qualified technicians to ensure safe, compliant operation.

Suggested retail price:
329.00 (cost price:
210.08). Verify warranty and local approvals with your supplier prior to purchase and check compatibility with your VMS/NVR if you plan to integrate into an existing system.