Introduction: Meet the Hikvision DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY
The Hikvision DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY is an 8 MP (3840 × 2160) fixed mini-dome IP camera engineered to deliver high-resolution, full-colour images around the clock. Part of Hikvisions ColorVu / Smart Hybrid Light family, this compact dome combines a large 1/1.8" progressive CMOS sensor with an F1.0 aperture and Smart Hybrid lighting (white light plus IR) to produce vivid colour imaging even in very low light. It adds AI-based person and vehicle classification, perimeter protection, built-in audio options, Live Guard deterrence and a rugged IP67/IK10-rated housing suitable for outdoor deployments. In short, its designed for sites that need reliable, actionable video 24/7 without sacrificing image detail.
Key features at a glance
- 8 MP (4K) resolutionfor detailed image capture and forensic clarity.
- ColorVu 3.0 Smart Hybrid Lightcombining white-light and IR illumination for continuous colour imaging (supplement up to ~30 m).
- AI analyticsincluding person/vehicle classification, perimeter protection and face capture, reducing false alarms and improving detection accuracy.
- Robust outdoor housingrated IP67 and IK10 with anti-corrosion / NEMA 4X design for harsh environments.
- Flexible power and integrationvia PoE (802.3af) or 12 VDC and ONVIF compatibility for easy integration into third-party VMS/NVR systems.
- Onboard storage and audio optionsincluding microSD up to 512 GB and variants with array microphones and audio I/O.
Detailed specifications and benefits
At its core the DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY uses a 1/1.8" progressive CMOS sensor to achieve 8 MP resolution (3840 ) for accurate detail at distance and close range. It is offered with fixed 2.8 mm or 4 mm lenses; the 2.8 mm variant provides a wide horizontal field of view (~108.8) ideal for covering entrances and wide areas, while the 4 mm option narrows the field (93.3) to capture more detail at medium distances. The fast F1.0 aperture improves light gathering, reducing motion blur and improving low-light performance.
ColorVu 3.0 pairs a bright F1.0 lens and sensitive sensor with Smart Hybrid Light technology: white-light LEDs supplement IR so the camera can produce full-colour images in very low or no ambient light. When colour is crucial for identification (clothing, vehicle colours, signage), the white-light boost maintains colour fidelity. The IR mode still supports monochrome viewing when needed. The supplemental illumination can reach up to about 30 metres depending on scene conditions.
Video is encoded using H.265/H.264 and Hikvisions + variants for efficient bandwidth and storage use. It supports up to 25/30 fps at 4K on the main stream, 3D DNR and EIS noise reduction, and ROI support for prioritising critical image areas. For storage, the camera accepts microSDXC cards up to 512 GB, supports NAS (NFS, SMB/CIFS), and ANR for network interruption resilience.
The camera includes AI-driven capabilities like person and vehicle classification, perimeter protection and face capture. These features reduce false positives compared with motion-only triggers, enabling more reliable event detection and alerting. Live Guard features add visual and audible deterrence options to scare off intruders in real time.
On -S2U variants, an array microphone and audio I/O are available for two-way audio, local audio recording and audible alerts. Network protocols include ONVIF Profile S/G/T, HTTPS/TLS and 802.1X, allowing flexible integration with VMS platforms and secure network environments. The camera supports up to 32 user accounts for administration and access control.
Power options include PoE (802.3af, Class 3) for single-cable deployment and 12 VDC where PoE is not available. Power consumption is modest at roughly 9.5 W on 12 VDC and up to ~10.5 W on PoE. The housing measures approximately 121.5 mm in diameter by 97.6 mm high and weighs about 600 g. It operates in temperatures from -30C to 60C and carries IP67 and IK10 ratings with anti-corrosion and NEMA 4X design for coastal, industrial and exposed outdoor sites.
Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels
- Retail exterior and parking lots:Colour detail at night helps identify vehicle colours, license plate contexts and clothing, improving investigations and loss prevention.
- Building perimeters and entrances:Person/vehicle classification and perimeter protection reduce nuisance alarms and ensure meaningful alerts for security teams.
- Transport hubs and car parks:Wide field of view 2.8 mm optics cover lanes and walkways while 4K resolution preserves identifyable detail at distance.
- Critical infrastructure and municipal sites:Rugged IP67/IK10 housing and anti-corrosion/NEMA 4X make this camera suitable for seaside facilities, utility yards and industrial sites.
- Small campuses and residential security:Compact dome form-factor and PoE power make it straightforward to deploy around small business or multi-tenant residential properties without complex wiring.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When evaluating the DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY, consider how ColorVu hybrid lighting and AI analytics stack up against competing offerings:
Dahuas Starlight and PFA families deliver strong low-light imaging and competitive analytics, often at similar price points. Dahua models focus on extreme low-light sensitivity (Starlight) and sometimes offer more aggressive onboard compression features. Hikvision's ColorVu emphasises colour retention in very low light using white-light supplementation, which is particularly useful where colour information is decisive. Both brands provide ONVIF and third-party VMS compatibility, but feature sets (AI modules, audio options) vary by model and region.
Axis Communications is known for high-quality imaging and open, standards-focused solutions (Lightfinder technology for low light). Axis cameras often command a premium price and integrate tightly with Axiss broader ecosystem. Hikvision typically offers a strong value proposition: high megapixel sensors, advanced analytics and hybrid lighting in a lower cost envelope. For buyers prioritising an open ecosystem and long-term support contracts, Axis is worth considering; for those who want 4K colour at night and a more competitive price, the Hikvision ColorVu camera is compelling.
- Colour vs. pure low-light sensitivity:ColorVus white-light boost keeps colour but can be more conspicuous at night than purely passive low-light sensors like Starlight or Lightfinder designs.
- Price and warranty:Hikvision models frequently offer strong feature-to-price ratios. Warranty terms differ by reseller and region; the product data here does not specify a warranty, so confirm with your supplier.
- Analytics consistency:AI analytics quality varies by firmware, deployment and scene conditions. Testing in your environment and tuning thresholds reduces false positives.
Customer feedback and reviewer impressions
No formal customer testimonials were included in the supplied product feed. However, based on the cameras feature set and typical user experience with Hikvision ColorVu devices, the following impressions are commonly reported by installers and end users:
- Installers:Appreciate easy PoE deployment, compact dome form, and clear documentation. The cameras ONVIF compliance simplifies integration with a variety of NVRs and VMS platforms.
- Security teams:Value the improved night-time colour for investigations and prefer AI person/vehicle classification because it reduces nuisance alerts compared with motion-only setups.
- Facility managers:Note the robust housing and weather resistance as essential for seaside and industrial installations; the small footprint makes concealment and clean mounting easier.
If you plan a multi-camera deployment, ask your supplier for trial units or sample footage to verify analytics performance and illumination behaviour in your specific environment.
Installation notes and compliance
Professional installation is recommended to ensure correct positioning of the hybrid lighting, proper PoE power budgeting and secure network configuration. Check the supplied datasheet and user guide for wiring diagrams, mounting templates and firmware update procedures. Certifications (CE, UKCA and region-specific approvals) vary by market and should be confirmed with your reseller or the datasheet.
Conclusion: Why choose the DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY?
The Hikvision DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY is a versatile, high-resolution mini-dome that brings together 4K imaging, powerful low-light colour with ColorVu 3.0 hybrid lighting and intelligent AI analytics. It suits a wide range of outdoor surveillance applications where real-world, actionable video—and the ability to see colour at night—matter. Rugged construction, flexible power options (PoE or 12 VDC), ONVIF compatibility and onboard storage make it an easy fit for both new and retrofit projects. While buyers should weigh trade-offs like illumination conspicuity and confirm warranty terms, the overall package offers strong value for organisations seeking precise identification, reduced false alarms and 24/7 situational awareness.
Further resources:Refer to the Quick Start Guide, User Manual and Datasheet provided by the manufacturer for installation, configuration and technical compliance details.
