Hikvision DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY 8MP ColorVu Smart Hybrid Light Mini Dome, F1.0, PoE

Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY and its key features

The Hikvision DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY is an 8 MP (3840 × 2160) fixed mini-dome IP camera from Hikvisions Pro / ColorVu Smart Hybrid Light family. Designed to deliver detailed 4K resolution alongside reliable colour imaging at night, this model combines a large F1.0 aperture lens, integrated Smart Hybrid lighting (white LED + IR), and HikAI deep-learning analytics. Built for outdoor use with IP67, IK10 and NEMA 4X ratings, its positioned as a robust choice for perimeter protection, car parks, retail exteriors and industrial sites that require clear, continuous colour detail.

Detailed description of specifications and benefits

The DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY brings together a set of hardware and software features that focus on image quality, analytics and durability. At its core is a 1/1.8" progressive-scan CMOS sensor capable of capturing 8 MP (4K) video at up to 30 frames per second. This high resolution provides greater scene detail and improved ability to zoom in on faces, license plates and other critical elements without losing clarity.

One of the most notable hardware choices is the large F1.0 fixed lens, available in 2.8 mm or 4 mm focal lengths. The wide aperture significantly improves low-light sensitivity, and when paired with Hikvisions ColorVu Smart Hybrid Light system (white LED plus 850 nm IR), the camera can produce full-colour images in conditions that would normally require monochrome IR illumination. The supplement light is effective to roughly 30 m, giving strong performance for medium-range outdoor scenes.

On the imaging side, the camera supports H.265/H.264 compression (including H.265+ and H.264+ optimisations) to balance bandwidth and storage. Up to three independent streams can be configured, and Region of Interest (ROI) support helps maximise quality where it matters most. The device features 130 dB Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) and 3D noise reduction to handle challenging lighting and reduce artefacts in low light.

Smart analytics are driven by HikAI deep-learning capabilities. Person and vehicle classification helps reduce false alarms from irrelevant motion, while face capture, perimeter protection (line crossing and intrusion detection) and tamper detection provide a range of automated event types. These analytics can be essential for proactive security and more efficient incident review.

Network and storage options are practical for modern installations. The DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY supports PoE (IEEE 802.3af, Class 3) for simplified cabling and can also run on 12 VDC. On-board microSD storage supports up to 512 GB for local recording redundancy. Networking features include ONVIF compatibility, Hik-Connect and Hik-Central support, and broad protocol compatibility for integration with many NVRs and VMS platforms.

Finally, the physical package is engineered for tough environments: IP67 ingress protection keeps moisture and dust out, IK10 impact resistance guards against vandalism, and a NEMA 4X anti-corrosion rating makes the unit suitable for harsher outdoor or coastal locations. Operating temperatures span a wide range (-30 °C to 60 °C), meaning the camera can remain dependable in most climates.

Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels

The DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UYs strengths make it particularly well-suited to a number of real-world scenarios. Because it can maintain colour imagery even in very low light, the camera is ideal for locations where colour detail is critical for identification or situational awareness:

• Perimeter and perimeter-access control:The combination of high resolution and long-range supplemental lighting makes the camera effective for monitoring fences, gates and property boundaries where identifying clothing colours, vehicle paint or other details matters.
• Car parks and drive lanes:ColorVu colour imaging helps with vehicle identification, behavioural monitoring and evidence capture at night without relying solely on monochrome IR images.
• Retail exteriors and entrances:For loss prevention and customer safety, colour detail at night supports better incident investigation and public-facing surveillance requirements.
• Industrial sites and ports:Rugged construction (NEMA 4X, IP67 and IK10) makes it a good option for outdoor industrial environments where corrosion resistance and impact protection are important.
• Transport hubs and campus security:Wide field-of-view options and reliable low-light performance suit drop-off/pick-up areas and perimeter monitoring across larger properties.

Additionally, the embedded analytics reduce time spent chasing false alarms and increase the relevance of alerts sent to operators or integrated security platforms.

Comparisons with similar products on the market

Compared to traditional IR-only cameras, the DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY offers a clear advantage where colour is required after dark. IR-only units typically switch to monochrome and may miss identifying colour-based evidence such as clothing, vehicle paint or signage. The hybrid ColorVu approach blends a white LED with IR to retain colour while preserving long-range illumination.

Within Hikvisions own lineup, this model sits between entry-level ColorVu domes and larger PTZ or specialist long-range models. Its more capable than basic 2–4 MP ColorVu cameras due to its 8 MP sensor and F1.0 lens, which together yield better detail and low-light sensitivity. However, for extremely long-range surveillance or very high frame rates, dedicated telephoto or PTZ units would still be more appropriate.

Against competitors, several vendors offer low-light colour-capable cameras using either larger sensors or advanced processing. The choice often comes down to the balance of analytics maturity, integration ecosystem and physical robustness. Hikvisions HikAI analytics and wide compatibility with Hik-Connect/Hik-Central and ONVIF make the DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY a strong candidate where seamless integration and proven analytics are priorities. Other brands may match or exceed certain specs (for example, slightly different low-light thresholds or alternative noise-reduction algorithms), but few combine 4K resolution, an F1.0 aperture, analytic depth and IP67/IK10/NEMA 4X ruggedisation at this price-performance point.

Customer feedback and testimonials

While specific customer reviews for this exact model may vary by region and installer, common feedback themes for ColorVu hybrid-light cameras include the following:

• Improved night-time evidence:Installers and end users often note the value of retaining colour at night, citing easier incident resolution and better visual context in footage.
• Reduced false alarms:AI-driven person/vehicle classification is frequently praised for cutting down on nuisance alerts from animals, weather or irrelevant movement.
• Robust outdoor performance:Customers operating in coastal, industrial or exposed environments highlight the benefit of NEMA 4X and IK10 protection against corrosion and vandalism.
• Simple deployment with PoE:The ability to power the camera over Ethernet is commonly mentioned as a time-saving installation advantage.

If you are evaluating this camera, seek out installation case studies or sample footage from your supplier. Many integrators can provide before-and-after comparisons showing how ColorVu imaging changes nighttime incident investigation.

Conclusion: why the DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY is a strong choice

The Hikvision DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY is a well-rounded mini dome that brings together high-resolution imaging, exceptional low-light performance and practical analytics in a rugged outdoor package. Its 8 MP sensor and F1.0 lens deliver detailed visuals, while ColorVu Smart Hybrid Light ensures full-colour footage even in near-dark conditions. HikAI-driven person/vehicle classification and perimeter analytics improve situational awareness and reduce false alarms, and the IP67/IK10/NEMA 4X ratings make the camera suitable for demanding outdoor installations.

For organisations that need reliable, 24/7 colour detail for perimeter protection, car parks, retail fronts or industrial sites, this camera offers a compelling balance of image quality, analytics and environmental durability. With PoE support and flexible storage options, it integrates easily into modern IP surveillance deployments. When colour at night and dependable outdoor operation matter, the DS-2CD2187G3-LIS2UY is a practical, high-performance option to consider.