Introduction: Hikvision DS-2CD2T46G2H-2I at a glance
The Hikvision DS-2CD2T46G2H-2I is a 4MP fixed bullet IP camera from Hikvisions Pro (AcuSense) series designed for reliable outdoor surveillance. Combining Hikvisions DarkFighter low-light imaging and AcuSense deep-learning classification, the camera delivers clear colour images in very low light, accurate human/vehicle detection to reduce false alerts, and robust weatherproof hardware (IP67) for exposed locations. With H.265+ compression, PoE support and up to 60 m IR illumination, this model offers a strong balance of image quality, intelligent analytics and efficient storage for commercial and residential projects alike.
- 4 MP resolution(2688 x 1520) for detailed imagery.
- DarkFightersensor technology for superior low-light colour imaging and 0 lux B/W with IR support.
- AcuSensehuman and vehicle classification to reduce false alarms.
- Fixed 2.8 mm lenswith wide horizontal field of view (~100.2) for broader coverage.
- 60 m IRillumination (2I variant) for long-range night surveillance.
- Efficient compression: H.265 / H.265+ reduces bandwidth and storage needs.
- Durable build: metal housing with IP67 ingress protection suitable for outdoor conditions.
- Flexible power & storage: PoE (IEEE 802.3af) or 12V DC; onboard microSD up to 512 GB; ONVIF compatibility and Hik-Connect/NVR access.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The DS-2CD2T46G2H-2I brings together a set of technical specifications that target real-world surveillance challenges. Below is a closer look at the cameras hardware and software strengths and what they mean for an installer or end-user.
- 1/3 progressive scan CMOS delivering 2688 x 1520 (4 MP): enough resolution for identifying faces at moderate distances and capturing useful details across wider scenes.
- Fixed 2.8 mm, F1.0 lens: wide 100.2 horizontal field of view gives broader coverage with fewer cameras, ideal for entrances, driveways and car parks.
- DarkFighter technology: enables colour images in very low lux conditions, improving object recognition at night and reducing reliance on IR-only grayscale footage.
- Minimum illumination: colour down to 0.001 lux (F1.0, AGC ON) and B/W at 0 lux with IR on — this means usable colour detail in dim scenes and clear black-and-white imagery under IR illumination.
- IR range up to 60 m: supports long-distance coverage for perimeters and open areas after dark.
- True 120 dB WDR: handles scenes with both bright and dark areas to preserve detail in shadows and highlights.
- H.265 / H.265+ and H.264 variants: H.265+ significantly reduces required storage and bandwidth versus older codecs while retaining image quality.
- 3D-DNR (noise reduction): improves clarity in low-light and reduces artifacting to save storage.
- On-board microSD support up to 512 GB and multi-stream support: flexible storage strategies (local card + NVR + cloud/hik-connect) for redundancy and efficient monitoring.
- 10/100 Base-T with ONVIF compatibility: integrates into many third-party VMS and NVR systems for flexible deployments.
- Power: DC12V or PoE (IEEE 802.3af), simplifying installations where PoE infrastructure is available.
- IP67 aluminium alloy housing and rated operating temperature from 0 C to +60 C: built for outdoor, exposed installations.
- Reduced false alarms: AcuSense human and vehicle classification filters out irrelevant motion events (animals, foliage), saving time and reducing nuisance alerts.
- Lower total cost of ownership: H.265+ compression and on-board storage options reduce bandwidth and storage costs over time.
- Improved night detail: DarkFighter keeps colour information at low light levels, aiding identification and situational awareness after dusk.
- Flexible deployment: PoE, ONVIF and multiple streams simplify integration into existing CCTV networks and cloud/NVR systems.
Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels
The DS-2CD2T46G2H-2I is a versatile outdoor surveillance camera suitable for a wide range of environments. Its balance of daytime detail, long-range IR and low-light colour capability make it a strong choice in scenarios where visibility at night and accurate alerts matter.
- Large outdoor perimeters, industrial sites and construction yards benefit from the 60 m IR reach and robust IP67 housing, while AcuSense reduces unnecessary alarms from small animals or moving vegetation.
- Wide FOV and 4 MP resolution capture multiple lanes and parking rows; DarkFighter improves recognition of people and vehicle colours under street lighting.
- Useful for monitoring access points and storefronts where accurate human detection and clear day/night images improve security operations and loss prevention.
- Installer-friendly PoE plus microSD support makes it suitable for homeowners and small businesses that want reliable, local recording with remote viewing via Hik-Connect.
How it compares with similar products
When evaluating the DS-2CD2T46G2H-2I, its useful to consider how it stacks up against alternatives in three broad comparisons: non-DarkFighter cameras, older codec/generation cameras, and competing brands.
Compared with conventional IR-only bullet cameras, the DarkFighter-equipped Hikvision delivers usable colour information in much lower light levels before IR is required. That means better facial and colour detail during dusk or under low ambient lighting, not just monochrome IR footage.
H.265+ compression significantly reduces bandwidth and storage needs relative to H.264 models of comparable resolution. Over time this lowers total system cost, particularly when many cameras are deployed.
Other manufacturers offer low-light or starlight sensors and their own analytics suites. The key differentiators for this Hikvision model are the combination of DarkFighter sensor, AcuSense classification, a wide FOV at 4 MP and long-range IR in a single, competitively priced package. Buyers should compare analytics effectiveness, support for ONVIF, warranty and local compliance when selecting between brands. For visible-deterrence applications, bullet cameras like this one are often preferred over domes for their obvious coverage area.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
While individual experiences vary, common themes reported by installers and end users evaluating cameras with similar feature sets include:
- Positive reactions to low-light colour: many users appreciate retaining colour detail at night under low ambient light, which helps with identification and situational awareness.
- Fewer nuisance alerts: installers frequently note that AcuSense-style human/vehicle filtering reduces time spent reviewing motion-triggered clips.
- Ease of installation with PoE: installers value PoE for simplified cabling and flexible placement.
Note:These are representative user impressions based on typical deployments of AcuSense/DarkFighter-equipped cameras. Prospective buyers should check supplier reviews and request demo footage if precise performance metrics are required for a specific site.
- Verify the exact SKU before ordering: feature sets can vary by variant (audio, deterrent or strobe options may exist).
- Confirm firmware, CE/UKCA marking and local compliance with your supplier.
- Use PoE switches with adequate power budgeting and enable H.265+ on the NVR/VMS to maximize storage savings.
Conclusion: Why the DS-2CD2T46G2H-2I is a solid choice
The Hikvision DS-2CD2T46G2H-2I brings together proven elementsDarkFighter low-light imaging, AcuSense analytics, efficient H.265+ compression and a weatherproof metal housingto offer a versatile outdoor surveillance camera at a competitive price point (suggested price: 149.99). It suits installations that demand reliable night-time imaging, accurate human/vehicle detection and straightforward integration into PoE networks and ONVIF-compliant systems.
For property managers, installers and small-to-medium businesses looking to improve situational awareness while reducing false alarms and storage costs, this model represents a practical, feature-rich option. Always confirm the specific SKU and supplier warranty details, and where compliance or specialized analytics are critical, request sample footage or a site trial to validate performance in your environment.
