Introduction: Meet the Hikvision 2MP AcuSense Mini-Dome (DS-2CD2526G2-IS)
The Hikvision DS-2CD2526G2-IS is a compact 2 MP AcuSense fixed mini-dome IP camera designed for reliable indoor and outdoor surveillance. It combines Hikvisions AcuSense on-edge human/vehicle classification with DarkFighter low-light imaging, EXIR infrared illumination to around 30 m, and 120 dB wide dynamic range (WDR). In a small, discreet dome body with IP67 dust/water protection and IK08 vandal resistance, the camera targets installations where accurate detection, low-light performance and weather resistance are priorities. With a suggested retail price of approximately $139.00 (cost price $112.88 reported), it positions itself as a value-oriented option for small-to-medium projects and advanced DIY systems.
Key features at a glance
- 2 MP (1920 × 1080)resolution for clear identification and general situational awareness.
- AcuSense on-edge analyticsfor human and vehicle classification to reduce false alarms from animals, leaves and other moving objects.
- DarkFighter low-light technologyplus EXIR infrared illumination up to ~30 m for usable images in very low light or night scenes.
- 120 dB WDRto handle high-contrast scenes such as entrances with backlight.
- Ruggedized housingwith IP67 ingress protection and IK08 impact resistance for outdoor use.
- Flexible connectivityvia PoE (802.3af) or 12 V DC, H.265 compression to reduce bandwidth and storage needs, and microSD local storage (reported up to 256 GB).
Detailed specifications and practical benefits
Understanding the cameras specifications explains how it performs in real-world conditions and why certain features matter to installers, integrators and end users.
The camera uses a 1/2.8" progressive-scan CMOS sensor delivering 1920 × 1080 resolution at up to 25/30 fps depending on region. Thanks to DarkFighter technology, it achieves a very low minimum illumination (colour at 0.002 Lux with F1.4 and AGC enabled) and switches to B/W with IR for true zero-lux scenes. EXIR infrared illumination extends effective night coverage to roughly 30 m, which is useful for gates, driveways and parking areas where identification at night can be required.
With 120 dB WDR, the DS-2CD2526G2-IS balances highlight and shadow detail in scenes with mixed lighting (for example, a store entrance with bright outdoor sunlight and darker indoor areas). This makes the camera suitable for entrances, lobbies and glass-fronted storefronts where backlighting would otherwise obscure subjects.
The fixed 4 mm lens with an aperture of F1.4 produces an approximate horizontal field of view of 86 (vertical ~47, diagonal ~102). This is a practical wide-angle for monitoring entryways, short stretches of perimeter and retail floor areas without a bulky footprint. The mini-dome form factor is compact (Ø ≈120 mm × height ≈67.4 mm) and can be surface- or ceiling-mounted to remain discreet and less obtrusive than a large bullet camera.
Support for H.265/H.265+/H.264 and MJPEG helps reduce network bandwidth and storage requirements while preserving image detail for forensic review. The camera supports main/sub/third streams, allowing flexible layouts where a high-resolution stream is recorded and a lower-resolution stream is used for remote viewing. Local storage via microSD (reports up to 256 GB) provides redundancy for small sites or as a temporary buffer when network connectivity is interrupted.
AcuSense human and vehicle classification runs on the camera edge, filtering out many types of false triggers (animals, swaying foliage, insect swarms). For organisations and homeowners who receive nuisance alerts from motion-based systems, this significantly improves the signal-to-noise ratio of alarms and reduces time wasted responding to non-actionable events. Additional firmware-dependent features like face capture and perimeter analytics may be available depending on the exact firmware and variant.
The camera uses a standard 10/100 Mbps RJ45 network interface and supports PoE (802.3af, Class 3) for simplified single-cable installations; 12 V DC is available as an alternative. Power consumption is modest (typical ~78.5 W), making it compatible with many PoE switches and small PoE injectors. Note: audio and alarm I/O availability depends on the model suffix (for example, -S variants have audio/alarm I/O); check the exact product code before assuming built-in mic or alarm connectors.
Rated IP67 for dust and water resistance and IK08 for impact protection, the mini-dome is built to handle exterior exposure and vandal risk in most standard applications. Operating temperature range is approximately -30 C to +60 C and humidity tolerance is up to 95% non-condensing, enabling deployment in a wide variety of climates. Always consult the vendor datasheet for up-to-date certification details (CE / UKCA) and the exact suffix of the camera, as variants may have different I/O and certifications.
Use cases and scenarios where the DS-2CD2526G2-IS excels
- Retail storefronts and shopfronts:The compact dome is discreet and provides wide-angle coverage for doorways and display areas while managing backlight and nighttime street lighting.
- Small-to-medium parking areas and driveways:EXIR to ~30 m combined with AcuSense reduces false vehicle alerts and provides usable night images for license plate or occupant identification at moderate distances.
- Residential and multi-dwelling entrances:Low-light performance and on-edge classification keep nuisance alerts down and provide peace of mind in apartment lobbies and gated communities.
- Perimeter and entrance monitoring for SMBs:Easy PoE integration with NVRs and VMS platforms makes this camera suitable for small commercial sites needing reliable detection without the cost of advanced AI appliances.
- Transport hubs and campus security:Discreet placement, wide FOV and strong dynamic range make it useful at bus terminals, station entry points and building access control areas.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When evaluating this camera against alternatives, consider three main axes: analytics capability, low-light performance and form factor.
Compared with plain 2 MP dome cameras without AcuSense, the DS-2CD2526G2-IS offers a tangible operational advantage: on-edge human/vehicle classification reduces false positives and improves the usefulness of motion notifications. That alone can reduce total ownership cost for monitoring operations or cloud alert services.
Against higher-resolution alternatives (4 MP or 8 MP models), the 2 MP sensor trades pixel count for better low-light sensitivity at a similar price point. For many perimeter and doorway scenarios where recognition rather than fine-grained forensic zoom is required, 2 MP combined with DarkFighter and EXIR is a sensible balance between cost and performance.
Compared to competing manufacturers, many vendors offer dome cameras with similar ingress ratings and infrared range. What differentiates Hikvisions offering here is the bundled AcuSense edge analytics and DarkFighter branding for low light. Axis and Dahua, for example, have cameras with comparable build quality and analytics suites, but buyers should weigh local support, ecosystem compatibility (NVR/VMS integration), and any regional firmware or certification differences when choosing a brand. For installations already standardised on Hikvision NVRs or VMS, the DS-2CD2526G2-IS integrates smoothly and provides consistent feature parity.
Customer feedback and installer notes
Aggregated feedback from installers and end users highlights several recurring points:
- Positive:Installers appreciate the compact dome housing and straightforward PoE setup. Users commonly praise its night-time clarity for its price segment and find AcuSense effective at reducing nuisance alerts compared with basic motion detection.
- Considerations:A few installers remind prospective buyers to verify the exact suffix of the model they order (audio and alarm I/O differ by suffix such as -S). Also, while microSD is convenient, professional sites generally pair the camera with an NVR for centralised management and longer retention.
- Value perception:Many customers consider the suggested retail price (around $139.00) a strong value given the analytics, low-light performance and rugged housing offered.
Note: These comments reflect commonly reported experiences; for formal reviews consult verified reseller feedback and datasheet notes for the exact variant you intend to purchase.
Conclusion: Why this camera is a strong choice
The Hikvision DS-2CD2526G2-IS mini-dome strikes a useful balance between price, performance and practical features. Its combination of AcuSense on-edge human/vehicle classification, DarkFighter low-light imaging, EXIR IR to ~30 m and 120 dB WDR addresses many real-world surveillance challenges: false alarms, poor night images and high-contrast scenes. The compact, weatherproof and vandal-resistant housing makes it flexible for both indoor and outdoor placements, and standard PoE support simplifies installation.
For small businesses, installers and homeowners looking for an affordable yet capable camera for entrances, small parking areas and retail fronts, the DS-2CD2526G2-IS delivers value by reducing nuisance alerts and providing usable imagery in low light—all at a competitive price point. As always, confirm the exact model suffix and firmware features with your supplier, and pair the camera with a suitable NVR or VMS to get the most from its analytics and recording capabilities.
