Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2CD2T87G2H-LI 8MP ColorVu 4K Bullet Camera
Hikvision DS-2CD2T87G2H-LIis an 8MP ColorVu hybrid bullet camera designed to deliver ultra‑high‑definition daytime imaging and accurate full‑colour detail at night. Marketed as an 8MP ColorVu Hybrid Bullet Camera (4K), this model combines a 1/1.8" progressive‑scan CMOS sensor, dual‑illumination (white light + IR) with Smart Supplement Light, and Hikvision's AcuSense deep‑learning analytics to provide clearer images, fewer false alarms and flexible installation options. With IP67 weatherproofing, PoE support and on‑board storage up to 512 GB, it suits demanding outdoor surveillance tasks where identification and reliable perimeter protection are essential.
Key features at a glance
- 4K (3840 × 2160) resolutionfor highly detailed images and better digital zoom.
- ColorVu dual‑illuminationenabling full‑colour imaging down to 0.0005 Lux and 0 Lux with built‑in light.
- AcuSense deep‑learning analyticsfor human/vehicle classification and perimeter protection (line crossing, intrusion, region enter/exit).
- Flexible powering and storage: PoE (IEEE 802.3af) or 12 VDC, microSD support up to 512 GB, and ANR/NAS compatibility.
- Rugged build: metal housing with IP67 protection for outdoor durability.
Detailed specifications and their benefits
Understanding the technical specifications helps explain why this camera stands out for outdoor surveillance and low‑light environments.
- Sensor & resolution:1/1.8" Progressive Scan CMOS delivering up to 3840 × 2160 (8MP). The larger sensor and 4K resolution produce more detail for face and license plate capture and cleaner digital zooming without excessive blur.
- Lens:Fixed 2.8 mm lens (H: 105.1°) with optional 4 mm. Wide field of view at 2.8 mm is useful for entrances and parking lots; the 4 mm option tightens the scene for longer‑range coverage.
- ColorVu & illumination:Color at night down to 0.0005 Lux @ F1.0, and true 0 Lux when the built‑in white light activates. The Smart Supplement Light pairs white light and IR to maintain colour fidelity in near‑darkness up to 60 m (scene dependent).
- WDR & noise reduction:Up to 130 dB WDR, 3D DNR, BLC/HLC—these features improve image clarity in high contrast scenes (backlit entrances, headlights) and reduce grain in low light.
- Compression:H.265 / H.265+ / H.264 with multi‑stream support. More efficient encoding lowers bandwidth and storage needs while preserving image quality.
- Frame rates & bitrate:Up to 25 fps (50 Hz) or 24/30 fps (60 Hz) in 4K, and a configurable bitrate (32 Kbps – 16 Mbps) to match network constraints.
- AcuSense analytics:Deep‑learning based human and vehicle classification plus perimeter protection rules (line crossing, intrusion, region enter/exit). These analytics sharply reduce false positives from animals, weather or shifting shadows, so operators or automated systems respond only to relevant events.
- Storage & network:On‑board microSD up to 512 GB, NAS support (NFS, SMB/CIFS) and ANR. Network features include RJ45 10/100 Mbps, ONVIF Profile S/G/T and modern security (HTTPS, 802.1X, TLS 1.1/1.2/1.3).
- Power:12 VDC or PoE IEEE 802.3af (Class 3). PoE simplifies installation by removing the need for separate power runs.
- Housing & protection:Metal enclosure rated IP67, built to operate from −30 °C to 60 °C and 0–95% RH (non‑condensing), making it suitable for harsh outdoor conditions.
- Form factor:Bullet camera dimensions and weight provide a visible deterrent while allowing robust mounting options for walls and poles.
Primary benefits summarized
- Superior identification capability:4K resolution and full‑colour night imaging increase the chance of identifying faces and fine details.
- Reduced false alarms:AcuSense AI filtering helps operators and monitoring systems focus on human and vehicle events.
- Lower operating costs:Efficient H.265 encoding plus PoE support reduce bandwidth, storage and installation costs.
- Durability:IP67 metal housing and industrial operating range ensure reliable outdoor operation year‑round.
Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels
The DS‑2CD2T87G2H‑LI is particularly well suited to outdoor environments where both high resolution and low‑light colour detail are important.
- Perimeter and entrance monitoring:For manufacturing sites, campuses or gated communities where clear identification of people and vehicles at night matters for security and investigations.
- Parking lots and car parks:Wide field of view and AcuSense classification help detect suspicious activity while suppressing irrelevant alarms from animals or moving vegetation.
- Retail exteriors and storefronts:Full‑colour night images assist loss prevention and help verify incidents captured on camera before dispatching personnel.
- Transport hubs and roadside surveillance:4K detail with strong low‑light performance supports enforcement and incident review at bus depots, small terminals and perimeters near roads.
- Mixed installations:Where a single camera must provide both broad situational awareness and the ability to zoom into details for investigations.
How it compares with similar cameras in the market
In today’s market, buyers often choose between high‑resolution traditional IR cameras, specialist low‑light models and competing colour‑at‑night solutions. The Hikvision DS‑2CD2T87G2H‑LI blends attributes of each category.
- Vs. standard IR 4K cameras:Traditional IR cameras switch to monochrome at night and rely solely on IR illumination, which can lose colour detail and reduce identification capability. The ColorVu hybrid approach preserves colour and improves identification in very low light.
- Vs. dedicated low‑light “starlight” sensors:Starlight cameras (from several competitors) deliver impressive low‑light sensitivity but often at lower resolutions or with less effective colour reproduction. The Hikvision model combines high resolution with practical colour illumination control.
- Vs. competitor hybrid/color‑at‑night offerings:Several vendors (including other major brands) offer color‑at‑night solutions. What sets this Hikvision unit apart is the combination of 4K resolution, on‑board AcuSense analytics and efficient video compression, which together create a strong balance of image quality, intelligence and operational cost control.
Customer feedback and typical user impressions
While individual experiences vary by installation, common themes from field reports and installer feedback for ColorVu‑style cameras include:
- "Improved night‑time evidence" — installers note that full‑colour images at night make it easier to confirm clothing colours, vehicle paint and other identifying features compared to monochrome IR footage.
- "Fewer nuisance alerts" — customers using AcuSense analytics report a noticeable drop in false alarms caused by animals or foliage movement, reducing time spent reviewing irrelevant events.
- "Simpler installs with PoE" — integrators value PoE support which reduces wiring complexity on outdoor installations.
Note: prospective buyers should consult vendor reviews and request demo footage to see ColorVu performance in scenes similar to their own.
Pricing, compliance and purchasing considerations
The suggested retail price is around$249(vendor pricing may vary). Total system cost will depend on the number of cameras, networking infrastructure, storage and any monitoring services. Warranty terms and local compliance (CE/UKCA marking, electrical codes) vary by region and vendor—confirm warranty and certification details with your supplier.
Conclusion: Why this camera is a strong choice
The Hikvision DS‑2CD2T87G2H‑LI 8MP ColorVu 4K Bullet Camera is a compelling option for customers who need high‑resolution daytime imaging plus reliable, identifiable colour at night. Its large sensor, 4K resolution, Smart Supplement Light and AcuSense analytics combine to produce accurate event detection and clearer forensic evidence with lower operational overhead thanks to efficient codecs and PoE. Rugged construction and flexible storage/networking options round out a capable outdoor surveillance package suited to sites such as perimeters, parking areas and retail exteriors.
If your priority is maximizing identification capability in low light while minimizing false alarms and installation complexity, this model is worth evaluating alongside competitor offerings. As always, match camera selection to the specific scene, mounting locations and required analytics for the best results, and request sample footage or an on‑site demonstration when possible.