Introduction: Meet the Hikvision 4MP AcuSense Fixed Dome Camera
The Hikvision DS-2CD2143G2-IS is a compact, high-value fixed dome IP camera built for real-world surveillance. Packing a 4 MP (2688 × 1520) sensor, a wide 2.8 mm lens and Hikvisions AcuSense deep-learning analytics, this camera is aimed at sites that need reliable detection with fewer false alarms. It supports PoE for simplified installation, robust weather and vandal protection (IP67 and IK10), and efficient H.265 compression to reduce bandwidth and storage demands. At a suggested price of $119.99 (cost price $95.77), the model targets installers and end-users who want modern analytics and strong night performance without the premium price of top-tier models.
- 4 MP resolution (2688 × 1520) at up to 30 fps for clear daytime images.
- AcuSense analytics: human/vehicle classification, perimeter protection and face detection.
- Fixed 2.8 mm lens providing a wide horizontal field of view (~1036).
- Smart IR night vision up to approximately 30 m (850 nm).
- Weatherproof and vandal-resistant housing: IP67 and IK10.
- Power over Ethernet (802.3af) or 12 V DC; microSD storage up to 512 GB (card not included).
Detailed specifications and their benefits
Beyond the headline features, the DS-2CD2143G2-IS includes several technical elements that translate to practical benefits for installers and users.
The 1/3" progressive-scan CMOS sensor and 4 MP resolution provide crisp, wide-angle images suitable for identifying people, vehicles and scene context. At 2688 × 1520 resolution and up to 30 fps, live monitoring and recorded footage capture motion smoothly while preserving detail. The fixed 2.8 mm lens yields a horizontal field of view around 1036, making the camera ideal for entrances, parking areas and retail aisles where coverage breadth is important.
The camera has a minimum illumination of 0.005 Lux (colour) and uses Smart IR LEDs for night operation up to about 30 m. In practice, that means the unit can deliver usable colour images in very low light and switch to effective IR illumination when required, retaining identification capability after dusk across medium-distance scenes.
AcuSense deep-learning analytics are a standout. Human and vehicle classification significantly reduces false alarms from animals, foliage, rain or light variations. Perimeter-protection features such as line crossing and intrusion detection provide event-based alerts, while face detection adds another layer of situational awareness. Efficient H.265/H.264 compression and multi-streaming support help minimize bandwidth and storage costs, important when deploying multiple cameras across a network.
IP67 weatherproofing and IK10 vandal resistance make the dome suitable for outdoor mounting in a wide range of environments. PoE (802.3af) simplifies wiring and power management, letting installers run a single Ethernet cable for data and power. For local failover or edge recording, the camera accepts a microSD card up to 512 GB (not supplied). Operating temperature range from 2 30C to 60C supports both cold and hot climates.
Installers should confirm SKU and firmware region compatibility before deployment, as Hikvision issues region-specific firmware that can affect functionality. The -S variant includes a built-in microphone and alarm I/O for audio recording and external alarm integration. Observe local wiring regulations and use a qualified installer for outdoor PoE and mounting to ensure a long-lasting and compliant installation.
Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels
The DS-2CD2143G2-IS is versatile and fits many common surveillance needs. Typical scenarios include:
- Retail: Wide coverage of shop floors and entrances, combined with human/vehicle filtering to reduce nuisance alarms from nonrelevant movement.
- Car parks and driveways: A wide field of view and vehicle classification make it easy to track cars at entrances and lanes while limiting alerts from pedestrians or environmental motion.
- Perimeter security: Line crossing and intrusion detection provide focused monitoring for fences, gates and property boundaries.
- Office and facility entrances: Face detection and clear daytime imaging help with access control logs and visitor identification.
- Small campuses and sites needing cost-effective analytics: The built-in AcuSense features reduce the need for central video analytics licenses on some platforms, lowering overall system cost.
How it compares with similar products
When compared with both higher-end and entry-level cameras, the DS-2CD2143G2-IS sits in the mid-range sweet spot by offering advanced analytics and protective hardware at a competitive price.
Compared with basic 4 MP dome cameras that lack deep-learning analytics, the Hikvision AcuSense model provides markedly fewer false alarms and more useful event classification. If your deployment requires reliable automated alerts rather than raw motion detection, AcuSense delivers clear operational benefits.
Other manufacturers offer similar analytics suites; Dahuas WizSense and some Axis models provide comparable human/vehicle detection and edge analytics. The differences come down to ecosystem, user interface, firmware regioning and integration with NVRs/VMS. Hikvisions AcuSense is well-integrated with Hik-Connect and many third-party ONVIF-supporting NVRs, making it an efficient choice for users already in the Hikvision ecosystem or using ONVIF-compliant recorders.
Higher-end cameras may offer larger sensors, higher resolutions (6 MP+), motorized varifocal lenses, or advanced low-light color modes. The DS-2CD2143G2-IS prioritises value and analytics rather than maximum resolution or specialized lenses. For many sites—retail stores, car parks, small campuses—4 MP with AcuSense is the more cost-effective option.
Customer feedback and testimonials
Publicly available, verified user reviews for specific SKUs can vary by reseller and region. However, common feedback themes from installers and end-users who choose AcuSense models include:
- "Reduced false alarms" Customers report fewer nuisance alerts after enabling human/vehicle classification, making monitoring and incident review more efficient.
- "Easy PoE installation" Installers appreciate the simplicity of PoE combined with the compact dome housing for quick deployments.
- "Good value for analytics" Buyers often cite the combination of IP67/IK10 protection and built-in analytics at a mid-range price as a primary reason for choosing this camera.
Note: Always consult current reseller listings for verified user reviews of your intended SKU and region, and confirm warranty terms with the seller since warranty coverage can vary.
Drawbacks and considerations
No product is perfect for every deployment. Consider the following before purchase:
- Region-specific firmware: Feature sets and remote service availability may vary by firmware region. Verify the SKU and firmware before buying for critical projects.
- MicroSD not included: Edge storage is supported but requires purchasing a suitable card separately.
- Not a replacement for ultra-high-resolution or specialized low-light cameras: If you need 4K or advanced colour night modes, look to higher-tier models.
- Warranty: This listing indicates no included warranty (warranty=0). Confirm actual warranty and support terms with your reseller.
Conclusion: Why the DS-2CD2143G2-IS is a strong choice
The Hikvision DS-2CD2143G2-IS 4 MP AcuSense fixed dome offers a balanced mix of analytics, image quality and rugged hardware at an accessible price point. Its human/vehicle classification and perimeter-protection tools reduce false alarms and make event-driven monitoring more reliable, while PoE, IP67/IK10 endurance and efficient H.265 compression help keep installation and operating costs down. For businesses and properties that need dependable detection—retailers, parking facilities, small commercial sites and property perimeters—this camera delivers practical capabilities without the premium cost of flagship models.
Before deploying, verify the SKUs firmware region, confirm warranty and compliance markings, and budget for any microSD cards or accessories needed. When used in appropriate scenarios, the DS-2CD2143G2-IS is a cost-effective, capable camera that brings modern analytics into everyday security installations.
