Introduction to the Hikvision 8MP DarkFighter Bullet Camera (DS-2CD2T86G2-2I(4MM)(C))
The Hikvision DS-2CD2T86G2-2I(4MM)(C) — marketed as the Hikvision 8MP DarkFighter Bullet (4mm) — is a professional-grade outdoor IP camera combining 4K resolution, advanced low-light imaging and edge AI classification. Designed for perimeter and site surveillance, this camera pairs Hikvisions DarkFighter sensor technology with AcuSense deep-learning features to deliver clearer night images and fewer false alarms from non-critical motion. With PoE power, onboard microSD storage and robust weatherproofing, its positioned as a versatile option for commercial, retail and light industrial CCTV installations.
- 8 MP (3840 2160) 4K resolutionfor detailed identification and wide coverage.
- DarkFighter low-light sensorto capture colour-capable images in very low illumination.
- AcuSense AIwith human and vehicle classification to reduce false alarms and focus operator attention.
- Efficient codecs(H.265 / H.265+ / H.264) to lower bandwidth and storage need.
- Smart IR(850 nm, variant dependent) and up to approximately 50060 m range for night visibility.
- IP67 housingfor reliable outdoor operation.
- PoE (802.3af) and 12 V DC supportfor flexible power options; onboard microSD up to 256 GB.
Detailed specifications and their benefits
Understanding what the camera offers and how each specification translates into real-world benefits helps assess whether it fits your sites needs.
The camera uses a 1/1.8" progressive-scan CMOS sensor and delivers true 8 MP (3840 2160) video. The 4 mm fixed lens (F1.6) provides an approximately 87 horizontal field of view, making it well suited for medium-wide coverage such as driveways, retail facades, loading bays and property perimeters. 4K resolution makes it easier to capture identifying details such as faces and license plates when placed at an appropriate distance and angle.
Hikvisions DarkFighter technology improves sensitivity in challenging light, producing usable colour images at much lower lux levels than conventional sensors. Typical benefits include clearer scene context at night, improved colour retention under street lighting and reduced reliance on IR for every scene. When combined with the smart IR illuminator (850 nm) the camera can still return clear black-and-white imagery in absolute darkness to extend its useful range to roughly 50060 m depending on the IR variant supplied.
AcuSense implements deep-learning classification to distinguish humans and vehicles from other motion sources (animals, leaves, shadows). The result is fewer nuisance alerts and more efficient monitoring — critical for facilities under active surveillance or where operator attention is a limited resource. The camera also includes standard analytics such as motion detection, tamper detection, line crossing and intrusion detection, plus face capture for additional investigative value.
Video compression options include H.265/H.265+ and H.264/H.264+, which substantially reduce bandwidth and storage compared with older codecs. The camera supports multiple streams (main, sub and third streams) so you can configure high-resolution recording while providing lower-bandwidth feeds for remote viewing. Onboard microSD storage (up to 256 GB) allows for local buffering or independent recording, and NAS support (NFS/SMB) enables centralized storage strategies.
With an IP67-rated housing, the camera is built to withstand outdoor elements including rain and dust. Power over Ethernet (802.3af) simplifies deployment by combining power and data on a single cable; a 12 V DC input provides an alternate power path where PoE is unavailable. Note that some physical details (power consumption, exact dimensions and weight) are not listed in the supplied summary and should be confirmed with the supplier if they are relevant to installation planning.
Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels
The DS-2CD2T86G2-2I(4MM)(C) is most effective where a combination of high resolution, dependable night vision and smarter alarm filtering are required. Examples include:
- Perimeter security:Wide-area 4K coverage of fences, gates and building perimeters helps identify intruders or suspicious activity. AcuSense reduces false triggers so security teams can focus on real events.
- Retail and storefront monitoring:High resolution enables better evidence capture for theft, customer incidents or after-hours intrusion; low-light colour helps retain valuable context under varied lighting.
- Small to medium commercial premises:PoE makes installation straightforward for offices, branches or light industrial sites where cost-effective, robust surveillance is needed.
- Vehicle access control and car parks:With human/vehicle classification and a suitable camera placement, operators get targeted alerts and clearer views of plate and vehicle details at 4K.
- Remote sites with limited bandwidth:H.265+ compression and multiple stream options allow efficient remote monitoring without overtaxing network links.
How it compares with similar products on the market
In the current CCTV landscape the Hikvision 8MP DarkFighter Bullet positions itself as a strong mid-to-high-range option focused on image quality and smart filtering. Here are key comparison points:
- Resolution and optics:Many competitors offer 4K bullet cameras, but pairing 4K with DarkFighter low-light sensitivity gives this Hikvision model an edge where night colour detail matters. Simpler 4K models without advanced low-light sensors will typically revert to monochrome IR imagery earlier.
- AI and alarm reduction:AcuSenses human/vehicle classification is comparable to other manufacturers smart detection packages. Some rivals provide broader analytics sets (e.g., object left/removed, people counting) at similar price bands; your choice depends on which analytics you prioritise.
- Price vs capability:With a suggested retail of around 279 (cost price 154.36 as provided), this camera sits competitively for organisations seeking 4K, robust low-light and AI at a moderate investment. There are cheaper 4K options with fewer features and pricier models with larger sensors, integrated IR range or additional PTZ capabilities.
- Deployment flexibility:PoE and microSD are common across this class of camera. Where competitors may offer higher ingress ratings or IK-rated vandal housings, the DS-2CD2T86G2-2I includes industrially-suitable IP67 protection which is adequate for most outdoor uses.
Customer feedback and typical user impressions
There are no formal customer testimonials supplied with the product summary. However, common feedback themes reported for cameras with this specification profile include:
- Positive:Users often praise the combination of 4K detail and strong low-light colour performance, noting improved identification capability at night compared with standard day/night cameras. Installers appreciate PoE and the convenience of onboard microSD for quick deployments.
- Constructive:Some installers highlight the importance of verifying the exact IR subvariant (e.g., -2I vs -4I) because IR range and illumination differ. A small number of users recommend ensuring firmware compatibility with existing VMS/NVR systems and checking ONVIF profiles if you rely on third-party recorders.
- Operational:Security teams value AcuSense for cutting down nuisance alerts, though they note that AI benefits are most pronounced when the camera is positioned and configured correctly (proper height, angle and sensitivity tuning).
Installation, compliance and purchasing notes
Before deployment, confirm the exact submodel and IR variant supplied as performance and IR range vary by variant. Check Hikvision firmware and VMS compatibility (Hik-Connect, iVMS or ONVIF) and confirm warranty terms and stock availability with your supplier. The supplied summary does not include detailed power consumption, weight or dimensions, so factor those into planning if mounting or power budgets are tight. Finally, ensure a qualified installer follows local electrical and building regulations.
Conclusion: Why this camera is a strong choice
The Hikvision DS-2CD2T86G2-2I(4MM)(C) brings together 4K imaging, DarkFighter low-light performance and AcuSense AI into a compact, weatherproof bullet platform. For organisations that need high-resolution coverage with dependable night performance and reduced false alarms, it offers a practical balance of image quality, analytics and installation convenience. Efficient video codecs and onboard storage options further support deployments where network bandwidth and centralized storage must be managed carefully.
Whether youre securing a retail frontage, monitoring a commercial site or protecting a perimeter, this camera is positioned to deliver clear evidence-grade imagery and smarter alerts without the complexity or cost of higher-end specialized hardware. As always, verify the exact model variant, firmware and warranty details with your supplier to ensure it meets your specific installation and operational requirements.