Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2CD2025FHWD-I
The Hikvision DS-2CD2025FHWD-I is a compact 2MP (1920×1080) fixed mini bullet IP camera designed for reliable outdoor surveillance. Combining Hikvisions DarkFighter low-light technology, true 120 dB WDR and EXIR infrared illumination, this camera delivers clear daytime colour and usable nighttime imagery for a wide range of security applications. Built in a metal IP67 housing and offering flexible power options (PoE or 12 V DC), the DS-2CD2025FHWD-I is aimed at both DIY installers and professional integrators who need a cost-effective, rugged camera for perimeter, entrance or small-site coverage.
Key features at a glance
- 2 MP resolution(1080p) with up to 60 fps main stream (region dependent)
- DarkFighterlow-light technology for improved colour performance in low illumination
- True WDR 120 dBto handle high-contrast scenes
- Fixed 2.8 mm lens(F1.6) providing approximately 1086 horizontal field of view
- EXIR IRillumination to about 30 m (850 nm) for night coverage
- H.265 / H.264 / H.265+ / H.264+ compression and triple streaming for bandwidth efficiency
- On-board microSD storage (up to 128 GB), ANR/NAS and ONVIF compatibility
- IP67 metal housingfor outdoor durability and PoE (802.3af) support
Detailed specifications and benefits
- Image sensor:1/2.8" progressive-scan CMOS. Benefit: delivers a balance between sensitivity and resolution suitable for typical outdoor scenes.
- Maximum resolution:1920×1080 (2 MP). Benefit: 1080p provides clear identification for faces and licence plates at moderate distances while keeping storage and bandwidth demands manageable.
- Lens:Fixed 2.8 mm, F1.6, M12 mount; ~1086 horizontal field of view. Benefit: a wide field of view ideal for entranceways, driveways and general perimeter coverage without needing a motorised lens.
- Minimum illumination:Colour 0.005 lux @ F1.2 (AGC ON); 0 lux with IR. Benefit: DarkFighter and the fast aperture enable usable colour images in very low light; IR provides full night coverage when required.
- IR illumination:EXIR to ~30 m (850 nm). Benefit: Even, long-range night illumination with reduced glare and improved contrast in low-light scenes.
- WDR:True WDR 120 dB. Benefit: preserves detail in both bright and dark areas in high-contrast scenes such as doorways or backlit exteriors.
- Noise reduction and image control:3D DNR, BLC/HLC, ROI and privacy mask. Benefit: cleaner images with reduced bandwidth usage and the ability to adapt picture settings to site conditions.
- Streams and compression:Triple stream; H.265 / H.264 / H.265+ / H.264+ / MJPEG. Benefit: flexible streaming options to optimise for quality, bandwidth or storage depending on network and recorder capabilities.
- On-board storage:microSD/SDHC/SDXC up to 128 GB; ANR/NAS support. Benefit: local buffering during network interruptions and economical storage for small installations.
- Network:1 × RJ45 10/100 Mbps; ONVIF Profile S/G/T. Benefit: easy integration with a wide range of NVRs and VMS platforms from Hikvision and third parties.
- Power:12 V DC or PoE (802.3af, Class 3). Benefit: PoE simplifies installations by combining data and power on a single cable, and 12 V DC provides a conventional alternative.
- Housing:Metal, weatherproof IP67. Benefit: robust protection against dust and rain for outdoor mounting.
- Operating range:−30 °C to +60 °C; humidity ≤95% non-condensing. Benefit: reliable operation in a wide range of climates.
- Size & weight:Ø70 × 155.03 mm; approx. 410 g. Benefit: compact and lightweight for unobtrusive mounting on walls, eaves or poles.
Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels
The DS-2CD2025FHWD-I is a versatile camera that performs well in many common outdoor surveillance scenarios:
- Residential perimeter and driveway monitoring:The wide 2.8 mm lens covers driveways, front yards and entry points. DarkFighter ensures colour detail in low light, helping identify visitors or vehicles.
- Small business and retail exteriors:Ideal for protecting storefronts, loading areas and car parks where a combination of WDR and IR is needed to handle backlit entrances and night activity.
- Apartment and gated community entrances:Good field of view and reliable night coverage capture faces and vehicle movements for access control and incident review.
- Construction sites and temporary installations:PoE and microSD support make deployment straightforward without extensive wiring or central storage, and the IP67 housing withstands rough outdoor conditions.
- Complementary camera in multi-site systems:As an economical 2 MP option, it serves as a cost-effective sensor for areas where ultra-high resolution is not necessary but dependable day/night performance is required.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
In the crowded 2 MP bullet camera segment, the DS-2CD2025FHWD-I stands out for its combination of DarkFighter low-light technology and true 120 dB WDR. Compared with basic 2 MP outdoor bullets, it typically offers better colour performance at dusk and in dimly lit scenes. Key points to consider when comparing:
- Versus entry-level 1080p bullets:Many budget cameras lack advanced low-light tech and high WDR, so they may produce washed or noisy images under challenging lighting. The Hikvision model delivers cleaner images and better high-contrast handling.
- Versus higher-resolution models (4K/5MP):Higher-resolution cameras capture more detail but increase storage, bandwidth and cost. For many perimeter or entrance applications where a wide field of view and consistent low-light performance matter more than extreme detail, a 2 MP camera like this can be a more balanced choice.
- Versus other branded 2 MP cameras with IR:The EXIR implementation provides even illumination and reduced hot spots compared with some older IR designs. ONVIF support and triple streaming keep integration flexible compared with proprietary-only options.
Customer feedback and reviews
Official customer reviews for specific SKUs vary by retailer and region. Common themes reported by installers and end users for this Hikvision model and similar Hikvision mini bullets include:
- "Clear daytime images and surprisingly good colour in low light thanks to DarkFighter."
- "WDR helps at entrances and when vehicles are driven toward the camera—fewer blown-out highlights."
- "PoE makes installations quick, and ONVIF compatibility allowed easy integration with our NVR."
- "Good build quality for the money; IP67 housing stands up to weather."
- Common constructive notes: some users expect higher resolution for distant licence plate capture and may choose a 4K model where extreme detail is required.
When evaluating reviews, consider the installation environment, network configuration and recorder settings, which all affect perceived performance.
Installation, compatibility and safety notes
The DS-2CD2025FHWD-I supports PoE (802.3af) which simplifies cabling and powers the camera over a single Ethernet cable. It is ONVIF Profile S/G/T compatible, enabling integration with many third-party VMS and NVRs. For local buffering, a microSD card up to 128 GB is supported. Installers should follow local electrical regulations, use a suitably rated bracket for outdoor mounting and disconnect power during installation. Refer to Hikvisions official datasheet for certification and compliance details.
Conclusion: why choose the Hikvision DS-2CD2025FHWD-I?
The Hikvision DS-2CD2025FHWD-I is a well-rounded, cost-effective outdoor bullet camera that balances performance, durability and flexibility. With 2 MP resolution, DarkFighter low-light capability, true 120 dB WDR and EXIR IR to ~30 m, it handles a wide variety of lighting conditions that challenge many entry-level cameras. PoE support, ONVIF compatibility and on-board storage options make it simple to deploy in both small standalone systems and larger integrated installations. Priced competitively (suggested retail around $129.99), it represents good value for homeowners, small businesses and contractors needing dependable perimeter or entrance coverage without incurring the higher costs and storage demands of ultra-high-resolution cameras.
