Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2CD2387G3-LIS2UY/SL and its key features
The Hikvision DS-2CD2387G3-LIS2UY/SLis an 8MP (3840×2160) fixed‑turret network camera in Hikvision's Pro ColourVu Smart Hybrid‑Light family. Built for outdoor use, it combines a large 1/1.8" progressive scan CMOS sensor with bright F1.0 optics and hybrid illumination (white light + IR). The result is full‑colour imaging in very low light, supported by advanced video codecs, on‑board deep‑learning analytics, two‑way audio and active deterrence features such as a built‑in siren and strobe/white light. Power options include PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at) for simplified installation or 12 VDC for legacy systems.
Key features at a glance:
- 8MP (4K UHD) resolution for detailed imagery and evidence capture.
- ColourVu low‑light technology with smart hybrid white‑light and IR up to 30 m for reliable night‑time colour imaging.
- On‑board deep‑learning analytics for person/vehicle classification, perimeter protection and face capture.
- Built‑in arrayed microphones and speaker for two‑way audio, plus audible/visual alarm for active deterrence.
- Outdoor‑grade ingress protection (IP67/NEMA 4X), PoE+ power and on‑board microSD storage up to 512 GB.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
The DS-2CD2387G3 uses a 1/1.8" progressive scan CMOS sensor to deliver 8MP (3840×2160) video at up to 25/30 fps depending on region. It supports H.265, H.264 and MJPEG codecs, with H.265+ optimisations to reduce bandwidth and storage needs. Multiple streams (up to three) including ROI and SVC support make it flexible for recording, live monitoring and VMS integration.
Benefits: 4K resolution means clearer facial and license plate details at distance, while efficient codecs lower storage and transmission costs. The ability to run concurrent streams allows simultaneous local recording and remote monitoring without compromising quality.
With a bright F1.0 aperture and a fixed 2.8 mm lens (approximately 108.8° horizontal field of view), this turret captures wide scenes with excellent light‑gathering capability. ColourVu technology provides colour images in lighting as low as 0.0005 Lux (F1.0 with AGC), and a hybrid lighting system combines controllable white light and IR (850 nm) to extend effective illumination up to 30 m.
Benefits: Retaining colour at night improves subject identification and situational awareness. The bright aperture and smart lighting reduce the need for separate lighting infrastructure while giving operators the option of visible warnings or covert IR lighting when appropriate.
Deep‑learning analytics are built into the camera: person and vehicle classification reduces false alarms from moving foliage or small animals, while perimeter protection features (line crossing, intrusion) and face capture aid automated event detection. These on‑board capabilities integrate with NVRs and VMS platforms for streamlined event handling.
Benefits: Smarter analytics decrease nuisance alarms and help security teams prioritise real incidents, improving response times and lowering the operational burden of manual review.
The camera includes a built‑in array of microphones and a speaker that can broadcast pre‑recorded messages or a siren (reported output level around 110 dB at 10 cm). Physical alarm I/O (1 in / 1 out) and audio in/out terminals extend connectivity for external sensors and alarms.
Benefits: Two‑way audio and active deterrence mean security staff can warn intruders in real time, which is often enough to deter criminal activity before escalation. Local alarm I/O allows the camera to be part of a wider security ecosystem.
Power is flexible: PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at, Class 4, max ~17 W) supports single‑cable deployments with power and data, while a 12 VDC option suits legacy sites. Rated IP67 and NEMA 4X, the housing is engineered for outdoor environments and anti‑corrosion protection. On‑board microSD support up to 512 GB plus ANR/NAS network storage support gives options for local and networked recording.
Benefits: PoE+ simplifies installation and reduces cabling costs. Robust environmental ratings ensure reliable operation in harsh weather, and flexible storage choices support both edge and centralized recording strategies.
The camera carries CE, UL, CB and RCM markings with RoHS environmental compliance reported. Warranty terms vary by reseller — professional installation is recommended for permanent deployments and to ensure compliance with local electrical and data‑protection regulations.
Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels
- Perimeter and entrance protection for commercial sites: The combination of 4K resolution and hybrid lighting lets security teams keep clear, colour imagery of gates and entries at night while using deterrence when needed.
- Retail exteriors and storefronts: Colour imagery after dusk improves recognition of suspects and incidents; two‑way audio and strobe/siren are useful for deterring loitering and theft.
- Parking lots and car parks: Wide field of view and person/vehicle classification help operators monitor vehicle flow and identify suspicious behaviour without excess false alarms from environmental motion.
- Critical infrastructure and industrial yards: Rugged housing and wide operating temperature range support outdoor, exposed installations where reliability is essential.
- Schools, campuses and public spaces: Active deterrence and clear night imaging provide an additional layer of safety for open perimeters and common areas.
Overall, the DS-2CD2387G3 is best where reliable colour video at night and proactive deterrence are priorities. It is less focused on ultra‑long range (it covers up to ~30 m effectively with its lighting), so sites requiring multi‑hundred‑metre surveillance would need specialised optics or PTZ systems.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When evaluating the DS-2CD2387G3, consider how it differs from both IR‑only turret cameras and other hybrid‑light or dedicated low‑light models.
Standard IR‑only cameras switch to monochrome once ambient light drops, which can obscure identifying colour cues. The ColourVu hybrid approach preserves colour at very low light levels using white light when needed, improving identification. IR‑only models may be less obtrusive at night but can miss colour‑based evidence (car paint, clothing colours).
Within Hikvision’s range, higher‑end models may offer larger sensors, varifocal lenses or integrated VCA tuned for specific verticals. The DS-2CD2387G3 balances wide coverage (2.8 mm lens) and high resolution with analytics, making it a versatile mid‑to‑high tier option rather than a specialised long‑range or ultra‑low‑bandwidth variant.
Competing vendors (e.g., Dahua, Axis and others) offer similar hybrid or enhanced low‑light cameras. Key differences often come down to analytics performance, software ecosystem, and integration with existing NVR/VMS platforms. Hikvision’s ecosystem and H.265+ support are strong points for organisations already standardised on Hikvision hardware. Buyers should compare analytics accuracy, integration with their management software and total cost of ownership — including licences, storage and maintenance — when choosing between brands.
Customer testimonials and feedback
There are no verified customer testimonials provided with this specification. However, typical feedback themes for cameras with this feature set include:
- Praise for night‑time colour: Users commonly report that ColourVu cameras deliver more usable evidence after dark compared with IR‑only alternatives.
- Positive notes on deterrence: Built‑in sirens and strobe/white light are often cited as effective at reducing repeat nuisance incidents when integrated into alarm workflows.
- Analytics expectations: Customers appreciate person/vehicle classification for reducing false alarms, though some note that analytics must be tuned to site conditions to avoid occasional false positives from reflections or shadows.
- Installation and integration: Installers typically note the convenience of PoE+ for powering the unit and appreciate compatibility with common NVRs and VMSs, although integrating advanced features (analytics, two‑way audio) can require updated firmware or VMS compatibility checks.
If you need verified customer reviews for purchase decisions, ask your distributor or reseller for reference installations or case studies relevant to your sector.
Conclusion: Why the DS-2CD2387G3-LIS2UY/SL is a compelling choice
The Hikvision DS-2CD2387G3-LIS2UY/SL delivers a strong combination of high‑resolution imaging, exceptional low‑light colour performance and practical security features such as two‑way audio, active deterrence and on‑board deep‑learning analytics. It is well suited to retail exteriors, parking areas, commercial perimeters and any outdoor environment where night‑time colour imagery and proactive deterrence are valuable.
With PoE+ support, robust environmental ratings (IP67/NEMA 4X) and flexible storage options, it fits into modern IP surveillance deployments with minimal infrastructure changes. At a suggested retail price around $239 (check local resellers for current pricing and warranty terms), it represents a balanced option for organisations that want 4K evidence capture plus intelligent detection features without stepping up to specialised long‑range optics or very high‑end analytics appliances.
For best results, deploy the camera as part of a planned system: pair it with compatible NVR/VMS solutions, configure analytics to the site, and have installation and commissioning carried out by a qualified professional to ensure electrical safety and regulatory compliance.
