Introduction: Hikvision DS-2CD2T87G3-LIY — 8MP ColorVu Bullet Camera
The Hikvision DS-2CD2T87G3-LIY is an 8 megapixel outdoor fixed bullet IP camera built around Hikvision's ColorVu technology and Smart Hybrid Light. Offered with a 2.8 mm fixed lens, a powerful 1/1.8" progressive scan CMOS sensor and advanced on-board analytics, this camera is designed to deliver 24/7 full-colour imaging, dependable object classification and flexible deployment options for perimeter, car park and general outdoor surveillance. With PoE support, H.265 compression and IP67 / NEMA 4X ruggedisation, it targets both professional installers and advanced DIY users who need reliable, high-resolution colour video in challenging lighting and weather conditions.
Key features at a glance
- 8 MP (3840 × 2160)sensor delivering up to 30 fps for clear, detailed images.
- ColourVu technologyfor full-colour imaging at extremely low light (colour: 0.0005 lux; 0 lux with supplemental light).
- Smart Hybrid Lightcombining white light and IR with selectable modes and white light range up to 60 m.
- Embedded deep-learning analyticsincluding person/vehicle classification, face capture and perimeter protection (line crossing, intrusion, region enter/exit).
- Flexible connectivityvia PoE (IEEE 802.3af) or 12 V DC, with ONVIF support for NVR/VMS integration.
- Rugged outdoor build— IP67 ingress protection and NEMA 4X anti-corrosion, rated for −30 °C to 60 °C operation.
Detailed specifications and how they translate to real benefits
The DS-2CD2T87G3-LIY uses a 1/1.8" progressive scan CMOS sensor capable of 8 MP (3840 × 2160) at up to 30 fps. Paired with a bright F1.0 fixed lens (2.8 mm standard; a 4 mm variant is available), the combination delivers high-resolution imagery that preserves fine detail — useful for licence plates, facial detail at distance and general situational awareness. Higher resolution also gives more flexibility for digital zoom and forensic review without immediately losing clarity.
ColourVu is the headline feature: the camera is optimised to deliver full-colour images even at extremely low ambient light (0.0005 lux). When natural light is insufficient, the Smart Hybrid Light system can be configured to use white light, IR or a hybrid mode. White light provides colour illumination out to about 60 m, enabling clear colour identification of clothing, vehicle colours and other important visual cues at night. The IR option lengthens detection distance for monochrome imaging while the hybrid approach balances discretion and recognition.
Embedded deep-learning capabilities include person and vehicle classification, face capture and perimeter protection features such as line crossing, intrusion detection and region enter/exit. These analytics help reduce false alarms by differentiating relevant human and vehicle activity from background motion, birds or foliage. For security teams and automated monitoring, this reduces operator load and improves the signal-to-noise ratio of alerts.
The camera supports H.265 and H.264 compression to reduce bandwidth and storage needs without sacrificing quality. Local storage via microSD up to 512 GB (with ANR support) provides redundancy if the network is interrupted, and network storage is possible via NAS (NFS, SMB/CIFS). ONVIF compatibility and standard network protocols (TCP/IP, RTSP, HTTP/S, IPv6 and 802.1X) make it straightforward to integrate with a wide range of NVRs and VMS platforms.
Power options include PoE (IEEE 802.3af, Class 3) — simplifying installation by carrying power and data on the same cable — or 12 V DC. The camera's metal housing meets IP67 ingress protection and NEMA 4X anti-corrosion standards, and it is rated for operation from −30 °C to 60 °C. These properties make it suitable for exposed outdoor locations, coastal installations and industrial sites where weather and corrosion resistance are critical.
Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels
For businesses, schools, warehouses and gated communities, the DS-2CD2T87G3-LIY is well suited to perimeter monitoring. ColourVu helps identify clothing and vehicle colours at night, while the deep-learning analytics reduce nuisance alarms by focusing on people and vehicles. The long white-light range also supports identification across large fences, driveways and entry points.
High-resolution, full-colour night imaging is particularly useful in parking lots, multi-level car parks and transport hubs where vehicle colour and plate reading matter. The camera's analytics can trigger alerts for suspicious loitering, unauthorized entry or vehicle trespass, improving incident response and evidence gathering.
Retailers and hospitality operators benefit from 24/7 colour imaging for deterrence and incident reconstruction. Colour detail helps identify shoplifters, vandalism and license plates at night, and the hybrid lighting modes offer a balance between visible deterrence (white light) and discreet surveillance (IR).
With robust environmental ratings and wide operating temperature range, this model is suited to industrial sites, substations and remote facilities where reliable operation and corrosion resistance are required. PoE support reduces wiring complexity for remote deployments.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
Within Hikvision's own lineup, the DS-2CD2T87G3-LIY sits among the ColorVu series, which prioritises full-colour low-light performance over purely IR-based solutions. Compared with lower-resolution ColorVu models (e.g., 2–4 MP variants), the 8 MP model provides finer detail useful for forensic review and long-range identification, at the expense of higher storage and bandwidth needs.
Against competitor offerings, there are two typical approaches in the market: low-light colour-first systems (like ColorVu) and high-sensitivity monochrome/IR systems (often labelled "Starlight" or similar by other manufacturers). The colour-first approach increases the chance of capturing identifying colour cues at night, which many users find more useful than monochrome high-sensitivity images for investigations. Monochrome IR solutions may perform slightly better at the farthest distances in total darkness, but they do not capture colour — an important trade-off to consider depending on your priorities.
When comparing features, consider these factors:
- Resolution: 8 MP vs. 2–4 MP — higher detail vs. higher storage/bandwidth.
- Low-light strategy: ColourVu (white-light enabled) vs. IR-only strategies.
- Analytics: embedded deep-learning for people/vehicle classification can reduce false alarms compared with older motion-based detection.
- Integration and openness: ONVIF support makes third-party NVR/VMS integration easier than proprietary-only cameras.
Customer testimonials and typical user feedback
While specific verified customer reviews vary by supplier and region, common feedback themes for the ColorVu 8 MP models typically include:
- "Excellent night colour — we can finally identify vehicle colours and clothing in the car park after hours."
- "PoE made the install quick and tidy; the images are sharp and the analytics cut down false alerts significantly."
- "We upgraded from a 2 MP IR camera — the difference in detail and the ability to capture colour at night is night-and-day."
- "Setup is straightforward with our existing VMS; microSD redundancy has saved recordings during short outages."
Keep in mind that results depend on installation quality, lighting configuration, lens selection and system tuning. Prospective buyers should always trial a camera in situ or request sample footage where possible to confirm it meets their needs.
Practical considerations: pricing, warranty and installation
The suggested retail price for this model is listed at around 299.00 (currency as per vendor), with a cost price example of 202.96 reflected in procurement scenarios. Pricing will vary by region, distributor and included services (such as warranty, configuration or mounting accessories). The product documentation lists CE, UL, CB and RoHS approvals; however, warranty terms can vary by supplier — verify the regional variant and warranty before purchase. Professional installation is recommended for optimized performance, especially for analytic features and lighting mode configuration.
Conclusion — why the Hikvision DS-2CD2T87G3-LIY is a strong choice
For organisations and homeowners seeking an outdoor camera that balances high-resolution imaging with true 24/7 colour capability, the Hikvision DS-2CD2T87G3-LIY offers a compelling package. Its 8 MP sensor provides the detail needed for forensic review, while ColourVu and Smart Hybrid Light ensure meaningful colour information at night — a key advantage when identifying vehicles, clothing and other colour-dependent evidence. Embedded deep-learning analytics reduce false alarms and lengthen the value of recorded footage, and PoE support simplifies installation and system architecture.
Ruggedised for harsh environments and compatible with common NVRs and VMS through ONVIF, this camera is well suited to perimeter security, car parks, retail fronts and industrial sites. As with any security purchase, match camera selection to your specific scene, lighting conditions and storage strategy. When those elements are considered, the DS-2CD2T87G3-LIY stands out as a versatile and modern solution for reliable, round-the-clock outdoor colour surveillance.
- 8 MP resolution (3840 × 2160) at up to 30 fps
- ColourVu 24/7 full-colour imaging; 0.0005 lux (colour) and 0 lux with supplemental light
- Smart Hybrid Light (white + IR) with white illumination up to 60 m
- AI person/vehicle classification, face capture and perimeter protection
- PoE (IEEE 802.3af) or 12 V DC, ONVIF support, microSD up to 512 GB
- IP67 and NEMA 4X; −30 °C to 60 °C operating range
Note:Verify warranty and regional approvals with your supplier prior to purchase and consider professional installation for optimal performance.
