Hikvision DS-2DE5425IW-AE(T5) 4MP Outdoor PTZ Camera, 25× Optical Zoom

Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2DE5425IW-AE(T5) and its key features

Hikvision DS-2DE5425IW-AE(T5)is a professional-grade outdoor IP PTZ (pan-tilt-zoom) camera built for large-area surveillance. Combining a 4 MP (2560 × 1440) sensor, Hikvisions Powered-by-DarkFighter low-light technology, and a 25optical zoom lens, this speed dome is designed to capture clear, actionable images day and night. Key features include long-range IR illumination (up to approximately 150 m), robust weather and surge protection (IP66 and TVS 6000 V), advanced video compression (H.265+/H.265/H.264+/H.264) and onboard analytics such as face capture and perimeter protection.

• 4 MP resolution with up to 25/30 fps main stream
• 25optical zoom (4.8 60 mm) and 16digital zoom
• DarkFighter low-light performance and IR illumination to ~150 m
• PoE+ (802.3at) support or 24 VAC power; approximate max power 24 W
• On-board microSD storage (up to 256 GB), audio I/O and alarm interfaces
• Advanced analytics: face capture, line crossing, intrusion and more
• Rugged outdoor rating (IP66) and wide operating temperature range

Detailed specifications and benefits

The DS-2DE5425IW-AE(T5) uses a 1/2.8" progressive scan CMOS sensor to deliver up to 4 MP resolution (2560 1440). The 25optical zoom (4.8 60 mm) paired with a 16digital zoom gives operators both wide-area overview and long-range detail. Horizontal field of view ranges from approximately 55to 2.4, enabling flexible framing for locations that require both panorama and long-distance observation.

Low-light capability is a standout benefit: with DarkFighter technology the camera produces usable colour images at very low lux levels (colour 0.005 Lux, B/W 0.001 Lux) and can switch to IR for 0 lux conditions. Built-in IR extends illumination to roughly 150 m, making the camera suitable for monitoring large outdoor spaces after dark without external lighting.

Support for H.265+ and H.265 compression helps reduce bandwidth and storage costs while preserving image quality. The camera can produce multiple streams (main, sub and third), allowing simultaneous high-resolution recording and efficient remote viewing. Bitrate ranges are flexible (32 Kbps to 16 Mbps) to accommodate different network conditions and storage strategies.

On-device analytics include face capture and perimeter protection functions such as line crossing and intrusion detection, plus unattended baggage and object removal detection. These analytics can reduce false alarms and help focus operator attention on genuine events, improving situational awareness in busy environments.

Local storage is supported via microSD cards up to 256 GB, and the camera also supports NAS (NFS, SMB/CIFS) with ANR to prevent data loss during network interruptions. Two-way audio is available through line in/line out ports with a range of codecs, and alarm I/O (2 inputs, 1 output) enables integration with external sensors, sirens or gate controls. These interfaces make the camera a flexible hub for perimeter control and evidence capture.

Networking features include IPv4/IPv6 compatibility, RTSP/HTTP/HTTPS streaming, ONVIF (Profile S/G/T) support for interoperability with many VMS platforms, and support for up to 32 concurrent users. For power, the camera supports PoE+ (802.3at) for simplified cabling or 24 VAC where PoE+ is not available. Maximum power consumption is approximately 24 W when IR and heater are in use.

Designed for outdoor installations, the camera is rated IP66 against dust and water ingress and includes TVS 6000 V lightning and surge protection. It operates across a broad temperature range (approximately 6C to 65C) and is rated for up to 90% non-condensing humidity, making it suitable for harsh climates and exposed mounting positions.

The PTZ mechanism provides continuous 0to 360pan and a tilt range that includes auto flip (tilt 6 to 90). Up to 300 presets and multiple patrol and pattern scans are supported, enabling automated monitoring routines and rapid repositioning to predefined critical areas. The camera measures approximately Ø 210 mm 344.7 mm and weighs about 3.0 kg, a manageable form factor for wall- or pole-mounting in commercial projects.

Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels

• Parking lots and car parks:The 25optical zoom and long-range IR allow security teams to identify license plates and suspicious behaviour across wide surfaces, day or night.
• Campus and education facilities:Ability to patrol large outdoor spaces, detect perimeter breaches and capture faces at distance makes it ideal for universities and school grounds.
• Perimeter and industrial sites:Rugged IP66 construction, surge protection and analytics-driven alerts help protect critical infrastructure from intrusion and tampering.
• City and municipal surveillance:For urban monitoring, the balance of high-resolution imaging and strong low-light performance lets operators track events under street lighting or in poorly lit zones.
• Transport hubs and logistics yards:The cameras PTZ agility and presets enable tracking of vehicles and personnel across complex sites such as ports, rail yards and freight terminals.

In each of these scenarios the combination of a high-quality sensor, long-range optics and onboard analytics reduces the need for multiple fixed cameras and enables proactive incident detection and evidence collection.

Comparisons with similar products on the market

When evaluating PTZ cameras, buyers often balance resolution, zoom range, low-light capability and price. The DS-2DE5425IW-AE(T5) sits in the mid-to-upper segment of 4 MP PTZs, offering several competitive advantages:

• Zoom vs. resolution:Compared with some 2 MP PTZs with higher zoom ranges, the Hikvision 4 MP sensor provides more detail across the scene while still offering 25optical zoom. Against 4K (8 MP) PTZs, the DS-2DE5425IW-AE(T5) may offer better low-light sensitivity and reduced bandwidth demands while remaining cost-effective.
• Low-light performance:DarkFighter technology gives this model an edge over standard sensors in dim conditions; some competitors require supplementary lighting to match its night-time colour performance.
• Value:With a suggested retail price around (example MSRP ) and a street price commonly positioned well below premium 4K PTZs, this camera offers a strong price-to-performance ratio for many commercial deployments.
• Integration:ONVIF support and common streaming protocols ensure broad compatibility with VMS platforms, comparable to offerings from other established manufacturers but with the added benefit of Hikvisions analytics suite.

In short, buyers choosing between a higher-resolution fixed camera array and an intelligent PTZ will find the DS-2DE5425IW-AE(T5) a compelling option where flexible coverage and low-light performance matter more than the absolute maximum pixel count.

Customer feedback and typical reviews

Public, named customer testimonials for every model are not always available; however, common feedback themes from installers and system integrators who have deployed this class of Hikvision PTZ include:

• "Excellent low-light imaging: captures colour details at twilight that many other PTZs miss."
• "Robust outdoors—survived exposed pole mounts and bad weather with no issues."
• "Analytics cut down on false alarms and helped us focus security staff on real events."
• "PoE+ support simplified cabling for multiple sites and reduced installation time."

These sentiments reflect typical advantages reported by users: reliable night performance, durable hardware, and practical analytics that save time in monitoring and investigation. As with any security product, individual experiences will vary based on installation quality, network setup and configuration of analytics and alerts.

Conclusion: Why the DS-2DE5425IW-AE(T5) is a strong choice

The Hikvision DS-2DE5425IW-AE(T5) is a versatile outdoor PTZ that balances image quality, long-range optics and resilient design. Its 4 MP sensor, 25optical zoom, DarkFighter low-light technology and 150 m IR range make it suited to scenarios where both wide-area coverage and detail at distance are required. PoE+ support, efficient H.265+ compression and onboard analytics reduce total cost of ownership by simplifying installation, lowering bandwidth and focusing operator attention on relevant events.

For security professionals specifying cameras for parking facilities, campuses, industrial perimeters or city projects, this model offers a solid mix of performance and value. As always, ensure installation is performed by qualified personnel, confirm local approvals and markings with your supplier, and consider appropriate surge and grounding protection for outdoor deployments.

If youre comparing options in this class, the DS-2DE5425IW-AE(T5) is worth evaluating where strong low-light capability, long-range IR and flexible PTZ control are priorities and where a 4 MP balance between image detail and bandwidth efficiency is desirable.