Introduction: HiLook IPC-T289H-MU (2.8mm) at a glance
HiLook IPC-T289H-MU (2.8mm)is an 8MP (3840 × 2160) ColorVu turret IP camera designed to deliver true-colour video day and night. Built by HiLook (part of the Hikvision family), this compact turret camera pairs high-resolution imaging with an integrated white-light supplement and a built-in microphone, making it a versatile option for both indoor and outdoor surveillance. With Power over Ethernet (PoE), IP67 weatherproofing, and on-board microSD storage, the IPC-T289H-MU aims to balance image quality, flexibility and value for residential and commercial deployments.
Key features
- 8MP (4K) resolutionfor detailed imaging across wide scenes.
- ColorVu technologyand integrated white light for full-colour night vision up to around 30 m.
- Built-in microphonefor audio recording alongside video.
- PoE (802.3af)support for simplified single-cable power and network installation.
- IP67 metal housingfor reliable outdoor performance in harsh environments.
- On-board microSD storageup to 256 GB and efficient H.265+/H.265 compression.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The IPC-T289H-MU packs a number of technical features that translate into real-world benefits for surveillance projects. Below are the key specification areas and what they mean for installers and end users.
- Model:HiLook IPC-T289H-MU (2.8mm) / ITM005728.
- Sensor:1/1.8" progressive-scan CMOS — larger sensor area helps with low-light sensitivity and dynamic range.
- Resolution:3840 × 2160 (8 MP) — four times the detail of 1080p for clearer identification and wider scene coverage.
- Lens:Fixed 2.8 mm (≈104° horizontal field of view). The wide-angle lens is well-suited to perimeter, parking and retail floor coverage where broad views are required. A 4 mm option is sometimes available for narrower, longer-range needs.
- Aperture:F1.0 (region variants may differ) — bright aperture improves performance in dim conditions when relying on the camera’s sensor alone.
- On-board storage:microSD/TF up to 256 GB for local recording and fallback if network storage is interrupted.
- Colour sensitivity:0.0008 Lux (F1.0, AGC ON); 0 Lux with white light — ColorVu plus the smart white-light supplement delivers true-colour images even at night, improving recognition of clothing, vehicles and scene context compared to monochrome IR-only cameras.
- Compression:H.265+, H.265, H.264+, H.264 — modern compression reduces bandwidth and storage needs without sacrificing image detail.
- Frame rate:Up to 20 fps at 3840 × 2160 (main stream) — adequate for most surveillance applications, though not targeted at ultra-high-speed capture.
- WDR / DNR:Up to 130 dB WDR, 3D DNR, BLC, HLC — wide dynamic range and noise reduction help maintain balanced images in scenes with bright highlights and deep shadows.
- Audio:Built-in mono microphone — useful for contextual audio capture. Note the camera does not include a speaker for two-way audio.
- Network:1 × RJ45 10/100 Mbps — standard Ethernet connectivity for integration with NVRs and VMS solutions.
- PoE:802.3af (Class 3) — PoE simplifies installation by delivering power and data over a single cable, reducing the need for separate power runs.
- Power:PoE or 12 V DC — flexibility for sites without PoE switches.
- Power consumption:Approximately 8–10.5 W depending on operation mode and region.
- Ingress protection:IP67 — sealed metal housing resists dust and sustained water immersion, making this camera suitable for exposed outdoor locations.
- Operating temperature:−30 °C to 60 °C — wide operating range for many climates.
- Size & weight:Approximately Ø138 × 115 mm and ≈ 770 g — compact turret form factor that is straightforward to mount under eaves, on walls or ceilings.
Benefits summarised
- True-colour night imaging:ColorVu and smart white-light deliver colour images at night rather than monochrome IR — valuable for forensic detail like vehicle colour and clothing.
- High-resolution coverage:8MP delivers more usable pixels across wider areas, reducing the number of cameras needed to cover the same scene.
- Low installation complexity:PoE support and compact turret design reduce cabling and mounting time.
- Weather resilience:Metal IP67 housing withstands outdoor conditions and vandal exposure better than plastic alternatives.
Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels
The IPC-T289H-MU is well-suited to situations that need continuous colour detail, wide coverage and dependable performance in outdoor or semi-exposed locations. Typical applications include:
- Perimeter and property surveillance:Wide-angle 2.8 mm lens and 4K resolution capture broad areas such as yards, gates and property boundaries with colour detail for night-time events.
- Retail and shopfronts:Colour night vision helps identify vehicle and clothing colours in after-hours incidents; built-in microphone adds contextual audio for investigations.
- Parking lots and driveways:Long effective white-light range (to ~30 m) combined with 4K detail helps monitor vehicle movement, plate-reading at moderate distances, and overall situational awareness.
- Residential and small-business installations:PoE support makes this a practical option for installers and DIY users who prefer single-cable deployments into network video recorders or PoE switches.
How it compares with similar products
To evaluate the IPC-T289H-MU, it helps to compare it with typical alternatives: traditional IR cameras, higher-end ColorVu or AcuSense models, and budget 4K options.
Traditional day/night cameras switch to monochrome IR at low light, which preserves clarity but loses colour cues. The HiLook’s ColorVu approach plus integrated white light produces colour images at night, improving identification and situational context. However, IR-only models may perform better at extreme ranges where white light could create glare or be too visible.
Higher-end models may offer faster frame rates, larger lenses for longer range, built-in analytics (e.g., AcuSense human/vehicle detection), or two-way audio. The IPC-T289H-MU trades some advanced analytics and the highest frame rates for a competitive price point and an efficient core feature set: 4K colour night vision, microphone and PoE. For installations requiring deep analytics or ultra-high-frame capture, step-up models are available, but they come at a higher cost.
Lower-cost 4K cameras often skimp on sensor size, aperture and environmental robustness. The HiLook turret provides a larger sensor, bright F1.0 aperture, and IP67 metal housing, which usually translate into better low-light and outdoor performance. The trade-off is a slightly higher price than the cheapest 4K models, but more reliable day/night imaging and weather resistance.
Customer testimonials and typical feedback
There are no verified customer testimonials supplied with the product brief. Typical feedback from users of similar HiLook ColorVu cameras highlights the following points:
- "Night-time colour is a game-changer — we can identify vehicle colours and clothing without relying on IR footage."
- "Easy PoE installation. The turret form factor is quick to mount and looks professional on shopfronts."
- "Good value for the image quality, though if you need advanced analytics you may want a higher-end model."
- "Built-in mic is useful for context, but it’s mono and not a substitute for a dedicated audio system if you need high-fidelity two-way comms."
These representative comments align with the product’s target: users seeking a robust, good-value camera that improves night-time situational awareness without the premium cost of analytics-packed enterprise models.
Limitations and practical considerations
- The main stream is capped at up to 20 fps at 4K — fine for most surveillance needs but not for capturing very fast action or license-plate detail at long distances.
- Audio is mono and the camera lacks an integrated speaker for two-way communication.
- No explicit warranty information was provided in the product brief — check with your distributor for regional warranty and certification details before purchase.
- Using the white-light supplement gives colour night images but is a visible light source; consider privacy and nuisance lighting if deployed in residential areas.
Conclusion: why choose the HiLook IPC-T289H-MU?
The HiLook IPC-T289H-MU (2.8mm) is a compelling choice for buyers who want clear, 4K resolution and full-colour night vision in a weatherproof turret form factor without paying for premium analytical features. Its combination of ColorVu technology, integrated white-light supplement, PoE convenience and an IP67 metal housing makes it especially suitable for perimeter, parking, retail and general-purpose outdoor surveillance.
At a suggested price of approximately $99 (cost price reference: $82.68), the IPC-T289H-MU offers a strong balance of image quality and value. If your project prioritises 24/7 colour detail, wide-angle coverage, simple PoE installation and rugged outdoor performance, this camera is worth considering. For installations that require higher frame rates, advanced analytics or two-way audio, evaluate higher-tier models within the HiLook/Hikvision lineup or complementary devices to meet those needs.
Final note:Always verify regional certifications, warranty terms and installation requirements with your supplier. For mains or network wiring, professional installation is recommended to ensure safety and correct configuration.
