Hikvision DS-KH8381-WTE1 7" IPS Indoor Video Intercom, PoE & Wi‑Fi

Introduction: Meet the Hikvision DS-KH8381-WTE1

The Hikvision DS-KH8381-WTE1 is a compact, smart indoor video intercom (indoor station) built for modern access control systems. Centered on a 7" IPS capacitive touchscreen and running an embedded Linux platform, this unit brings PoE (IEEE 802.3at) and built-in Wi‑Fi to small to medium residential and commercial installations. It integrates with Hik‑Connect and iVMS platforms, supports local microSD storage, and offers multiple alarm and relay interfaces for door locks, elevator control and other access functions. Finished in die‑cast aluminium and designed for flush, surface or table mounting, the DS-KH8381-WTE1 is positioned as a versatile mid‑range indoor station for installers and system integrators.

Key features at a glance

• 7" IPS capacitive touchscreenwith 1024 × 600 resolution for clear, responsive control.
• Dual network options:PoE (802.3at) for simplified cabling plus built‑in Wi‑Fi (802.11 b/g/n).
• Integration:Hik‑Connect and iVMS support for remote calling, live view and door release.
• Local storage:microSD (TF) up to 128 GB for alarm captures and messages.
• Extensive I/O:up to 8 alarm inputs, RS‑485, and 4 relay outputs for flexible access control.
• Flexible installation:flush, surface or table mounting and a durable die‑cast aluminium housing.

Detailed specifications and benefits

The 7" IPS capacitive touchscreen (1024 × 600) delivers a bright, wide‑angle display with good colour and viewing stability — useful in hallways, concierge desks or apartments where installers need a balance between compact size and readable UI. The capacitive screen offers smooth touch interactions for call handling, camera viewing and configuration.

The DS-KH8381-WTE1 supports wired Ethernet (RJ‑45 10/100 Mbps) and built‑in Wi‑Fi (802.11 b/g/n), giving installers the flexibility to use PoE for both power and network, or wireless where cabling is restricted. The unit runs Embedded Linux and integrates with Hikvision’s ecosystem (Hik‑Connect / iVMS), enabling features like remote indoor calling, live camera feeds and remote door release. Onboard microSD storage (up to 128 GB) allows local recording of alarm events, captured snapshots and messages — a useful fallback when network connectivity is intermittent.

Audio performance is supported by an omnidirectional microphone and a loudspeaker, with a suite of codecs (G.711, Opus, AAC variants, G.726, G.722.1) and noise suppression/echo cancellation for intelligible calls. The unit provides up to 8 alarm inputs, RS‑485 for external device control, and 4 relay outputs (30 VDC, 1 A max) plus a 12 VDC lock output (max 0.5 A). These capabilities enable multi‑door setups, elevator control, and integration with alarm systems or third‑party devices.

Power is via PoE (IEEE 802.3at) or a 12 VDC input; PoE simplifies installations by combining power and network over a single cable. The compact dimensions (180.4 × 128.4 × 21.8 mm) and light weight (412.2 g) make it suitable for different mounting styles. The die‑cast aluminium housing offers a premium feel and durability for indoor environments, while operating specifications (−10 °C to 50 °C; 10%–90% non‑condensing) cover most indoor settings.

• Flexible installation options with PoE and Wi‑Fi.
• Seamless integration into Hikvision ecosystems for centralized management.
• Robust I/O for complex access control needs (multi‑door, elevator integration).
• Local storage for resilience and event capture.
• Compact form factor that is suitable for apartments, offices and concierge stations.

Use cases and scenarios where this product excels

For homeowners who want a tidy indoor control point, the DS-KH8381-WTE1 offers a user‑friendly touchscreen for answering visitors, viewing linked network cameras and releasing door locks. PoE simplifies wiring when adding the unit during new builds or renovations.

In multi‑dwelling installations, the unit’s ability to support up to 16 linked indoor extensions and 16 network cameras makes it a practical option for concierge desks and resident units. The multiple alarm inputs and relays enable integration with door strikes, intercom door stations and elevator floor control systems — common requirements in apartment buildings.

Reception areas benefit from the unit’s clear touchscreen and integration with network cameras. Concierges can accept guest calls, view external cameras, and control doors or gates directly from the unit, while keeping a neat and professional desk footprint.

Because the DS-KH8381-WTE1 supports elevator control features and multiple relay/logic inputs, it can be part of a secure access system that restricts elevator floors to authorised users — a valuable use in office buildings and mixed‑use developments.

How it compares with similar products on the market

When evaluating indoor stations, buyers typically consider screen size, network options, integrations, I/O capability and whether the unit includes a built‑in camera. The DS-KH8381-WTE1 sits as a mid‑range indoor monitor that prioritizes integration and I/O flexibility rather than an all‑in‑one video doorbell replacement.

Some indoor stations include an integrated external camera or larger displays (8" or 10"). Those models are useful when you want a combined indoor camera for room monitoring or a more immersive display for multiple camera views. The DS-KH8381-WTE1 intentionally omits an external camera to remain compact and focused on intercom and control duties; it is designed to pair with external network cameras or Hikvision door stations for video sources.

Consumer Wi‑Fi intercoms often target single‑family installations with simpler relay and I/O needs. The Hikvision unit's strengths are its industrial I/O set, RS‑485 support and enterprise integration (iVMS, Hik‑Connect), which make it better suited to multi‑tenant or commercial systems where professional integration and reliability are important.

Competitors in the commercial space (other established video‑security manufacturers) offer similar indoor stations; selection often comes down to ecosystem preference, required I/O and software features. If you are already standardising on Hikvision cameras and door stations, the DS-KH8381-WTE1 offers a seamless fit. If you need higher lock power, an integrated camera, or additional on‑board memory for heavier recording demands, other units may be preferred.

Customer feedback and installer notes

While individual reviews vary by deployment, common themes from installers and end users evaluating similar Hikvision indoor stations include:

• Positive: Intuitive touchscreen interface and reliable PoE operation make installations straightforward.
• Positive: Good integration with Hik‑Connect/iVMS simplifies remote monitoring and centralised management.
• Positive: The I/O options and relay capacity are often praised for enabling complex access schemes (multiple doors, elevator control).
• Constructive: The lack of an integrated external camera means buyers must plan for a separate door station or network camera to provide video at the entrance.
• Constructive: Local microSD storage is useful but subject to limits in the datasheet (event counts); users expecting continuous recording should plan central NVR/recording strategies.

Installers typically recommend professional installation to ensure wiring, PoE power budgets and relay wiring conform to local regulations and system requirements.

Conclusion: Why choose the DS-KH8381-WTE1?

The Hikvision DS-KH8381-WTE1 is a thoughtfully balanced indoor video intercom for projects that need a responsive touchscreen interface, flexible networking (PoE + Wi‑Fi), and comprehensive I/O for access control. It is especially well suited to multi‑dwelling, commercial reception and elevator‑enabled installations where integration with a broader Hikvision ecosystem is a priority. Its compact design, durable housing and feature set make it a practical mid‑range option for integrators and property managers who want a reliable indoor station without the bulk of a larger display or the duplication of an integrated entrance camera.

If your project demands a tidy indoor monitor with strong I/O, solid software integration and PoE convenience, the DS-KH8381-WTE1 is a compelling choice — provided you plan for external camera/door station pairing and consider storage strategies for longer retention. For pricing context, this is positioned as a mid‑range offering and is often chosen for installations where professional access control capability and ecosystem compatibility are decisive factors.