Introduction to the product and its key features
Hikvision DS-2CD2346G2-IU(4MM)(C)is a 4 MP AcuSense fixed turret IP camera built for reliable indoor and outdoor surveillance. Combining Hikvisions DarkFighter low-light sensor, 120 dB WDR and a smart IR supplement light (up to ~30 m) with on-device AcuSense deep-learning analytics, this turret camera targets applications that demand clear imaging and lower false alarms. It supports PoE (802.3af) or 12 V DC power, on-board microSD storage (manufacturer lists support up to 512 GB), and common networking standards including ONVIF. At a suggested price of $139.00 (cost price $100.36), the DS-2CD2346G2-IU presents a value proposition for installers, integrators and end users seeking performance without stepping up to much larger, higher-cost units.
- 4 MP resolution (2688 1520) at up to 30 fps
- AcuSense human/vehicle classification with face capture and reduced false alarms
- DarkFighter low-light performance + smart IR up to ~30 m
- 120 dB WDR, 3D DNR, BLC/HLC for challenging lighting
- H.265/H.265+/H.264/MJPEG with multiple streams and microSD local storage
- PoE (802.3af) or 12 V DC power; IP67 weather rating for outdoor use
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
The DS-2CD2346G2-IU packs a number of practical specifications that matter to real-world deployments. Below we break down the most relevant technical points and explain the benefits they deliver.
- Image sensor: 1/3" progressive-scan CMOS, delivering a maximum resolution of 2688 1520 (4 MP). Benefit: higher pixel count than 1080p cameras gives more detail for identification and evidence.
- Lens: fixed 4 mm, F1.4 (approx. 83 horizontal field of view). Benefit: wide enough for many entrance, corridor and small‑area coverage without distortion from ultra-wide lenses.
- Shutter and SNR: 1/3 s to 1/100,000 s shutter range; SNR '>
Note: The specification list above reflects the camera's ability to handle complex scenes. 120 dB WDR helps balance bright and dark areas (for example a doorway with bright sunlight outside and dim interior), while 3D DNR reduces noise in low-light, producing clearer images at lower bitrates.
- Infrared: Smart supplement light with range up to ~30 m. Benefit: dependable black-and-white night view for perimeter and parking areas without overexposure close to the camera.
- DarkFighter: enhanced low-light sensitivity for color imaging at low lux levels. Benefit: improved color detail in dusk conditions and when some ambient light exists.
- Video compression: H.265/H.265+/H.264/H.264+/MJPEG. Benefit: H.265 reduces storage and bandwidth compared to older codecs, lowering ongoing costs.
- Frame rate: up to 25/30 fps at 2688 1520 (region dependent). Benefit: smooth motion capture for most surveillance needs.
- Audio: built-in microphone on '-U' variants with common codecs. Benefit: synchronized audio helps contextualize events when permitted by law.
- Local storage: microSD slot with manufacturer-stated support up to 512 GB. Benefit: resilient recording when network interruptions occur, and edge storage for privacy-sensitive sites.
- Network: RJ45 10/100 Mbps with ONVIF Profile S/G/T support and Hikvisions platforms (Hik-Connect, iVMS-4200). Benefit: flexible integration into NVRs and third-party systems.
- Power options: PoE 802.3af (Class 3) or 12 V DC with reverse polarity protection. Power consumption approx. 5.8 W (12 V DC) or up to ~6.8 W (PoE). Benefit: PoE simplifies installation and centralizes power management.
- Ingress and temp: IP67 rating and operating range -30 C to 60 C. Benefit: suitable for outdoor installations in a wide range of climates.
- Certifications: CE, FCC, UL/CB listings referenced by the manufacturer. Benefit: peace of mind on compliance in many regions (verify local rules and certified suppliers).
Use cases and scenarios where the product excels
The DS-2CD2346G2-IU is versatile and particularly strong in scenarios where accurate classification, low-light performance and straightforward installations are priorities. Typical deployments include:
- Retail stores and shopfronts: the 4 MP sensor captures product detail and customer activity while AcuSense reduces nuisance alarms from non-human movement.
- Small-to-medium commercial sites: offices, small warehouses and loading bays benefit from the cameras balance of resolution, WDR and PoE convenience.
- Gated properties and residential perimeters: the cameras classification and IR range make it suitable for driveway and gate coverage where distinguishing people and vehicles matters.
- Car parks and access points: long-range IR and reliable classification improve event filtering in parking and entrance scenarios.
- Installations requiring edge storage or temporary offline recording: on-board microSD support keeps footage locally when network connectivity is lost.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When choosing a camera, buyers typically weigh image quality, analytics, installation complexity and cost. Below are practical comparisons to help position the DS-2CD2346G2-IU.
AcuSense adds on-device deep-learning classification for humans and vehicles. Compared to older motion-based detection, AcuSense markedly reduces false alarms caused by swaying vegetation, shadows or animals. If your site requires fewer nuisance alerts and better event relevance, the DS-2CD2346G2-IU is advantageous.
4 MP provides more detail for identification and evidence capture. While 2 MP cameras may use slightly less storage and bandwidth, the extra resolution of 4 MP makes a difference at longer distances and in scenes where small details matter (license plates at distance, facial features from farther back).
6 MP, 8 MP or multi-sensor cameras deliver even higher resolution or wider coverage but at higher cost, larger storage needs and increased bandwidth. The DS-2CD2346G2-IU hits a mid-point: improved detail over 1080p while remaining affordable and simple to deploy.
Other brands offer similar features under different names (for example, competitor "WizSense" or proprietary low-light enhancements). Key differentiators are software ecosystem and integration: if you standardize on Hikvision NVRs or Hik-Connect, using the DS-2CD2346G2-IU simplifies management and leverages features like AcuSense and face capture. If multi-vendor compatibility is a priority, the cameras ONVIF support makes integration into third-party systems possible.
Customer testimonials and installer feedback
There are limited formal third-party reviews tied to every specific SKU, but installer and end-user feedback on similar Hikvision AcuSense turret cameras tends to highlight the following recurring points:
- Positive: Image clarity in daylight and dusk conditions is frequently praised, and many installers report that AcuSense dramatically reduces false motion alerts compared with basic PIR or motion detection setups.
- Positive: PoE power and compact turret form factor make mounting and cabling straightforward in retail and residential environments.
- Constructive: A small number of users note that firmware updates and correct configuration are important to fully leverage analytics—working with authorised installers or following Hikvisions configuration guides helps avoid common pitfalls.
- Constructive: As with any IP camera, network planning (QoS, VLANs, and bandwidth estimation) is necessary when deploying multiple cameras at H.265/H.264 profiles to avoid congestion and ensure consistent recording.
Overall, feedback trends point to reliable day-to-day performance when the camera is configured and maintained according to vendor guidance.
Conclusion: why this product is a great choice
The Hikvision DS-2CD2346G2-IU(4MM)(C) 4 MP AcuSense turret camera strikes a pragmatic balance between imaging performance, intelligent analytics and installation simplicity. For sites that need better-than-1080p detail, improved low-light behavior and on-device human/vehicle classification to reduce false alarms, this camera offers a cost-effective solution. Its PoE capability, microSD edge storage, IP67 rating and industry-standard networking support make it flexible across retail, residential and small commercial deployments.
At a suggested price of $139.00, the camera is positioned as an accessible upgrade for users and integrators who want modern analytics without the expense and complexity of higher-tier multi-sensor units. As always, verify regional firmware, warranty and compliance details with authorised suppliers, and plan network and power provisioning before deployment to get the best results from the device.
