Hikvision DS-2CD2146G2H-ISU 4MP DarkFighter Fixed Dome Camera (4 mm)

Introduction: Hikvision DS-2CD2146G2H-ISU 4MP DarkFighter Fixed Dome Camera (4 mm)

The Hikvision DS-2CD2146G2H-ISU (4 mm) is a compact, rugged IP CCTV dome designed for reliable 24/7 surveillance in challenging lighting and environmental conditions. Marketed as the 4MP DarkFighter Dome, this camera combines Hikvisions low-light DarkFighter image sensor, AcuSense deep-learning analytics for human/vehicle classification, and robust mechanical protection (IP67/IK10). With options for PoE or 12 VDC power, integrated audio and alarm I/O, and flexible storage up to 512 GB on a microSD card, it is built for a wide range of indoor and outdoor security applications. The suggested price for this model is $149 (cost price listed at $104.33), making it an attractive option for organisations that need advanced imaging and analytics without a steep premium.

Key features at a glance

• 4 MP resolution(2688 × 1520) at up to 25/30 fps for detailed scene capture.
• DarkFighter low-lightsensor for colour imaging at extremely low illuminance (down to 0.001 Lux).
• AcuSense analyticswith human/vehicle classification to reduce false alarms.
• True WDR 120 dBto handle high-contrast scenes with bright backgrounds and deep shadows.
• Rugged buildwith IP67 weatherproofing and IK10 vandal resistance.
• Integrated audio and alarm I/Ofor two-way monitoring and event-triggered responses.
• Flexible storagevia microSD up to 512 GB, NAS, and ONVIF compatibility for third-party VMS.

Detailed specifications and benefits

The DS-2CD2146G2H-ISU is built around a 1/3 progressive-scan CMOS sensor delivering 4 MP images (2688 × 1520). That resolution strikes a balance between detail and bandwidth/storage efficiency: enough pixels to read license plates at moderate range, identify faces in many contexts, and provide clear situational awareness without the higher storage and network demands of 4K sensors.

This fixed 4 mm M12 lens gives an approximate horizontal field of view of 81.1, vertical 44.7 and diagonal 94.6, suitable for medium-wide coverage such as entrances, retail floors and parking aisles. The F1.0 aperture is generous, letting in more light to complement the DarkFighter sensors low-light performance. DarkFighter technology enables colour imaging down to 0.001 Lux with AGC on, meaning scenes remain colourised in near-dark conditions where many conventional cameras switch to monochrome IR-only images.

In addition to DarkFighter, the camera includes IR LEDs effective to about 30 metres (850 nm), allowing black-and-white imaging at absolute zero lux. The practical benefit is consistent, informative footage across day/night cycles: colour details in low ambient light, and IR-backup when total darkness occurs.

True WDR of 120 dB helps balancing bright and dark areas in high-contrast scenes (for example, doorways with bright daylight outside and dim interiors). Video streams support H.265+/H.265/H.264+/H.264 compression, with bitrates configurable typically from 32 Kbps to 8 Mbps, reducing network and storage load while preserving essential details.

AcuSense deep-learning analytics separate human and vehicle targets from other motion, significantly reducing false alarms caused by vegetation, small animals or changing light. This makes it effective for perimeter and busy public spaces. Built-in microphone (SU model) plus audio line in/out and alarm I/O let installers create integrated solutions: event-triggered voice warnings, two-way communications, or alarm circuits tied to gates and lighting.

Network interfaces include a 10/100Base-T RJ45 with IPv4/IPv6, HTTPS and RTSP support, and ONVIF interoperability for most third-party VMS platforms. On-device storage accepts microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC cards up to 512 GB; NAS is supported for centralized recording. Power options are PoE (IEEE 802.3af, Class 3) or 12 VDC; PoE typical power draw is around 8.5 W, which simplifies deployments and cabling.

The dome measures approximately Ø 121.5 mm × 97.6 mm and weighs about 550 g. Its rated IP67 for weatherproofing and IK10 for impact resistance, making it suitable for exposed outdoor mounting. Operating temperature ranges from 90C to 60C, covering most climates with proper installation and cabling protection.

Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels

• Retail and commercial premises:The AcuSense analytics reduce nuisance alerts and focus security operators on people or vehicles, while DarkFighter keeps colour detail during evening trading and dim aisles.
• Parking lots and perimeters:IP67 and IK10 protection plus good IR reach and low-light colour imaging help identify people, vehicles and incidents in car parks and boundary fences.
• SME and enterprise installations:PoE support and ONVIF compatibility simplify integration with existing network video recorders or cloud-managed platforms.
• Mixed indoor/outdoor sites:Entrances, loading bays and stairwells benefit from WDR and integrated audio/alarm features for access control and incident response.

How it compares with similar products

Within Hikvisions lineup, the DS-2CD2146G2H-ISU sits as a mid-range analytic dome offering: better low-light colour than standard CMOS models (thanks to DarkFighter) and analytics that are more advanced than basic motion detection but not as specialised as full AI behavioural analytics found in higher-tier devices.

Compared with higher-resolution 4K (8 MP) cameras, the 4 MP sensor is less demanding on bandwidth and storage while still delivering ample detail for many security tasks. Against varifocal or PTZ cameras, the fixed 4 mm lens trades adjustable zoom for simplicity and lower cost; if you need remote zoom or long-range identification youd choose a PTZ or varifocal optic instead.

Competitors such as Dahua and Axis offer similar domes with low-light options and analytics. Dahua's Starlight series targets low-light imaging, while Axis emphasizes open-platform integration and advanced edge analytics on some models. The DS-2CD2146G2H-ISU competes by combining strong low-light colour, AcuSense classification and robust ingress/impact ratings at a competitive price point, making it a balanced choice where cost and performance must be weighed.

Customer feedback and installer notes

Public reviews and installer feedback for cameras in this class typically highlight a few recurring strengths: reliable PoE operation, clear low-light colour where DarkFighter is present, and meaningful reductions in false positives when human/vehicle filters are configured properly. Installers often appreciate the all-in-one dome format and the presence of audio/alarm I/O for integrated solutions.

Some installers note that fine-tuning AcuSense settings and exposure/WDR parameters is important to get optimal results in mixed lighting environments. As with any camera deployment, correct mounting position, lens selection and network configuration are critical to success.

Conclusion: Why choose the DS-2CD2146G2H-ISU?

The Hikvision DS-2CD2146G2H-ISU 4MP DarkFighter dome is a versatile, cost-effective surveillance camera that blends excellent low-light colour imaging, analytics to reduce false alarms, and a rugged build for outdoor use. Its especially well suited to retail, parking and perimeter security where continuous night-time awareness and accurate detection of people and vehicles are priorities. With flexible PoE power, ample storage options, and ONVIF compatibility, it integrates easily into many CCTV systems without excessive infrastructure upgrades.

For organisations that need a dependable, mid-range analytics camera with superior low-light capability and a modest price tag (suggested price $149), the DS-2CD2146G2H-ISU offers a balanced feature set that addresses common operational pain points: false alarms, poor night-time imagery, and harsh outdoor environments. Always pair the camera with correct mounting, network provisioning and, where required, professional installation to realise its full potential.