Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2CD2386G2-IU 4K AcuSense Turret Camera
Hikvision DS-2CD2386G2-IU — 4K AcuSense turret camerais a high-resolution fixed turret IP camera designed for both outdoor and indoor surveillance. Combining Hikvisions DarkFighter low-light imaging and AcuSense deep-learning human/vehicle classification, this 8 MP (3840 D7 2160) camera delivers crisp daytime detail, improved colour performance at night, and fewer false alarms from environmental triggers. Built with PoE (802.3af) support and an IP67 metal housing, it aims to be a practical choice for commercial, residential, and light-industrial applications where reliable image quality and smarter detection matter.
Key features at a glance
- 4K 8 MP resolution:3840 D7 2160 sensor for fine detail and wide coverage.
- DarkFighter low-light technology:colour imaging down to 0.003 Lux and B/W with IR to 0 Lux.
- AcuSense human/vehicle classification:deep-learning based filtering to reduce false positives from motion alarms.
- Wide dynamic range:True 120 dB WDR for scenes with strong backlight or mixed lighting.
- Weatherproof and power options:IP67 metal housing with PoE (802.3af) or 12 V DC power.
- Efficient compression & storage:H.265+/H.265/H.264 support, microSD up to 512 GB and NAS support (NFS/SMB).
Detailed specifications and benefits
This section breaks down the DS-2CD2386G2-IUs core specifications and explains the practical benefits they provide to everyday installations.
- Image sensor: 1/1.8" progressive-scan CMOS. Benefit: larger sensor area helps with dynamic range and low-light sensitivity compared with smaller sensors.
- Max resolution: 3840 D7 2160 (8 MP). Benefit: four times the detail of 1080p, useful for identifying faces, license plates, and capturing wide coverage with fewer cameras.
- Frame rate: Up to 25/24 fps (region dependent). Benefit: smooth, real-time monitoring suitable for most security needs without excessive storage demands.
- DarkFighter technology: colour to 0.003 Lux; B/W 0 Lux with IR. Benefit: produces usable colour images in very low ambient light, which helps recognition and situational awareness overnight without relying solely on monochrome IR footage.
- True 120 dB WDR. Benefit: balances bright and dark parts of a scene (for example, entrances with backlit backgrounds) so subjects arent lost in shadows or blown highlights.
- IR illumination: Up to 30 m (850 nm). Benefit: extends usable night coverage when ambient light is insufficient for DarkFighter colour capture.
- Fixed lens options: 2.8 mm, 4 mm, or 6 mm. Benefit: choose a lens to match the coverage area you needwider field for general area surveillance (2.8 mm) or narrower, longer-range views (6 mm) for entrances or gates.
- Horizontal FOV: from approximately 111 (2.8 mm) down to 51 (6 mm). Benefit: lets installers plan camera placement to minimize blind spots or reduce the number of cameras required for a site.
- Video compression: H.265+, H.265, H.264+, H.264. Benefit: modern codecs (H.265/H.265+) significantly reduce bandwidth and storage requirements while preserving image quality, lowering ongoing costs.
- Network: RJ45 10/100 Mbps, IPv4/IPv6; ONVIF profiles S/G/T and Hikvision APIs. Benefit: integrates with most NVRs, VMS platforms and third-party systems that support ONVIF.
- Local and network storage: microSD up to 512 GB and NAS support. Benefit: flexibility to store footage at the edge, on network storage, or both for redundancy.
- Built-in mono microphone in the U variant. Benefit: adds audio context to video events where allowed by local law.
- Power options: PoE 802.3af (Class 3) or 12 V DC; power consumption ~6.8 W via PoE. Benefit: PoE simplifies installations by carrying power and data over a single cable.
- Environmental specs: IP67 ingress protection; operating temperature 30 B0C to 60 B0C; metal housing. Benefit: rugged build and a wide temperature tolerance make the camera suitable for outdoor exposures and harsh conditions.
Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels
The DS-2CD2386G2-IU is purpose-built for sites that need high detail, reliable night performance, and smarter detection. Typical scenarios include:
- Perimeter and entrance surveillance:4K resolution captures identifying detail across gates, driveways and building approaches while AcuSense reduces alarms from small animals, leaves or lighting changes.
- Parking lots and vehicle access control:The combination of high resolution and human/vehicle classification helps distinguish pedestrians from cars, focusing operator attention on relevant events.
- Retail and commercial storefronts:Low-light colour imaging preserves recognizable colour information after dark for loss prevention and incident review.
- Residential or multi-dwelling properties:PoE simplicity and a compact turret form factor make it well-suited to homes and apartment complexes where discreet but capable cameras are needed.
- Remote or seasonal sites:Rugged IP67 housing and wide operating temperature range support installations in exposed or frequently changing conditions.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When evaluating the DS-2CD2386G2-IU, its useful to compare it against other manufacturers and Hikvision lines to determine fit and value.
- Both Hikvisions AcuSense and Dahuas WizSense use deep-learning algorithms for human/vehicle classification. In practice, either technology can significantly reduce false alarms compared with basic motion detection. Choice may come down to integration preferences, VMS compatibility, and local support.
- DarkFighter emphasises low-light colour performance by using larger sensors and optimized processing, whereas ColorVU is tuned to deliver bright, colour night images using supplemental lighting. DarkFighter works well in very low ambient light; color-illumination solutions can offer consistently bright colour but may require more visible lighting.
- Compared with dome cameras, turrets are generally easier to clean and less susceptible to IR reflection issues. Compared with 4K bullet cameras, turrets are more compact and less conspicuous. Axis, Bosch and Uniview also offer fixed 4K options with varying levels of low-light performance and analytics; the decision often hinges on integration, price and specific feature trade-offs.
Availability, lifecycle and warranty considerations
Important: Hikvision lists this DS-2CD2386G2-IU model as discontinued. That means stock levels, firmware updates and warranty support may vary by supplier. Before purchasing, confirm with your distributor:
- Current stock and lead time.
- Manufacturer or reseller warranty coverage.
- Availability of firmware updates and long-term support.
Customer feedback and typical user impressions
While there are no specific, attributed customer testimonials included here, common themes reported for cameras of this class and from this Hikvision line include:
- Praise for image clarity and 4K detail, especially for wide-area coverage where fewer cameras are preferred.
- Positive notes on DarkFighters low-light colour performance compared with standard IR-only cameras.
- Appreciation for AcuSenses ability to reduce nuisance alarms caused by animals, light, or weather, which lowers time spent reviewing irrelevant alerts.
- Some buyers raise lifecycle and support concerns when a model is discontinued, so verification of warranty and firmware support is often requested.
Pricing and value
The suggested retail price for this model is approximately $169.00. The cost price data indicates supplier cost around $135.70. For buyers, the value proposition comes from the balance of 4K resolution, advanced low-light performance, analytics that lower operational workload, and PoE convenience. If long-term firmware and support are essential, compare offers from resellers that include verified warranty arrangements.
Conclusion: Why choose the DS-2CD2386G2-IU?
The Hikvision DS-2CD2386G2-IU offers a compelling mix of high-resolution imaging, advanced low-light capabilities and smart analytics for environments where accurate detection and clear detail matter. Its DarkFighter sensor provides usable colour at very low light levels, while AcuSense helps focus attention on human and vehicle events rather than background motion. PoE support, efficient H.265+ compression, and robust IP67 construction make it flexible for many outdoor and indoor deployments.
However, the models discontinued status means prospective buyers should confirm warranty, firmware and support arrangements before purchase. For projects that require a compact, high-detail camera with improved night performance and smarter alarms, the DS-2CD2386G2-IU remains a strong option—provided you verify availability and long-term support with your distributor.
