Introduction: What the Hikvision DS-2CD2566G2-IS(2.8MM)(C) offers
Hikvision DS-2CD2566G2-IS(2.8MM)(C)is a compact 6 MP AcuSense mini-dome IP camera designed to deliver high-resolution imagery, intelligent analytics and reliable all-weather operation for a wide range of CCTV applications. With a 2.8 mm fixed lens and a wide field of view, strong low-light sensitivity and built-in AcuSense deep-learning features, this camera is aimed at installers and end-users who need clear identification and smarter alerts without expanding system complexity.
Key highlights include 3200 × 1800 resolution, human/vehicle classification, integrated microphone, PoE power, IP67 and IK08 protection and smart IR illumination to about 30 m. It is suitable for retail, entrances, parking areas and perimeter monitoring where accurate detection and evidence-quality images are important.
- 6 MP (3200 × 1800) progressive-scan CMOS sensor for detailed images
- 2.8 mm fixed lens (≈105° horizontal field of view) for wide coverage
- AcuSense analytics: human/vehicle classification and common event rules (line crossing, intrusion, region entrance/exit), plus face capture
- Excellent low-light performance (0.003 Lux colour; 0 Lux with IR) and smart IR to ~30 m
- H.265/H.265+/H.264/H.264+ compression with up to 3 streams to balance quality and bandwidth
- Durable ingress and vandal protection (IP67, IK08) for outdoor and semi-exposed locations
- Flexible powering: PoE (802.3af) or 12 VDC, with on-board microSD and NAS storage support
Detailed specifications and what they mean for you
Understanding the technical specifications helps you match camera capabilities to real-world needs. Below are the headline specifications and the practical benefits they provide.
The camera uses a 1/2.4" progressive-scan CMOS sensor and captures up to 3200 × 1800 resolution at main stream frame rates (25/30 fps). The 6 MP sensor provides higher pixel density than common 2–4 MP models, which means clearer evidence-quality images for identification of faces, vehicle plates (at closer ranges) and improved cropping flexibility when reviewing footage.
The fixed 2.8 mm lens with an aperture of F1.6 provides a wide field of view (approximately 105° horizontal). This is ideal for covering entrances, lobbies and short-to-medium-range parking zones where a broad perspective is more valuable than extreme telephoto detail. A wide field of view reduces the number of cameras required to cover an area.
Rated at around 0.003 Lux in colour and 0 Lux with IR, the camera performs well in dim lighting. The integrated smart IR provides illumination up to approximately 30 m (850 nm), and adaptive IR control helps avoid overexposure for close objects. Practically, this means usable, color-capable video in very low ambient light and clear monochrome imagery after dark.
Support for H.265/H.265+/H.264/H.264+ compression and up to three independent streams permits flexible configurations: a high-resolution stream for recording, a moderate stream for remote viewing and a low-bitrate stream for mobile devices or cloud backups. H.265 and H.265+ help reduce storage use and network bandwidth without sacrificing detail when configured correctly.
AcuSense deep-learning analytics are a major differentiator. The camera can classify targets as human or vehicle, reducing false alarms caused by animals, weather or small moving objects. Built-in rules such as line crossing, intrusion detection and region entrance/exit allow targeted alerts. Face capture collects facial thumbnails for evidence review or further processing by a VMS.
With an IP67 rating and IK08 vandal resistance, the camera stands up to rain, dust and tampering attempts, making it suitable for external mounting. Power options include PoE (802.3af) and 12 VDC; PoE simplifies installation by combining power and data over one cable. On-board microSD storage and NAS support offer local failover recording in case of network interruptions.
Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels
The DS-2CD2566G2-IS(2.8MM)(C) is versatile and particularly effective where high-detail imaging and intelligent detection are needed across medium-wide scenes:
- Retail environments: Wide coverage of shop floors and entrances, human/vehicle classification reduces nuisance alerts and face capture helps with loss prevention and incident review.
- Office building entrances and lobbies: High-resolution footage for identification, integrated audio for contextual awareness and analytics to detect loitering or intrusion into restricted zones.
- Car parks and small outdoor lots: Wide-angle views to monitor vehicle movement, IR for overnight coverage and classification to focus alerts on vehicles rather than pedestrians or moving foliage.
- Perimeter and site security: Line-crossing and intrusion rules combined with weather-proof housing suit perimeters where environmental exposure is a factor.
- SMB and enterprise hybrid systems: Works well with NVRs, VMS and ONVIF-compliant systems for integrators who need a reliable, analytics-ready camera without adding separate analytics servers.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When evaluating this Hikvision model, it helps to compare by capability class rather than only by brand. Consider the following points:
- Resolution class: Compared to 2 MP or 4 MP domes, the 6 MP sensor gives noticeably better detail for identification. That said, 8 MP (4K) cameras offer even higher detail at the cost of increased bandwidth and storage.
- AcuSense vs. traditional motion detection: Cameras without deep-learning analytics tend to generate more false alarms. AcuSense’s human/vehicle classification reduces operator workload and false positives, similar in benefit to analytics offered by other mainstream manufacturers but often integrated directly in Hikvision cameras.
- Wide-angle fixed lens vs varifocal: The 2.8 mm fixed lens is excellent for broad coverage and cost-effective deployments. If you need long-range plate capture or adjustable framing, a varifocal or motorized lens camera would be preferable.
- Durability & features vs price: With IP67/IK08, PoE, built-in mic and smart IR, this model competes strongly in the mid-range market. Higher-priced models may add improved sensors, enhanced low-light (e.g., larger sensors), in-body analytics accelerators or extended warranty coverage.
- Competitor ecosystems: Other manufacturers offer similar analytics and rugged mini-dome options. Choosing often comes down to existing platform compatibility (NVR/VMS), preferred analytics accuracy, and local support/availability.
Customer testimonials and typical feedback
While specific customer reviews were not supplied here, feedback commonly reported by installers and users of 6 MP AcuSense Hikvision cameras mirrors the camera’s strengths and limitations:
- Positive: Many users praise the sharp image quality for everyday identification tasks, the reduction in false alarms thanks to AcuSense analytics, and the convenience of PoE installations.
- Positive: Installers often note the compact mini-dome form factor and robust IP67/IK08 ratings make the camera easy to deploy outdoors without bulky housings.
- Constructive: Some end-users emphasize the importance of correct positioning and network configuration to get the best from the analytics and IR—placement too close or too far can impact face capture and classification accuracy.
- Constructive: As with similar models, advanced configuration (bitrate tuning, exposure, analytics thresholds) benefits from experienced installers or integrators to optimize bandwidth, storage and alarm behavior.
Overall, assembled feedback indicates the model is well-regarded for mid-range commercial and residential applications where smart detection and evidence-quality imagery are priorities.
Conclusion: Why this camera is a strong choice
The Hikvision DS-2CD2566G2-IS(2.8MM)(C) strikes a practical balance between high-resolution imaging, intelligent analytics and rugged reliability. Its 6 MP sensor delivers the clarity required for identification tasks, while AcuSense analytics help reduce false alarms and focus attention on human or vehicle events. PoE support and on-board storage options simplify installation and resilience, and the IP67/IK08 rating ensures the camera stands up to challenging outdoor conditions.
For applications such as retail, entrances, parking areas and perimeter surveillance, this camera provides a cost-effective upgrade over lower-resolution models and avoids some of the bandwidth and storage costs of ultra-high-resolution (8 MP+) alternatives. If you want a compact, analytics-ready mini-dome with strong low-light performance and flexible deployment options, the DS-2CD2566G2-IS(2.8MM)(C) is a compelling option.
Suggested retail price is approximately $163.23 (suggested), with a cost price listed as $137.11; actual street prices and warranty packages will vary by reseller and region. Before purchase, confirm local certification, warranty and support arrangements and consider professional installation for mission-critical deployments to ensure optimal performance.
