Introduction: Meet the Hikvision DS-2CE72UF3T-E
The Hikvision DS-2CE72UF3T-E is an 8 MP (38409, 4K) ColourVu PoC fixed-lens turret analogue (TurboHD/TVI) camera designed for round-the-clock monitoring. Built to deliver full-time colour imaging even at night, the camera combines a high-resolution 8 MP sensor with an integrated white Smart Light, Power over Coax (PoC) support and an IP67-rated weatherproof turret body. That mix of features makes it an attractive option for homeowners, retailers and small businesses that want clearer detail, easier installation and reliable outdoor performance without the complexity of a full IP system.
- Resolution:8 MP (3840 9 , 4K)
- ColourVu full-time colour night vision:Integrated white Smart Light effective to ~40 m for true colour images after dark
- Power over Coax (PoC):Single-cable power and video with compatible TurboHD DVRs for simpler retrofits
- Robust outdoor build:IP67-rated turret housing suitable for exposed installations
- Advanced imaging:Wide Dynamic Range (WDR 9 dB) and 3D/2D noise reduction
Detailed specifications and benefits
Under the hood, the DS-2CE72UF3T-E packs a camera-grade 8 MP CMOS sensor capable of producing 38409 pixels of resolution. This enables meaningful detail at distances where lower-resolution analogue cameras struggle 9.
Important specification highlights and what they mean in practice:
- Lens and field of view:A fixed 2.8 mm, F1.0 lens provides a wide field of view (approximately H 9 110) which is ideal for general coverage such as front yards, driveways, store interiors and entrances.
- ColourVu full-time colour:Unlike traditional infrared (IR) night mode that produces monochrome images, the integrated white Smart Light maintains colour information in low light down to 0 Lux when activated, improving identification of clothing, vehicle colours and other critical detail. Manufacturer guidance states the Smart Light is effective to around 40 m in many conditions.
- Power over Coax (PoC):Reduces installation complexity for sites with existing coax by delivering power and HD video over the same cable when used with a PoC-capable DVR. This can save time and materials during retrofits and reduce the need for local power outlets at each camera location.
- Image processing:Wide Dynamic Range (9 dB) helps the camera manage scenes with bright highlights and deep shadows (for example, doorways with sunlit exteriors), while 3D/2D noise reduction improves clarity in low-light conditions without introducing significant blur.
- Output and frame rates:The TurboHD (TVI) output supports HD analogue video formats. At 8 MP resolution the camera records at 12.5/15 fps, with higher frame rates available at reduced resolutions (for example 1080p at 25/30 fps). This is a common compromise in high-resolution analogue cameras: ultra-high detail at slightly lower frame rates, or smoother motion at lower resolutions.
- Durability and environmental rating:An IP67-rated turret housing means the unit is dust-tight and protected against heavy rain and temporary immersion, making it suitable for exposed outdoor mounting in most climates. The compact mechanical profile (approx. 194.2 94 )."
Use cases: Where this camera excels
The DS-2CE72UF3T-E is purposely positioned for users who want 4K detail and colour night vision without the higher complexity and cost of IP systems. Typical scenarios include:
- Home security:Monitor driveways, front doors, yards and garden approaches in rich colour even at night, making it easier to identify people and vehicles.
- Retail and small business:Cover store frontages, entrances, loading areas and parking spaces where colour at night can aid loss prevention and incident investigation.
- Perimeter and entrance monitoring:The wide field of view and long Smart Light range make the camera suitable for shallow perimeter coverage and access points.
- Coax upgrades and retrofits:Installers replacing legacy analogue cameras benefit from PoC to avoid additional power runs and to speed deployment on existing coaxial cabling.
- Outdoor public-facing sites:Parks, communal areas and small car parks where IP67 protection and low-maintenance operation are priorities.
Comparison with similar products
Understanding where this model fits relative to alternatives helps decide if it meets your needs:
- Analogue IR turret cameras (traditional):Most conventional turboHD/TVI cameras use IR for night vision and switch to monochrome after dark. The ColourVu technology in the DS-2CE72UF3T-E retains colour information using a white Smart Light, improving identification. If colour at night matters, ColourVu is a clear advantage.
- IP/PoE 4K cameras:IP cameras typically offer higher frame rates, advanced analytics and flexible networking. However, they can be costlier and more complex to install. The Hikvision turret offers a middle ground: 4K detail with simpler coax-based installation (PoC) for sites with existing coax infrastructure or where NVR upgrades are not desired.
- Other ColourVu models:Within Hikvision range there are dome and bullet variants with different lenses and feature sets; pick the turret form factor where discrete, compact mounting and good all-round coverage are priorities.
Customer feedback and representative reviews
While no specific public testimonials are quoted here, common themes reported by installers and users of 4K ColourVu PoC cameras typically include:
- Image quality:Users frequently praise the sharpness of 4K resolution for capturing licence plates and facial detail at medium distances, particularly when paired with good lighting.
- Colour night vision:Customers often note the practical benefits of colour night images for identifying clothing and vehicle colours compared with IR-only cameras.
- Installation speed:Installers cite PoC as a major convenience when retrofitting existing coax runs, reducing labour time and avoiding additional cabling.
- Value:For the price point, buyers view 4K ColourVu PoC turret cameras as a cost-effective way to upgrade surveillance capability without moving to a full IP solution.
Potential downsides flagged by some users include the lower frame rate at full 8 MP resolution (12.5/15 fps), which can make very fast motion appear less smooth than with high-frame-rate IP cameras; and the requirement for PoC compatibility on the DVR side if you want to use single-cable power.
Conclusion: Why choose the DS-2CE72UF3T-E?
The Hikvision DS-2CE72UF3T-E ColourVu PoC turret camera is a strong choice for buyers who need high-resolution detail and practical colour imaging at night, but prefer to stay with TurboHD/TVI analogue infrastructure or want a simpler installer workflow using Power over Coax. Its blend of 8 MP (4K) resolution, integrated Smart Light for full-time colour to around 40 m, wide field of view, WDR and noise reduction make it well suited to domestic, retail and small business environments where identifiability and cost-effective upgrades matter.
Before purchase and installation, confirm PoC compatibility with your DVR and check mounting, power and wiring guidance to meet regulations and ensure safe installation. If you want true 4K detail with colour at night and the convenience of PoC on a weatherproof turret package, the DS-2CE72UF3T-E is a compelling, practical option.
