Hikvision vs Dahua High-End 4MP Cameras Test

Aug 11, 2016

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The Dahua and Hikvision models tested here are solid value options for those looking for >1080p performance but requiring remote focus and zoom lacking in lower cost models. While they come at a ~$150 premium over fixed lens IR models, they are significantly less expensive than many/most domes with similar featuresets (IP66, true WDR, IR, motorized zoom), ~$300 online vs. an average of nearly ~$700.

Finally, note that performance in wide FOVs and WDR scenes was slightly improved over low cost models, though both Dahua and Hikvision domes lagged slightly in low light compared to less expensive bullet options.

Dahua vs. Hikvision

The Dahua HDBW5421 outperformed the Hikvision 2742 in our tests, with more even IR coverage resulting in better low light performance, slightly better WDR imaging, and easier focus due to on board buttons/remote autofocus (both features the Hikvision model lacks).

However, the Hikvision 2742’s bandwidth consumption was a fraction of the Dahua 4MP model in our tests due to its inclusion of their H.264+ smart CODEC. Storage costs may be significantly lower because of this when using the Hikvision camera.

Key Findings

Here are the key findings from this test:

In wide fields of view (~60′), the Dahua 5421 4MP zoom camera performed slightly better than Hikvision’s 4MP motorized zoom equivalent (2742), with more even exposure and better chart legibility.
Both Dahua and Hikvision zoom cameras provided slightly more subject/test chart details than their respective fixed lens bullet counterparts in wide FOVs.
In narrower fields of view where PPF is higher (~80 in the 4MP models), details of all the 4MP models were similar in full light.
In low light (~0.1lx), the Dahua 4MP zoom camera performed better than the Hikvision equivalent, which had a very bright center IR hotspot, much darker at the edges of the FOV.
However, both zoom cameras were outperformed at night by the low cost bullet models, which produced slightly better images of the subject and much clearer text legibility.
The Dahua 5421 includes zoom buttons directly on the camera, as well as a composite video output, which made aiming and focusing easier. Hikvision includes the composite output, but no physical controls on the camera.
The Hikvision 2742 includes remote focus and zoom, but does not include autofocus. Dahua’s 4MP motorized model does.

Pricing

Both the Dahua IPC-HDBW5421($149.0) and Hikvision DS-2CD2742 sell for ~$300 USD online, roughly twice the price of low cost bullet models, which sell for ~$130-150 (though lack motorized zoom).

However, this price is ~60% lower than the average price of outdoor zoom models, ~$750.

Physical Overview

Both cameras are about average sized for outdoor domes, with the Hikvision 2742 moderately smaller than the Dahua 5421. Features of both are similar with two key points:

Dahua includes zoom buttons: The Dahua camera includes physical buttons on the camera for wide/tele zoom control. Hikvision does not. In our tests (this and others) we found that these controls speed aim and focus time.
Hikvision “clicky” gimbal: The Hikvision dome’s gimbal “clicks” as the camera is turned. This may make installation easier for some, as it does not require untightening/retightening of screws to aim the camera. However, others may find the clicks too far apart, limiting precise aiming of the camera.

Hikvision vs Dahua High-End 4MP Cameras Test Test Parameters

All cameras were tested using default settings unless otherwise specified, with the following applied to all cameras: