Night-time is when your CCTV system does the real heavy lifting. But not all cameras are created equal, some struggle in darkness, while others deliver crystal-clear footage even in pitch-black conditions.
So, which Night Vision CCTV camera is best for night vision? In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of night vision, what to look for, and which Hikvision CCTV cameras at WME deliver the best results, especially in the UK’s gloomy, low-light conditions.
🌙 Why Night Vision Matters in a CCTV System
Let’s be honest, most suspicious activity happens when it's dark. Whether it’s a late-night break-in or a parcel thief at 6pm in winter, your CCTV needs to see clearly when your eyes can’t.
With police solving only 6.9% of burglaries in England and Wales (ONS, 2024), having sharp, usable footage is often the difference between justice and a lost claim.
Night vision ensures your system works 24/7, not just during the day. And Hikvision has multiple technologies that take this to the next level.
🔍 Types of Night Vision in Hikvision CCTV Cameras
1. IR (Infrared) Night Vision
- How it works: Emits infrared light invisible to the eye
- Image: Black-and-white
- Best for: Long-distance viewing (up to 40m or more)
- Example: DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E (5MP)
2. ColourVu Technology
- How it works: Uses a large aperture lens and built-in spotlight
- Image: Full-colour footage, even at night
- Best for: Driveways, gardens, and identifying clothing, vehicles
- Example: DS-2CD2087G2H-LIU(2.8mm)
3. Hybrid Light (Smart Switching)
- How it works: Switches between IR and white light based on movement
- Image: Black-and-white until motion is detected, then switches to colour
- Best for: Energy-efficient coverage with smart alerts
- Example: DDS-2CD2T87G2P-LSU/SL(C), (8MP)
🛠 Top 3 Night Vision CCTV Cameras from Hikvision (WME Picks)
| Model | Resolution | Night Vision Type | Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DS-2CD2387G2H-LISU/SL (8MP) | 4K (8MP) | ColourVu | ~30m | Home driveways, business entries |
| DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E (5MP) | 5MP | Infrared (IR) | Up to 40m | Rear gardens, alleyways, garages |
| DS-2CD2387G2P-LSU/SL (4mm) | 4K (8MP) | Hybrid Light | ~25m |
Smart, eco-friendly home setups |
🖤 Bonus Tip: Choose Black CCTV Cameras for Discreet Protection
Want your system to blend into the background at night? Many WME kits feature black CCTV cameras, perfect for darker properties or commercial use.
🔗 See our top-selling black 4K turret cameras in the Hikvision 4K CCTV Kit collection.
📲 Remote Night Viewing with Hik-Connect
Every WME Hikvision kit comes with Hik-Connect app access, so you can:
- View night footage in real time from your phone
- Set motion detection zones (and reduce false alerts)
- Play back low-light events in full colour
- Get instant push notifications when something’s moving in the dark
For electricians or multi-site installs, Hik-ProConnect enables centralised, remote management and diagnostics.
🔧 Night Vision Setup Tips
- Mount cameras at 8–10 feet high for best IR/light spread
- Avoid pointing directly at windows or shiny surfaces
- Keep lenses clean, dirt or spider webs can ruin IR footage
- Use a security camera box or junction box for weatherproof connections (see: Wiring Accessories)
❓ FAQs
Q: Can CCTV cameras record colour at night?
Yes, models with ColourVu or hybrid light capture full-colour night footage using a built-in spotlight.
Q: What is the best CCTV for night vision in rural areas?
Go for an IR model like the DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E (5MP) with long-range infrared, up to 40m.
Q: Do all Hikvision cameras have night vision?
Most do, but check the specs. At WME, every camera in our 4K kits includes either IR, ColourVu, or hybrid night vision.
Q: Will outdoor lighting affect night vision?
Sometimes, yes. Aim to install cameras in areas with minimal glare or bright external lights.
If you want clear, reliable footage around the clock, night vision should be top of your list, and Hikvision delivers the best of the best.
Whether you prefer infrared for long-range, colour night vision for clarity, or hybrid light for smart automation, WME has the right camera (and full kit) to fit your setup.
🛍️ Browse our best-selling Hikvision 4K CCTV kits , Night Vision CCTV collection, or speak to the WME team for tailored recommendations.
1 comment
Hello,
I was looking for pricing on a simple IR camera that could be installed in a care home to improve residence sleep. Currently staff have to check on a resident multiple times a night, the ability to check without entering a room would greatly improve their sleep. I would like pricing on 10 IR cameras, and pricing on installation costs .
thank you ,
Sonja