What’s the difference between 2-line, 4-line and 6-line cameras?

Hikvision divides its network IP cameras into three product lines called the 2-Line, 4-Line and 6-Line series. These terms relate to a naming convention and have nothing to do with the analogue resolution term ‘lines’ (TVL). Each series is aimed at a different type of installation and customer requirement.

Pan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ) camera models are not included in this guide, and the following unofficial names are given to the series 2-Line (Entry), 4-Line (Smart) and 6-Line (Professional) series. Features are camera dependent, not series dependent, so please check the camera model specification to verify the features available.

2-Line series network IP cameras (Entry)

Both versatile and cost-efficient, Hikvision’s 2-line series is a combination designed for the needs of a home, office, store, or other small businesses. Supporting 1080p resolution up to 4 megapixel, these cameras are easy to install, configure, and manage.

Entry Features

• 3D DNR delivers crystal-clear image quality in low light conditions.
• WDR captures clear images in strongly-lit and/or high-contrast environments.
• EXIR technology delivers the most advanced levels of night-time surveillance.
• Intrusion and line crossing detection for people or vehicles (entry/exit).
• Plug and Play, simply connect a network cable and access the camera.
• Dual stream capture for encoding and compressing the video signal.

4-Line series network IP cameras (Smart)

Hikvision’s 4-Line Smart IP cameras are a solid range of cameras that bring intelligence, efficiency, and convenience to key areas like wide dynamic range, colour rendition, and analytical data. There are box (full body) cameras, indoor domes, IR bullet cameras and outdoor domes, all with resolution options up to 4K. If you need it, there’s on-board storage up to 64GB with select micro SD card-compatible cameras.

Smart Features

• Resolution Optimised Image (ROI) to optimise a pre-defined image area.
• Triple stream to maximise use and management of camera bandwidth.
• Face detection to recognise people and add tracking capability.
• Scene detection to detect intentional movement of a fixed camera.
• Intrusion detection of an object entering a pre-defined area.
• People-counting with statistical reports to evaluate traffic/visitor flow.
• Smart IR adjusts the strength of the IR function for better visibility.

6-Line series network IP cameras (Professional)

Hikvision’s 6-Line professional/specialist IP cameras are designed for more specialist IP Security requirements. With solutions including Ultra Low Light Cameras, Fisheye 360 degree cameras and Pin Hole IP cameras, these are designed for hotels, banks, secure buildings and similar places that need unparalleled security through surveillance.

Professional Features

• intelligent detection for intrusion, traverse plane, face, audio, defocus, and scene change.
• Includes many of the features from the Hikvision entry and smart cameras.
• Supports heat mapping to analyse or monitor specific areas in view.
• Fisheye lenses offer a total 360 degree panoramic view.
• Ultra low light sensors for superior image quality in the dark.
• Corporate logo image can be overlaid on video recording or playback.
• Triple streams, main stream and third stream can be up to 2MP, sub-stream for mobile surveillance.

Hikvision is continually adding features to each series and pushing the barriers of what’s possible with a network camera. All cameras are compatible with the Hikvision range of NVR/DVRs that add additional functionality, including media storage, playback, redundancy and much more. See the related links or product of your choice below for more information.