For many people Hikvision model numbers can look completely unintelligible. This guide can help you to understand the naming rules and the logic behind the Hikvision’s model numbers (for analog or IP camera, NVRs, DVR, PTZs).

The first thing to note is that the naming rules are slightly different depending on the type of product. The letters and numbers in the model tag mean different things for IP cameras, PTZ cameras or recorders. It will all become clearer shortly.

Naming rules: Hikvision IP cameras

The Hikvision IP camera range varies from dome to bullet to turret (and more) and it shares the same naming rules across models. The image below shows the possible variances.
To put this into practice, DS-2CD2123G0-I is an 2MP entry level outdoor dome camera with IR. While DS-2CD2635FWD-IZS is a 3MP bullet camera with IR, motorized varifocal lens and I/O port.

Naming rules: Hikvision PTZ cameras

As PTZ cameras are more complex than regular IP ones, the naming convention is slightly different to take into account the features found only in these cameras. The image below shows the different naming possibilities:
For example the DS-2DF8225IX-AELW camera is a 8” 2MP advanced PTZ camera with 25x optical zoom and IR, which can operate in low temperatures. While the DS-2DE4225IW-DE is a 4″ 2MP PTZ with 25x optical zoom.

Naming rules: Hikvision NVRs

A NVR is an abbreviation Network Video Recorder and they have their own naming rules which includes important information such: the product line, the number of hard drives that can be installed, the number of channels, the megapixels supported etc. Below is the naming chart for Hikvision NVRs.

Naming rules: Hikvision DVRs

A DVR is an abbreviation Digital Video Recorder (so-called analog recorders) and they have their own naming rules which includes important information such: the product line, the number of analog cameras supported, the number of hard drives that can be installed. Below is the naming chart for Hikvision DVRs.

Naming rules: Hikvision Analog cameras

The Hikvision analog camera range varies from dome to bullet to turret (and more such as box cameras) and it shares the same naming rules across models. The image below shows the possible variances.