Hikvision vs BCS – Comparison

BCS Monitoring or Hikvision? Many owners of small and medium-sized businesses are wondering whether it’s better to purchase BCS or Hikvision surveillance systems. So, what is the difference between these manufacturers?

Which is better, BCS or Hikvision?

Hikvision, known as Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Co., is the world’s leading manufacturer of CCTV cameras. What makes them so good? Primarily, it’s their diverse range of camera models, recorders, and related products. As a result, Hikvision produces excellent, user-friendly, and efficient IP cameras. They are also one of the well-known options in this space. Hikvision products are not only easy to install but also offer many features that other brands don’t have. Their camera systems focus on ease of use, integration, and capabilities while providing high performance.

Hikvision is a global leader in innovative video surveillance products and solutions. The company offers a comprehensive line of products and services, from cameras and recorders to software and accessories. Hikvision places great emphasis on research and development, constantly introducing new and innovative products to the market.

BCS is a Polish brand established in 2008. Years of experience in the electronic security systems sector have allowed the company to create a unique range of products. For 13 years, the domestic BCS brand has been one of the most recognized brands in the CCTV industry.

In short, BCS Best CCTV Solution offers a full range of CCTV products, from economical to professional models designed for project implementations. The company’s catalog includes systems based on every monitoring technology, including IP, HD-CVI, HD-TVI, AHD, and analog. BCS offers both small recorders for handling a few cameras and state-of-the-art IP solutions designed for the largest systems used worldwide. All installation accessories such as power supplies, mounts, and junction boxes are tested and verified by BCS engineers and introduced to the market as an integral part of the BCS system.

BCS products are divided into the following product groups:

• BCS Point
• BCS Line
• BCS Basic
• BCS View
• BCS Eco
• BCS Universal

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BCS or Hikvision Recorders

BCS and Hikvision both offer a wide range of recorders, from basic to high-end models. Both brands provide features such as remote viewing, motion detection, and email notifications. However, there are some key differences between these two brands.

The Hikvision DS-7616NI-K2 is a modern, 16-channel IP surveillance recorder that records footage from high-resolution cameras. The device has independent HDMI (4K resolution) and VGA (up to 1080p) outputs, allowing you to connect two monitors simultaneously. The recorder also allows full image configuration on each output, with options for window divisions and displaying the image from any camera. It has two ports that can accommodate SATA hard drives with a maximum capacity of 10 TB each. The device also supports NAS/IP SAN disk arrays via network connection.

Features of the Hikvision DS-7616NI-K2 include:

• Recording high-resolution images (up to 8 MP)
• Separate HDMI (4K/30 Hz, 2K, 1080p/30/60 Hz) and VGA (1080p/60 Hz) outputs
• Support for up to 16 Hikvision IP cameras or other models supported by ONVIF
• Max bitrate: 160 Mbps (incoming), 160 Mbps (recording), 160 Mbps (outgoing)
• Support for 2 SATA hard drives with a maximum capacity of 10 TB each
• VCA image analysis (virtual line crossing, face detection, intrusion area)
• AcuSense support
• ANR support
• Compression support: H.265+/H.265/H.264+/H.264/MPEG4
• USB 2.0 (1x) and USB 3.0 (1x) inputs
• Audio input and output
• 4/1 alarm input and output
• Efficient monitoring of LAN network status, disks, and cameras
• Low network utilization for viewing images from all cameras (channel 0)

The BCS-L-NVR1602-A-4KE is a 16-channel IP recorder with a resolution of up to 4K (8 MP) that can record footage from IP cameras. With a bitrate of 160 Mbps, the device can handle high-resolution cameras. It supports archiving video material on two hard drives with a capacity of up to 10 TB. Image display is possible through parallel HDMI/VGA ports (the same image is shown).

Features of the BCS-L-NVR1602-A-4KE include:

• 16 IP channels
• Monitor outputs: 1x HDMI 4K, 1x VGA 1080P
• Display performance: 8x 1080p 30 fps
• Max incoming bandwidth: 160 Mbps, outgoing: 64 Mbps, playback: 160 Mbps
• Recording resolution: 8 MP
• Compression: Smart H.265+/H.265/Smart H.264+/H.264/MJPEG
• Audio: 1 input and 1 output
• Audio compression: PCM/G711A/G711U/G726/AAC
• Synchronous playback: 16 channels
• Alarm: 4 inputs/2 outputs
• Data archiving: Flash memory (USB) / Network download
• Network interface: RJ-45 port (10/100/1000 Mbps)
• Protocols: HTTP, HTTPS, TCP/IP, IPv4/IPv6, UPnP, SNMP, RTSP, UDP, SMTP, NTP, DHCP, DNS, IP Filter, DDNS, FTP, Alarm Server, IP Search, P2P
• Mobile users: iOS, Android
• Compatibility: ONVIF(S/G/T)
• Hard drive: 2x SATA, max 10 TB each (total 20 TB)
• Interfaces: 2x USB 2.0
• Power supply: 12V DC, 4A, power consumption <10W (without hard drives)
• Operating conditions: -10°C to +55°C / 10-90%RH
• Dimensions: 1U, 375×282.9x53mm

These two recorders are direct competitors, and their specifications are very similar. The Hikvision recorder has an advantage in terms of outgoing bitrate, which can be important when using high-resolution cameras in busy areas due to the nature of H.264 compression. The Hikvision recorder also performs much better in displaying the image on the monitor, as it allows independent VGA output configuration in relation to HDMI. This means that you can specify what you want to display on the additional monitor. The other parameters are almost identical. Both recorders handle artificial intelligence features equally well.

Hikvision or BCS Cameras

Hikvision and BCS offer a wide range of cameras, from basic models to high-end ones. Both brands provide features such as night vision, wide dynamic range, and remote viewing. However, there are some key differences between these two brands. Hikvision cameras are generally more expensive than BCS cameras and are more commonly used in large-scale projects, but this is mainly due to Hikvision’s greater market recognition. Cameras from both brands offer similar features and quality.

The camera presented below can be a very interesting solution that can easily compete with Hikvision offerings.

BCS-L-EIP55FCL3-AI1 Camera

BCS-L-EIP55FCL3-Ai1 is a megapixel camera designed for use in an IP surveillance system. It belongs to the NightColor series and is capable of generating high-quality, color video recordings even in very poorly illuminated areas. As a result, it is perfectly suited for locations where 24/7 color monitoring is required. Some key features of the BCS-L-EIP55FCL3-Ai1 camera include:

• Built-in alarm system (optical and acoustic), allowing it to be used in areas that require active protection. It can be used, for example, to monitor restricted access areas in industrial or public buildings. Another interesting application is to signal an alarm when a car is parked in a prohibited zone. The SMD motion detection system is capable of distinguishing between people and vehicles in a scene, sending precise alarms.

Technical Specifications:

• Image sensor: 1/2.7” PS CMOS
• Max resolution: 2592 x 1944 (5 MP)
• Speed: max 20 fps @ 5 MP
• Focal length: 2.8 mm
• Viewing angle: 103° horizontally, 53° vertically
• Illuminator range: Up to 30 m
• Sensitivity: 0.003 lux
• WDR 120 dB: YES
• Features: Day/Night, NR, AWB, AGC, AES, BLC, HLC, ROI, Privacy Zones
• Audio support: YES
• Built-in microphone: YES
• Audio input: 1x
• Audio output: 1x
• Alarm input: 1x
• Alarm output: 1x
• Local recording (SD card): YES
• Housing: IP67
• Operating temperature: -40…+60 °C
• Power supply: 12 V DC, PoE 802.3af
• Power consumption: max 8 W
• Dimensions: Ø 122 x 110.9 mm
• Weight: 0.75 kg

HIKVISION DS-2CD2T46G2-ISU/SL(2.8mm) IP CAMERA

BCS-L-EIP55FCL3-Ai1 is a megapixel camera designed for use in an IP surveillance system. It belongs to the NightColor series and is capable of generating high-quality, color video recordings even in very poorly illuminated areas. This makes it an excellent choice for locations that require 24/7 color monitoring. Some key features of the BCS-L-EIP55FCL3-Ai1 camera include:

• Equipped with Darkfighter and AcuSense technologies, allowing for more accurate filtering of false alarms. Its special low-light sensitivity makes it an ideal option for night recording. Additionally, the built-in speaker and strobe light in the DS-2CD2T46G2-ISU/SL can be effectively used to deter potential intruders.

AcuSense series cameras utilize advanced deep learning technology to detect human and vehicle shapes and filter out alarms that are not related to people or vehicles. They can also save screenshots of any objects extracted from a large amount of video data, making it easier to search for them later.

The 1/1.8-inch CMOS sensor and 2.8mm fixed focal length lens in the camera provide a wide horizontal field of view of approximately 111°, enabling a greater capture of the surroundings. Hikvision cameras from the AcuSense series utilize artificial intelligence technology for more precise object classification and minimizing false alarms. The machine learning technology used in these devices enhances their ability to classify recognized objects.

The EXIR technology ensures more uniform scene illumination, meaning that the EXIR illuminators provide better visibility of details in recorded images during nighttime illumination.

DS-2CD2T46G2-ISU/SL has a built-in strobe light that activates upon detecting an intruder; combined with the speaker’s message, it can effectively deter them from the protected area.

Technical Specifications:

• Image sensor: 1/3” Progressive Scan CMOS
• Max resolution: 2592 x 1944 (5 MP)
• Speed: max 20 fps @ 5 MP
• Focal length: 2.8 mm
• Viewing angle: 103° horizontally, 53° vertically
• Illuminator range: Up to 60 m
• Sensitivity: 0.003 lux
• WDR 120 dB: YES
• Features: Day/Night, 3D-DNR, AWB, AGC, AES, BLC, HLC, ROI, EXIR, Privacy Zones
• Audio support: YES
• Built-in microphone: YES
• Audio input: 1x
• Audio output: 1x
• Alarm input: 1x
• Alarm output: 1x
• Local recording (SD card): YES
• Housing: IP67
• Operating temperature: -30…+60 °C
• Power supply: 12 V DC, PoE 802.3af
• Power consumption: max 12 W
• Dimensions: Ø 105 x 290 mm
• Weight: 1.14 kg

Although the IP cameras from both brands are comparable, they differ in certain parameters, such as Hikvision having a higher maximum bit rate. This directly impacts the quality of the image data stream from the camera. However, cameras rarely utilize their maximum bit rate, so this parameter will only be significant in specific cases. In the above comparison, the sensor size of both devices is very similar. However, the BCS camera has significantly better light sensitivity due to its brighter lens, allowing the BCS IP camera to achieve better overall results and capture more details in low-light conditions.

On the other hand, the BCS camera boasts a wider viewing angle of 106 degrees compared to 103 degrees in the Hikvision camera. Both cameras are equipped with active deterrence features. BCS flashes red and blue lights alternately and generates a sound of an alarm siren, ready-made messages in English, or a custom one that can be recorded using a smartphone. In the case of Hikvision, it utilizes a strobe light effect with white light and an acoustic signal or a pre-recorded audio message.

So, which one is better – BCS or Hikvision? Both brands offer a wide range of products and solutions, from entry-level to high-end. However, there are several key differences between these two brands, and the choice will typically depend on the specific application and operating conditions of the camera.

Functionalities and Software: Hikvision vs. BCS

The amount of software available for managing BCS devices is truly impressive.

We have desktop programs such as the popular and well-known Smart PSS program.

Smart PSS (Professional Surveillance System) software by Dahua is designed for managing various surveillance equipment, including analog and network NVR recorders, IP megapixel cameras, IP intercoms, SVR mass storage devices, and video decoders. This application is also used for managing BCS devices.

Other desktop software includes:

BCS Manager, which supports all series and enables:

• Up to 1000 connections
• Live preview of 256 channels (max. 64 windows per card)
• Creation of alarm schemes
• Synchronous playback of recordings from up to 36 cameras simultaneously (remotely and locally)
• Remote device configuration, device grouping, and management
• PTZ camera control
• Audio support
• TV WALL support

BCS Point Manager, which supports the Point and View series

BCS View Manager, which supports the View series (analog AHD recorders)

BCS Basic Manager, which supports the Basic series

Mobile applications for smartphones:

DMSS, which supports all Dahua series devices

gDMSS, an older version that displays a maximum of 4 channels simultaneously

BCS Line, which supports all series plus BCS IP video intercoms

BCS View, which supports the View series (analog AHD recorders)

Hikvision iVMS-4200 video management software can be used for monitoring small or large projects. It offers a wide range of features and capabilities, including the ability to create hybrid systems that combine IP cameras and analog cameras on up to four screens – meaning that 64 different cameras can be displayed on one screen. The software also allows remote playback, access to electronic maps for visualization purposes, alarms, and two-way audio transmission.

Functionalities:

• Management and monitoring of Hikvision surveillance products
• Live preview of video materials
• Playback of recorded video materials
• Event management
• Support for up to 256 channels
• Fish-eye live view for one or more fish-eye cameras and support for Panorama, PTZ, Half Sphere, AR Half Sphere, and Cylinder modes
• SAN and Hybrid Storage Area Network configuration for SAN hybrid devices
• Video Wall management function for decoder and video wall management, displaying decoded video signals on a video wall
• Support for sound alarms, live view pop-ups, and captured images triggered by alarms
• Support for temperature information searching for people wearing masks during face temperature measurement events
• Synchronous playback of up to 16 channels
• Video filtering based on human or vehicle detection
• Face image collection using another company’s camera (USB camera or built-in computer camera)
• People counting based on facial features and displaying duplicates
• Large image display of face capture, license plate capture, and behavior analysis, with the ability to export images for local storage
• Searching for frequently appearing and rarely appearing individuals
• Online device list export for video intercom devices, including gate stations and indoor stations

In summary, both programs have very similar functions. If we need better and more advanced features, we would need to purchase the paid version. In the case of Hikvision, it’s the iVMS-5200 version, and in the case of Smart PSS, it’s the extended license.

Wireless Monitoring: Hikvision vs. BCS

The Hikvision WI-FI KIT surveillance kit is very easy to install and does not require advanced technical knowledge. The recorder has a plug-and-play function that automatically detects and assigns IP addresses to the connected cameras. While the camera installation is straightforward, they have many advanced features. One drawback of this system is its short range of 15 meters, which means that a Wi-Fi extender must be used. However, configuring such a solution becomes more challenging, requiring knowledge of Wi-Fi device operation and IP camera configuration.

Hikvision WI-FI KIT:

• DS-7104NI-K1WM recorder supporting 4 channels
• 4 Wi-Fi cameras (DS-2CV1041G2-IDW) with 4MP resolution, built-in microphone, and 1TB HDD
• OSD menu available in Polish
• WPA Wi-Fi encryption
• Network interface: 1 x Ethernet 10/100 Base-T (RJ-45)
• P2P (cloud) support for remote access without port forwarding and public IP address
• Support for Android, iOS, and IE web browser on mobile devices
• Built-in web server, support through CMS or mobile client

BCS-P-WIFI4X4M-KIT, BCS POINT surveillance kit, comes with the BCS-P-SNVR0401-W network recorder with a built-in Wi-Fi module, support for up to 4 IP cameras, maximum bandwidth of 40Mbps, archiving on a 1x SATA disk up to 6TB, 2x USB 2.0 ports, network downloading, simultaneous HDMI 4K (1920×1080) and VGA (1920×1080) output, advanced video detection functions such as motion detection, object masking or covering, signal loss, and intelligent functions like silhouette recognition and VCA.

The kit includes four Wi-Fi bullet cameras (BCS-P-414RS) suitable for indoor and outdoor use. The cameras have a plastic housing with an IP67 waterproof rating, protecting them against dust and extreme weather conditions such as rain or snow.

Key features of BCS-P-414RS-W camera:

• Built-in 2.4GHz Wi-Fi module, IEEE802.11b/g/n
• Sensor: 1/2.7″ 4MP PS CMOS
• Lens: Fixed focal length 4mm with a sensitivity of 0.02 lux in color
• IR LED SMART infrared illuminator: Up to 30 meters
• Functions: BLC, HLC, DWDR, ROI, ICR
• Intelligent functions: Intrusion detection, silhouette detection
• Plastic housing

From a simple analysis, we can already see a significant advantage of the BCS kit in terms of range, which is more than three times larger. This makes it much more practical and convenient for installation. It also has quite advanced intelligent analytics. A great solution is the practically invisible illuminator. On the other hand, the red flashing LED in the Hikvision camera may attract the attention of potential intruders.

Summary of Hikvision or BCS?

In summary, when comparing the equipment from both companies, it can be concluded that they offer similar quality and capabilities. BCS cameras for perimeter protection provide more configuration options, louder sound signals (up to 110dB), and more effective deterrents with red and blue lights, simulating police lights. BCS also has an advantage in terms of WiFi monitoring.

Hikvision offers more user-friendly operation of their own production recorders. It is worth noting that a significant portion of BCS equipment is produced by Dahua, and their interface is often their proprietary design.

If you are considering installing cameras, feel free to contact us, and we will provide you with a free quote and configure the best system tailored to your needs.

Choose a professional company like IDG for camera installation.