Smart Hybrid Cameras

Smart hybrid (or dual light) CCTV cameras record in black and white infrared at night, then switch on a white light when they detect someone. You get full colour footage of the person or vehicle that set it off, without a light glowing all night when nothing is happening.

Many have sample footage on the product page, so you can watch the switch from infrared to colour before you buy.

ColorVu keeps its light on whenever it's dark, so you get colour footage of everything and the light itself puts people off. The downside is the constant glow, which can cause friction if it shines towards a neighbour's window. Smart hybrid avoids that by only lighting up when it detects someone.

Most smart hybrid cameras can also be locked to infrared only or white light only, so you can change your mind after fitting. Our night vision guide compares all the options.

If the camera can see a road or pavement, the light may trigger every time someone walks or drives past. Set a detection zone or line crossing rule in the camera or recorder settings so it only reacts to movement on your property.

IP models need an NVR and HD over coax models need a DVR. Pair Hikvision and HiLook cameras with a Hikvision or HiLook recorder for the full set of detection features and remote viewing in the Hik-Connect app.