Hikvision ColorVu 2026 range: hands-on review

The 2026 ColorVu range, tested

Hikvision has refreshed its ColorVu line with brighter F1.0 apertures and a faster image processor. We mounted the new turret and bullet models side by side for two weeks of real-world testing across driveways, backyards, and a dimly lit car park.

Night vision and image quality

In near-total darkness the ColorVu turret holds full colour where older IR cameras switch to black and white. Number plates remained legible at the edge of the driveway, and skin tones on people walking past the front gate were natural rather than washed out.

AI detection in practice

AcuSense human and vehicle filtering cut false motion alerts dramatically — overnight we went from dozens of insect-triggered clips to a handful of genuine events. For most homes this alone justifies the upgrade.

Verdict

The 2026 ColorVu range is the easiest camera to recommend for Australian homes that want usable colour footage after dark, with the bullet model edging ahead for long driveways thanks to its extended range.