DS-2CD2042WD-I vs DS-2CD2T42WD-I3 as both are bullet cameras and whats the main difference as i need those for drive way and to cover front of the house with two cameras.
there are plenty of images and comparisons here you can search for. I have both of them and the IR on the DS-2CD2T42WD compare to the other is like "night & day" ... a little joke there . ha-ha . But it´s true the IR is way better spread out . and for the distances that is stated . perhaps reduce it with some 30 % at least to get a more accurate distance where the IR is good.
The DS-2CD2042WD-I is a smaller and neater form factor though so it all depends where and how you will mount it. The IR is good enough if it is used properly. but a more round and centered IR compared to the other one.
All the 2-series x42 cameras have the same sensor, electronics and firmware, so the only possible differences are:
* Mechanical. Mount options, size, physical appearance. Obviously, your 2 cameras are very different. the "T" is much larger than the regular bullet. See a picture at: https://www.skstore.com.au/image/ca...n/Hikvision-Comparison-IMG_6585-1600x1600.jpg
* Lens. It seems that both use a f/2.0 lens, so no difference there.
* IR. The "T" has multiple substantially more powerful IR power options and that is its main advantage over the regular bullet.
* I/O options (SD, wifi, audio, I/O). Looks like none of these is available for either camera.
I think manufacturers must put up a mirror reflector post at 30 meters and if they can see it in the camera then they say the IR has a 30 meter range. 30% is probably not enough to shave off the IR specs on most cameras.