Main Stream vs Sub Stream on Hikvision Cameras: What’s the Difference and When to Use Each
Main Stream vs Sub Stream on Hikvision Cameras: What’s the Difference and When to Use Each
When configuring a Hikvision security camera system, you’ll encounter two critical terms: main stream and sub stream. Choosing incorrectly can result in choppy video, wasted storage, or failed remote playback. In this guide, we break down the main stream vs sub stream hikvision differences, their ideal use cases, and how to optimize your setup for both performance and flexibility.
What Is Main Stream on Hikvision Cameras?
The main stream (also called the primary stream) is the highest quality video feed your Hikvision camera can produce. It typically uses the H.265+ compression codec for maximum resolution, such as 4K (8MP), 5MP, or 1080p. The bitrate is set high—often between 4 Mbps and 16 Mbps—to capture fine details like license plates, facial features, and small objects.
Key characteristics of the main stream
- Resolution: 1080p to 12MP depending on model
- Bitrate: High (2–16 Mbps)
- Frame rate: 15–30 fps for smooth motion
- Use case: Local recording, forensic review, forensic zooming
Use the main stream when you need the clearest possible image for later analysis. However, it consumes significant bandwidth and storage space. This is why experienced users pair it with a sub stream for real-time monitoring.
What Is Sub Stream on Hikvision Cameras?
The sub stream (also called the secondary stream) is a lower-resolution, lower-bitrate feed. It’s typically set to D1 (704×576), 480p, or 360p at a bitrate below 1 Mbps. Its purpose is not to capture evidence-quality details but to provide a lightweight video feed suitable for continuous viewing and remote access.
Key characteristics of the sub stream
- Resolution: 480p, D1, or CIF
- Bitrate: Low (0.3–1 Mbps)
- Frame rate: 8–15 fps
- Use case: Mobile viewing, multi-camera grid views, motion detection pretrigger
Without a properly configured sub stream, opening your Hikvision app on a weak 4G signal would force your phone to download the full main stream, causing buffering and lag. The sub stream solves this by serving a smaller file locally or remotely.
When Should You Use Main Stream vs Sub Stream Hikvision?
Live monitoring stations
For security guards watching 16 cameras on one monitor, set all cameras to use the sub stream. Each camera consumes only 500 Kbps, allowing 16 simultaneous feeds without overloading the NVR or network. If a suspicious event occurs, the guard can click into a specific camera to momentarily switch to the main stream for a closer view.