Getting a view of hard-to-reach areas around your home requires specialized equipment. If your pipes burst, you need a picture of the damage. However, stripping the entire section isn’t an option; that’s days of work, and it might not be the problem. An endoscope can help you find the source of the problem, without having to dismantle your pipework.
Endoscopes are tiny cameras mounted on the end of flexible tubing. There’s a light behind the camera, illuminating the inspection area while the camera displays a video feed on a hand-held device. Technically, these camera systems are known as “boroscopes.” An endoscope is a medical device used by doctors when examining the digestive tract.
Endoscopes can cost tens of thousands of dollars; they’re professional medical equipment designed for use in the human body. Boroscopes feature design and construction with non-medical-grade materials, and they’re suitable for viewing in tight spaces around buildings, car engines, and various other applications.
However, endoscope or boroscope – these instruments are vital for inspection tasks. There are hundreds of models available at different price points. Depending on the model you need, you could have an advanced system or a basic setup.
In this post, we’ll look at the leading models to find the best endoscope camera. Whether you’re a contractor or homeowner, there’s a model in this review to suit your needs.
Our Top Picks
If you need an endoscope ASAP and don’t have time to waste reading reviews, you can rely on our top picks. These three models represent the best options across three categories. Regardless of your budget or needs, one of these three models provides you with the best deal.
Best Pick: Vastar Industrial Inspection Industrial Endoscope
- 【4.3 inch LCD Color Screen&Plug and Play】4.3inch IPS screen endoscope inspection camera enables to view live video and photos instantly. To further enhance the possibility of visual inspection and defect detection. No need to install APP.
- 【1080P Inspection Camera】This borescope can record 1080P videos or take photos to a Micro SD card，you can clearly observe dark places and small areas where light can not reach.The screen is 2 million pixels and the resolution is 480*272P.
- 【6 Adjustable LED Lights】With the 6 adjustable LEDs on the camera tip ensures clear image under dark conditions.5m/5mmSemi-Rigid cable is both stiff and flexible.
- 【Built-in 3000mAh Battery】：With built-in 3000mAh rechargeable battery, this IP67 waterproof endoscope camera can work up to 7 hours after fully charged.
- 【Wide Application】Vastar industrial Endoscope is ideal for use car maintaining, instrument inspection,mechanical inspection, pipe repair,electrical repair, household appliance inspection etc.
Contractors looking for the best overall endoscope will find this Vastar model offers the best functionality and value in this review. You get a 4.3-inch color LCD, with plug-and-play action for the device. There is no app required to run this model, with all functionality built-into the endoscope.
This endoscope produces 1080p HD quality video, and you can take photos or record video using the Micro SD card dock. The camera on this model features six adjustable lights, with a 15-foot cable and a 5mm camera. This model is the ideal choice for contractors, mechanics, electricians, and any other professionals requiring the inspection of tight, hard-to-reach spaces.
Premium Pick: Teslong Auto Focus Endoscope
- 🏆Endoscope Probe With Autofocus Camera - Unlike the fixed focal camera of the traditional endoscope, the NEW auto focus endoscope camera clearly displaying the real-time target image from far to near like phone camera - Always The BEST Depth Of Field! - No longer wasting time and effort to adjust the proper focal length!
- ❤️4.5-Inch IPS Full Color Handheld Monitor With 2600mAh Chargeable Battery - View the live image on the display, Right Out of Box For Easy Use. No worries about download App to mess up your cellphone. Absolutely 📵 NO App required!
- ☔High Quality Industrial Grade Endoscope: IP67 Waterproof Probe & Rainproof Monitor - Replaceable Probe - High Brightness LED Lights and CREE LED Flashlight - Toughened Glass Camera Lens & Screen - Stainless Steel Shield - 18650 Battery MSDS Certificated - Please rest assured to use. 18-Month Manufacture Warranty!
- 💡9.8ft Metal Gooseneck With LED Light - Can be folded to different shapes and reach deep inside the inspection areas. You can shape it freely for Any special use, and can be easily placed into the storage box for use next time. Come with a hard plastic case, keep your inspection camera safe when not in use! Makes a great 🎁 Gift too!
- 🛒32GB TF Card Included - This inspection camera supports pictures or videos capture function. Built-in microphone and speaker, users can also record voices when shooting videos, which is convenient for reviewing problems later. Great for inspection before maintenance work. Add to your Tools Kit Today!
If you need the best endoscope available to add to your equipment, we recommend this Teslong model. You get a 5-inch color LCD with adjustable tips. This model comes with IP67 waterproof probes, magnetic tips, and a hook system for retrieving items out of the drain or disposal.
Your get video recording in 1080p, with a screen that’s 5-times brighter than other leading models. This model comes with a 16.4-foot inspection cable and long battery life from the 2,600-mAh lithium-ion cell. This model comes with Micro SD functionality for taking pictures and recording and automatic adjustment for your depth-of-field.
Budget Pick: DepsTech Wi-Fi Endoscope
- Features : With enhanced camera 5.0MP, endoscope’s 6 adjustable LEDs will be easy to observe dark environment by educing exposure and add brightness; Focal distance enlarges to 15.7in from 2.76in
- Camera : Equipped with upgraded 5.0MP camera lens, and its image resolution is up to 2592x1944P, representing super clear images you inspect, There is a camera button on the endoscope. Just one button to take a picture, and it can be saved on your device
- Semi-Rigid Cable : Adopt snake shape cable, the borescope can detect different shape of inspection places such as vertical upward pipes or horizontal holes
- Attachments : Useful accessories-mirror, magnet and hook. Mirror will be a good tool for viewing; Magnet can easy to get objects in hard-to-reach places; Hook can pick up small articles
- Usage : Self checking your own house appliance, inspect your car inner problems, and look for small things drop into hand-unreachable places
If you’re looking for the best budget model in this review, the DepsTech Wi-Fi endoscope is a top choice. This affordable model features connectivity with your smart device. The scope sends the video feed directly to your smartphone for convenience. The system connects to local Wi-Fi sources or your phone, using a 5-megapixel camera for clear images.
You get a Micro USB charging port, along with six LED lights and zoom functions. This endoscope comes with a semi-rigid, 15-foot cable, for easy adjustment. You get an attachment kit that features a magnet and hooks tips and an image resolution up to 2592x1944P.
Endoscope Camera Reviews
Now that you have an idea of the best endoscopes in this review let’s unpack them in further detail. We’ll also look at a few other models worthy of including in the best endoscope camera reviews. This section will give you everything you need to find the ideal model for your needs.
Vastar Industrial Inspection Industrial Endoscope
If you’re a mechanic, electrician, or plumber looking for a top-quality model with an affordable price tag, the Vastar industrial boroscope is the best option in this review. With this model, you get a full-color, HD video screen, featuring 1080p video quality and superior image production.
The rubberized housing is drop-proof and carries an IP67 water-resistant rating. You get a built-in 3,000-mAh lithium-ion battery with Micro USB charging and 5-hour run time.
The Vastar camera features 5-megapixels, producing high-quality video. This model comes with six adjustable LEDs allowing you to enhance your field-of-view to match the task. You get a 16.4-foot inspection cable with a semi-rigid design for flexing around corners and tight spaces.
With the Vastar, you get the best performance, high-quality video recording, and long battery life. This model is the ideal choice for professionals.
- Standalone unit, no Wi-Fi connection needed for operation
- High-quality video production with HD quality
- 6 adjustable LED lights
- 4-foot inspection cable included
- 3-inch color screen
- Micro SD compatibility
- IP67 waterproofing
- Comes with a tip accessory kit
Teslong Auto Focus Endoscope
If you’re a professional looking for the best equipment you can find, you can’t beat the Teslong Auto Focus Endoscope quality. This model comes with automatic depth adjustment on your camera, providing clear images in high-definition, regardless of the application.
The Teslong features a large 5-inch color screen with a 1080p resolution. The 5-megapixel camera produces razor-sharp images, and the six adjustable cameras help you light up the inspection space. Select your focal distance with auto adjustment for the user-friendly operation of the device.
This model comes with a 16.4-foot inspection cable for the deepest inspections. You can upgrade the kit to take a 32-foot cord, sold separately. The ergonomic design of the handle features a non-slip grip, and the device charges through a Micro USB port on the screen housing.
The Teslong Auto Focus Endoscope comes with a 2,600-mAh battery, providing around 4 to 5-hours of run time between charges. You get a full accessory kit, featuring camera utility tips, and a free 32GB SD card.
- Standalone unit, no Wi-Fi connection needed for operation
- Automatic depth adjustment for clear viewing
- 5-inch color monitor
- HD recording in 1080p
- 4-foot inspection cable included
- IP67 waterproofing
- Micro USB charging and SD card compatibility
DepsTech Wi-Fi Endoscope
Are you looking for the best budget model in this review? The DepsTech Wi-Fi endoscope is a great choice for a compact, affordable device. This model features a 16.4-foot inspection cord, featuring a semi-rigid cable with a 5-megapixel camera.
The camera head comes with six adjustable LEDs to enhance your viewing experience and field-of-view. This boroscope features a 1080p resolution, allowing you a clear view of the inspection sight, with adjustable focal distance improving the picture in demanding conditions.
This model connects to an app on your smart device, giving you control over the camera through your phone or tablet.
You get a 2,600-mAh battery, providing over 5-hours of run time. This model also includes an accessory kit, a 32GB SD card, and a camera tip kit. You get a hard plastic carry case t protect it at the job site, and USB charging cables included.
- Wi-Fi compatible system
- Affordable
- 4-foot inspection cable included
- Projects video feed directly to your phone
- Semi-rigid cable for easy manipulation
- User-friendly operation
- Tip accessory kit included
AsperX Industrial Endoscope
This model is a great choice for professionals. You get an ergonomic handle with trigger-mounted recording and a 2,600-mAh lithium-ion battery. The waterproof housing comes with a IP67 rating.
This model features a dual-camera design. You get one front-facing camera and a side-camera mounted on the camera housing. This device is a great choice for mechanics and plumbers looking to inspect pipes or engine cylinders.
With the AsperX, you get an 8mm lens, featuring a 1.6-foot focal distance. This model comes with a 16.4-foot semi-rigid inspection cable and a 70-degree viewing angle.
- Dual-lens industrial model
- Good value for money
- 4-foot inspection cable included
- Video recording in 1080p HD quality
- Waterproof IP67 rating
- SD card compatible
- Ergonomic handle design
Teslong Industrial Endoscope with Screen
This Teslong boroscope is excellent value for money, featuring a large, 4.5-inch screen. You only get 720p resolution with this model, but it’s suitable for your average plumbing or pipework job. This model comes with a 16.4-foot, semi-rigid, inspection cable, and an IP67 waterproof rating.
The ultra-slim 5.5mm camera probe gets into the tightest areas, and you get a 5-hour run time from the 2,600-mAh battery. The Teslong comes with a complete accessory kit, including camera utility tips and a hard carry case.
- 5-inch color display
- Affordable price tag
- 4-foot inspection cable
- IP67 waterproofing
- Adjustable field-of-view
- Suitable for industrial use
- User-friendly controls on side panel of housing
- Full accessory kit included
ROTEK Industrial Borescope
The ROTEK is another example of a top-quality boroscope with an affordable price tag. With this model, you get a full-color 4.3-inch screen and 1080p resolution. This model’s camera features eight adjustable LEDs for a clear, bright picture, regardless of the operating conditions.
The LEDs feature two light modes, offering the user a flashlight operation as well. The ROTEK comes with a shock-proof, water-resistant casing, featuring an IP67 rating. This model features a 16.4-foot inspection cable, with a semi-rigid design for getting around corners and tight areas.
You get a 70-degree field-of-view with this model, and six adjustable LEDs to enhance your video feed. The ROTEK shoots in HD and allows you to take snapshots while still recording. You get a 2,600-mAh battery, and this unit comes with a free 32GB SD card.
- Great value for money
- 3-invch color display
- IP67 waterproof rating
- 8 adjustable LED lights
- 4-foot inspection cable
- HD-quality imaging and video recording
- Comes with a free 32GB SD memory card
RAGU Endoscope Camera
The RAGU boroscope comes in a rugged, durable, rubberized housing that’s shock-resistant, with an IP67 waterproof rating. This model features a 16.4-foot inspection cord, with a semi-rigid design. You get a 5-megapixel camera shooting video in 1080p, with HD-quality images.
You get eight dimmable LEDs, allowing you to customize the light to your application. This model comes with Micro USB charging and a 2,600-mAh lithium-ion battery for 5-hours of service life. You get a built-in 4.3-inch color screen, with controls mounted into the housing.
- 1080p HD video recording for clear images
- Affordable
- 3-inch color display
- 4-foot inspection cable
- 8 adjustable LED lights
- IP67 waterproofing
- Micro USB charging
- 2,600-mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Rumia Wireless Endoscope
This boroscope from Rumia features an affordable price tag, with Wi-Fi functionality. Connect the boroscope to your smart device, and record the video feed directly to your phone.
This compact, lightweight model features a 16.4-foot inspection cable and a camera resolution of 2560×1920 for HD resolution.
This model comes with eight adjustable LEDs to enhance your viewing. It connects to your smart device through an Android or iOS app available from the app store.
- 5-megapixel camera
- 4-foot inspection cable
- Wi-Fi compatible with dedicated inspection app
- IP67 waterproofing
- Compact design
- Tip accessory kit included
DepsTech Dual-Lens Endoscope
The DepsTech model comes with a built-in 4.5-inch color screen, featuring an ergonomic design. The camera has an outstanding 80-degree field-of-view, with a 5-megapixel camera recording in 1080p. The 3,300-mAh lithium-ion battery on this model provides up to 5-hours of run time and recharges through Micro USB.
The 5-megapixel camera features six adjustable LEDs to light up the inspection space, and you get a 16.4-foot semi-rigid inspection cable. This model comes with an accessory kit, featuring utility tips and a 32GB SD card.
- 5-inch color screen
- HD video recording in 1080p
- Dual lens technology
- Ergonomic design feels good in your hands
- 3,300-mAh battery for extended run time
- 6 adjustable LEDs
- 4-foot inspection cable
- Compact design
Other Best Selling Options
- 1920P HD Resolution: Sewer camera with 7.9mm probe can inspect hard-to-reach places effortlessly. The 2.0MP HD endoscope can observe clear snapshot images (1920x1440 resolution) and high-quality video (1920x1440 resolution) at close range.
- Easy Connection: This borescope inspection camera can easily and quickly connect with IOS 9.0+ Android 7+ system devices through the interface. Search for 'SUP-ANESOK' in the APP store or scan the QR code to download the APP. With simple operations, you can view real-time images on the screen.
- Semi-Rigid Cable & Waterproof Probe: Snake Camera can bend freely and remain semi-rigid. The 16.4ft semi-rigid cable unrolls and rolls up quickly, which provides a good mix of flexibility and rigidity. The IP67 waterproof design allows the camera to operate underwater up to 3.28 feet for 1 hour.
- Wide Applications: Scope camera suitable for various scenes, such as inside the car or around the engine, inside the pipe inspection, or the house inspection mold, and wiring. The brightness-adjustable light enables you to obtain picture information even in dark environments.
- What You Get: Endoscope Camera *1, Android connector*1，Lightning Port*1，Type-C connector，16.4ft Semi-rigid Cable *1, Accessories: Magnet *1, Hook *1, Mirror *1, Protective Cap *1, Manual *1
- High Quality Display: The endoscope camera with light adopts a 4.3-inch IPS screen, which can provide a horizontal viewing angle of approximately 170°, and a highly sensitive chip that captures 1920x1080P HD images in real time. With colour flip and brightness shift functions, you get vivid, saturated and natural images from any angle.
- Powerful Features Camera : Borescope delicate camera probe is equipped with 8 LED lights, which can adjust the brightness according to the button, so you don't need to worry about the dark environment. Inspection camera is also IP67 waterproof, so it is suitable for harsh and wet environments, and the optimal focusing distance (2cm-10cm) allows you to inspect the pipe wall carefully and clearly.
- Freely Bend 16.4FT Cable: The 1.29in short lens for narrow pipe inspection is half the length of conventional lenses, making it easier to manoeuvre at difficult angles. The 7.9mm camera probe and semi-rigid cable allow the snake camera to be bent at will, making it easy to reach a wide range of confined areas.
- Simple Operation: Just turn on the power and use it. There is no need to connect to WIFI with your smartphone or download any driver software. The ergonomic handle allows you to quickly pick up this lightweight sewer camera and use it comfortably without fatigue. You also do not need to worry about dirtying your expensive phone while working.
- Package Includes: Borescope Camera with Light*1, Hook*1, Magnet*1, Side Mirror*1, Type-c Data Cable*1, Manual*1. We provide 24-hour professional and attentive after-sales service. If you have any questions, please contact us.
- Easy of Use - The USB borescope has no need for Bluetooth or WiFi connections, separate charging, or worrying about connection failures. Simply connect the device and enjoy a steady real-time inspection screen without any hassle
- ONLY Compatible with Type-C - Compatible with Android 8.0+ devices (supports OTG), iPhone 15/15 Pro/15 Plus/15 Pro Max, and iPad (12th generation and newer). Not compatible with PCs, iPad Pro (4th generation), iPad 4, or iPad 2. Notice: This borescope does not include a Type-C to Lightning adapter. If used with your adapter, please ensure it supports OTG
- HD Resolution Snake camera - Endoscope camera with light provides HD photos & a smooth video experience, which will all be stored on your phone, eliminating the need to transfer media via USB to share with others
- Bendable and Fixed Shape Cable - Sewer camera with 9.8ft semi-rigid cable, which provides convenience and control during operation, allowing you to work without the hassle of managing excessive cable length. Snake camera offers a balance of rigidity and flexibility, allowing you to easily bend and shape it manually while maintaining its form
- New Upgrade Adjustable LED Light - New upgrade scope camera supports brightness-adjustable light enables you to obtain picture information even in dark environments. Also, this USB borescopes with 8.5mm probe and IP67 waterproof level making this endoscope suitable for various use-cases such as observation of fish eggs, HVAC & industrial inspections, etc
- Ultra Thin 3.9mm Camera - Are you wondering why your ear is itching or irritated? This visual otoscope is the perfect tool to inspect your ear. It is high definition and movement-sensitive; you can clearly see everything in details
- Better Inside View & Safety Protection - The 70 degree angle design fits better with human ear structure, creates a wider angle view, and helps users see inside the ear more clearly. With the specula and the LED lights, users can check their ear with full confidence & safety in mind.
- 2 View Modes & Smart Ear Side Selection - There’s a full-screen and a split-screen modes. In full-screen mode, you can see images in real time. In split-screen mode, you will get clear and straight comparison between the earlier image vs. real-time view.
- Wireless & Overheat Protection - We built the WiFi inside the otoscope ear camera to simplify our design; our overheat protection brings maximum comfort for users.
- Multi-purpose & Easy to Use - Our WiFi otoscope works well with Android and IOS devices. Download the "Smart Endoscope" app from manual, connect your phone via WiFi, you can easily capture images or videos and send them to your doctors. You also can use this scope to inspect your ears, nose, skin, hair, oral cavity or your pets.
![[Dual-Lens] Endoscope Camera with Light, 1920P HD Borescope with 8+1 Adjustable LED Lights, IP67 Waterproof 16.5FT Semi-Rigid Snake Cord Inspection Camera for iPhone, iPad and Android Phone (Type C)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41eb8nhdGsL._SL160_.jpg)
- Dual Lens for Enhanced Visibility: Our borescope camera features dual-lens technology with 2 Million Pixels inspection cameras. This cutting-edge design provides you with a clearer, sharper view, making problem-solving a breeze. The 8MM camera is good at exploring small gaps, and coupled with the versatile optimal field of view of 1.2-4 inches, you can easily tackle even the tightest spaces
- Sharper Clarity with 1920P HD Resolution: Experience the world in stunning detail with our 2.0MP Sewer Camera. It captures crystal-clear close-range HD videos and images at an impressive 1920x1440 resolution. Discover every hidden detail with this advanced endoscope. Plus, its 16.5 FT (5M) semi-rigid cable and 360-degree rotation make it easy to explore any angle effortlessly
- Semi-Rigid Cable & Waterproof Probe: Our snake camera boasts a semi-rigid cable that bends and holds its shape, providing a nice balance of flexibility and rigidity. The IP67 waterproof design ensures that this borescope can operate underwater up to 3.28 feet for 1 hour, making it ideal for plumbing and underwater inspections. It is a good choice for present giving
- Wide Applications: This endoscope camera with light is your first choice tool in a variety of scenarios. Whether it's in the car or around the engine, internal inspection of pipes, or house inspection for mold and wiring, it's up to the task. Its adjustable brightness feature ensures you can capture clear images even in low-light environments
- Confidence in Every Product: Elecshion products are crafted for durability and excellence. Should you experience any issues, please contact us, our dedicated support team is here to assist you
Endoscope Camera Buyer’s Guide
After reading through the reviews, you should have a few models picked out. Settling on the right endoscope for your work requires a deeper understanding of operating the device. You’ll also need to know what to look for in a good model.
In this section, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about endoscopes. We’ll look at the functionality of these devices and the features they have to offer. After reading through this section, you’ll have a clear understanding of the right endoscope to suit your needs.
As mentioned, an endoscope is a medical instrument, and a boroscope is an industrial unit. Since no-one reading is likely to be a medical professional, we’ll assume you’re looking for a “boroscope.” For the purposes of this buyer’s guide, we’ll refer to boroscopes and endoscopes interchangeably.
How Does a Boroscope Work?
The boroscope is a handy piece of tech to have around the workshop. It’s useful in plenty of situations, from inspecting pipes and electrics in your home walls to reviewing the damage in an engine block.
These devices work by installing a camera on the tip of an inspection cable. The camera has a light fitted behind the lens, allowing for illumination of dark spaces, like the inside of pipes. The camera records a video feed, projecting it to a handheld device or your smartphone.
You can link your smartphone to some models thorough an app, reducing the need for an onboard screen. The camera sends the video feed to your preferred device, and you manipulate the cable to complete your inspection.
What Is the Length of the Viewing Cable?
The cable is the first place to start when looking at an endoscope. The inspection cable defines the operating distance of the device. Most high-quality endoscopes feature cable lengths of around 16.4-feet (5-metres).
The cable should feature a semi-rigid design, allowing you to bend it into position. This feature comes in handy when accessing tight spaces with bends or curves, allowing you to get around corners with ease. At the tip of the cable, you have the camera.
Most models run “straight-through:” lens technology featuring dual lenses. As a result, you get an illuminated camera view in high definition. Cable length doesn’t affect the image quality, and you can record video and take pictures using the device.
What are the Different Types of Viewing Cables?
As mentioned, a semi-rigid inspection cable is the better choice. If the cable has no support, you have no control over the camera. With the average boroscope cable, you can shape it to an arc to get around bends or corners.
Medical endoscopes feature electronic manipulation, allowing the doctor to maneuver the device inside the digestive tract. However, this kind of functionality doesn’t exist on your average boroscope.
It’s for this reason that medical devices are more expensive than boroscopes. Both offer precision viewing and imagery, but medical endoscopes give the user more control over the camera function.
What Is the Camera Size?
When looking for your ideal boroscope, you’ll find the camera head’s standard size to be between 5mm to 8.5mm, depending on the manufacturer. Smaller camera heads give you a narrower field-of-view. However, they can get into smaller holes, which can help engineers inspect engines for signs of mechanical damage.
Larger heads give you a wider field-of-view, with a broader image and more detail. However, they are larger and might not fit in some of the spaces in the applications mentioned above. Choose the camera size that’s suitable for your work.
Is Wi-Fi Functionality Necessary?
Wi-Fi compatibility is not a necessity for your boroscope. Some models feature Wi-Fi compatibility, allowing you to use your smart device as the screen, instead of a built-in display. This design is a matter of user preference. However, Wi-Fi models relying on your cellphone screen for a viewing platform tend to have a cheaper price tag.
The endoscope connects to your device hotspot or the local Wi-Fi network, allowing you to operate the app. The app lets you activate your phone as the viewfinder for the camera, allowing zoom function and total control over the viewing experience.
Most contractors prefer models with built-in screens, avoiding the hassle of linking the device to their phone before the inspection. If you’re on a job site and need someone to run an inspection, you don’t want to have to lend them your phone to complete the job.
Do I Need a Built-In Screen?
As mentioned, built-in screens are the better choice for contractors or companies where multiple users will operate the device. However, a built-in screen comes with a higher cost for your endoscope. Most models have a limited screen size that’s smaller than most cellphones.
The models in this review offer you between 4.3-inches and 4.5-inches of screen real estate on the device. While it is not huge, it’s enough to help you complete your inspection. All models feature color screens, with the camera projecting in various resolutions, depending on the model and manufacturer.
If you’re a homeowner looking for a boroscope for use around the workshop and your house, a W-Fi-operated model will be suitable for your needs. There’s no need to go to the expense of getting a model with a built-in screen if you only use it from time to time.
Does the Resolution of the Display Matter?
When picking our your ideal boroscope, the image resolution is a critical feature of the device. Look for models that offer 5-megapixel cameras, and shoot in 1080p resolution. Some models only offer up to 720p, and that’s still going to give you a high-quality image suitable for your needs.
However, for precision work, such as checking on an engine cylinder, you’ll need a precision camera. Look for devices featuring 1080p resolution for the best image quality. The focal distance is another important aspect of the camera.
Those endoscopes featuring a wider focal range have better focusing, which comes in handy when you have limited control over the camera’s use. Choosing the right resolution depends on how you intend to use the device. Choose a model that meets the demands of your working environment.
What kind of Boroscope Functionality Do I Need?
The functionality of the device plays a significant role in the user-friendly operation of the boroscope. When picking out your ideal model, check out the functionality offered by the prospective device. Look for models that provide a zoom function, allowing you to adjust the field-of-view. Some models feature automatic image adjustment for a clear picture that’s always in focus.
Make sure the boroscope comes with an SD card slot, and some models might even feature a free SD card included with your purchase. The user panel should also give you total control over the camera tip, with adjustable LEDs that expand or contract on-demand.
Do I Need Adjustable LEDs on My Boroscope?
Most models come with between four to six adjustable LEDs at the tip of the camera head. The camera lens sits in front of the LEDs, and the diodes light the interior of the pipework or inspection area. The front-facing camera has a surrounding arrangement of LEDs, and most models allow for light adjustment.
The LEDs can move towards the outside of the camera housing or inside, depending on your request. The adjustable LEDs come in handy for assisting in the range and field-of-view for the camera.
What Is a Dual Camera Setup on a Boroscope?
Some models feature a dual-camera design. You get one front-facing camera at the top of the inspection cable and another on the inspection head side. This side-inspection camera comes in handy for inspecting pipework and car engine cylinders for cracks or damage.
What Is the Average Battery Life of a Boroscope?
The battery life of your device determines its operating time. Most models come with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The device links to a Micro USB charging cable included with your purchase. Connect it to your phone charger, and your device is ready to go after three to four hours of charge time.
What Kind of Housing Do I Need?
When selecting your boroscope, you’ll need to check the housing when finalizing your purchase. Wi-Fi models have small housings without screens. They’re typically lightweight devices that fit in your pocket, even if you’re wearing tight jeans. These models connect to your phone, so there’s no need for a bulky screen.
However, if you get a model with a built-in screen, it’s likely to need more protection. Accidents happen around the job site, and there are a hundred things that could fall on the device and damage it. You could also drop it on-site – what if a rat comes out of the hole you’re inspecting and scares you?
A rubberized housing gives you the drop protection you need for your device. Look for models that feature ergonomic handles for a secure grip when operat8ing the device.
What Accessories Come with the Endoscope?
Most endoscopes come with a full accessory kit. The first accessory to look for is the camera tip kit. With this accessory, you get three tips that attach to the end of the camera.
- The Magnetic Tip – Use the endoscope to identify metallic objects in drains and pull them out.
- The Hook Tip – Collect rings and other items that fall in the disposal.
- The Mirror Tip – Look around corners with your camera.
Most boroscopes also come with a carry case to protect the device in transit. You can think of this device like a multi-meter, and it requires that same level of care.
Endoscope Camera FAQs
Is there a difference between a boroscope and an endoscope?
Yes. An endoscope is a term for a medical device used by doctors to examine the digestive tract. Boroscopes are suitable for industrial and commercial viewing applications only.
How do I connect an endoscope to my smart device?
Many models don’t come with screens. Instead, they connect to your phone via Wi-Fi. You watch the video feed on your device and have the opportunity to record video and take pictures directly on your phone or tablet.
How much will contractors charge me to scope my pipework?
A video inspection of your pipes can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000. The cost depends on the extent of the damage and the challenge of finding the problem.
If my sewer line bursts, who has to pay for it – me or the city?
In most instances, the property owner is liable for the repair of the sewer line. The sewer line runs from your home to the street, and you’re responsible for the pipe from the street junction to your home. If the sewer lateral is outside of the property line, it’s a city problem.
Endoscope Cameras – The Verdict
By now, you should have a good idea of the best endoscope camera to suit your needs. However, we realize it’s challenging to choose from only a few models. If you’re still on the fence with your purchase decision, why not take one of our top picks?
The Vastar Industrial Inspection Industrial Endoscope is a great choice for contractors, mechanics, electricians, and homeowners. This device comes with a long 15-foot inspection cable, a high-quality camera, and a large color LCD. You don’t need to hook it up to your phone or rely on a Wi-Fi connection.
The Teslong Auto Focus Endoscope is for contractors that find themselves using an endoscope frequently. Whether you’re checking for cracks in pipes or dyno tuning a car engine, a boroscope can help you get a clear view of the issue. This model features a 15-foot cable with video in 1080p. You get everything you need for the most advanced boroscope applications.
If you’re looking for an affordable model, we recommend the DepsTech Wi-Fi Endoscope. This model features Wi-Fi connection to your smart device, projecting the video feed directly to your device. You get a 15-foot cable, along with six LEDs, and zoom functionality.
