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.
- 【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
- 【Always the BEST Depth of Field】Breaking through previous fixed focal endoscope technology, the upgrade AF inspection camera has made a great progress on depth of field technology, clearly displaying the target image from far to near.
- 【Bigger and Clearer】 The LCD color monitor of endoscope upgrade to 4.5inch, with HD micro camera showing 2.5x clear effect than common1080p, making every detail of the detection show.
- 【3m Flexible Waterproof Cable】 Our endoscopes insist on using traditional metal gooseneck which flexes and retains its shape better than other brands. And the longer cable will help to extend to further places, avoiding the embarrassment of insufficient length
- 【Build-in 18650 Battery】 Add the 2600mAh lithium-ion battery, can be used once you open the case. MSDS certificated, do not worry about leaking damage with long time no use
- 【Zoom/Rotate Image】 The camera has a 1.3X / 1.5X Zoom in/out function, allowing you to see both details of the picture and the complete full view. And 180°rotation of the screen is designed for flexible viewing.
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
- Endoscope with Wide Compatibility: This wireless WiFi endoscope can work with Android 5.0+ smart phone and iPhone with iOS 9+ system. Armed with 11.5ft bendable semi-rigid Snake cable can extend to all corner of your house. Perfect for iPhone user who want do inspection work.
- WiFi Connection, Easy to Use: Download and install the compatible App on your device. No need extra adapter or cable, just connect with your smartphone via WiFi. Then start the App to begin your inspection.
- HD Inspection Camera: 2.0MP borescope offers you a wonderful experience of capturing a clear close range HD video in AVI format and image in JPG format with adjustable resolutions 640x480, 1280 x 720 , 1600 x1200 and 1920 x 1080.
- IP67 Waterproof, 8.4mm Diameter Probe: With 6 adjustable LED light and thin waterproof probe, this endoscope are suitable for various types of environment, for example, low-light or dark area, damp or wet area etc.
- Tips: Turn on the Wi-Fi Endoscope, then it will generate a Wi-Fi signals. Open the WLAN settings of your phone, if the Wifi name started with Jetion, please make sure that the APP "Depstech-WiFi" is for Android users, "DEPSTECH" is for iOS users. Or if it started with DEPSTECH, then you need to download the App "DEPSTECH-view"（iOS/Android). It will help you get the real-time image of the endoscope.
- ☁【Plug and Play】Easy to operate, you can use it immediately when it is powered on. No need to use your smartphone to connect the WIFI and no need to download any driver software. So you do not need to worry about dirtying your expensive phone at work too.
- ☁【1080P and Big Screen】1080P HD Endoscope camera with a 4.3-inch color LCD screen that allows you more convenient to perform live analysis on your application area and to view HD photos and videos instantly. More clearly and troubleshoot the problem effectively.
- ☁【High-quality Snake Camera】IP67 waterproof, 6 adjustable LED lights to ensure a clear image even under dark conditions. Long focal distance (1.6 inch-198 inch) making inspections easier. 5M Semi-Rigid cable is both stiff and flexible. Rechargeable battery, a full charge can work up to 3-4 hours.
- ☁【Wide Application】SKYBASIC industrial Endoscope is excellent for inspection in pipes or areas which are not viewable by the naked eye. It is widely used in fields such as car maintaining, mechanical inspection, pipe repair, household appliance inspection, house maintenance, wall structure inspection, and sewer/ drain inspection, etc.
- ☁【What You Will Get】SKYBASIC inspection camera package contents: LCD digital endoscope (built-in 16GB TF Card), user manual, USB data cable, and set accessories (include a hook, magnet, protective cap, and side mirror).
- 0.21 inch/5.5mm diameter Endoscope--The USB Endoscope camera probe is ultra-thin, only 0.21 inch/5.5mm, we can use this Endoscope into many hard-to-reach, narrow and confined places at home or outdoors, such as HVAC, vent pipe, engines, air conditioners, sofa corners, bathtub pipes, toilets, etc.
- USB/Micro USB/Type-C Connector Endoscope--This Inspection Camera can be used with Android smartphones with OTG functions including Samsung S5 S6 S7 S8, S9, S10 S20; SONY LT26i, Z1, Z2, Z3, C3; Nexus 5, L24; Moto Xpro, Nexus6, Moto E, MZ17; HTC 9088, Nexus 9, M7, M8, M9, Note2, Note3, Note4 Note 5, P600, Windows PC, laptop, MacBook, etc. !!!DO NOT USE ON Samsung A5, J3 and iPhone/iPad!!!
- Waterproof IP67 and with 6 dimmable LEDs--The Snake Camera is also a helpful tool when you have to find your treasures or other small objects from the bathtubs or pipes with water in.
- Borescope with the semi-rigid cable--Unlike similar USB borescopes with soft cables, the ones with semi-rigid cables can be forwarded to the narrower place more easily, such as air conditioners, automotive cylinder, narrow pipe, etc.
- Easy-to-use inspection camera--For OTG Android smartphones and tablets, you need to download an app as recommend by Instruction or Customer questions & answers. No need for more installations. For Macbook, Please use Macbooks’ bundled software Photo Booth or Quick Time Player directly. For Windows, Please flowing the description below.
- Revolutionary HD 5.0MP Endoscope Sees through Everywhere: high-efficient third-generation chip, 2592x1944 resolution, copper core for semi-ridged cable, DEPSTECH superb 8.5mm WiFi borescope envisions the hard-to-reach places exquisite clearly.
- Bluart & Camtele, Newest Top Technologies for Inspection Camera : Adjustable 6 LED lights with Bluart tech, illuminate the darkness and reduce the overexposure, capturing pictures and videos more sharply in the best optical condition. Camtele expands the usual focal distance from 3 inch to 16 inch, larger observation scope generated, less inconvenience during the use.
- 2600 mAh Battery, longer Using Time: larger battery capacity for the WiFi box, the time for inspection will be prolonged. For our customer’s better experience, we especially design the power module reaching 2600 mAh, reducing the annoyance of insufficient working period.
- WiFi Connection, Wider Compatibility：featured with WiFi box broadcasting WiFi signal, this snake inspection camera can push the boundaries of the compatibility. iPhone, iPad, and Android devices like Samsung are cooperative with the unit.
- IP67 Waterproof & DEPSTECH Semi-ridged Cable :Armed with a bendable cable that can bend and hold it's shape to access a wide variety of confined place, such as curved holes or pipes, and water-resistant design applies to the usage for water tank, tubes etc.
- 1080P HD Clear Vision: With maximum supported resolution of 1920x1080 pixels, RAGU endoscope camera captures clear photos and records high-quality videos in a breeze. The 4.3” color LCD screen allows you to view live videos during inspection.
- 8MM Endoscope, 5M Cord: The camera features a premium 8mm diameter tiny endoscope and a 16.4ft/5m easy-to-bend semi-rigid cord, which make it effortlessly access narrow, deep, dusty, or any hard-to-reach areas.
- Dimmable & Waterproof: The 8 LED lights have adjustable 3-level brightness to fulfill different requirements, while IP67 waterproof material adds more convenience and flexibility to tackle harsh working environments.
- 5-Hour Operation: The camera adopts a built-in rechargeable 2600mAh lithium battery, providing long-lasting performance up to 5 hours once fully charged. To charge the camera, connect it to a USB charging port using the included micro USB cable.
- Handy Inspection Tool: It is designed for home and industrial inspection, cleaning, repair and maintenance, e.g. inside wall, air conditioner, vent, motor, boiler, tube, sewer.
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.
