I've always kept a cheap USB type inspection camera on my truck but rarely used it due to the poor image quality and nearly useless, limp-noodle cable. I think those models that I had were 640x480 image capable and could see about as good as most burrowing moles in a muddy tunnel - brings back memories of the South Park Lemmiwinks episodes.
I'm still trying to find my internal water leak on a JD4045T engine so I started researching whats available for new tech in bore cameras. I borrowed a neighbor's General brand bore scope but again, the image quality was not all that clear. His unit moved the bar up to maybe a mole with a good LED head lamp - still not very detailed or clear but there was some light in the tunnel.
I spent more time comparing the newer stuff and found that I could now purchase "steerable" bore scopes that raised the bar to the point of being quite useful. So a firm but flexible lead with steering capabilities and bright LED's should make for a very useful item IF the camera resolution is good enough. I did not find any 4k cameras at a reasonable price but 1080p is suitable for a decent picture or video on close up work.
I caught a deal on Amazon for this unit at $159 over the weekend. It has really high reviews.
720 & 1080p resolutions, 4 hr battery life, carry case, 2 way steerable head, 5.5' semi rigid lead length, memory card, pics and videos, variable intensity LED lighting, hook+ mirror+ magnet tips, 4.3" monitor and a 0.33" camera diameter. Sure, it's an off brand name but so what as long as it works?
It was delivered yesterday and I tried it out. What a game changer for bore scopes being able to steer it and look back 180 degrees inside a cylinder. THIS I will keep in my truck at all times. This unit has potential with much cleaner images. This mole's got good glasses, a bright light and takes directions quite well. Until they come out with a micro drone with 4k or better, this will be my go-to inspection tool. I'm sure it will come in handy trying to run wiring behind drywall and other odd jobs when I remember that I have this in my arsenal. The only thing that would make it better would be the ability to hook it direct to a larger monitor rather than depending on the memory card xfer method. Still a big bang for the buck and very useful.
Amazon Link Here