Borescopes

The Best Borescopes and Where to Buy Them in the UK: A Practical Guide

Introduction: Why a borescope might be the smartest tool in your kit

If you’ve ever tried to peer into an engine block, a pipe, or a wall cavity and wished you had X‑ray vision, a borescope is the next best thing. These slender inspection cameras let you inspect hidden spaces without demolition, saving time, money, and frustration. Whether you’re a hobbyist fixing a classic car, a plumber tracing a blockage, or a pro doing routine maintenance, choosing the right borescope matters. In this guide I’ll walk you through how to pick one, highlight trusted UK retailers — including Expert Electrical which lists the Ferret Plus HD Wireless Digital Zoom Inspection Camera IP67 — and share practical tips so you get the results you need.

What is a borescope and how does it work?

A borescope is a small camera mounted on the end of a flexible or rigid tube that transmits images back to a display. Think of it as a tiny eyeball on a stick that can snake into tight spots. Modern models include LED lighting, high‑definition sensors, waterproof housings, and wireless connections, so you can see clear pictures on a phone or dedicated monitor. The camera diameter and cable length determine where it can go, and features like articulation and zoom decide how much detail you can inspect.

Types of borescopes: Choosing the right style

Not all borescopes are created equal. There are several common types, each suited to different tasks. Let’s break down the main varieties so you can match the tool to the job.

Rigid borescopes

Rigid borescopes are straight, sturdy tubes with fixed optics. They’re great when you need undistorted, high‑quality images through a straight bore, like inspecting turbine blades or engine cylinders. Rigid models often deliver superior image clarity compared to flexible types, but they won’t bend around corners.

Flexible borescopes (fiberscopes and videoscopes)

Flexible borescopes bend to follow curves and navigate tight turns, which makes them ideal for plumbing, HVAC, and automotive work. Older fiberscopes used bundles of optical fibers for the image, while modern videoscopes place a tiny digital sensor at the tip and send a video signal back, often with wireless connectivity to a phone or tablet.

Wireless inspection cameras

Wireless borescopes pair with smartphones or tablets via Wi‑Fi, letting you record and share footage instantly. A popular example is the Ferret Plus HD Wireless Digital Zoom Inspection Camera IP67 available from Expert Electrical — it combines wireless freedom with an IP67 rating for protection against dust and temporary immersion. These are perfect if you want portability and easy file management.

Key features to consider before you buy

Buying a borescope is about balancing reach, clarity, and durability. Here are the essential specs to evaluate when comparing models.

Camera diameter and reach

Diameter determines where the camera can fit — slim tips of around 0.2 inches (roughly 5mm) slip into small ports, while bigger heads offer better light and sensors. Cable length is usually given in feet; a 10‑foot cable (about 3 m) is fine for most cars and household jobs, while professionals might need 20 to 30 feet for larger systems.

Resolution and zoom

Resolution affects how much detail you can see. Consumer models often start around 720p, while better units offer 1080p or higher. Optical zoom or digital zoom helps you inspect details, but remember that digital zoom can reduce image clarity. If you need to read serial numbers or spot hairline cracks, prioritize higher resolution.

Lighting and image adjustment

LED lights at the tip are standard — adjustable brightness helps avoid glare on reflective surfaces. Look for models with multiple LEDs and easy control to fine‑tune illumination in tight, shiny spaces.

Waterproof rating and durability

Ratings like IP67 mean the device is dustproof and can survive brief immersion, which is great for plumbing or automotive work. For heavy‑duty industrial environments, look for tougher construction, abrasion‑resistant cables, and reinforced joints. If you’ll use a borescope in damp or oily conditions, waterproofing isn’t optional — it’s essential.

Display and connectivity

Some borescopes have built‑in screens, while others rely on your phone. Wireless Wi‑Fi models are convenient, but wired units sometimes offer more stable video. Consider whether you need still photo capture, video recording, or live streaming for collaboration and reporting.

Top UK stores where you can buy borescopes

Not every retailer stocks the same range or expertise, so picking the right store is part of the strategy. Below are reputable UK sellers that cover everything from budget pocket scopes to professional inspection systems.

Expert Electrical

Expert Electrical stocks consumer and semi‑professional inspection cameras, including wireless models like the Ferret Plus HD Wireless Digital Zoom Inspection Camera IP67. If you want a ready‑to‑use wireless borescope with a decent feature set, Expert Electrical is a straightforward option. They often list product specs like waterproof ratings and camera resolution to help you compare models quickly.

Screwfix

Screwfix caters to tradespeople and DIYers, offering a solid range of inspection cameras from entry‑level to pro. Their selection focuses on toughness and value, and you’ll find brands that include long cables and rugged housings suitable for workshop and site use.

Toolstation

Toolstation stocks inspection cameras aimed at trades — think plumbers and electricians who need reliable kit at a sensible price. Their range typically emphasises concise feature lists and practical accessories like magnetic tips and hook attachments.

RS Components and CPC

RS Components and its sister brand CPC supply more technical, industrial inspection systems, along with spare parts and accessories. If you need higher‑end imaging, longer cables measured in feet for factory inspections, or replacement probes, these distributors are worth checking.

Amazon UK

Amazon’s marketplace gives you the widest selection, from cheap pocket scopes to advanced videoscopes. The advantage is choice and customer reviews that reveal real‑world performance. The downside is variable warranty and support depending on the seller, so pick established brands and sellers with good ratings.

eBay

eBay is useful for bargains and discontinued models. It’s especially handy if you’re looking for replacement parts or a specific older unit. Be cautious: inspect seller feedback, check return terms, and understand whether you’re buying used or refurbished gear.

Halfords and Argos

High‑street retailers like Halfords and Argos sometimes carry basic inspection cameras aimed at vehicle owners or DIY enthusiasts. These are good entry points if you need something cheap and easy to use for occasional inspections.

Choosing the right borescope for your needs

Your ideal borescope depends on the jobs you do most. Answer a few questions first: Do you need to snake around corners? Will you be working in wet conditions? Do you require recorded evidence? Use the guidance below to narrow your choice.

For DIY and occasional use

Choose a compact, wireless unit with a short to medium cable (5 to 15 feet). A 720p to 1080p camera is usually fine, and adjustable LEDs will help. These models are lightweight, affordable, and easy to pair with your phone for quick photos.

For automotive work

Automotive tasks often need thin diameters to enter intake ports or tight engine areas. Look for a tip diameter under 0.3 inches and a cable long enough to reach inside engine bays — typically 4 to 10 feet. IP67 protection is handy for inevitable oil and grease exposure.

For plumbing and HVAC

Longer cable lengths in the 10 to 30‑foot range are useful here, along with brighter LEDs to cut through murky environments. Waterproofing is a must. Consider models with articulation or steerable tips to navigate pipe bends.

For industrial inspections

Professionals need rugged build quality, higher resolution, and long cables. Features like interchangeable probes, advanced image processing, and detailed reporting tools make inspections efficient. Buying from specialist distributors like RS Components or CPC gives you access to these pro features.

Budget vs professional models: Where to spend and where to save

If you only need a borescope for occasional checks, a budget wireless model saves money and handles light tasks. But if you rely on inspections for income, invest in a professional unit: higher resolution, stronger cables measured in feet, better articulation, and serviceable parts. Think of it like buying boots — casual trainers are fine for an evening walk, but if you work on rugged terrain daily you’ll pay more for gear that keeps you moving.

Accessories and maintenance that matter

The right accessories extend capability and life. Common add‑ons include magnet and hook attachments, mirror tips, extension cables, protective cases, and spare probe skins. Regular cleaning, careful storage, and gentle handling of the cable will keep the optics clear and the electronics dry.

Cleaning and caring for the probe

After each use, wipe the probe with a soft cloth and, if necessary, a mild cleaner. Avoid harsh solvents that can damage seals. For waterproof models, rinse briefly if exposed to grime, but don’t submerge cameras not rated for immersion. Store the cable coiled loosely to avoid kinks that can damage internal wiring.

Replacing tips and spare parts

Check whether replacement tips or cables are available for your model — pro vendors like RS Components and CPC often stock spares. Having spare LED modules or tips on hand can keep downtime to a minimum in a busy workshop.

Tips to get the best inspection results

Even the best borescope is only as good as your technique. Here are practical tips that make images sharper and inspections faster.

Slow and steady wins the race

Move the probe gradually. Quick pushes create motion blur and make it hard to focus on defects. Pause and adjust lighting and zoom to capture clear shots rather than a fast sweep of mediocre images.

Use contrast and angles

Change viewing angles and adjust LED brightness to reveal hairline cracks or corrosion that hide in shadows. Sometimes tilting the tip a few degrees gives a much clearer view than staring straight on.

Record as you go

Capture both stills and short video clips. Videos show how defects develop along a run, and still images capture close‑ups for documentation. If you’re troubleshooting intermittently, a short clip often tells the story better than a single photo.

Conclusion

Borescopes are versatile tools that bring hidden problems into plain sight. Whether you choose a compact wireless unit for weekend DIY or a rugged industrial videoscope for professional inspections, matching features to your tasks saves time and money. UK stores like Expert Electrical, Screwfix, Toolstation, RS Components, Amazon UK, eBay, Halfords, and Argos cover the full spectrum from budget to pro. Remember to check camera diameter in inches, cable length in feet, waterproof rating like IP67 for wet jobs, and whether you need wireless convenience or wired stability. With the right borescope and a bit of practice, you’ll be inspecting like a pro in no time.