Borescopes & Videoscopes: Top Models & More [New for 2024]

A borescope is an inspection tool consisting of a long, flexible or rigid tube with a lens or camera at the tip. And a videoscope is a type of borescope that can capture real-time video footage.

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Borescopes have been widely used since the early 20th century for visualizing hard-to-reach areas.

Originally developed for mechanical inspection, borescopes use light transmitted through a tube, allowing inspectors to view internal components of engines, turbines, pipelines, and more. 

Videoscopes are a more recent invention, presenting an advanced variation of borescopes that integrate high-quality video technology into the practice of capturing images through a tube. Unlike traditional borescopes, videoscopes offer real-time video feed and recording capabilities, allowing inspectors to capture and document their findings.

In this guide to borescopes and videoscopes we’ll cover what they are, how they work, the top borescopes and videoscopes on the market, and a lot more.

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Borescopes and Videoscopes for Rent & Sale

Want to buy or rent a borescope or videoscope? Keep reading to see the top options on the market.

1. MFE Intelligent Series (Dellonscope) Borescope

The MFE Intelligent Series (Dellonscope) Borescope is a cutting-edge videoscope designed for advanced visual inspections.

Featuring dual high-resolution cameras, it provides clear imagery in challenging environments, making it ideal for inspecting pipes, turbines, and other hard-to-reach areas. Its lightweight, portable design and intuitive touchscreen interface offer ease of use for both experienced technicians and newcomers.

• Dual HD cameras. Provides high-resolution images for precise inspections.
• Touchscreen interface. Easy-to-use interface for seamless navigation and control.
• Portable design. Lightweight and durable, built for field use.

Buy the MFE Intelligent Series (Dellonscope) Borescope.

2. MFE Series Videoscope System

The MFE Series Videoscope System is a versatile and durable videoscope designed for a wide range of inspection needs.

It features a high-definition camera with advanced image processing, delivering clear and precise visuals for critical inspections. The system is lightweight and portable, with an intuitive touchscreen interface for easy operation, making it an ideal choice for field inspections in industries like oil and gas, aviation, and power generation.

• HD camera. Provides sharp, detailed images for accurate inspections.
• Touchscreen interface. User-friendly design for easy control and navigation.
• Portable and durable. Built for use in demanding environments.

Buy the MFE Series Videoscope System.

3. MFE Series 4-Way Articulating Scopes

The MFE Series 4-Way Articulating Scopes are designed for precision inspections in tight and hard-to-reach areas.

Featuring 4-way articulation, these scopes provide maximum maneuverability and control during inspections. The system delivers high-definition imagery and is lightweight and portable, making it an ideal tool for industries requiring detailed visual inspections of complex components like engines, turbines, and pipes.

• 4-Way articulation. Provides flexible maneuverability for detailed inspections.
• HD imagery. Delivers clear visuals to identify defects accurately.
• Portable and durable. Lightweight, designed for field inspections.

Buy the MFE Series 4-Way Articulating Scopes.

4. GE XL GO+ with 4-Way Articulation

The GE XL GO+ with 4-Way Articulation is a high-performance videoscope designed for advanced inspections in industrial environments.

Its 4-way articulation allows for precise control and navigation in confined spaces, while the high-resolution display provides crystal-clear imagery for detecting defects. The GE XL Go+’s lightweight, portable design and intuitive interface make it a reliable tool for demanding inspection tasks in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, and power generation.

• 4-Way articulation. Enhances maneuverability for complex inspections.
• High-resolution display. Provides clear, detailed images for accurate defect detection.
• Portable design. Lightweight and easy to use in field conditions.

Rent the GE XL GO+ with 4-Way Articulation.

5. Olympus IPLEX LT

The Olympus IPLEX LT is a rugged and reliable videoscope designed for industrial inspections in harsh environments.

With a lightweight build and easy-to-use interface, this videoscope offers clear, high-resolution images to aid in detecting defects in complex systems like turbines and pipelines. Its durable construction ensures it can withstand demanding field conditions, making it a trusted tool for technicians in industries such as power generation, aerospace, and manufacturing.

• Rugged design. Built to endure harsh industrial conditions.
• High-resolution imagery. Provides clear visuals for detailed inspections.
• Portable and lightweight. Easy to transport and use in the field.

Rent the Olympus IPLEX LT.

6. Olympus IPLEX FX

The Olympus IPLEX FX is an advanced videoscope designed for highly detailed inspections in challenging environments.

It features a high-resolution display and versatile imaging capabilities, making it ideal for detecting small defects in complex systems like engines, turbines, and pipelines. With a durable, portable design and intuitive controls, the IPLEX FX offers ease of use for technicians performing inspections in industries such as aerospace, power generation, and manufacturing.

• High-resolution display. Provides clear, detailed visuals for precise inspections.
• Durable design. Built to withstand tough industrial conditions.
• Portable and user-friendly. Easy to use and transport in the field.

Rent the Olympus IPLEX FX.

7. Waygate XL Flex Videoscope

The Waygate XL Flex Videoscopes offer a high-performance solution for visual inspections in demanding industrial environments.

With flexible articulation, high-resolution imagery, and durable construction, these videoscopes provide reliable and detailed inspections of engines, turbines, and pipelines. The portable design and intuitive user interface make them ideal for field use in industries like aerospace, power generation, and manufacturing.

• Flexible articulation. Enables precise navigation for complex inspections.
• High-resolution imagery. Delivers clear, detailed visuals for accurate defect detection.
• Durable and portable. Designed for tough industrial conditions and easy field use.

Rent the Waygate XL Flex Videoscopes.

Borescope Repairs & Services

At MFE Inspection Solutions, we provide comprehensive repair and maintenance services for borescopes and videoscopes, ensuring your equipment remains in optimal working condition.

Our services cover everything from minor fixes to full refurbishments, using OEM or high-quality replacement parts to ensure reliability.

Types of Repairs

We specialize in the repair of articulation issues, insertion tube damages, and electrical or optical system malfunctions.

Our technicians are equipped to handle any scope-related problems, getting your equipment back to peak performance.

Types of Borescopes We Repair

We offer repair services for a wide range of inspection tools, including:

• Borescopes. We provide three levels of service—standard, advanced, and comprehensive—for borescope repairs, covering articulation, insertion tube damage, and system malfunctions.
• Fiberscopes. Similar to borescopes, we offer tiered repair services to address optical system issues, articulation problems, and damaged fibers.
• Push cameras & crawler systems. Our services include repairs for cables, cameras, mechanical and control systems, monitors, and transporters, helping you get your push camera or crawler up to speed.

Fast Turnaround and Warranty

We offer quick turnaround times to minimize downtime, and all repairs come with a warranty to ensure peace of mind.

Additionally, we provide loaner equipment to keep your operations running smoothly while repairs are in progress.

Learn more about our borescope repair services.

Key Differences Between Borescopes and Videoscopes

Borescopes and videoscopes are essential tools for visual inspections in hard-to-reach areas, but they differ in technology, application, and functionality.

Understanding these differences can help industries select the right tool for their specific needs.

How They Work

Borescopes typically use either optical lenses or fiber optics to provide an image of the inspected area. Rigid or flexible borescopes transmit light and images through an eyepiece, offering a direct line of sight for basic visual inspection. These devices are ideal for simple, straight-line inspections like engine cylinders or pipes.

Videoscopes, on the other hand, include an advanced camera at the tip, which captures real-time video and transmits it to a display screen. This allows for better image quality and detailed documentation of inspections. Videoscopes are often used in more complex inspections, especially in industries that require high-resolution imagery, such as aerospace and manufacturing.

Applications

Borescopes are ideal for straightforward tasks where portability and durability are essential.

For example, a portable borescope is often used in automotive repair to inspect engines or exhaust systems. It’s lightweight and easy to transport, making it a versatile tool for quick checks in the field.

On the other hand, video borescopes are better suited for more advanced work, like pipeline inspections, turbine maintenance, and other industrial applications. Their ability to record high-quality video and capture detailed images makes them essential in industries where documentation and clarity are critical, such as power plants, oil and gas, and aerospace.

Technological Differences

• Borescopes rely on simple optical systems and manual focus, whereas videoscopes are equipped with built-in cameras, lighting systems, and often come with digital zoom and recording capabilities.
• Videoscopes provide more flexibility with advanced articulation, allowing operators to change the viewing angle remotely, while borescopes typically have limited or no articulation unless they are the articulating type.
• Video borescopes also offer superior image clarity and video recording features, making them the go-to tool for tasks requiring visual records, whereas traditional borescopes provide only real-time viewing without the ability to document findings.

Choosing the Right Tool

If you need a cost-effective solution for basic inspections, borescopes are widely available and are perfect for routine tasks.

But for more detailed inspections and data collection, investing in an industrial videoscope may give you the technological edge you need.

5 Sectors that Use Industrial Borescopes and Videoscopes

Borescopes and videoscopes play a critical role in a variety of industries, offering non-invasive visual inspections that allow technicians to access hard-to-reach areas without dismantling complex machinery. Their flexibility and precision make them indispensable tools for maintaining safety, efficiency, and quality control.

Below are some of the key industries where industrial videoscopes and borescopes are commonly used, along with specific use cases.

1. Oil and Gas

In the oil and gas industry, borescopes and videoscopes are essential for inspecting critical equipment such as pipelines, turbines, and pressure vessels.

These tools allow for non-invasive inspections, helping to identify corrosion, cracks, or blockages that could compromise the safety and efficiency of operations.

Oil and Gas Use Cases

• Inspecting the internal condition of pipelines for corrosion or buildup.
• Examining turbine blades for wear or damage.
• Assessing the integrity of pressure vessels and storage tanks for leaks or cracks.

2. Power Generation

In the power generation sector, regular maintenance of turbines, boilers, and heat exchangers is crucial for efficiency and safety.

Industrial videoscopes provide clear, real-time visual inspections, allowing engineers to detect corrosion, cracks, or blockages in pipes and turbines. This is especially useful in nuclear, coal-fired, and gas-powered plants where failure can lead to significant downtime and safety risks.

Power Generation Use Cases

• Inspecting steam turbine blades for wear or erosion.
• Monitoring heat exchanger tubes for corrosion or blockages.
• Checking boiler systems for signs of leaks or pressure damage.

3. Manufacturing

Manufacturers use borescopes and videoscopes to ensure the quality and integrity of their products.

These tools are particularly valuable for inspecting welded joints, castings, and machined components. The ability to perform inspections without dismantling machinery improves production efficiency while ensuring quality control.

Manufacturing Use Cases

• Inspecting welded joints in pipelines and pressure vessels for porosity or cracks.
• Examining internal cavities in castings for defects.
• Ensuring dimensional accuracy and surface quality in machined parts.

4. Aerospace

In the aerospace industry, maintaining the integrity of engines and other components is essential for safety.

Flexible videoscopes are often used to inspect turbine engines, combustion chambers, and internal components of jet engines without needing to disassemble the entire system. They can also be used for inspecting aircraft fuselages and airframes to detect cracks or corrosion in hard-to-access areas.

Aerospace Use Cases

• Inspecting turbine blades for wear or foreign object damage (FOD).
• Checking fuel lines and hydraulic systems for leaks.
• Ensuring internal structural integrity of aircraft wings and fuselage.

5. Automotive

In the automotive industry, borescopes and videoscopes are widely used for inspecting internal combustion engines, transmissions, and exhaust systems.

A portable borescope can be easily inserted into small spaces, allowing technicians to check for wear, corrosion, and blockages without disassembling the engine. This reduces downtime and saves costs.

Automotive Use Cases

• Inspecting engine cylinders for carbon buildup or damage.
• Examining transmission components for wear or contamination.
• Checking exhaust systems for clogs or leaks.

Different Types of Borescopes

Borescopes come in various designs to meet the specific inspection needs of different industries.

Whether you need a portable borescope for quick field inspections or a more advanced tool for intricate internal inspections, understanding the different types available is crucial.

Below, we explore the primary types of borescopes, their advantages, disadvantages, and typical applications.

Rigid Borescopes

Rigid borescopes are designed with solid, non-flexible insertion tubes, making them ideal for straight-line inspections. These borescopes provide high-resolution imaging, making them excellent for inspecting parts that don’t require bending or maneuvering around corners.

• Pros. High-quality imaging, durable, and often more affordable than flexible models.
• Cons. Limited to straight inspections; not suitable for areas with curves or bends.
• Applications. Used in industries like automotive and manufacturing for inspecting pipes, engines, and machined parts that have direct access points.

Flexible Borescopes

Flexible borescopes are designed with a flexible insertion tube that can navigate through bends and tight spaces. These borescopes provide excellent maneuverability, making them ideal for areas that are otherwise hard to access.

• Pros. Highly flexible, can reach around curves, and provide real-time visuals in hard-to-reach places.
• Cons. Typically more expensive and sometimes offer lower resolution compared to rigid borescopes.
• Applications. Frequently used in aerospace, oil and gas, and power generation for inspecting turbines, pipelines, and other complex structures.

Video Borescopes (Videoscopes)

Video borescopes, or videoscopes, feature a built-in camera that transmits images to a monitor, allowing for real-time video inspection. These devices often come with recording capabilities, allowing for video storage and review.

• Pros. Real-time video, ability to record, high resolution, and ease of use.
• Cons. Typically more expensive than traditional borescopes.
• Applications. Used in aerospace, automotive, and industrial maintenance, making them perfect for turbine inspections, engine assessments, and pipeline evaluations.

Portable Borescopes

Portable borescopes are compact, lightweight, and designed for easy transportation. These borescopes are often battery-powered and are ideal for fieldwork or quick inspections.

• Pros. Lightweight, easy to transport, and ideal for on-the-go inspections.
• Cons. Limited battery life and may have fewer features compared to larger models.
• Applications. Commonly used in automotive repair, plumbing, and HVAC maintenance where quick inspections are needed.

Dual-View Borescopes

Dual-view borescopes feature two cameras, one positioned at the front and one on the side, allowing for better visibility from different angles without moving the insertion tube. This is particularly useful for comprehensive inspections where multiple views are required.

• Pros. Offers both front and side views without needing to adjust the scope’s position.
• Cons. More expensive than standard single-camera models.
• Applications. Ideal for industries such as power generation and aerospace, where a thorough inspection from multiple angles is required, such as inspecting welds or internal turbine components.

Articulating Borescopes

Articulating borescopes feature a movable tip that can be adjusted to view different areas of the inspected space without removing the scope. These are typically used for detailed inspections where multiple viewing angles are required without repositioning the device.

• Pros. Provides excellent maneuverability and detailed inspections.
• Cons. More complex to operate and typically higher in cost.
• Applications. Aerospace, manufacturing, and power generation industries for thorough inspections of engines, turbines, and internal components.

Infrared Borescopes

Infrared borescopes use thermal imaging technology to detect heat differences in inspected areas. These are particularly useful for detecting overheating or insulation defects in industrial environments.

• Pros. Allows for thermal imaging, ideal for detecting heat-related issues.
• Cons. Limited to specific applications and typically more expensive.
• Applications. Used in power generation and industrial maintenance to identify heat leaks, insulation problems, or overheating machinery components.

Different Types of Videoscopes

Videoscopes are advanced inspection tools that offer superior image quality and flexibility for a range of industrial applications.

Whether you’re inspecting turbines, pipelines, or other machinery, selecting the right type of videoscope is essential.

Below, we explore the different types of videoscopes, their advantages, and typical use cases.

Flexible Videoscopes

Flexible videoscopes are designed with a flexible insertion tube that allows users to navigate through complex or curved paths. This type of videoscope is ideal for accessing tight spaces and areas with bends, such as pipelines or engine components.

• Pros. Provides excellent maneuverability in hard-to-reach areas.
• Cons. May offer slightly lower resolution than rigid models, depending on the system.
• Applications. Commonly used in the aerospace, oil and gas, and power generation industries for inspecting turbines, heat exchangers, and pipeline systems.

Rigid Videoscopes

Rigid videoscopes have a non-flexible insertion tube, which provides superior image clarity and is ideal for inspections requiring straight-line access. These devices are commonly used in situations where direct access to the inspection area is available.

• Pros. Higher image resolution and durability.
• Cons. Limited to straight-line access and cannot maneuver around bends or corners.
• Applications. Primarily used in manufacturing, automotive, and machinery maintenance where straight access to the inspection area is possible, such as inspecting engines or industrial pipes.

HD Videoscopes

HD videoscopes provide high-definition imaging, making them essential for capturing detailed visuals in industrial inspections. The high-resolution display allows for clearer inspection results, especially when detecting small defects or irregularities.

• Pros. Superior image clarity, ideal for detailed inspections and documentation.
• Cons. Typically more expensive than standard-resolution models.
• Applications. Commonly used in aerospace, research and development, and quality control inspections where precision and clarity are critical.

Portable Videoscopes

Portable videoscopes are lightweight, battery-powered devices designed for fieldwork or on-the-go inspections. These videoscopes offer flexibility and convenience for technicians who need to perform inspections in various locations.

• Pros. Lightweight, easy to carry, and ideal for remote inspections.
• Cons. Limited battery life and may have fewer advanced features compared to larger models.
• Applications. Used in field inspections for applications such as HVAC maintenance, automotive repairs, and industrial machinery inspections.

Articulating Videoscopes

Articulating videoscopes feature a movable tip that can be controlled to inspect different areas without removing the device. This function allows for more detailed and comprehensive inspections, especially in hard-to-reach spaces.

• Pros. Excellent maneuverability with precise control over the inspection angle.
• Cons. Higher cost and slightly more complex to operate.
• Applications. Ideal for turbine inspections, engine assessments, and other areas where detailed visual inspections are required.

Dual-View Videoscopes

Dual-view videoscopes are equipped with two cameras—one facing forward and the other facing to the side—providing two perspectives during an inspection without needing to adjust the device. This feature is useful for thorough, multidimensional inspections.

• Pros. Offers multiple viewing angles without repositioning, enhancing the efficiency of inspections.
• Cons. More expensive than single-view models and can be slightly bulkier.
• Applications. Commonly used in industrial settings like power generation and aerospace to ensure thorough inspections of pipes, welds, and engine components.

5 Key Features to Look for When Buying a Borescope or Videoscope

Choosing the right borescope or videoscope for your inspection needs requires careful consideration of several key features.

Depending on your needs, factors like resolution, flexibility, portability, durability, and software compatibility will play a vital role in your decision-making process.

1. Resolution

The resolution of the camera is one of the most critical factors in choosing a borescope or videoscope.

Higher resolution offers clearer images, which are essential for detecting fine details, especially in industrial inspections. When choosing a borescope or videoscope, ensure the camera resolution matches your inspection needs—particularly if you’re working in industries like aerospace or automotive, where detecting tiny cracks or corrosion is crucial.

2. Flexibility

Whether you need a flexible or rigid scope depends on the environment you’ll be inspecting.

Flexible borescopes and videoscopes offer greater maneuverability, allowing you to navigate around tight bends and confined spaces. In contrast, rigid models are more suitable for straight-line inspections, providing better image clarity in applications such as engine or turbine inspections.

3. Portability

Portable borescopes and videoscopes are ideal for fieldwork and remote inspections.

These handheld models offer convenience, especially when technicians are required to move between different inspection sites. Look for a portable borescope with a long battery life and lightweight design to ensure you can perform extended inspections without frequent recharging.

4. Durability

Industrial environments can be harsh, so durability is essential.

Look for borescopes and videoscopes with robust construction that can withstand the demanding conditions of your industry. Waterproof, dustproof, and drop-resistant models will help ensure long-lasting performance in challenging environments like oil and gas or manufacturing.

5. Compatibility with Inspection Software

In modern industrial inspections, data collection and analysis are just as important as visual inspection.

When choosing a borescope or videoscope, consider models that are compatible with inspection software, allowing you to store, analyze, and report your findings. This feature is particularly useful for industries such as power generation, where documentation is required for regulatory compliance and quality assurance.

6 Steps for Maintenance and Care of Borescopes and Videoscopes

Proper maintenance and care of your borescope or videoscope is essential to ensure its longevity and optimal performance—especially in demanding industrial environments.

Whether you’re using a portable borescope or advanced industrial videoscopes, following the right maintenance practices can help protect your investment and guarantee reliable results during inspections.

Below are the six key maintenance areas to keep in mind.

1. Cleaning After Each Use

After every inspection, it’s important to clean the borescope or videoscope properly.

Use a soft cloth to wipe the insertion tube and camera tip to remove dust, debris, or any contaminants picked up during the inspection. Avoid using abrasive materials, which can damage sensitive optical components. For industrial applications, using an approved cleaning solution that is compatible with your equipment is essential to ensure the removal of oil or chemical residues.

2. Storage

When storing your borescope or videoscope, make sure it’s placed in a protective case to prevent physical damage.

Avoid storing the equipment in extreme temperatures or humid conditions, as these environments can degrade components like the camera lens and fiber optics. Store flexible borescopes in a coil or designated compartment to avoid kinks in the insertion tube, which could affect its performance over time.

3. Routine Inspections

Conduct regular inspections of your borescope or videoscope to detect any wear or damage.

Check for signs of fraying on the insertion tube or any irregularities on the camera tip. This is particularly important for industrial videoscopes used in harsh environments, such as oil and gas, where exposure to corrosive substances or high temperatures may affect the device.

4. Battery Maintenance

For portable models, battery maintenance is crucial for uninterrupted inspections.

Ensure that batteries are fully charged before each use and avoid overcharging them to preserve battery health. Replace any worn-out batteries promptly, especially in fieldwork where reliability is critical.

5. Calibration and Software Updates

Many modern borescopes and videoscopes come equipped with software that requires regular updates.

It’s important that you check for software updates periodically to improve functionality and keep your device running smoothly. Additionally, if your borescope or videoscope requires calibration for accurate measurements, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to maintain precision.

6. Avoid Physical Damage

Finally, avoid dropping or mishandling the equipment, as both borescopes and videoscopes contain delicate optical and electronic components.

Even a slight impact can misalign the camera or damage the internal circuitry, leading to poor performance or malfunction.

Learn more about our borescope repair services.

Frequently Asked Questions About Borescopes and Videoscopes

What are borescopes used for?

Borescopes are commonly used in industrial inspections for visualizing hard-to-reach areas, such as inside engines, turbines, or pipelines. They help inspectors assess internal damage or wear without dismantling the equipment. Applications include aerospace, automotive, and power generation industries.

What is the difference between a borescope and an endoscope camera?

A borescope is used primarily for industrial inspections, while an endoscope camera is designed for medical purposes. Borescopes are optimized for checking machinery, engines, and infrastructure, whereas endoscopes are used to examine the human body, such as in surgeries or diagnostics.

What is the difference between a borescope and a fiberscope?

A borescope typically uses a rigid or flexible tube with a lens or camera at the tip, while a fiberscope transmits images through flexible optical fibers. Fiberscopes are useful for navigating complex, narrow spaces that rigid borescopes cannot access, but they often offer lower image quality compared to borescopes.

What are the limitations of a borescope?

Borescopes may have limited reach depending on the length of the probe, and rigid models can have difficulty navigating curved or complex spaces. Additionally, lighting can sometimes be insufficient in darker inspection environments, requiring models with better illumination.

What are the best borescopes for sale?

The best borescopes depend on the application. For industrial inspections, portable borescopes with high-resolution cameras and durable construction are recommended. Video borescopes or flexible borescopes are ideal for more complex inspections where maneuverability and video recording are essential. Popular models include those from brands like Olympus, GE, and MFE Inspection Solutions.

See our top borescopes for sale.

What is the difference between borescopes and videoscopes?

Borescopes are simpler inspection tools, typically featuring optical lenses, while videoscopes are more advanced, equipped with cameras to capture live video feeds and often come with screens for real-time inspection. Videoscopes are generally preferred for detailed inspections that require video documentation.