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Depstech 86T-5M review | Digital Camera World

Digital Camera World Verdict

The Depstech 86T-5M is an excellent value-for-money endoscope which – as long you’re not hoping to connect to an iPhone – provides a solution more than adequate for occasional DIY needs, or retrieving lost items from tricky spots. We liked the simple lighting control and were impressed with the usefulness of the adapters. If we were being picky, the magnet is tricky to use – but ferrous metals need some volume; it’s hard to blame physics. Remembering this costs little more than a good delivery pizza and is impressive; adding the fun of creative uses through the webcam connection and it seems like a bargain.

TODAY’S BEST DEALS

Pros

• +

  Works with Android, Widows, MacOS

• +

  No need for separate power

• +

  Analog brightness control for lights

• +

  USB-A and MicroUSB adapters

• +

  Can be used for live streaming

Cons

• –

  No Lightning Port connector, no iPhone

• –

  Probe attachments container is fiddly

• –

  Image quality suffers from artifacts

• –

  Depstech-View app asks for email

Why you can trust Digital Camera World
Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

The best borescopes, endoscopes or inspection cameras – call them what you will – have moved from being a rare curiosity to a tool most DIY enthusiasts, not to mention serious mechanics or plumbers, don’t like to go without. The ability to look inside machines, or under floorboards, without having to undertake a huge amount of demolition first is difficult to overstate.

Depstech, and their competitors, sell devices in three broad categories – wireless, wired, and all-in-one. The later is a complete tool for professional work, while both wired and wireless tend to offer a much cheaper entry point (you’ll provide the screen with your phone or other device).

The wired option connects to a computer (or USB-friendly phone) much like a webcam which also means it can be a creative tool, allowing you to record, or even live broadcast directly from a tiny camera on a probe. Perhaps you’re doing a live vlog about living inside your Lego city?

Whatever the case, the USB endoscope is a flexible device (literally and metaphorically). The model we’re reviewing here, the Depstech 86T-5MP is one of a series (86T) – slightly smaller diameter probes are an option with lower resolution cameras.

(Image credit: Adam Juniper)

(Image credit: Adam Juniper)

• Depstech 86T-5M at Amazon for $35.99

Depstech 86T-5M specifications

Resolution: 2592 x 1944 pixels
Camera diameter: 8.5mm (0.33in)
Cable length: 5m (16.5ft)
Focus range: 70 – 400mm (2.8-15.7in)
Ingress Protection: IP67 (camera only)
Field of view: 80˚
Connection port: USB-C (USB-A and MicroUSB adapters included)
Accessories: Hook, magnet, side-view mirror

The Depstech-View app allows you to see and record using the camera on an Android device. (Image credit: Adam Juniper)

Depstech 86T-5M features

With a camera at one end and the USB connector at the other, and a semi-rigid cable this is a pretty bare-bones device. The 5-megapixel image sensor is surrounded by six LEDs and a thumb wheel on a nub about the size of a thumb stick adjusts the illumination.

In terms of accessories, Depstech have provided enough USB adapters to connect to any Android phone – but they’ve not seen fit to license Apple’s Lighting port so this is definitely not a tool for iPhone users (MacOS, on the other hand, will have no trouble identifying the camera like any other, and you can capture stills and video using Photo Booth).

At the business end of the device, the lens can be augmented with one of three accessories; a hook, a magnet, or a mirror which directs the view to the side.

The mirror attachment for side view and the magnet attachment has retrieved a nut (Image credit: Adam Juniper)

Depstech 86T-5M build and handling

Tweaking the lighting with the thumb wheel requires a very gentle touch, but there is enough resistance for it to operate and we were pleased to use an ‘analog’ device to set brightness rather than limited steps.

The probe end is made of metal, with the different attachments screwing on in place of the standard collar which serves to protect the lens and screw thread. This proved reasonably painless; the most problematic aspect was removing the film which protected the tiny mirror without scratching it. 

Using the attachments is a bit of an issue in dark environments; the mirror reflects some of the light from the rim so lighting must be very low, while the magnet blocks a good chunk of the view and also reflects anything but the weakest light settings.

Working with the magnet probe (Image credit: Adam Juniper)

Depstech 86T-5M performance

If your only experience with similar endoscopes has been via wi-fi devices, then the unarguable reliability of a wired connection will impress here. The videos we recorded were at 30fps, and looked it, but the camera was still able to detect color and detail without any issues (though it is a stretch to call the video five megapixels – Photo Booth recorded 1620 x 1080).

Having the semi-rigid flex heading straight into your computer or phone can put a lot of pressure on the connection (or just flip a handset right over), which is something you’ll need to bear in mind, especially if using adapters at the USB end. It is a strong flex, and responds to being bent into shape as you’d hope.

Image taken using Photo Booth (and an inset showing the model the camera was exploring) (Image credit: Adam Juniper)

This is a sample video clip with the mirror probe attachment from the Depstech 86T-5M

Depstech 86T-5M verdict

The Depstech 86T-5M solves the image reliability issue we’d had with wireless endoscopes without making us dig any deeper into our pockets – it even seems to have the same camera probe as the one we’ve seen on the Depstech WF028-5M though not the jaunty yellow flex. At the same time all the accessories we could imagine are included, including a side mirror which might not make up for not having a dual-lens device like the Depstech DS500 but is definitely a good economy alternative.  

We didn’t like the fact that this device wouldn’t befriend Apple phones, though that is down in large part to the fruity firm’s resistance to the otherwise all-conquering USB-C connector. We did, however, enjoy using a MacBook with the camera and couldn’t help but be enthused by the creative possibilities, as well as the DIY ones. 

Read more:

Best borescopes
Best thermal-imaging cameras
Best laser levels

Depstech 86T-5M: Price Comparison

$43.98

$35.99

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With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and, above all, drones.  

Adam is our resident expert on all aspects of camera drones and drone photography, from buying guides on the best choices for aerial photographers of all ability levels to the latest rules and regulations on piloting drones. 

He is the author of a number of books including The Complete Guide to Drones, The Smart Smart Home Handbook, 101 Tips for DSLR Video and The Drone Pilot’s Handbook. 

Depstech DS500 review | Digital Camera World

Digital Camera World Verdict

While the DS500 is a deeper dip into the pocket than strictly necessary for occasional tasks, it also takes inspection in its stride in a way other solutions just don’t. The solidly built handset, not to mention the all-important probe’s dual-lens camera, all backed up with the ability to record mean you’ll not need to replace this tool for a long while. As a bonus the accessories are great and the built-in torch is genuinely useful (and has a super-cool trigger switch).

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Pros

• +

  Rugged but not over-heavy body

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  Records stills or video to TF card

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  5-inch screen

• +

  Up to 7 hours on one charge

• +

  Excellent picture and focus range

• +

  Case and accessories included

Cons

• –

  Screen isn’t very rugged

• –

  Camera switching could be better

• –

  Not especially compact

• –

  Only 3 brightness levels for probe

Why you can trust Digital Camera World
Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

An endoscope can help to accelerating many DIY and professional tasks, and in many cases save time and money by circumventing the removal of floorboards or, for automotive enthusiasts, the lifting out of half an engine just to get a closer look at a concealed component. Aside from medical, there are three broad categories of endoscope (or ‘inspection camera’ if you prefer): USB and wireless – both of which borrow a phone screen – and all-in-one video devices like the Depstech DS500.

Depstech caters for all these categories, and also offer a variety of different camera probes for the end of the semi-rigid flex; the DS500 includes a dual camera design, which not only features a forward-pointing camera, but a second looking out to one side (yet it manages this with a slightly narrower probe than the wireless WF028).

(Image credit: Adam Juniper)

Depstech DS500 specifications

Resolution: 1920 x 1088 pixels
Probe diameter: 7.9mm (0.31in)
Cable length: 5m (16.5ft)
Focus range: 41 – 5000mm (1.6-198in)
Ingress Protection: IP67 (camera only)
Field of view: 178˚
Charging port: USB-C
Accessories: Hook, Magnetic catch, Hard Case

(Image credit: Adam Juniper)

• Depstech DS500 at Amazon for $129.99

Depstech DS500 features

The DS500 is a solidly built inspection camera built around its 5-inch IPS screen, presumably a component which might find its way into a cellular phone, although it is not a touch screen; all operation is via the six buttons beneath (and power button at the top). Key operations include switching between the two cameras on the probe, both which can return a 1080P signal, rotating the image by 180˚, and choosing from the three brightness settings for the lights built into the probe. The main body also has a handy built in LED flashlight operated by a firm trigger-like switch.

The system houses a 5000 mAh battery, charged via a USB-C connector, which provides a generous seven hours of power for the screen and removable probe cable. For those who want to capture what they see, the device can capture video and pictures to a TF (microSD) card.

(Image credit: Adam Juniper)

Depstech DS500 build and handling

The DS500 makes a good first impression, not least because it arrives in a good quality zipped hard case. Open it up and you’ll find the main unit opposite a welcome guide and, underneath a padded flap, the flex and accessories. Attaching the camera cable is via a screwed 5-pin socket on the back, while a 32GB TF card is already in the socket next to the charging port (though both, and a recessed reset button, are safely hidden beneath a rubber seal). The weight is a reassuring 438g (about a pound), rising to 622g with the flex attached; in no way too heavy to use and the plastic feels firm if not luxurious.

Pressing the backlit rubber buttons requires a firm press; and a menu can be invoked which is operated using the same keys which control the probe brightness in normal operation. Once you’ve set a language and date-and-time here for your recording’s metadata there isn’t a lot more to do.

Operating the probe is much the same as other endoscopes in terms of pushing the semi-rigid flex down a hole, with the exception that a long-press of the image rotation button (top left of the cluster) switches lenses. The side lens has only one LED to illuminate its view.

(Image credit: Adam Juniper)

Depstech DS500 performance

The device powers up quickly, with only a brief flash of the ‘Depstech’ logo before you’re looking through the camera and able to work. General operation is easier to manage than some, and the menu isn’t challenging either. Image quality is good, especially from the front camera, though we’d argue that despite Desptech’s claim, the image isn’t sharp much beyond a meter (3ft) – but that’s still far better than most. There is, of course, noise and grain, especially in the darker areas, but nothing to complain about.

That said, the system isn’t without its quirks. The saved video is 720p at 25.34fps – more than fast enough to review but not the 30fps many would expect. Photos are saved at 1920 x 1088 pixels (assuming you choose the higher resolution), which is as much resolution as you need in the points of sharpest focus and illumination (inevitably the light is brighter near the probe).

While it was useful that an icon appears indicating when you’ve selected the side camera, we did find it a little odd that there was no choice of brightness. 

This image shows the inside of a hand-crafted clothing model (the inset shows the probe in use) (Image credit: Adam Juniper)

This is a sample of video from the Depstech DS500. In the clip you can see a few changes of brightness 

Depstech DS500 verdict

The DS500 is a fine tool, more than capable of performing its duties even in a rough and tumble environment. The build is confidence inspiring, always appreciated in the kind of environment where serious work is being done, and we really appreciated the case and addition of magnet as well as standard hook – you’ll never lose a screw again.

Our main complaint is that the 180˚ image rotation and camera swap functions are performed by the same button, the latter requiring a long (3 sec) press; these are both core functions and it’s a real shame it isn’t easier to swap lenses. We’d also like to see a choice of frame rates for the video, but this is not a device meant to compete in the cinema so it’s not essential.

Since neither complaint really prevents the tool from performing its duties, we have no problem recommending the DS500 as an addition to any serious pro or enthusiast’s tool shelf.

Read more:

Best borescopes
Best thermal-imaging cameras
Best laser levels

Depstech DS500: Price Comparison

730 Amazon customer reviews

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Digital Camera World is one of the leading authorities on camera and photography news, reviews, techniques, tutorials, comparisons, deals and industry analysis. The site doesn’t just specialize in cameras, but all aspects of photography, videography and imaging – including camera phones, gimbals, lenses, lighting, editing software, filters, tripods, laptops, printers, photo books, desks, binoculars and more.  

Whether you’re using, looking to buy or trying to get the most out of a compact camera, action camera, camera drone, cinema camera, beginner camera or professional camera, Digital Camera World has a roster of experts with combined experience of over 100 years when it comes to cameras, photography and imaging. 

Meet the DCW team

HD IP camera snake 960H, audio, PoE

Product code: 42-017

I have a question

Accessories

+

20m cable for video/audio/power
1 875 ₽

+

40 m cable for video / audio / power
3 825 ₽

+

3 m CAT5 “patch-to-lead” cable
675 ₽

+

10 m CAT5 “patch-to-lead” cable
1 125 ₽

+

30 m CAT5 “patch-to-lead” cable
2 625 ₽

+

Single Port PoE Injector
3 525 ₽

Product description snake 960H HD IP camera, audio, PoE

Snake 960H HD IP camera, audio, PoE – this camera can be hidden anywhere – only 10x10mm lens allows you to capture images already through a 2mm hole . It records high quality video with HD 9 sound60H.

Features:

Sony CCD Sensor 960H
Xvision Megapixel HD 3.7mm Pinhole Lens Viewing Angle 78°
X1K Xvision DSP – Resolution 700TVL (960×576) – 0.01 Lux Low Light Sensitivity 900 57 Automatic digital noise reduction
Built-in microphone for high quality sound
PoE compatible
Comes with 1m connection cable and Xvision X100VS video server (compatible with Xvision PRO-HD recorders)

Specifications:

Brand: Xvision Pro HD
Model Number: IP-XC960SC
Model: 960H Cover
Water Resistant: No
Vandalism Resistant: No
Motorized Tilt/Rotate: No 9005 7 Digital zoom: No
Audio : Yes
Mounting: wall, ceiling
Product dimensions WxHxD (mm): 74x23x12
Product weight: 0.10 kg
Shipping dimensions WxHxD (mm): 340x340x450
Shipping weight: 2.0 kg
Image sensor type: Sony 1/ 3″ Super HAD CCD
Image Sensor Resolution: 960H
Minimum Illumination: 0. 1 lux
Night Vision: Yes
Other Functions: Auto Electronic Aperture, Auto Gain Control, Noise Reduction (Digital Noise Reduction)
Lens: 3.6mm
Viewing Angle: 78
Compression video: H.264
Video streams: 16Kbps-8000Kbps
Stream types: Compound stream/video stream
Video resolution and frame rate: 704×576 25fps
Network connection: RJ45 (10/100 BASE- T)
Wi-Fi support: N/A
Supported network protocols: TCP, UDP, HTTP, SMTP, FTP, NTP, DNS, DDNS, DHCP, ARP, Bonjour, UPnP, RTSP, TRP, TRCP, PPPoE, 3GPP, ICMP, IGMP, SAMBA
Remote access: support for Internet Explorer, Safari, Firefox; Mobile Phone – Android, iPhone
User Authentication: Yes
Simultaneous Viewing: 20
Power Requirements: Power over Ethernet: No
Operating Voltage: DC 12V
Power Consumption: <6W
Easy Fit: Yes (via Ethernet adapter)
Motion detection: Yes
Pre-orders: No
Security tours: No
Email alerts: Yes
On-board recording: Yes
Alarms: Yes
Software: Yes

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K&F Dual Lens Endoscopy Camera, HD 1080P Borescope, 5.

5mm Endoscopy Snake Camera with Metal Cable and 4.3″ IPS Hard Screen, 8 LED Lights, 32G Plumbing Camera, Gadgets for Men

Why choose the leading IPS hard screens?

Our dual chamber borescopes use advanced LCD panel technology. A hard IPS screen is not only “tougher” but also has better picture quality.

1. Fast response speed: liquid crystal molecular arrangement difference, the IPS screen also changes the two vertical electrodes of the soft screen to a horizontal arrangement, which accelerates the liquid crystal molecular deflection speed, thus improving the screen response speed. The longstanding problem of LCD smearing is solved, moving images are clear and smooth. The viewing angle of the IPS hard screen can reach 178 degrees.
2. Wide viewing angle: This means that there is no obvious difference in the color and clarity of the picture regardless of whether you view it from the front or from the side.
3.The Colors Are More Realistic: IPS hard screens are purer than soft screens when displaying pure black images, and the images show rich layers and high contrast. The IPS screen can provide clearer black scene images through smooth grayscale levels.
4.The Screen Is Firmer: Due to the unique horizontal molecular structure of the IPS hard screen, it has no water streaks, shadows and flashes when touched. The screen quality is extremely stable, and the lifespan will be improved compared to soft screen. The 50,000 hours of the screen has increased to more than 70,000 hours.
5.Environmental Protection And Power Saving: The IPS hard screen reduces the thickness of the liquid crystal layer and changes the light transmittance of the liquid crystal screen. The reduction of the backlight source power achieves the effect of energy saving and environmental protection.

ULTRA-EXPENSIVE & HEAT-RESISTANCE SNAKE CAMERA CABLE–BEST WIRE ON THE MARKET

What Makes This Endoscope Unique From Others?

Heat-Resistance: Cable–32°F to 221°Fmax(0°C to 105°C), recommended to use below 176°F; Camera–32°F to 150°F(0°C to 65°C), Perfect for mechanic work like car engine/cylinder/HAVC/electronic equipment.
All Round Protection: We specially wrap the cables in nylon bags. Not only protect the cable and lens during transportation, but also protect the lens from scratches and keep the cable clean during use. The host has covered with silicone protective shell, the screen has protective film and you will get the protective cap for front lens.
Time-Saving: No need APP, Phone, Bluetooth or Wifi. Just use the monitor to real-time work.
Humanized Design: The ergonomic design and friendly user interface and simple button icons, make it perfect for quick and proficient one-handed operation. Also comes with a lanyard for easily carry.
IPS Screen Better Than LCD: Anti-blur 2.0 and ensure grabs ultra-clear picture; upgraded color flipping and brightness conversion to view the real high-quality images; Thinner monitor panel, improve display effect; full-view angle.
Anti-Interference Signal Transfer: Enhanced signal transfer, giving you smooth and fluid video without latency.

Industrial-Grade Aviation Connector

Compared with other ordinary plastic wires(cannot be plugged or unplugged). Our detachable & professional aerospace connector is perfect fixed with threaded knobs, making your data transmission more stable and faster. Bring you device stronger and more durable than others on the market.

0.21 inch Ultra Slim

Compared to other probes, our flexible wire is very sturdy and it holds its shape like a fish tape. And 5.5mm tiny camera probe make it easily access a wide variety of confined place or somewhere cannot be reached by the naked eye.

Rechargeable Battery

Our waterproof borescope battery is rechargeable, will work for up to 4-5 hours depend on different situations. And the standby time is up to 6 months. Ideal plumbing tool for outdoor work.

Multifunctional Application:

Industrial Use: Aviation Aircraft, Automotive, Motorcycle Engine Checking & Maintenance, Furnaces, Pistons, Gears, Compressors, Boilers, Condenser Tubes; Plumbing, Heating Vents, AC Vent Pipe, Machine Equipment Inspection; Building & Construction, Cable Routing, Refrigeration, Sailboat/Diesel Inspection.