Depstech DS500 review

The DS500 is an endoscopic camera built to tackle serious work, and it can see two ways, but is it worth it?

Depstech DS500 Dual Lens Inspection Camera
(Image: © Adam Juniper)

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).

Pros

  • +

    Rugged but not over-heavy body

  • +

    Records stills or video to TF card

  • +

    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

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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).

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Adam Juniper
Managing Editor

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