When choosing an articulating borescope, functionality should be your most important consideration. You want to choose an option that doesn't simply meet your budget requirements, but an option that allows you to operate efficiently. When searching for a new borescope, make sure you know what key factors to consider to ensure you are reaching this goal.

Diameter

A common mistake some people make is choosing an articulating borescope that too snugly fits inside the scope hole. While you don't want to choose an option that is considerably smaller than the scope hole, you do want to leave a little room for adjustment.

When testing out the scope, you should be able to easily tilt or adjust its direction once it has been inserted. Having this level of functionality will make using the scope easier because you will be able to rotate the direction of the scope as necessary to ensure the best view.

View Field

The view field of articulating borescopes varies, with degree options ranging from narrow to very wide. How you use the scope will be the greatest determining factor when choosing what view is necessary for you. As a general rule of thumb, the greater the distance between the object you're looking at and the distal end of the scope, the narrower your view field needs to be.

The smaller the distance, the wider the view. Unless you will be consistently viewing a stationary subject, it's best to consider choosing more than one borescope so that you can choose several view fields to ensure your needs are met.

Lighting

What type of lighting method is used on the distal end of the articulating borescope? Is there a bulb or does it operate with fiber optic lighting? Ideally, you want to choose an option designed in the latter fashion. The first problem bulb lighting introduces is that it gets considerably hotter than fiber optic lighting methods.

If the distal end of the scope is close to the subject, this heat could actually raise the temperature of the subject, which could actually damage your subject. Secondly, bulbs collect more dust than fiber optic lighting methods, which when close to the subject can cause contamination concerns.  

An articulating borescope is designed to be a long-term investment. To ensure you aren't just getting the best use out of your selection, but also long-term use, make sure you are taking your time to choose the right option for your needs.