Scout vs Subtech Sewer Camera

1

I am ready to purchase a sewer camera. Would love to hear justifications for spending the extra $1500 on the Subtech camera verses the Scout.

2

I’m unaware of the Subtech but had a scout and it was a decent camera. Definitely lighter duty than a Rigid but also only about 25% of the cost. I’d compare cable rod diameter as that is often the weak link that can bend or break. I just used mine to supplement and fill in when my sub couldn’t make it and would only use it on newer plastic lines. Old cast iron, concrete, etc. is a lot harder on cameras and I just didn’t see the Scout holding up.

3

I have had my scout 3 pro for 4 years. Love it. I did upgrade to the 10" screen last year. I have used it a thousand times. It has definitely paid for itself in the first year.

Must get the self leveling and sonde locater head. It adds a bit to the cost but well worth it.

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Here are the advantages that I believe that my Scout 3 Pro has:

  1. Higher resolution video.
  2. Bigger monitor screen.
  3. Way cheaper.
  4. Spare parts available from Inspector Cameras for Scout 3 Pro. You can work on it yourself.
  5. Better-designed skids, and more skid options.
  6. Lower profile storage device (SD card instead of USB stick).
  7. Lighter in weight.

It’s what I’ve been using for the past year. Check out the video quality of Scout 3 Pro on my channel: http://www.youtube.com/@AdeptHomeInspections

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5

Glad your Scout is working well for you! Just wanted to chime in with what we’ve seen from customers using our Junior system, built here in the U.S.:

  1. Higher resolution video – The screen may list higher specs, but image clarity comes from the camera, not the monitor. Our self-leveling optics give sharp, usable video even in rough lines.
  2. Bigger monitor screen – True, but our 7" TAFT monitor is crisp and compact — easy to use on the job without sacrificing visibility.
  3. Way cheaper – The Junior is competitively priced, and InterNACHI members get a discount. You also don’t have to pay extra for things like a sonde or self-leveling — it’s all included.
  4. Spare parts / DIY repair – We stock all parts, and most repairs are done within 2 days of receiving the unit. The Junior is field-repairable, too.
  5. Better skids / more options – Ours come standard, and we offer multiple sets depending on pipe size.
  6. Lower profile storage device (SD vs USB) – The Junior records to SD, with playback, screenshots, and zoom built in.
  7. Lighter weight – Ours is a bit heavier because we use 10mm push cable that actually reaches full length without folding or kinking. Most customers prefer that tradeoff.

Hope that helps give a bit of perspective from our end!

6

Thanks Jack. I bought the Scout, however, after using it on several inspections and going to Jim Krumm’s class I wish I had paid the extra and went with the Junior. I have had 3 inspections so far that I could not get to the main. I am doing the majority of the inspections from the roof vent and the backpack feature would come in handy. The one thing I really don’t like is the Scout does not offer a pause recording button. This would come in very handy when I am coming off the roof for 10 minutes to locate. If you guys ever run another big sale I may go ahead and purchase the Junior. Thanks for you input.

7

Thanks, Tracy. Sounds like you’ve already seen the difference - Jim’s class really highlights the value of having the right gear.

The Junior’s pause feature and backpack were made for exactly the kind of work you’re doing. Be sure to sign up for our newsletter-we’ll announce any upcoming promos there. Here’s the link; https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/sQZTm5e

Hope to get you set up with one soon!

We hope to see you soon.

8

Hi Tracy,

We hear this story all the time with the Scout push cable. We’d love to have you as a customer and will offer you a deal. We will discount the Inspector Junior 140ft unit w/10mm cable $5800 list price, we can offer it to you for $4800 and let you pay over 3 months. So 1/3 down when placing order, 1/3 60 days from order date, and the 1/3 balance 90 days from order date. No interests as long as payments are made on time.

We are sure this push cable will get you where you want to go.

9

Jack - Thanks for the offer! What if I wanted to purchase the 180’ cable, any deal on that?

10

Yes sir,

Provide me with your company information, name, address, phone etc: and I will send you an estimate on the 180ft unit.

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Bailey Property Inspections
Tracy Bailey
(812)567-1730
tracy@baileypropertyinspections.com