Thermal borescope visual inspection work takes you into tight, dark spaces. RIDGID's CA-25 is a go-to handheld option, and right now you're choosing between two versions: one with 'w/ 2.7 in #1' in its title and one with '2.7 in Display' in its title. Both are described as New - Open Box, both have a flexible shaft, and both come with adjustable LED lights. The higher-priced version also lists a 4-foot cable, a waterproof camera head, a 2.7-inch color display, and a 480 x 234 camera resolution.
Quick verdict: If you want the core CA-25 inspection features and a lower listed price, choose the 'w/ 2.7 in #1'. If you'll be reaching into pipes or damp cavities and want the 4-foot waterproof cable plus color display, choose the '2.7 in Display'.
| Model | Listed price | Key callouts |
|---|---|---|
| CA-25 w/ 2.7 in #1 | $52.99 | Flexible shaft, adjustable LED lights, 2.7-in screen |
| CA-25 2.7 in Display | $59.99 | Flexible shaft, adjustable LED lights, 2.7-in color display, 4-ft cable, waterproof head, 480 x 234 resolution |
What to know before you choose: Both carry the CA-25 model number 40043 and a flexible shaft. The higher-priced version lists a 4-foot cable, waterproof camera head, and 480 x 234 resolution, while the lower-priced version focuses on the 2.7-inch screen, flexible shaft, and adjustable lights. Since condition is the same on both, let the feature list steer you.
Where each product wins: The 'w/ 2.7 in #1' wins on listed price. The '2.7 in Display' wins on the callouts that make it more versatile: 4-foot cable, waterproof head, color display, and explicit resolution.
RIDGID CA-25 Micro Visual Inspection & Diagnostic Handheld Camera w/ 2.7 in #1
This is the more budget-conscious way into the CA-25 lineup. It offers the same RIDGID build and the core inspection essentials: a 2.7-inch screen, a flexible shaft, and adjustable LED lights. With the flexible shaft, you can angle the camera head into tight corners, while the screen gives you a live view of what the tip sees. This version works well for quick checks around engines, wiring, and other accessible equipment. The lower listed price leaves room in your tool budget. If your inspections are straightforward and you don't need to go around a bend in a pipe, this model gives you a dependable RIDGID CA-25 experience at a friendlier price.
RIDGID CA-25 Micro Visual Inspection & Diagnostic Handheld Camera 2.7 in Display
For inspections that push you deeper, this version earns its higher price. It lists a 4-foot flexible cable, a waterproof camera head, a 17 mm aluminum camera head, four ultra-bright adjustable LEDs, and a 480 x 234 camera resolution. The 2.7-inch color display makes it easier to see what you're dealing with. That combination is practical for pipes, HVAC systems, wall cavities, and engine compartments where water or tight bends are common. The flexible shaft is still there, but now it's part of a longer, more durable assembly. If you regularly inspect wet or hard-to-reach areas, the added reach and waterproofing make this the more versatile of the two.
Final choice by use case: Base your decision on where you'll use the camera: short, dry, accessible areas favor the less expensive CA-25; longer, wet, dark runs favor the more feature-rich model. The price gap separates those two workflows cleanly.
