Introduction – Testing a Small but Mighty Sewer Camera

I’ve used quite a few inspection systems over the years, and most of them are bulky, heavy, or just too expensive for what they do. That’s why I was curious to try the Sanyipace S5517DC — a small, affordable sewer camera that promises clear footage and easy handling.

It’s meant for anyone who needs a reliable plumbing camera, whether you’re a pro on the job or just checking your own drains at home. At around $200, this model stands out as one of the most budget-friendly options in the market — without sacrificing essential features.

If you’re looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use drain inspection camera, this review will show you what the S5517DC can really do.

Unboxing and First Impressions

The Sanyipace S5517DC arrives in a small, well-organized package that includes:

• The inspection camera with a flexible cable
• A power cord and charging adapter
• Accessories and mounting tools
• A user manual and storage case

Right out of the box, the unit feels sturdy yet lightweight. Its sleek design and color options (including an eye-catching green) give it a modern look compared to typical industrial tools.

The 9-inch HD screen is bright and crisp, providing excellent visibility even in darker environments.

Setup is quick: just attach the camera head, connect the reel, and you’re ready to inspect.

Compact but Capable – Testing the Sanyipace S5517DC

During our first test, we used the S5517DC drain camera to inspect several cleanouts. Despite its slim cable, it handled multiple bends effortlessly — even through 90-degree turns.

The camera’s LED lighting offers adjustable brightness, making it easy to see inside small pipes or tight spaces. Image clarity is surprisingly good for a model in this price range, allowing clear visualization of standing water, minor blockages, or cracks.

While this model doesn’t include self-leveling, its balance of flexibility and image quality makes it a solid performer. The cable uncoils smoothly, and the system records both photos and videos directly to the included micro SD card.

Ease of Use and Practical Features

One thing that stands out with this sewer camera is how portable and convenient it is. The reel includes a carabiner clip for quick cable management — a small detail that improves workflow efficiency.

The battery-powered system offers long-lasting runtime, so you can complete inspections without worrying about power cords.

It’s ideal for inspecting:

• Residential drains and toilets
• Shower and sink lines
• HVAC ducts or wall conduits

Because it’s smaller than full-size systems, the S5517DC is perfect for tight spots where larger plumbing cameras can’t reach.

Limitations and Use Cases

Of course, this drain camera isn’t meant for long-distance mainline inspections — that’s where models like the Sanyipace S8417D come in. However, for smaller residential jobs, quick diagnostics, or DIY home maintenance, it’s an excellent and practical choice.

If you’re a professional plumber, having this as a secondary inspection camera makes sense — it’s quick to deploy and easy to carry. And for homeowners, it’s an affordable way to understand what’s happening inside your drains without hiring a full service every time.

Value and Final Thoughts

For around $200, the Sanyipace S5517DC sewer camera honestly surprised me. I wasn’t expecting much at this price, but it feels solid, delivers a sharp image, and is super easy to carry around.

It’s now the first camera I grab when I need to inspect a smaller line or check something quickly before bringing out the heavy gear. If you work in plumbing or drain cleaning, it’s a great little backup tool.

And if you’re a homeowner who just wants to see what’s blocking a drain without paying for a full service, this thing more than does the job.

Conclusion

Overall, I’m genuinely impressed by this compact drain inspection camera. It’s not fancy, but it’s reliable, affordable, and gets the job done.

After using it on a few different jobs, I can say it’s the kind of tool that saves time — and sometimes even saves you from digging in the wrong place.

If you’re after a simple, practical sewer camera for everyday inspections, the Sanyipace S5517DC is definitely worth a look.