A drain cleaning machine is used to clear blockages inside pipes—its purpose is to remove clogs using mechanical force, like cables, blades, or jets.

A drain camera, on the other hand, is used to inspect the condition of pipes—it sends a small waterproof camera into the line, allowing real-time viewing of what’s happening inside to locate the root cause and exact position of the problem. 

In short, the former focuses on fixing, while the latter focuses on diagnosing and pinpointing issues. Let’s examine their key differences to help you choose the right tool with confidence.

Here's a quick comparison table:

Drain Cleaning Machine

A drain cleaning machine (also known as a drain auger or drain snake) is mainly used to remove physical blockages inside pipes. This type of equipment works by using a rotating steel cable or high-pressure water flow to break apart or flush away obstructions caused by grease, hair, soap buildup, or tree roots, keeping the drainage system clear and free-flowing.

How It Works

The working principle of a drain cleaning machine is to feed a rotating cable or high-pressure hose into the pipe, using either mechanical cutting or hydraulic flushing to clear blockages. 

• In cable-driven models, an electric motor spins the steel cable equipped with various cutting heads to slice through hair, grease buildup, tree roots, and other obstructions. 

• In jetting models, a high-pressure pump forces water through nozzles that create forward and backward jets, breaking up debris and washing it away. 

These two methods can be used separately or combined—inspect the line first, then cut or flush as needed, and finally recheck flow—to maximize cleaning efficiency and reduce the chance of future clogs.

Best For

• Stubborn clogs in sinks, toilets, and main sewer lines.

• Professional plumbers or maintenance crews.

• Routine cleaning after inspection or when slow drains persist.

Limitations

• It can clear blockages but not identify the underlying cause (e.g., cracked pipes or misaligned joints).

• If misused, it may scratch or damage older or fragile pipes.

• Not suitable for inexperienced users.

Drain Camera

A drain camera, also known as a sewer camera or plumbing camera, is a diagnostic tool used to examine the inside of pipes without removing or damaging walls or floors. It allows users to easily identify issues such as blockages, slow drainage, or leaks within the pipeline. 

Featuring an IP68 waterproof rating, along with LED lighting, self-leveling, and locating functions, the camera provides a clear and intuitive view of the problem’s cause, helping to accurately pinpoint its exact location.

How It Works

The working principle of a drain camera is to advance a camera head attached to a cable into the pipe (typically rated IP68 and integrated with LED lighting, a locator transmitter, a distance counter, and self-leveling). 

It streams real-time video to a monitor, enabling the operator to identify issues such as cracks, corrosion, root intrusion, or collapsed sections, and then provide appropriate repair recommendations or solutions.

Best For

• Diagnosing hidden plumbing problems before cleaning or repair.

• Home inspections before buying or selling a house.

• Preventive maintenance for property managers or homeowners.

Limitations

• A camera cannot remove clogs—it only identifies the issue.

• In heavily blocked lines, visibility may be limited until the pipe is cleared.

Drain Cleaning Machine Vs Drain Camera: The Differences

1. Price

Generally, drain cleaning machines cost more to purchase and maintain than drain cameras.

• A quality cleaning machine ranges from $400 to $2500+, depending on size and power.

• A basic drain inspection camera costs around $200–$2,000, with higher-end models featuring locators or self-leveling lenses.

If your goal is only to diagnose issues, a drain camera is the more affordable investment.

2. Function

• Drain cleaning machines are used to unclog pipes by employing cables, blades, or water jets to remove obstructions.
• Drain cameras are used to inspect pipe conditions, allowing easy visualization of internal blockages, leaks, or other issues through the camera lens.

3. Operating Method

• Drain cleaning machines rely on mechanical power—the cable spins to cut through clogs or push debris out.
• Drain cameras rely on visual inspection—a waterproof lens captures live footage inside the pipe.

The machine works by force, while the camera works by sight.

4. Skill Level

• Using a drain cleaning machine safely requires experience and caution. Improper use can damage pipes or cause cable kinks.
• In contrast, drain cameras are user-friendly—even beginners can operate them by following simple instructions.

5. Use Scenarios

• Use a drain cleaning machine when you already know there’s a blockage slowing or stopping drainage.

• Use a drain camera when you need to inspect, locate, or verify a problem before or after cleaning.

Many plumbers use both tools together: inspect → clean → re-inspect.

6. Result and Output

• The cleaning machine’s output is a cleared line—water flows normally again.

• The drain camera’s output is a video recording or live feed, showing the pipe’s interior condition.

One delivers action, the other delivers information.

7. Maintenance and Longevity

• Drain cleaning machines have moving parts (motors, cables, blades) that wear out with use and need regular cleaning and lubrication.
• Drain cameras have fewer moving parts, so with proper care and storage, they can last for years with minimal upkeep.

8. Professional vs DIY Use

• Drain cleaning machines are more common among professional plumbers, who handle deep or stubborn clogs regularly.

• Drain cameras are popular with DIY homeowners and property managers, as they make inspection quick and non-invasive.

Conclusion

In summary, the main difference between the two lies in their purpose: a drain camera is used to find problems, while a drain cleaning machine is used to fix them.

Therefore, for comprehensive pipe maintenance, many professionals take a two-step approach—first inspect the line with a drain camera to locate the issue, then clean it as needed, and finally reinspect to confirm the results.

FAQ

Q1: Can I Use Both Tools Together?

Yes. The ideal workflow is to inspect with a drain camera first, then clean the line with a drain cleaning machine, and re-inspect to confirm the clog is gone.

Q2: Are Drain Cameras Hard to Use for Beginners?

Not at all. Most modern drain cameras are plug-and-play, with clear displays and user-friendly interfaces.

Q3: How Often Should I Inspect My Drains?

For residential homes, once a year or after major clogs is recommended. Commercial properties may need quarterly inspections.

Q4: Can a Drain Cleaning Machine Damage Pipes?

It can, if misused—especially in old or brittle pipes. Always use the right size cable and proceed carefully.

Related reading: Borescope vs Sewer Camera