Views: 0 Author: Site Editor Publish Time: 2026-04-16 Origin: Site
Introduction
When you plug a USB endoscope into your computer, the video stream must be compressed to fit through the USB cable without clogging the bandwidth. One of the most common compression formats is MJPEG (Motion JPEG). But what exactly is MJPEG, and why do endoscope makers choose it? This article explains MJPEG output, its pros and cons, and when it’s the right choice for your custom endoscope camera module project. At Sincere, we have manufactured cmos module camera solutions for over 30 years, including OEM Camera Module and oem endoscope camera module designs with MJPEG output.
What Is MJPEG?
MJPEG stands for Motion JPEG. It compresses each video frame individually as a separate JPEG image. Unlike H.264 or H.265, MJPEG does not look at differences between frames – every frame is a complete, self‑contained JPEG.
In an endoscope, the camera module captures raw video from the cmos module camera sensor. An ISP (image signal processor) converts each frame to JPEG and sends it over USB as an MJPEG stream. The host computer decodes each JPEG frame and displays them in sequence.
MJPEG vs. Other Formats
Feature | MJPEG | H.264 / H.265 |
|---|---|---|
Compression efficiency | Low | High (smaller files) |
Processing load | Low | High |
Latency | Very low | Low to moderate |
Frame independence | Yes (each frame is a complete image) | No (depends on key frames) |
Software support | Universal | Good but not universal |
Best for | Low‑latency, simple systems | Recording, streaming |
Why MJPEG Is Popular in Endoscopes
1. Low Latency
Real‑time feedback is critical. MJPEG encodes each frame independently – no waiting for key frames or motion estimation. This gives very low latency, often under 30ms. For a high fps endoscope camera (60fps or 120fps), MJPEG keeps up without buffering delays.
2. Simple Implementation
MJPEG is much simpler to implement in firmware than H.264. For a custom endoscope camera module manufacturer, that means faster development and lower risk. UVC (USB Video Class) supports MJPEG natively, so the camera is plug‑and‑play on Windows, Linux, macOS, and Android.
3. Easy Still Image Capture
Since each frame is a complete JPEG, capturing a still image is trivial – just save the current frame. This is very useful for inspection documentation, where users frequently snap photos.
4. Wide Software Compatibility
Almost every webcam app, browser, and video library supports MJPEG. You can open an MJPEG stream in VLC, OpenCV, or even a web page using JavaScript.
Trade‑offs of MJPEG
Large file sizes: MJPEG files are much larger than H.264 for the same quality.
Lower compression efficiency: Over USB 2.0 (40 MB/s), 1080p MJPEG at 30fps is near the limit; 4K is impossible over USB 2.0.
Blocking artifacts: High compression to save bandwidth degrades image quality.
MJPEG by Resolution
Resolution | Typical Bandwidth (MJPEG) | USB Needed |
|---|---|---|
720p @ 30fps | ~100–150 Mbps | USB 2.0 |
1080p @ 30fps | ~200–300 Mbps | USB 2.0 (near limit) |
1080p @ 60fps | ~400–600 Mbps | USB 3.0 |
4K @ 30fps | ~800–1200 Mbps | USB 3.0/3.1 |
A 4k endoscope camera module using MJPEG needs USB 3.0 for 30fps. HD camera modules (720p/1080p) work comfortably over USB 2.0.
When to Choose MJPEG
Need low latency (real‑time inspection)
Want plug‑and‑play USB (UVC + MJPEG works everywhere)
Developing a custom endoscope camera module with simpler firmware
Don’t need long recordings (or accept larger files)
When to Avoid MJPEG
Need 4K over USB 2.0 (impossible – use H.264 or USB 3.0)
Recording hours of video (H.264 saves storage)
Host has very limited CPU? Actually MJPEG is easy to decode.
Sincere’s MJPEG Endoscope Modules
At Sincere, we design and manufacture endoscope camera modules with MJPEG output:
OEM Camera Module – Custom MJPEG endoscope modules for your resolution, cable, housing.
Custom endoscope camera module – Integrate MJPEG with your choice of cmos module camera sensor.
High fps endoscope camera – 60fps or 120fps MJPEG for smooth inspection of moving objects.
4k endoscope camera module – MJPEG over USB 3.0 for ultra‑HD inspection.
HD camera modules – 720p/1080p MJPEG over USB 2.0 – cost‑effective.
Oem endoscope camera module – Complete design and production.
Summary
MJPEG compresses each video frame as an independent JPEG. It offers low latency, simple implementation, easy still capture, and universal software support – perfect for endoscope cameras. The trade‑offs are larger file sizes and lower compression efficiency than H.264. For HD camera modules (720p/1080p) over USB 2.0, MJPEG is the standard. For 4k endoscope camera module designs, USB 3.0 is required. When you work with an experienced OEM Camera Module manufacturer like Sincere, we help you choose the right compression format for your custom endoscope camera module.
Contact us to discuss your oem endoscope camera module and MJPEG requirements.
