How to Mount a GoPro on an RC Car: Mounts, Angles and Protection
The best way to mount a GoPro on an RC car is to attach it to the chassis or roll cage, not just the flexible body, using a GoPro-style mount on a plate or bracket with a little vibration damping and a tether as backup. Mount it low and central for a driver’s-eye view, or high on a cage for a wider view, keep the weight balanced, and protect the lens. Turn on stabilisation and use a high frame rate for smooth footage.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
Mounting options
| Mount | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Roll cage clamp | Solid, protected | Needs a cage |
| Chassis plate on body posts | Firm, central | May need a hole in the body |
| Body-mounted adhesive base | Easy | Body flex shakes the camera |
| Bumper/front mount | Dramatic low view | Takes hits first |
| Rear wing mount | Chase view | Weight high and rear |
Step by step
- Choose the mount point; chassis or cage is best.
- Make or buy a plate that bolts to body posts or the chassis brace.
- Add a thin layer of rubber or foam between plate and chassis to damp vibration.
- Attach the GoPro mount and camera; tighten the thumbscrew well.
- Add a tether so the camera stays with the car if the mount breaks.
- Check suspension and body clearance at full compression.
- Re-check balance; a GoPro is heavy for small cars.
Camera settings
- Stabilisation on (HyperSmooth on newer GoPros).
- 60 fps or higher for smooth motion; higher for slow motion.
- Wide or linear field of view depending on taste.
- Lock exposure if lighting changes a lot.
- Use a fast memory card and charged batteries.
Protecting the GoPro
- Use the protective housing or a lens protector.
- Mount behind a cage or bumper.
- Avoid big jumps until the mount is proven.
- Keep it out of mud and deep water unless the model is waterproof.
Which cars suit a GoPro
1/10 and larger cars carry a GoPro easily. On smaller cars, the weight changes handling and can break mounts; a smaller action or micro camera is better. Other camera options are covered in how to attach a camera to an RC car.
Getting good footage
Smooth driving makes smooth video: gradual throttle, wide lines and fewer sudden corrections. Plan a route, film several takes and mix in shots from a second camera on the ground. Driving skills are covered in how to drive an RC car.
DIY mounts
Many owners make simple mounts from aluminium or carbon plate, or 3D-print brackets designed for their car. A plate that bolts to the body posts under the body, with a hole for the GoPro mount to poke through, is a popular approach. 3D-printed parts in PETG or nylon handle impacts better than PLA. Whatever you make, test it with gentle driving before trying jumps.
Battery and storage
GoPro batteries drain faster in cold weather and during long recordings. Carry spares, use a large fast memory card, and turn off features you don’t need, such as voice control or GPS, to save power.
Shot ideas
Try a low front mount for a dramatic road-level view, a rear mount for chase shots, or a cage-top mount for a wide view of terrain. Combining car footage with ground shots makes more interesting videos.
FAQ
Where should I mount a GoPro on an RC car?
On the chassis or roll cage, low and central.
How do I stop shaky video?
Mount to the chassis, damp vibration, and turn on stabilisation.
Will a GoPro slow my car?
Slightly; it adds weight, more noticeable on small cars.
Do I need a tether?
Strongly recommended.
More on this topic: the complete RC Cars guide covers the basics behind this article.
About 20 years in RC. Mostly boats in the NAVIGA Mini Eco Expert class, with many self-made parts; also a King Motor Baja 5B, a home-built electric plane, home-built nitro planes he has flown, and an RC helicopter. More about SwellRC
