How to Attach a Camera to an RC Car: Action Cams and FPV Setups
There are two ways to put a camera on an RC car. For recording, mount an action camera (GoPro-style or similar) on the chassis, roll cage or a body-mounted plate with a vibration-damped mount and a tether. For live driving from the car’s view (FPV), fit a small FPV camera and video transmitter powered from the car’s battery, and watch on goggles or a screen. In both cases, mount it firmly to the chassis rather than a floppy body, protect it from crashes and keep it balanced.
By Kyle HilsonUpdated: October 20263 min read
Options
| Setup | Use | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action camera, recording | Videos to watch later | High-quality footage, stabilisation | No live view, weight |
| Analog FPV camera + VTX | Live driving | Low latency, cheap | Lower image quality |
| Digital FPV system | Live driving + recording | Clear image | Cost, more power |
| Phone app cars with built-in camera | Toy-level FPV | Simple | Short range, lag |
Mounting an action camera
- Choose the mount point: roll cage, chassis brace or a plate bolted to the body posts. Chassis mounts vibrate less than bodies.
- Use the camera’s standard mount with a small plate or 3D-printed bracket.
- Add vibration damping: rubber grommets or foam tape between plate and chassis.
- Angle the camera slightly down so the track fills most of the frame.
- Tether the camera with a short cord so it doesn’t fly off in a crash.
- Check that the extra weight doesn’t upset balance or rub on suspension.
Setting up FPV
An FPV setup needs a small camera, a video transmitter (VTX) and an antenna on the car, plus goggles or a monitor. Power the camera and VTX from the car’s battery through a regulator (or a VTX that accepts the battery voltage). Mount the camera low and forward for a realistic driver’s view, or higher for a wider view. Keep the antenna vertical and away from metal and carbon. Check local rules for video transmitter power and licensing. Driving through a camera is harder than it looks, so start slowly in open areas with a spotter.
Protecting the camera
- A roll cage or bumper in front of the camera.
- Waterproof housing for wet or muddy runs.
- Lens protector or filter.
- Soft mounts that let the camera move rather than crack.
- Regular checks of screws and tethers.
Camera settings
Higher frame rates (60 fps or more) give smoother video at speed, and electronic stabilisation helps on rough ground. A wide field of view shows more of the surroundings; narrow views make speed feel faster. Turn off auto-sleep features so the camera keeps recording, and use a fast memory card.
Phone-based options
Some toy cars stream video to a phone over Wi-Fi and are controlled by an app, which is an easy way to try camera driving. Range and latency are limited. These are discussed in can I control my RC car with my phone; computer-based remote driving is covered in how to control an RC car with a computer.
Tips for great footage
Drive smoothly; abrupt steering makes shaky video. Film in good light, try low angles for drama, and mix in shots from a second camera on the ground. Keep runs short and check footage between them to adjust the mount angle.
FAQ
Can I put a GoPro on an RC car?
Yes, with a firm mount on the chassis or cage and a tether.
How do I stop shaky video?
Use vibration damping, stabilisation and a chassis mount.
What is FPV on an RC car?
Driving from a live camera view in goggles or on a screen.
Will a camera slow my car down?
Slightly; keep it light and low.
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
