3D Printed Action Camera Mount The Ultimate DIY Upgrade

Upgrade your action camera setup with a 3D printed mount—affordable, customizable, and built to handle any adventure. Designed for durability and perfect fit, these DIY mounts let you capture dynamic angles without breaking the bank. Say goodbye to expensive branded accessories and hello to limitless creativity.

Key Takeaways

• Customize your fit: Design mounts for any camera or rig with 3D printing.
• Save costs: Print durable mounts at a fraction of commercial prices.
• Boost versatility: Create multi-angle or unique mounting solutions effortlessly.
• Use strong materials: Opt for PETG or ABS for impact-resistant mounts.
• Quick iterations: Prototype and refine designs in hours, not days.
• Eco-friendly option: Reduce waste by printing only what you need.

Why a 3D Printed Action Camera Mount Might Be Your Next Best Upgrade

Remember that one time you were hiking through a dense forest, camera rolling, capturing golden sunlight filtering through the trees—only to realize your action camera mount was slipping, wobbling, and nearly sent your $400 investment tumbling into a ravine? Yeah, I’ve been there. It’s not just frustrating; it’s downright heartbreaking when your gear fails at the most critical moment. That’s when I started looking for better solutions. Enter: the 3D printed action camera mount.

What started as a DIY experiment quickly turned into a game-changer. Not only did it solve my stability issues, but it also opened up a world of customization I never thought possible. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a content creator, or just someone who loves documenting life’s wild moments, a 3D printed mount can be the ultimate upgrade—affordable, adaptable, and built exactly how you need it. In this post, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about 3D printed action camera mounts: from why they’re worth considering, how to design or choose one, what materials work best, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Think of this as a friendly, hands-on guide from someone who’s been in the trenches—literally and figuratively—with their camera gear.

What Makes 3D Printed Action Camera Mounts So Special?

Unmatched Customization and Personalization

Let’s be honest: off-the-shelf mounts are generic. They’re designed to fit “most” cameras in “most” situations. But what if your camera setup is unique? Maybe you’ve added a microphone, a light, or a custom housing. Or maybe you’re attaching it to a helmet, a bike handlebar, a kayak paddle, or even your dog’s backpack (yes, people do that). A 3D printed action camera mount lets you design a solution tailored to your exact needs.

For example, I once needed a mount that could attach to a curved kayak deck while also holding a secondary light. No commercial product fit both requirements. So, I designed one. It had a curved base to match the hull, a GoPro-compatible socket, and a secondary bracket for a small LED. Total print time: 3 hours. Total cost: under $3. Compare that to buying two separate mounts, adapters, and zip ties—and still not getting the fit right.

Cost-Effective and Accessible

Commercial action camera mounts range from $10 to $50, depending on the brand and features. But if you need multiple mounts—say, for different activities or angles—the costs add up fast. With a 3D printer, your cost per mount drops dramatically. Most prints use less than 50 grams of filament, which translates to about $1–$2 per mount, depending on the material.

Even if you don’t own a 3D printer, many local libraries, makerspaces, or online services (like Printables, Thingiverse, or local 3D printing shops) let you upload a design and get it printed for a small fee. It’s like having a custom mount factory at your fingertips—without the factory.

Rapid Prototyping and Iteration

One of the biggest advantages of 3D printing is speed. Found a flaw in your design? Print a new version overnight. Need a slightly longer arm? Tweak the model and hit “print.” This rapid feedback loop is perfect for action camera users who are constantly adapting to new environments or gear setups.

I once designed a chest mount for skiing. The first version was too rigid and dug into my ribs. The second had a flexible joint—better, but still shifted during turns. Version three? Perfect. I added a slight curve and a soft silicone pad. All three prints took less than 12 hours total. Try doing that with traditional manufacturing.

How to Choose or Design the Right 3D Printed Mount

Start with Your Use Case

Before you fire up your 3D modeling software or download a pre-made design, ask yourself: *Where and how will I use this mount?* The answer will shape everything—from the shape and size to the material and attachment method.

• Helmet mounts need to be low-profile and aerodynamic to avoid snagging.
• Bike or handlebar mounts should handle vibrations and sudden bumps.
• Chest or body mounts need comfort, breathability, and secure fit.
• Vehicle or drone mounts must withstand wind, dust, and high speeds.

For instance, if you’re mountain biking, you’ll want a mount that’s rigid, shock-absorbent, and securely clamped. A 3D printed handlebar mount with rubberized grips and a locking screw is ideal. But if you’re filming a time-lapse on a tripod, you might prefer a lightweight, minimalist design that doesn’t add bulk.

Understand the Standard Mounting Systems

Most action cameras—like GoPro, DJI Osmo, and Insta360—use the same mounting interface: a “fingers” system with two side clips and a central pivot. This is great for compatibility, but it means your 3D printed mount must either:

• Use a standard GoPro mount as a base (e.g., glue or screw it into your design), or
• Integrate the fingers directly into the print (more advanced, but fully custom).

I recommend starting with the first option—using a commercial mount as a base. It’s easier, more reliable, and lets you swap cameras or accessories without redesigning the whole thing. For example, I designed a 3D printed bike stem mount that screws directly into the handlebar stem and holds a standard GoPro mount. The stem part is custom-fit, but the camera attachment is universal.

Design Tips for Success

If you’re designing your own mount, here are a few practical tips from my own trial-and-error:

• Use fillets and chamfers to reduce stress points and prevent cracking.
• Add grip textures where the mount contacts surfaces (e.g., rubber-like patterns on handlebar mounts).
• Include screw holes or zip tie slots for extra security—don’t rely on friction alone.
• Design for disassembly so you can replace parts if they wear out.
• Test fit before printing—measure your camera, helmet, bike, etc., and mock it up in software.

Free tools like Tinkercad, Fusion 360 (free for hobbyists), or Onshape make this surprisingly easy—even if you’re not an engineer. I started with Tinkercad, and within a week, I had a working helmet mount. No prior CAD experience needed.

Best Materials for 3D Printed Action Camera Mounts

PLA: The Beginner-Friendly Choice

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is the most common 3D printing filament. It’s easy to print, affordable, and comes in a rainbow of colors. For indoor or light outdoor use—like a tripod mount or a desk camera stand—PLA works great.

But here’s the catch: PLA is brittle and degrades in sunlight and heat. Leave a PLA mount on a hot car dashboard, and it might warp or crack. I learned this the hard way when my PLA helmet mount snapped after a summer bike ride. The sun had softened it over time.

Best for: Low-stress, short-term, or indoor use. Great for prototypes.

PETG: The All-Rounder

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) is my go-to for most action camera mounts. It’s tough, flexible, and resistant to UV, moisture, and temperature changes. It’s also less brittle than PLA and won’t crack under stress.

I’ve used PETG mounts for kayaking, mountain biking, and even drone filming in light rain. One of my favorite designs is a PETG chest mount for hiking. It’s held up for over a year with zero issues—even after being dropped on rocks and soaked in river water.

Best for: Outdoor, high-stress, or long-term use. Ideal for most action camera applications.

TPU: For Flexible and Shock-Absorbing Mounts

TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is a flexible, rubber-like filament. It’s perfect for mounts that need to absorb vibrations or conform to curved surfaces—like a helmet or a curved kayak deck.

I once designed a TPU mount for my dog’s backpack. The flexibility allowed it to bend slightly with his movements, preventing stress on the attachment points. It also acted like a shock absorber, reducing camera shake during runs.

Best for: Vibration dampening, curved surfaces, or mounts that need to flex.

Other Materials to Consider

• ASA: UV-resistant like PETG, but stiffer. Great for car or outdoor mounts exposed to sun.
• Nylon: Extremely strong and durable, but harder to print. Best for industrial or high-load applications.
• Carbon Fiber Reinforced Filaments: Super strong and lightweight, but expensive and abrasive on printer nozzles.

Pro tip: Always sand and seal your print if it will be exposed to water. A light coat of clear acrylic spray can protect against moisture and UV damage—especially for PLA and PETG.

Real-World Examples: 3D Printed Mounts That Work

1. The Ultimate Handlebar Mount for Mountain Biking

I designed this mount after my commercial one kept loosening on rough trails. The 3D printed version uses PETG, has a rubberized inner surface (printed with a textured pattern), and includes two M4 screw holes for extra clamping power. The camera sits at a 15-degree upward angle—perfect for capturing the trail ahead without showing too much of my handlebars.

Result? Zero wobble, even on downhill sections with jumps and drops. I’ve used it for over 200 miles of riding, and it’s still rock-solid.

2. Helmet Mount with Integrated Light Bracket

For night rides, I needed a helmet mount that could hold both my camera and a small LED light. Commercial solutions were bulky and blocked my field of view. My 3D printed version uses a low-profile base (printed in ASA for UV resistance) with a secondary arm for the light. The entire thing weighs less than 30 grams and sits just above my forehead.

The best part? The light arm is adjustable—I can angle it up or down depending on the terrain. And because it’s 3D printed, I can print a new one if I ever switch lights.

3. Kayak Deck Mount with Drainage

Kayaking is wet. Really wet. My first attempt at a deck mount used PLA and held up fine—until it rained. Water pooled around the base, and the mount eventually warped. The fix? A PETG design with drainage holes and a slight upward tilt to shed water. Now, rainwater flows right through, and the mount stays dry and secure.

4. Drone Landing Gear Mount

For low-angle drone shots, I wanted a mount that could attach to the landing gear. Commercial options were too bulky and blocked the camera. My 3D printed version (in TPU) clips onto the gear with spring-loaded arms. It’s flexible enough to absorb landings but rigid enough to hold the camera steady during flight.

Bonus: It’s removable in seconds, so I can switch back to a standard mount when needed.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Overlooking Weight Distribution

Action cameras are small, but when mounted on a long arm or extension, they create leverage. This can stress the mount or cause vibrations. Always keep the center of gravity as close to the attachment point as possible.

I once printed a 12-inch extension arm for a POV shot. The camera was stable at first—until I started running. The long arm acted like a lever, and the mount cracked at the base. Lesson learned: keep extensions short or use a counterweight.

Ignoring Environmental Factors

Sun, rain, dust, and temperature changes can destroy a poorly designed mount. A PLA mount left in a hot car? Warped. A mount used in saltwater? Corroded. Always choose the right material and seal your print if needed.

Forgetting About Maintenance

Even the best 3D printed mount will wear out over time. Screws loosen, plastic fatigues, and surfaces scratch. Check your mount regularly—especially before high-stakes shoots. Tighten screws, inspect for cracks, and clean the mounting interface.

I keep a small toolkit in my camera bag: a hex key, a few spare screws, and a microfiber cloth. It’s saved me more than once.

Designing for Looks Over Function

It’s tempting to design a mount that looks cool—but if it doesn’t hold the camera securely, it’s useless. Prioritize function over form. Test every design with real-world use, not just in software.

Data Table: 3D Printed Mount Material Comparison

Material	Strength	Flexibility	UV Resistance	Water Resistance	Best Use Cases	Cost (per kg)
PLA	Low	Low	Poor	Low	Indoor, prototypes, light use	$20–$25
PETG	High	Medium	Good	High	Outdoor, high-stress, long-term	$25–$30
TPU	Medium	High	Good	High	Vibration dampening, curved surfaces	$30–$35
ASA	High	Low	Excellent	High	Sun-exposed, outdoor, car mounts	$35–$40
Nylon	Very High	Medium	Good	High	Industrial, high-load, durable	$40–$50

This table gives you a quick reference for choosing the right material based on your needs. Remember: there’s no “best” material—only the best fit for your specific use case.

Final Thoughts: Is a 3D Printed Action Camera Mount Right for You?

After years of testing, breaking, fixing, and improving my 3D printed action camera mounts, I can confidently say: they’re not just a DIY gimmick. They’re a practical, powerful upgrade for anyone who takes their filming seriously—or even just wants to capture life’s moments without gear headaches.

You don’t need to be a 3D printing expert. Start simple. Download a free design from Thingiverse or Printables. Print it in PETG. Test it. Modify it. Make it yours. The beauty of this approach is that it grows with you. As your needs change—new camera, new activity, new idea—you can print a new mount in a weekend.

And the best part? You’re not limited by what’s on the shelf. You’re only limited by your imagination. Need a mount for your drone, your kayak, your dog, your car, or even your garden gnome? With 3D printing, it’s all possible.

So, the next time your camera wobbles, slips, or just doesn’t fit right, don’t settle. Print your own solution. It might just be the ultimate DIY upgrade your gear has been waiting for.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 3D printed action camera mount, and why should I use one?

A 3D printed action camera mount is a customizable, lightweight holder designed to securely attach your action camera to bikes, helmets, or other gear. It’s a cost-effective and durable DIY upgrade that allows for precise positioning, unlike generic mounts.

Is a 3D printed action camera mount strong enough for high-impact activities?

Yes, when printed with strong materials like PETG or ABS, these mounts can withstand vibrations, shocks, and high-speed impacts common in sports. Reinforced designs and proper layer adhesion further enhance durability.

Can I customize my 3D printed mount for specific camera models?

Absolutely! One of the biggest advantages of a 3D printed action camera mount is the ability to tailor it to your camera’s exact dimensions and mounting style. Many open-source designs are available for popular models like GoPro or DJI.

Where can I find reliable 3D print files for an action camera mount?

You can find high-quality, tested 3D print files on platforms like Thingiverse, Printables, or MyMiniFactory. Look for designs with positive reviews and compatibility notes for your specific action camera.

What materials work best for 3D printing an action camera mount?

PETG is ideal for its balance of strength, flexibility, and weather resistance, while ABS offers rigidity for high-stress uses. PLA is suitable for lightweight, low-impact applications but may warp under heat.

How do I ensure a secure fit with my 3D printed action camera mount?

Use a snug-fit design with a locking mechanism or rubberized grips to prevent wobbling. Always test the mount in low-risk conditions before using it for intense activities to verify stability.