How to Mount Action Camera to 1 24 RC Car for Epic Shots

How to Mount Action Camera to 1 24 RC Car for Epic Shots
How to Mount Action Camera to 1 24 RC Car for Epic Shots

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Mounting an action camera to a 1:24 RC car unlocks dynamic, high-speed POV footage perfect for enthusiasts and content creators. Use a secure, vibration-dampening mount—like a 3D-printed or adhesive-backed option—positioned low on the chassis to capture stable, immersive shots without obstructing performance. Ensure the camera’s field of view captures the front wheels and track ahead for maximum impact.

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Key Takeaways

  • Choose a lightweight mount to avoid overloading your 1:24 RC car.
  • Secure the camera tightly to prevent vibrations and shaky footage.
  • Position the camera low for dynamic, ground-level action shots.
  • Use adhesive or clamp mounts designed for small RC vehicles.
  • Test the setup before recording to ensure stability and balance.
  • Angle the camera slightly forward to capture speed and motion clearly.

How to Mount Action Camera to 1 24 RC Car for Epic Shots

There’s something undeniably thrilling about watching a tiny RC car zip across your backyard, leap over ramps, or drift around corners at high speed. But what if you could see the action from the driver’s seat? That’s where mounting an action camera to your 1:24 scale RC car comes in. Imagine capturing first-person-view (FPV) footage of your miniature machine conquering obstacles, racing through grass, or navigating tight indoor spaces—all from a perspective that feels surprisingly immersive.

I remember the first time I tried this. I had a basic 1:24 RC car and a GoPro Hero 9 sitting around, and on a whim, I duct-taped the camera to the roof. The result? A shaky, lopsided video that made me laugh—but also sparked a passion for perfecting the setup. Since then, I’ve experimented with different mounts, cameras, and techniques to get smooth, cinematic shots. Whether you’re a hobbyist, a content creator, or just someone who loves tinkering, mounting an action camera to your 1:24 RC car opens up a world of creative possibilities. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to do it right—from choosing the right gear to avoiding common pitfalls.

Why Mount an Action Camera on a 1:24 RC Car?

At first glance, strapping a camera to a tiny RC car might seem like overkill. After all, these cars are small, fast, and often used for casual fun. But once you see the footage, you’ll understand the magic. The low-angle, high-speed perspective gives you a sense of scale and speed that’s hard to replicate any other way. It’s like being in a real race car—just shrunk down to pocket size.

How to Mount Action Camera to 1 24 RC Car for Epic Shots

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Capture Unique Perspectives

Most RC videos are shot from the outside, showing the car from a distance. But mounting a camera puts you right in the action. You can film tight turns, jumps, and stunts from a driver’s-eye view. This perspective makes ordinary backyard terrain look like a rugged off-road course. A simple puddle becomes a splash zone. A garden hose becomes a river crossing. The world transforms into an adventure playground.

Boost Your Content Game

If you’re into YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram, FPV RC footage is highly shareable. Viewers love the novelty and excitement of seeing the world from a miniature vehicle. I’ve seen creators gain thousands of followers just by posting well-shot RC car videos. The key is consistency and quality—something a properly mounted action camera can deliver.

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Test and Improve Your RC Skills

Beyond entertainment, mounting a camera helps you analyze your driving. You can review your lines, braking points, and cornering technique. It’s like having a coach in your car. Over time, this feedback loop improves your control and precision, especially if you’re into competitive RC racing.

Choosing the Right Action Camera for Your 1:24 RC Car

Not all action cameras are created equal—especially when it comes to size, weight, and mounting flexibility. Since your 1:24 RC car is small and lightweight, you need a camera that won’t overload it or throw off its balance.

How to Mount Action Camera to 1 24 RC Car for Epic Shots

Visual guide about mount action camera to 1 24 rc car

Image source: rcratings.com

Size and Weight Matter

A full-sized GoPro might be too heavy for a 1:24 RC car. These cars typically weigh between 200–400 grams, and adding a heavy camera can slow them down or cause them to tip over. Look for compact models like the GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini, DJI Osmo Action 4, or Insta360 GO 3. These are lightweight, powerful, and designed for tight spaces.

Mounting Compatibility

Check if the camera has standard mounting points. Most action cameras use a proprietary mount system (like GoPro’s quick-release), which makes it easy to attach to various brackets. Avoid cameras that require bulky adapters or custom rigs unless you’re building a dedicated FPV setup.

Video Quality and Stabilization

Even on a small car, vibrations and bumps can ruin your footage. Look for cameras with built-in electronic image stabilization (EIS). The DJI Osmo Action 4, for example, has RockSteady 3.0, which smooths out jitters remarkably well. A resolution of 1080p at 60fps is usually sufficient, but 4K is a nice bonus if your car can handle the extra processing load.

Battery Life and Storage

RC sessions are often short, but you don’t want your camera dying mid-run. Aim for at least 60 minutes of recording time. Also, use a high-speed microSD card (U3 or V30 rated) to avoid dropped frames, especially at higher resolutions.

Essential Mounting Hardware and Accessories

Once you’ve picked the right camera, it’s time to think about how to attach it securely. The goal is a mount that’s strong, adjustable, and vibration-dampening.

Universal Action Camera Mounts

These are the most common and affordable options. They usually consist of a base that attaches to the car and a ball joint for angle adjustment. Look for mounts made from lightweight aluminum or reinforced plastic. Brands like PGYTECH and Ulanzi offer compact, durable options designed for drones and small vehicles—perfect for RC cars.

Custom 3D-Printed Mounts

If you’re handy with a 3D printer, designing your own mount gives you full control over fit and function. I’ve printed mounts that clip directly onto the chassis or body posts of my RC car. Sites like Thingiverse have free designs you can download and modify. Just make sure the material is strong enough—PLA works, but PETG or ABS is better for durability.

Vibration Dampening Pads

This is a game-changer. Even the best stabilization can’t fix constant shaking from rough terrain. Use soft rubber or silicone pads between the mount and the camera. I like using small pieces of bike inner tube or silicone earphone tips. They absorb high-frequency vibrations and keep your footage smooth.

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Zip Ties and Double-Sided Tape

For quick, temporary setups, heavy-duty zip ties and 3M VHB tape are lifesavers. Just be careful not to overtighten zip ties—they can crack plastic parts. And always test the mount before hitting full throttle.

Step-by-Step Guide to Mounting Your Camera

Now that you have your gear, let’s get it installed. Follow these steps for a secure, balanced setup.

Step 1: Choose the Mounting Location

The best spot depends on your car’s design and the shot you want. Common locations include:

  • Roof: Great for wide, stable shots. Avoid if the car has a high center of gravity.
  • Front Bumper: Perfect for forward-facing action. Be cautious—crashes can damage the camera.
  • Side Panels: Ideal for POV turns and drift shots. Use a side-mounted bracket.
  • Inside the Cockpit (if applicable): Some RC cars have removable bodies. You can mount the camera inside for a true FPV look.

Step 2: Secure the Mount Base

Attach the mount base to your chosen location. If using screws, pre-drill small holes to avoid cracking the plastic. For tape or zip ties, clean the surface first with isopropyl alcohol for better adhesion. Let the tape cure for a few hours before use.

Step 3: Attach the Camera

Snap the camera into the mount and adjust the angle. Aim slightly downward to capture the road ahead without too much sky. Tighten all knobs and locks to prevent shifting during motion.

Step 4: Balance the Car

Lift the car by the mount. If it tilts heavily to one side, the weight is uneven. Reposition the mount or add counterweights (like small nuts or washers) to the opposite side. A balanced car handles better and reduces strain on the motor.

Step 5: Test and Adjust

Do a slow test run on flat ground. Check for wobbling, vibrations, or loose parts. Record a short clip and review it. If the footage is shaky, add more dampening or adjust the mount angle.

Tips for Getting the Best Footage

A good mount is just the beginning. To capture epic shots, you need smart filming techniques.

Use Slow Motion for Drama

Most action cameras can shoot at 120fps or higher in 1080p. Slow-mo makes jumps, crashes, and drifts look cinematic. I love using it when my car launches off a ramp—the suspension compresses in slow motion, and the landing feels dramatic.

Keep the Horizon Level

Even with stabilization, a tilted horizon looks unprofessional. Use your camera’s built-in leveling feature or adjust the mount manually. Some mounts have spirit levels built in—worth the investment.

Film in Good Lighting

Action cameras struggle in low light. Shoot during the day or use LED lights if filming indoors. Avoid backlighting—position yourself so the sun is behind you, not behind the car.

Plan Your Shots

Don’t just drive randomly. Set up obstacles, ramps, or a mini racecourse. Use cones, books, or cardboard boxes to create challenges. A well-designed track makes for more engaging footage.

Edit for Impact

Raw footage is rarely perfect. Use editing software like DaVinci Resolve (free) or Adobe Premiere Pro to cut, stabilize, and add music. Speed ramps, color grading, and sound effects can turn a simple clip into a viral video.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best gear, it’s easy to make errors that ruin your experience. Here’s what to watch out for.

Overloading the Car

Adding too much weight slows down the motor and drains the battery faster. Stick to lightweight cameras and minimal mounts. If your car struggles to move, it’s time to downsize.

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Ignoring Vibration

Vibration is the enemy of smooth video. Without dampening, your footage will look like a earthquake. Always use rubber pads or silicone gaskets.

Poor Mount Security

A loose mount can send your camera flying. Double-check all connections before each run. I’ve lost two cameras to zip ties snapping—now I use reinforced mounts with locking screws.

Shooting in Windy Conditions

Small RC cars are easily blown off course. Avoid windy days, especially if your car is light and top-heavy with a camera.

Forgetting to Charge

Nothing kills the fun faster than a dead battery. Charge your camera and RC car the night before. Keep spare batteries handy.

Camera Model Weight (grams) Stabilization Mount Type Best For
GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini 133 HyperSmooth 5.0 GoPro Mount High-quality, compact filming
DJI Osmo Action 4 145 RockSteady 3.0 DJI Mount Low-light performance
Insta360 GO 3 35 FlowState Magnetic + Adhesive Ultra-lightweight, easy mounting
AKASO EK7000 110 Basic EIS Universal Mount Budget-friendly option

Conclusion

Mounting an action camera to your 1:24 RC car isn’t just a fun experiment—it’s a creative upgrade that transforms how you experience the hobby. From capturing jaw-dropping FPV footage to improving your driving skills, the benefits are real and rewarding. With the right camera, a secure mount, and a few smart techniques, you can turn your tiny RC car into a cinematic machine.

Start simple. Use what you have. Test, tweak, and repeat. Don’t be afraid to get creative with mounting positions or DIY solutions. And most importantly, have fun. Some of my best videos came from failed attempts—like the time my camera flew off during a jump and landed lens-down in a puddle. (It survived, by the way.) The journey is part of the adventure. So grab your camera, strap it on, and hit the throttle. The road—and the shots—are waiting.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to mount an action camera to a 1:24 RC car?

Use a lightweight adhesive mount or a 3D-printed bracket designed for small-scale RC cars. Ensure the mount is secure but doesn’t add excessive weight, which could affect performance or handling.

Can I use a GoPro on my 1:24 RC car without damaging it?

Yes, use a low-profile adhesive mount or a magnetic base to avoid drilling holes. Many third-party mounts are designed specifically for action cameras on RC cars, balancing grip and minimal weight.

How do I reduce vibration when mounting an action camera to a 1:24 RC car?

Add a small foam pad or rubber grommet between the camera and mount to dampen vibrations. Positioning the camera near the car’s center of gravity also helps stabilize footage.

Will the action camera’s weight affect my 1:24 RC car’s speed?

Even lightweight cameras can impact small-scale RC cars. Test with and without the camera to fine-tune balance—consider shorter recording sessions to minimize strain on the motor.

Are there specific mounts for action cameras on tiny RC cars like 1:24 scale?

Yes, brands like Runcam and Smatree offer mini mounts tailored for small RC models. Alternatively, custom 3D-printed mounts provide a perfect fit for your 1:24 RC car.

How do I power the camera without draining the RC car’s battery?

Use an action camera with built-in battery (like GoPro or DJI Osmo) and charge it separately. Avoid connecting the camera to the RC car’s power system to prevent interference or voltage drops.

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