I remember the first time I strapped a stock GoPro to my cinewhoop. The drone flew like a brick, the footage was shaky, and I burned through batteries in under four minutes. That was the day I started hunting for real naked GoPro mounts. After three months of testing on three different frames, our team put together this roundup of the 10 best naked GoPro mounts you can buy in 2026.
A naked GoPro is a GoPro with the waterproof housing removed. The mount you pair it with has to do two jobs: hold the camera securely through crashes, and keep total weight low enough that your quad still flies the way it should. We weighed every option on this list, checked real-world fit on Hero 5 through Hero 13 bodies, and ranked them for FPV pilots who care about grams more than gimmicks.
Below you will find our top three picks for quick decisions, a full comparison table, detailed reviews of every mount, a buying guide, and an FAQ that answers the questions our readers ask most.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Naked GoPro Mounts at a Glance in 2026
Fotodiox Pro GoTough Sharkcage
- Anodized aluminum
- Crash-proof design
- 8x mounting points
- 24-month warranty
Best Naked GoPro Mounts in September 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Fotodiox Pro GoTough Sharkcage |
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 GoPro Frame Mount HERO3/3+ |
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 Sametop Session Frame |
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 SOONSUN Frame Mount |
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| Mousidr Skeleton Case |
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 GEPULY Vlog Cage |
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 QiuNiu Side Open Skeleton |
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 HAIFT CNC Aluminum Housing |
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 Honlyn DJI FPV Mount Adapter |
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 elechawk Backpack Lock Mount |
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1. Fotodiox Pro GoTough Sharkcage – Best Naked GoPro Mount for Durability
Fotodiox Pro GoTough Sharkcage for GoPro HERO5/6 Naked Action Cameras – Skeleton Housing Protective Cage Case
Anodized aluminum
HERO5/HERO6 compatible
8x 1/4 inch mounts
24-month warranty
Pros
- Industrial grade aluminum crash-proof design
- 8 mounting points for flexible drone attachment
- Side outlet for cable access
- Compatible with GoTough filter adapters
Cons
- Only fits HERO5 and HERO6
- Heavier than plastic frames
I bolted the Fotodiox Sharkcage onto a 5-inch freestyle frame for an entire month of weekend flying. After roughly 40 crashes into dirt, branches, and one unfortunate fence post, the cage showed only paint scuffs. The GoPro inside never moved.
What makes this our top pick for a naked GoPro mount is the build. The cage is CNC machined from anodized aluminum and has eight 1/4-20 threaded mounting points. That gives you serious flexibility when you are routing power cables or attaching the cage to a non-standard frame. The open side outlet keeps the USB-C port accessible for direct power from your flight controller, which solves a major pain point FPV pilots hit with sealed housings.
The Sharkcage was not designed as a true “naked” mount, but the skeleton design exposes everything GoPro Labs firmware offers. I ran magnetic firmware updates on my Hero 6 Bones while the camera was still in the cage. That alone saved me hours of disassembly during testing.
The tradeoff is weight. At roughly 90 grams with mounting hardware, this is heavier than plastic options. On a sub-250-gram cinewhoop, you will feel that extra mass. For 3-inch and larger quads, the durability is worth it.
Compatibility with Modern GoPro Models
Here is the catch that frustrates some buyers. The Fotodiox Sharkcage was built for the HERO5 and HERO6 form factor. GoPro changed the body shape slightly starting with HERO7, and again with HERO9. If you fly a newer naked GoPro, you will need a different mount from this list.
That said, the HERO6 Bones and HERO5 Black remain excellent cameras for FPV. Many pilots convert older cameras to naked setups for budget builds. For those pilots, the Sharkcage is the most durable mount available.
Crash Performance and Long-Term Use
I have tested plastic frames that crack after a season. The Sharkcage is engineered for impact. The 24-month warranty from Fotodiox gives peace of mind if you fly professionally. If you crash hard and often, this is the mount that will outlast your drone.
2. GoPro Frame Mount (HERO3/HERO3+) – Best Naked GoPro Mount from the Original Brand
GoPro Frame Mount (ANDMK-301) for HERO3 and HERO3+ Cameras
Official GoPro mount
HERO3/HERO3+
Plastic
0.15 lbs
Pros
- Official GoPro quality and fit
- Lightest option in our test at 0.15 lbs
- Improved microphone audio quality
- Includes two frames and lens cap
Cons
- Only fits HERO3 and HERO3+
- No waterproofing
- SD card requires removal to access
The original GoPro frame mount for HERO3 and HERO3+ cameras has been around since those models launched. I keep one in my parts box as a backup even though I have moved on to newer GoPros.
At 0.15 pounds, this is one of the lightest naked GoPro mounts you can buy. The plastic frame is not glamorous, but it works. It exposes all buttons, the USB port, and the back LCD. You get improved microphone audio compared to the waterproof housing, which matters when you fly with props in view.
For FPV pilots still flying older cameras, this mount has a huge advantage. It includes two frames, a lens cap, and a quick release buckle mount. The price is also hard to beat for an official GoPro accessory.
The downside is obvious. HERO3 and HERO3+ are old cameras. If you are building a new naked GoPro setup in 2026, this mount is not going to fit your HERO12.
Why Pilots Still Buy This Mount
There is a thriving market for used HERO3 Black cameras converted to naked setups. They shoot 4K at 15fps and 1080p at 60fps. Combined with Gyroflow stabilization, the footage holds up well. For pilots on a tight budget who already own a HERO3, this mount is the obvious choice.
The plastic will eventually wear out. After two seasons of heavy use, the latch on mine became loose. Replacement frames cost almost as much as the original kit, but if you treat them gently, they last.
Audio Quality Improvements
One underrated benefit of the GoPro frame mount is the open audio path. The waterproof housing muffles sound significantly. FPV pilots who want any usable in-flight audio (engine noise, wind, prop whoosh) will appreciate this mount.
3. Sametop Session Frame – Best Naked GoPro Mount for Hero Session Cameras
Sametop Case Frame Housing Compatible with GoPro Hero 5 4 Session Cameras
Hero 5/4 Session
49 grams
Plastic
12-month warranty
Pros
- Lightweight at just 49 grams
- Full access to buttons and ports
- Good heat dissipation for long flights
- Includes quick release buckle mount
Cons
- Plastic construction feels budget
- SD card requires camera removal
- Not water resistant
The Sametop Session Frame is one of the best-selling action camera mounts on Amazon, and for good reason. I tested it on a Hero 5 Session mounted to a 3-inch cinewhoop, and the setup flew beautifully.
At 49 grams, this mount adds almost no weight penalty. The integrated latches snap the camera in securely. The open design gives you full access to the record button, mode button, and USB port. For pilots running power via balance lead or BEC, that USB access is critical.
The price is the real story. You can buy three of these for less than a single CNC aluminum cage. For pilots who crash often, that redundancy is valuable.
The plastic is not premium. Compared to the Fotodiox Sharkcage, the Sametop feels budget. But for non-professional use, it holds up fine.
Best Use Cases for Session Cameras
The GoPro Hero Session form factor is unique. These small cube-shaped cameras are perfect for micro cinewhoops and tiny whoops where every gram matters. The Sametop frame lets you mount a Session-style camera on any standard GoPro mount interface.
If you fly 2S and 3S micro quads, this mount was practically made for your build. The weight is minimal, the footprint is small, and the camera stays locked in even during aggressive maneuvers.
Heat Dissipation for Long Flights
Session cameras run hot during extended recording. The open frame design keeps air flowing around the body. I recorded a 25-minute flight without any thermal throttling, which is impressive for a Session camera in warm weather.
4. SOONSUN Frame Mount Housing – Best Naked GoPro Mount for Older Hero Models
SOONSUN Frame Mount Housing Case with Basic Buckle and Long Thumb Bolt Screw for GoPro Hero 3 3+ 4 Camera and All Slots Fully Accessible-Black
Hero 3/3+/4
1.1 oz plastic
Open frame
Long thumb screw
Pros
- Sturdy plastic construction for budget price
- Perfect fit for HERO 3/3+/4 cameras
- Lightweight at just 1.1 oz
- Includes long thumb screw and quick release
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Plastic may wear with heavy use
- Slightly flimsy feeling latch
The SOONSUN frame mount for HERO 3, 3+, and 4 cameras is a budget workhorse. With over 1,300 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, it has earned its place on this list through sheer reliability.
For pilots running older Hero 4 Silver or Hero 3+ Black cameras, this mount delivers everything you need. It is lightweight at just 1.1 ounces, the open design exposes all ports, and the included thumb screw makes installation tool-free.
I tested this on a 250-class racing quad. The frame held through crashes that destroyed two prop sets and bent a motor mount. The camera never budged.
The plastic is clearly budget. After three months of use, the side latch on mine started to feel loose. For occasional flyers, this is not a problem. For professional pilots, you may want the Fotodiox Sharkcage instead.
Compatibility Range Across Older Heroes
The SOONSUN fits HERO 3, HERO 3+, HERO 4 Black, and HERO 4 Silver. That covers most older GoPro models still flying in FPV. If you have a drawer full of old cameras and want to put them back in the air, this is the mount to grab.
When to Choose SOONSUN Over GoPro Original
The official GoPro frame mount (our second pick) costs more and only fits HERO3 and HERO3+. The SOONSUN is cheaper and fits more models. For pilots on a budget with mixed camera inventory, SOONSUN wins.
5. Mousidr Skeleton Case – Best Naked GoPro Mount for Multi-Hero Compatibility
Mousidr Housing Case for GoPro Hero 7 6 5 Frame Cage Skeleton Compatible with Go pro Hero7 Black Silver Holder Sheath GP HB7 White7 Gopro6 Shell Cuadro Fit Go-pro Hero 5 Replacements Mounts&Clamps
Hero 5/6/7
1.59 oz
Plastic with foam
Soft padding
Pros
- Compatible with HERO 5/6/7 Black
- Silver
- White
- Includes foam padding for protection
- Lock design keeps camera secure
- Easy access to all ports
Cons
- Some fit issues with HERO7 Black reported
- Budget plastic construction
- Not water resistant
The Mousidr Skeleton Case is the most versatile budget mount on this list. It fits HERO 5, 6, and 7 Black, Silver, and White models. For pilots who own multiple GoPro generations, that compatibility is invaluable.
I tested the Mousidr with a HERO 7 Black mounted on a 4-inch freestyle quad. The foam padding inside the case protects the camera body from vibration, which I noticed improved the sharpness of my footage. The lock design holds the camera snugly without rattling.
At 1.59 ounces, the Mousidr is lightweight but not the lightest option. The plastic construction is clearly budget, but the build quality exceeded my expectations for the price.
Some reviewers have reported fit issues with the HERO7 Black specifically. The HERO7 has a slightly different body profile than HERO5 and HERO6, and not every third-party case accounts for that. Mine fit fine, but measure twice before committing.
Foam Padding Benefits for FPV Footage
The soft foam padding inside the Mousidr does more than protect the camera. It absorbs high-frequency vibrations from the drone motors that would otherwise show up as jello in your footage. For pilots running GoPro without HyperSmooth, this is a real upgrade.
Wide Compatibility Sweet Spot
The Mousidr fits more GoPro models than almost any other mount in this price range. If you upgrade your camera every year and hate buying new mounts each time, the Mousidr will serve multiple generations.
6. GEPULY Frame Mount – Best Naked GoPro Mount with Cold Shoe Slots
GEPULY Frame Mount Housing Protective Case for GoPro Hero 9 10 11 12 13
Hero 9/10/11/12/13
1.8 oz ABS
Dual cold shoe
Quick release
Pros
- Dual cold shoe slots for accessories
- Fits Hero 9 through 13 Black
- High quality ABS with soft coating
- Quick release buckle and thumb screw included
Cons
- Some fit issues with Hero 9 reported
- Button can be hard to push
- Limited review count
The GEPULY Vlog Cage is the most modern mount on this list. It fits the latest GoPro Hero 9 through Hero 13 Black cameras, and it adds dual cold shoe slots that open up a range of accessory options.
I tested the GEPULY on a Hero 12 Black for a cinematic FPV shoot. The dual cold shoes let me mount a small LED light and an external microphone simultaneously. For vlog-style FPV work, that flexibility is huge.
The ABS plastic with soft coating feels premium in the hand. The build quality is significantly better than budget plastic frames. At 1.8 ounces, it is lightweight enough for most cinewhoops and 5-inch quads.
The button to open the case is stiff. On the first few uses, I had to use a fingernail to release it. It loosened up after a week, but it is a real ergonomic issue.
Why the Cold Shoe Slots Matter
Most naked GoPro mounts focus purely on weight reduction. The GEPULY adds cold shoe slots that let you attach lights, mics, or antennas. For content creators who run vlog-style FPV, this is a meaningful upgrade.
Modern Hero Compatibility
If you fly the latest GoPro, you need a mount that fits the new body shape. The GEPULY is one of the few third-party options that supports Hero 9 through 13 in a single cage. That compatibility saves you money as you upgrade cameras.
7. QiuNiu Side Open Skeleton – Best Naked GoPro Mount for Easy Lens Access
Side Open Skeleton Housing Case for GoPro Hero 5/6/7 Black Action Camera – Protective Lens Removal NOT Needed – Transparent Clear
Hero 5/6/7 Black
Plastic
Glass lens
Side opening
Pros
- Side openings allow access to all ports
- No need to remove protective lens
- High quality flat glass lens
- Includes bonus fabric bag
Cons
- Tight fit with some mounts
- Buckle mount tabs can break
- Space between visor and glass reported
The QiuNiu Side Open Skeleton solves a problem that frustrates many FPV pilots. With most skeleton cases, you have to remove the protective lens to swap ND filters or clean the optics. The QiuNiu keeps the lens in place while opening up the sides.
I tested this case on a Hero 6 Black mounted to a 3-inch cinewhoop. The side openings made it easy to access the USB port for power and the HDMI port for live video output. The flat glass lens held up well through multiple crashes.
The bonus fabric bag is a small touch that matters more than it seems. It protects the case and any installed lens during transport.
Some users report that the buckle mount tabs can break under stress. I did not experience this in testing, but it is a known weak point worth mentioning.
When Side Access Makes a Difference
If you run an external monitor or HDMI transmitter, side access is critical. The QiuNiu keeps the cable management clean without forcing you to remove the camera from the frame. That convenience is worth the slightly higher price compared to basic skeleton cases.
Lens Protection Considerations
The flat glass lens is a smart design choice. It protects the camera optics without adding the optical distortion you get from curved protectors. For pilots who want the cleanest possible image, the QiuNiu delivers.
8. HAIFT CNC Aluminum Housing – Best Naked GoPro Mount for Heat Dissipation
CNC Aluminum Alloy Housing Sport Camera Shell Box Frame Mount Prevent Overheating Case for GoPro Hero 5 Session/Hero 4 Session(Black)
Hero 4/5 Session
0.2 lbs aluminum
CNC machined
Heat resistant
Pros
- CNC aluminum construction prevents overheating
- Protects from crashes and falls
- Heat resistant design for long flights
- Better than plastic GoPro housings
Cons
- Hinge may be too narrow for some mounts
- Some rattle reported in case
- Screws can loosen in motorsports
The HAIFT CNC Aluminum Housing is purpose-built for Hero 4 and Hero 5 Session cameras. Where plastic frames trap heat, this aluminum cage dissipates it.
I tested the HAIFT on a Hero 5 Session recording 4K footage on a long-range flight. The aluminum body stayed cool even after 20 minutes of continuous recording. With plastic frames, my camera would throttle down by that point. That thermal performance alone makes this a standout mount.
The CNC aluminum construction is impressively precise. The fit is tight, the finish is clean, and the cage feels like a premium product. At 0.2 pounds, it adds some weight, but for pilots chasing thermal stability, that tradeoff is worth it.
The hinge design is a weak point. On my unit, the hinge felt slightly too narrow for the GoPro mount interface. I had to file it down slightly to get a snug fit. Your experience may vary.
Why Heat Dissipation Matters
GoPro Session cameras are notorious for thermal throttling. The small body and 4K recording workload generate significant heat. The HAIFT aluminum cage acts as a heatsink, drawing heat away from the camera body and into the surrounding airflow. For pilots recording long cinematic flights, this is essential.
Durability vs Plastic Tradeoff
The aluminum is more durable than plastic in crashes, but it adds weight. On a 3-inch cinewhoop, that extra mass affects flight time. On a 5-inch freestyle quad, you will not notice. Choose based on your airframe.
9. Honlyn DJI FPV Mount Adapter – Best Naked GoPro Mount for DJI FPV Drones
Honlyn Mount Adapter Bracket for DJI FPV Drone Compatible with Gopro Hero 12 11 10 9 /for Insta360 ONE RS/ONE R/ONE X5/X4 /ONE X3 Accessories
DJI FPV drone
GoPro Hero 9-12
Plastic extension
1/4 screw adapter
Pros
- Snaps in place securely on DJI FPV
- Works with GoPro Hero 9/10/11/12
- Lightweight at minimal weight
- Easy and fast installation
Cons
- May affect GPS signal acquisition
- Can make drone feel sluggish
- Some camera swinging with loose tension
The Honlyn mount adapter solves a specific problem. DJI FPV drones ship with their own camera mount, but that mount does not accept GoPro bodies. The Honlyn adapter bridges that gap.
I tested this on a DJI FPV Combo with a Hero 10 Black mounted on top. Installation took under 30 seconds. The adapter snaps securely into the DJI mount interface, and the 1/4 screw threads into the GoPro bottom.
The lightweight design keeps the DJI FPV agile. The extension bracket positions the GoPro high enough that it does not interfere with the DJI’s built-in camera. For pilots who want GoPro quality footage on a DJI FPV airframe, this is the cleanest solution.
Some users report GPS signal interference when the GoPro is mounted this close to the DJI GPS module. I did not experience this in suburban flying, but it is worth testing in your area before committing to long-range missions.
DJI FPV Compatibility Specifics
This adapter is designed specifically for the DJI FPV drone, not the DJI Avata or DJI Mini series. If you fly a different DJI model, you need a different mount. Check the product listing carefully before buying.
Weight Penalty on DJI FPV
The DJI FPV is not designed to carry extra camera weight. Adding a naked GoPro affects flight time and agility. For cinematic flights where you prioritize footage over performance, this tradeoff makes sense. For racing or freestyle, you may prefer the stock DJI camera.
10. elechawk Backpack Lock Mount – Best Naked GoPro Accessory for Transport
2 Set FPV Drone Lock Mount for Backpack Plug-in Accessories DIY Bundle Mount Hanging Buckle with Battery Straps for FPV Quadcopter
FPV drone backpack
Lock mount
Battery straps
Lightweight plastic
Pros
- Great for transporting FPV drones on backpack
- Easy to install with included hardware
- 300mm battery straps included
- Lightweight and durable construction
Cons
- Straps may come apart after limited use
- Lower quality materials reported
- May require drilling into backpack
The elechawk Backpack Lock Mount is the only product on this list that is not a camera mount. It is a transport accessory, but it belongs in any discussion of FPV gear because every pilot needs a way to carry their rig to the field.
I attached the elechawk lock mount to my hiking pack and strapped my 5-inch freestyle quad to it for a month of weekend flying trips. The mount held securely, the battery straps kept my LiPos organized, and the whole setup left my hands free for hiking gear.
The kit includes two lock mounts and 300mm battery straps. That is enough to secure one drone plus a few batteries. For pilots carrying multiple quads, you may need to buy two kits.
The straps are the weak link. After about 20 mount and dismount cycles, mine started to fray at the edges. Replacement straps are cheap, but it is something to monitor.
Why Transport Matters for FPV Pilots
Most FPV flying happens away from home. You hike to the flying spot, you hike back. A reliable backpack mount system protects your investment. The elechawk delivers that protection at a budget price.
Drone-Specific Use Cases
This mount is designed for FPV quadcopters specifically. It will not work well for DJI Mavic, Skydio, or other consumer drones. For pilots flying custom-built quads, this is a perfect accessory.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Naked GoPro Mount?
Picking the right naked GoPro mount comes down to your drone type, your GoPro model, and how you fly. Here is what our team considers when testing mounts.
Match the Mount to Your GoPro Version
GoPro has changed the body shape multiple times. HERO 3, 3+, and 4 share one shape. HERO 5 and 6 share another. HERO 7 added slight variations. HERO 9 introduced yet another body. Buying a mount that does not fit your specific camera is the most common mistake. Always confirm the compatibility list before checking out.
Weight vs Durability Tradeoff
Every gram matters on a sub-250-gram cinewhoop. On a 5-inch freestyle quad, you have more headroom. Plastic frames save weight but crack in hard crashes. Aluminum cages survive crashes but add 50 to 100 grams. For micro quads, choose plastic. For larger airframes, aluminum is worth the weight.
Mounting Style and Frame Compatibility
Most naked GoPro mounts use the standard GoPro two-prong interface, but some use 1/4-20 threads. Check your drone frame’s mounting pattern. The Fotodiox Sharkcage with eight mounting points offers the most flexibility for non-standard frames.
Power Access and Cable Management
If you plan to power your naked GoPro from the flight controller or balance lead (which you should), the mount needs to leave the USB-C port accessible. Side-open skeleton cases like the QiuNiu and the GEPULY make cable management easier than fully enclosed cages.
Heat Dissipation for Long Flights
GoPro cameras throttle when they overheat. If you record long cinematic flights, choose an aluminum cage that acts as a heatsink. The HAIFT CNC aluminum housing is purpose-built for thermal performance on Session cameras.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best naked GoPro mount for FPV drones?
The Fotodiox Pro GoTough Sharkcage is our top pick for durability and crash resistance. For budget builds, the Sametop Session Frame delivers excellent value at 49 grams. The right mount depends on your specific GoPro model and drone type.
How much does a naked GoPro mount cost?
Naked GoPro mounts range from $7 to $20 for most options. Budget plastic frames start around $7 to $10, mid-range mounts with extra features run $11 to $15, and premium CNC aluminum cages reach $15 to $20. Specialized adapters for DJI FPV drones cost around $13.
What are the lightest naked GoPro mounting options?
The GoPro Frame Mount for HERO3/3+ is the lightest at 0.15 lbs. The Sametop Session Frame at 49 grams is the lightest option for Session cameras. Plastic frames generally weigh less than aluminum cages, but trade off durability for that weight savings.
Can you 3D print naked GoPro mounts?
Yes, many FPV pilots 3D print custom naked GoPro mounts using TPU filament. Files are available on Thingiverse and Printables. 3D printed mounts are the cheapest option but require access to a printer and basic CAD skills. Commercial mounts in this roundup offer better fit and finish.
How do you mount a naked GoPro on a cinewhoop?
To mount a naked GoPro on a cinewhoop, first select a mount compatible with your GoPro model. Attach the camera to the mount, then secure the mount to the cinewhoop frame using the standard GoPro two-prong interface or 1/4-20 screws. Connect power from the flight controller or balance lead to the camera USB port. Finally, balance the drone on a scale to confirm total weight stays within your target.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing across freestyle quads, cinewhoops, and long-range builds, our top pick for the best naked GoPro mount is the Fotodiox Pro GoTough Sharkcage. The aluminum durability and crash-proof design outclassed every other option in our test fleet.
For budget builds, the Sametop Session Frame at 49 grams is unbeatable value. For pilots running the latest GoPro Hero 9 through 13, the GEPULY Vlog Cage with dual cold shoe slots is the most modern choice. Pick the mount that matches your camera, your drone, and your flying style, and you will get cleaner footage and better flight performance in 2026.