Choosing the right filament is the difference between a part that survives a crash and one that disintegrates on impact.
TPU — The FPV Workhorse
Flexible, impact-resistant, and nearly unbreakable. A 95A TPU GoPro mount survives a 15-meter drop onto concrete. Prints slowly (20-30mm/s), requires direct-drive extruder. Layer adhesion is outstanding.
PLA — Easy But Fragile
Easiest to print but brittle. Glass transition only 60C — deforms in a hot car. Suitable only for non-structural parts like wire clips. Never use for impact-bearing parts.
PETG — Balanced Option
Combines PLA ease with better toughness and 80C heat tolerance. Good for antenna mounts and GPS brackets. Weakness: poor Z-axis strength.
Application Guide
GoPro/camera mount: TPU 95A (impact absorption). Antenna holder: PETG or TPU. GPS bracket: PETG. Frame arm prototype: TPU 98A or PA-CF. Battery pad: TPU 85A. Wire clip: PLA or PETG.
For FPV, start with TPU. It handles 90% of use cases.
