DIY FPV Goggle Mods: 3D Printed Faceplates, Fan Mounts, and Antenna Upgrades
Stock FPV goggles are designed to fit the average face, which means they fit almost nobody perfectly. Light leaks, pressure points, fogging lenses, and uncomfortable foam are common complaints across every goggle brand from Fat Shark to Skyzone to DJI. Fortunately, the FPV community has embraced 3D printing to create an ecosystem of modifications that transform factory goggles into custom-fitted, feature-rich ground stations. This guide covers the most impactful DIY mods you can print and install in a single afternoon.
Custom Faceplates: The Comfort Foundation
A custom 3D printed faceplate is the single biggest comfort upgrade you can make to any goggle. Stock faceplates use a one-size-fits-all curve that leaves gaps at the temples, nose, or cheekbones. A printed faceplate can be designed to match your exact facial geometry — wider for broad faces, deeper for prominent brow ridges, or with a custom nose cutout that eliminates light leak entirely.
Print faceplates in TPU with 2-3 perimeters and 10% gyroid infill for the best combination of flexibility and structure. The flexibility of TPU allows the faceplate to conform to your face under gentle pressure from the goggle strap, creating a light-tight seal without painful pressure points. Add a 2mm thick layer of soft foam (like the NewBeeDrone replacement foam kit) to the contact surface for extended comfort during long sessions.
The most popular faceplate mods on Thingiverse include widened versions for glasses wearers, extended cheek rests for reduced pressure on the sinus area, and ventilated designs that channel airflow across the face to reduce sweating. Many designs incorporate a removable nose piece — print several in different thicknesses to dial in the perfect fit for your nose bridge.
Active Cooling: Fan Mounts That Actually Work
Goggle fogging is caused by the temperature difference between your face and the goggle interior. A small fan circulating air through the goggle body eliminates this problem entirely. The most effective design mounts a 25mm or 30mm 5V fan to the top or side of the goggle body, powered by the goggle battery via a simple JST connector or USB breakout board.
Print the fan mount in PETG for heat resistance (the fan motor can get warm during extended use). The mount should include an intake vent on the exterior and a duct that directs airflow across the lenses. For best results, use a centrifugal (blower-style) fan rather than an axial fan — blowers generate higher static pressure, which pushes air through the ducting more effectively. Wire the fan through a small potentiometer or use PWM control for adjustable speed.
For DJI Goggles 2 and Integra, the internal fan control can be supplemented with an external fan for extreme conditions. For analog goggles like the Fat Shark HDO2 or Skyzone SKY04X, an external fan mod is transformative — these goggles have no internal airflow and fog within minutes in humid conditions without active cooling.
Antenna Mounting Solutions
Stock antenna mounts are functional but fragile. A 3D printed antenna holder can integrate multiple antennas, provide better strain relief for SMA connectors, and position patch antennas at the optimal angle for long range reception. Design your mount to hold two omni antennas at 90-degree orientation and a patch antenna angled 10-15 degrees downward (since you typically look slightly down when flying).
Use PETG or ABS for antenna mounts — PLA will soften from the heat of active patch antennas and can deform under the weight of larger antennas. Incorporate cable management channels that route antenna coax cleanly along the goggle strap, preventing snags and reducing strain on the SMA connectors. A well-designed antenna mount is the difference between chasing signal and enjoying rock-solid video at range.
Battery Holder and Power Management
A 3D printed battery holder that clips to the goggle strap keeps your goggle battery secure and improves weight distribution. Design the holder to fit your specific battery form factor — 18650 packs, 2S LiPo, or the DJI Goggle battery all need different cradle dimensions. Include a cable management slot that routes the power cable along the strap, and consider adding a small compartment for spare SD cards or lens cloths.
For DIY power solutions, print an enclosure for a 2S 18650 holder with an integrated voltage regulator. This provides stable 7-9V output regulated from the 18650 cells and includes a power switch and voltage display. The enclosure can mount to the back of the goggle strap, counterbalancing the weight of the goggles and reducing neck strain during long sessions.
Lens Protection and Storage
Goggle lenses are expensive and easily scratched. A 3D printed lens cap that snaps onto the front of the goggles provides protection during transport and storage. Design it with a hinge or tether so it stays attached when not in use. Print in TPU for a snug, scratch-free fit. Add a slot for a desiccant packet to absorb moisture and prevent lens fogging between sessions.
These mods cost a few dollars in filament and a couple hours of print time. Combined, they transform generic goggles into a personalized ground station that fits your face, stays fog-free, and performs at its best. The STL files for all these mods are freely available on Thingiverse, Printables, and the FPV community forums — find a design that matches your goggles and start printing.