The frame is the skeleton of your FPV drone. It determines how your drone flies, absorbs crashes, and fits components like motors, flight controllers, and cameras. Choosing the right frame can elevate your flight experience—whether you’re into cinematic cruising or aggressive freestyle.
How to choose fpv drone frame for racing or freestyle?
Choosing the perfect FPV drone frame depends largely on your flying style. Racing and freestyle demand different frame characteristics to optimize performance.
FPV Drone Frames for Freestyle
Anything that isn’t made especially for racing is frequently referred to as a freestyle frame, which can be used for a variety of purposes, such as cruising in a local park, flying freestyle at a bando, or carrying a GoPro for dramatic photos. Generally speaking, if you don’t race, you should choose a freestyle frame because it is much more robust and adaptable.
This frame is FPV freestyle frame.
Key Features:
- True X or Wide X frame layout for balanced, symmetrical flight
- Robust build to withstand crashes during acrobatic maneuvers
- More room for components like GoPro or DJI cameras
- Good vibration dampening to stabilize onboard footage
Why Freestyle Pilots Prefer These Frames:
- Balanced flight characteristics make flips, rolls, and tricks easier
- Better camera mounting options for cinematic shots
- Flexibility to customize with different motors and props
FPV Drone Frames for Racing
Lightweight and a small surface area for low drag are two features that are sacrificed for pure performance in race frames. Because of this, race frames are typically more challenging to construct and fix. They are less robust and offer the components less protection.
This frame is FPV racing frame.
Key Features:
- Lightweight and aerodynamic design for maximum speed
- Stretch X frame layout or similar to improve forward stability and reduce drag
- Compact and rigid arms for quick, responsive control and tight turns
- Minimal weight to improve acceleration and battery efficiency
Why Racing Pilots Prefer These Frames:
- Enables high-speed straight-line flying and sharp cornering
- Provides better yaw and roll control at top speeds
- Prioritizes durability for crashes at high velocity
The usual term for a few inches of frame is based on the largest paddle that the frame can support, while the axis distance is measured by the distance between the midpoints of the two diagonal motors
The following is a list of the general range of frame parameters
| Frame Wheelbase | Prop Size | stack Installation hole | Camera hole position | Adapted motor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 150mm | 3inch | 16/20/25.5 | 14/19 | 08/11/12 |
| 180mm | 4inch | 16/20/25.5 | 19/20 | 12/13/14/15/20 |
| 220mm | 5inch | 20/30.5 | 19/20/22 | 22/23 |
| 250mm | 6inch | 20/30.5 | 19/20/22 | 22/23 |
| 350mm | 7inch | 20/30.5 | 19/20/22 | 23/25/28 |
| 550mm | 8inch | 30.5 | 19/20/22 | 28/3/4 |
Configuration of FPV drone frame
Generally X Frame
- Introduction: The angle before each axis of the rack is vertical 90°, and the length of the arm is the same.
- Features: balanced performance, centralized center of gravity, equal rotational force distance on each side of this frame, smooth flying, and a strong sense of operation.
Wide X Frame
- Introduction: If the spacing between the left and right motors is greater than the spacing between the front and rear motors, it is called wide X.
- Features: sensitive pitch and roll, soft horizontal roll, suitable for flower flying Freestyle.
Long X Frame
- Introduction: If the distance between the left and right motors is smaller than the distance between the front and rear motors, it is called long X.
- Characteristics: Soft pitch, sensitive cross-roll, suitable for high-speed competition.
Hybrid Rack Frame
- Introduction: If the two motors in front of the rack have a smaller pitch, and the two motors in the back have a larger pitch, it can be called HybridX rack.
- Characteristics: Generally narrow in the front and wide in the back, different cross roll torque in the front and back when flying at high speed can make the amount of Yaw’s rod reduced when steering and help flyers fly faster.
Deadcat Frame
A dead cat frame features wider front arms and angled rear arms, resulting in an asymmetrical layout. This pushes the front motors further apart (horizontally) and pulls the rear ones in, forming a shape that some say resembles a “cat sprawled out flat”—hence the name.
Pros:
- Eliminates propellers from camera view
- Ideal for smooth, cinematic footage
Cons:
- An asymmetrical layout can slightly affect tuning
Best For: Pilots using GoPro or DJI cameras for clean cinematic shots.
Ducted / Cinewhoop Frame
A Cinewhoop frame is a compact FPV drone frame with integrated or detachable propeller ducts. These ducts not only protect the props and surroundings but also enhance thrust efficiency at low speeds, resulting in smoother, more stable footage.
Pros:
- Safe – Great for flying near people, pets, or indoors
- Smooth Footage – Excellent for capturing cinematic video
- Indoor Capable – Fly through small gaps and corridors
- Component Protection – Protects props, motors, and surroundings
Cons:
- Slower – Less powerful and responsive than open-prop drones
- Lower Flight Time – Heavier weight and duct drag reduce efficiency
- Harder to Tune – Airflow restrictions may require PID adjustments
A Ducted / Cinewhoop frame is perfect for:
- Cinematic FPV creators
- Indoor flight scenarios
- Filming events, real estate, or B-roll footage
- Pilots who prioritize safety over speed
Quick Notes:
- X Frame is the most versatile, suitable for both freestyle and beginner-friendly setups.
- Deadcat is best if your focus is on cinematic HD footage.
- Cinewhoop excels in safety-sensitive or indoor environments.
- Hybrid X and Wide X offer unique flight behavior—great for experienced pilots who want performance fine-tuning.
FPV Drone Frame Compatibility Checklist
When building or upgrading your FPV drone, selecting a compatible frame is essential to avoid costly mistakes. Use this FPV drone frame compatibility checklist to confirm that all your components—motors, flight controllers, cameras, batteries, and more—will fit together seamlessly.
| Component | What to Check | Common Standards / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Motor Mounting | Check hole pattern on arms matches your motor base | – 12x12mm, 16x16mm, 19x19mm bolt pattern for 22XX or 23XX motors |
| Prop Size Support | Confirm frame can accommodate your propeller size without hitting arms or ducts | – 3″, 5″, 7″, etc. – Arm spacing determines max prop size |
| Flight Controller | Ensure supported FC mounting pattern (hole size + layout) | – 30.5×30.5mm (standard) – 20x20mm (mini) – 25.5×25.5mm (AIO / whoop) |
| ESC Size & Mounting | Check if stackable with FC or separate mount Confirm enough airflow and space | – Same mounting patterns as FC – Allow for heat dissipation |
| Stack Height / Room | Enough vertical space between top and bottom plates for the stack | – Measure available stack height (e.g., 20–30mm typical) |
| Camera Size | Check for support of camera width and mounting style | – Nano (14mm), Micro (19mm), Mini (21mm), Full Size (28mm) |
| VTX Compatibility | Verify mounting area for VTX (stack or rear plate) Check for antenna mount | – Analog: MMCX, SMA – Digital: DJI O3 / Vista / HDZero |
| Receiver Mounting | Confirm internal or external space for RX unit | Enough vertical space between the top and bottom plates for the stack |
| Antenna Mounts | Check if TPU antenna mounts or holes are included | – Immortal-T, SMA, or circular polarized antennas |
| Battery Mounting | Ensure enough space and strap slots for LiPo | – Top-mount or bottom-mount? – Fits common 4S/6S LiPos (1300–1800mAh for 5″) |
| GPS & Buzzer Mounting | If using the DJI Air Unit or O3, ensure frame supports width, clearance, and cooling needs | – Often mounted on top rear with TPU base |
| DJI Digital System | Check if the frame allows XT60 pass-through or secure mount | – Many modern frames label “DJI compatible” with rear cage design |
| XT60 Connector Fit | – Heavier frames may need a higher thrust-to-weight ratio | – Some frames include XT60 side panels or 3D printed holders |
| Weight Considerations | Ensure total AUW (All-Up Weight) is within motor/ESC limits | – Often mounted in the rear or under the top plate |
| Prop Clearance | Optional: Ensure there’s space for the GPS module or buzzer | – Especially critical in compact or hybrid frame layouts |
Motor Mounting Compatibility
Check the hole pattern on the frame arms to ensure it matches your motor base. Common motor mounting hole patterns: 12x12mm, 16x16mm, 19x19mm, typically for 22XX or 23XX size motors.
Propeller Size Support
Confirm the frame supports your intended propeller size without obstruction. Arm spacing directly limits maximum prop size; common sizes include 3-inch, 5-inch, and 7-inch props.
Flight Controller Mounting
Verify the frame supports your flight controller’s mounting pattern (hole size and layout). Standard patterns: 30.5×30.5mm (full-size FCs), 20x20mm (mini FCs), 25.5×25.5mm (AIO/whoop style).
ESC Size and Mounting
Check if the ESC stack fits with your flight controller, either stacked or separately mounted. Ensure enough airflow and clearance around ESCs to prevent overheating.
Stack Height and Space
Confirm there is enough vertical clearance between the frame’s top and bottom plates for your flight controller, ESC, and other stack components. Typical stack heights range from 20mm to 30mm, but verify your specific parts.
Camera Compatibility
Check the frame supports your camera’s size and mounting style. Common sizes: Nano (14mm), Micro (19mm), Mini (21mm), Full Size (28mm).
Video Transmitter (VTX) Compatibility
- Verify there is a proper mounting location for your VTX, either on the stack or rear plate.
- Ensure the frame has antenna mount points for your VTX antenna type (e.g., MMCX, SMA).
- Supports both analog and digital systems like the DJI Air Unit, Vista, or HDZero.
Receiver (RX) Mounting
Confirm available space to mount your receiver internally or externally, often under the top plate or rear of the frame.
Antenna Mounts
Check if the frame includes TPU mounts or holes designed for antenna placement compatible with Immortal-T, SMA, or circular polarized antennas.
Battery Mounting
Ensure there is sufficient space and strap slots for your LiPo battery. Confirm if the battery is mounted on top or bottom and fits typical sizes like 4S or 6S LiPo (1300–1800mAh for 5-inch builds).
GPS and Buzzer Mounting (Optional)
For long-range or GPS-enabled builds, check for dedicated mounts for GPS modules and buzzers, usually at the rear top with TPU mounts.
DJI Digital FPV System Compatibility
If using the DJI Air Unit or O3 system, ensure the frame supports the width, clearance, and cooling requirements for optimal performance. Many modern frames advertise “DJI compatible” with specialized rear cage designs.
XT60 Connector Fit
Confirm the frame design accommodates your battery connector, often XT60, with proper pass-through or secure mounting options like side panels or 3D-printed holders.
Weight Considerations
Make sure the all-up weight (AUW) of your drone stays within the thrust and power limits of your motors and ESCs. Heavier frames may require motors with a higher thrust-to-weight ratio.
Propeller Clearance and Safety
Ensure the camera, stack, GPS module, wiring, and other parts are clear of spinning propellers to avoid damage or crashes. This is especially important for compact or hybrid frame designs.
FPV Drone Frame Materials: What to Choose?
- Three inches and above most of the rack are used carbon fiber plate as the main material, with aluminum column screws and other accessories to form a complete rack, use carbon fiber because the characteristics of carbon fiber is light and strong, fully meet the needs of the crossing machine rack, some racks will also use cnc aluminum parts as some parts of the rack.
- In the aluminum parts, including aluminum column motor nuts, crossing machine is generally used in 6061 and 7075 two kinds of aluminum alloy, the difference is 6061 low strength more soft, so good processing, the price is relatively low, and 7075 high strength, the material is harder, the processing difficulty is higher than 6061, so the price is high.
- The screws in the crossing machine generally use the highest strength grade 10.9 and 12.9 grade two screws.
- In the three-inch and below in the small aircraft will often use a carbon plate as the main body with some softer, high degree of deformability of material to form a rack. Or directly use PP and other higher-strength plastics as the main body of the rack. The reason is that small aircraft compared to large aircraft due to weight and flight speed and other relationships in the impact of the force is smaller, so the use of plastic can be achieved through the impact of deformation to absorb the impact energy to protect the aircraft, but also to reduce the overall weight of the aircraft, reducing the cost of the rack.
- In order to protect the rack as well as the external, add some equipment. We often use 3D printing to print some accessories installed on the rack, and commonly used materials for TPU and ABS, PLA, the former is a soft material that can be substantially deformed, the latter two are hard materials that basically can not be deformed. In different use needs can choose their own.
| Material | Pros | Cons |
| Carbon Fiber | Lightweight, strong, impact-resistant | Expensive, brittle in extreme crashes |
| Aluminum | Durable, strong under heavy loads | Heavier, less commonly used |
| Plastic/3D Printed | Customizable, cheap | Less durable, often for small drones |
| G10 Fiberglass | Affordable, lightweight | Weaker than carbon fiber, prone to cracking |
Maintenance Tips for FPV Drone Frames
To ensure your frame lasts long and performs well, follow these maintenance tips:
- Regular Inspections: Check for cracks, bends, or loose screws after every flight.
- Clean After Use: Remove dirt and debris to prevent damage to the frame and components.
- Replace Damaged Parts: If you notice any cracks or structural issues, replace the frame or affected parts immediately.
FPV Drone Frame Recommendation
GEPRC GEP Racer Frame
The GEPRC GEP Racer Frame is an excellent choice for FPV pilots looking for a balance between speed, durability, and performance. Here’s why it stands out:
- Lightweight & Aerodynamic – Designed for racing, this frame is optimized for speed and agility, allowing pilots to make sharp turns and quick maneuvers effortlessly.
- Durable Carbon Fiber Construction – Made from high-quality carbon fiber, the frame offers excellent durability while keeping the weight low, making it resistant to crashes and impacts.
- Optimized for FPV Racing – With a well-thought-out structure, the frame minimizes drag, improving overall flight performance. It provides a stable yet responsive flying experience.
MAK4 5/6/7-Inch Frame Kit
The MAK4 Frame Kit is a highly versatile option that caters to a wide range of FPV pilots, from freestyle enthusiasts to long-range explorers. Here’s why it’s a great choice:
- Multi-Size Compatibility (5”, 6”, 7”) – This frame kit supports multiple propeller sizes, allowing pilots to customize their setup based on their flying needs. Whether you want agility for freestyle or efficiency for long-range flights, this frame has you covered.
- Strong & Lightweight Carbon Fiber Build – Made from high-quality carbon fiber, the frame provides durability while keeping weight minimal, ensuring excellent crash resistance without compromising flight performance.
- Optimized for Stability & Performance – The frame’s well-balanced design ensures smooth handling, making it suitable for both high-speed maneuvers and stable cruising.
SpeedyBee BEE25 Wireless Tuning Frame
The SpeedyBee BEE25 Frame is an innovative choice for FPV pilots who value convenience, performance, and cutting-edge technology. Here’s why it stands out:
- Wireless Tuning for Ultimate Convenience – The standout feature of the BEE25 is its built-in wireless tuning capability, allowing pilots to adjust flight parameters effortlessly without needing to plug in a USB cable. This feature makes field adjustments quick and hassle-free.
- Compact 2.5-Inch Frame for Indoor & Outdoor Flying – The 2.5-inch frame size is perfect for both indoor and tight-space flying while still offering excellent outdoor performance. It provides the agility needed for freestyle moves and proximity flying.
- Cinewhoop-Style Protection with Ducted Design – The frame design includes propeller protection, making it safer for indoor use and reducing the risk of damaging props or surroundings during flight.